Visiting Napa Valley for the first time? All those grand views, quaint wineries, and scenic drives could make trip planning feel overwhelming (in the best possible way). And it’s true: you’re going to find more scenic overlooks, delicious food, and of course, wine than you know what to do with.
So best to plan in advance. Pick the top few things you want to do while you’re in Napa Valley and arrange your transportation in advance so you don’t have to worry about logistics once you arrive. To make your job a little easier, here’s the ultimate guide to visiting Napa.
When most people are planning a trip to Napa Valley, California, one thing comes to mind: wineries. You’ll immediately envision yourself kicking back on a balcony overlooking a vast vineyard, chardonnay in hand.
And you’re not wrong: you’ll definitely stumble across plenty of locally sourced wine while you’re there. But Napa is full of activities and tourist spots.
Go beyond the wineries and check out these attractions while you’re there.
Oysters, grand views, and a lively atmosphere: is there any better way to spend a vacation? Visit Oxbow for some delicious food. It’s a great excuse to browse around, try some local fare, and enjoy that infamously perfect weather of Napa Valley
You can easily spend a day wandering the streets of St. Helena in Napa Valley. This charming city is home to many popular restaurants, wineries, and boutiques. A popular tourist town, there’s a good chance you could catch a show or some live music while you’re in the neighborhood.
Speaking of live music: enjoy some of the best musicians (and cocktails) in Napa at the Blue Note. This restaurant hosts live music on a regular basis. Check the website to see which musicians will be in town during your stay, and make your reservation early to snag a table.
Boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants can all be found at this lovely outdoor market. Nestled right in Napa, The Shops at the Marketplace is a perfect spot to spend a few hours or even an entire afternoon. Everyone in your group can get their shopping fix and enjoy a relaxing lunch while admiring the countryside.
If golf is your jam, then you better pack your favorite nine iron. Some of the most beautiful golf courses can be found in Napa. Even if you’re traveling with a few folks who don’t share your love of golf, they’ll surely enjoy the scenery at a local vineyard while you make your way around the course.
California offers up some of the most stunning views in the U.S. – and many of them are concentrated in the Napa Valley region. Just about any vineyard, you visit will be planted within a breathtaking vista of mountains and greenery. And with mild temps most of the year, you can take in that view first-hand no matter what month you’re traveling to Napa.
Make the most of your time there and schedule an hour or two to enjoy the great outdoors. Check out the following famous spots if you want to breathe in that fresh mountain air and take the ultimate California selfie.
Get 360-degree views of the surrounding terrain. This is one of the most popular parks in Napa and for good reason.
This state park won’t disappoint. Enjoy spectacular views no matter what season you’re in. If you really want to take in the scenery, book a cabin or Airbnb in the area so you can get the full experience.
When you’ve gotten your fill of hiking, grab a fancy cocktail and watch the sunset from this popular rooftop bar. The views are epic, and the fine drinks make it even better.
Group travel is easy in Napa Valley, where there are hundreds of idyllic small towns, vineyards, restaurants, and parks within a small proximity. Just make sure you plan ahead. A few pointers for planning any group trip to Napa Valley, California:
● Hotel: Book a block of rooms in advance at one hotel, or a large Airbnb that can house everyone in your group. Logistics are much easier when everyone’s staying in the same place, and it gives you extra time in the mornings and evenings to connect with everyone over breakfast, a bonfire, or after-dinner drinks.
● Transportation: Renting a bus is the easiest way to get your whole group from place to place in Napa Valley. Opt for Motor Coach West: a reliable charter bus company that can offer professional drivers, and just the right vehicle size for you.
● Dining: Book dinner reservations for each day your group will be in Napa. Restaurants in that region book fast, and if you call ahead of time, you may be able to reserve a private room for the ultimate dining experience.
● Wineries: Certain vineyards cater to larger groups. Do a little research, and call ahead of time to make sure they can accommodate your whole crew comfortably
Napa Valley includes a wide range of experiences, and you’ll want to make sure you get in some park time, relaxation, and of course wine time. Public transportation is limited, so figure out your transportation options in advance.
Bus charters are popular in Napa Valley since they enable you to enjoy the scenery and get to all the hot spots, without worrying about hassling with traffic or ride shares. If you’re traveling with a group and you want to see it all, book a charter bus. It’s the most relaxing way to take in the scenic drives, and make sure your whole crew arrives at every stop safely and right on time. Request a quote to reserve the perfect bus for your group trip to Napa Valley.
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