It’s no secret that Napa Valley is a great place to find a favorite wine. But, Napa has more than just amazing wineries: you’ll find farm-to-table eateries, great shopping, and spa resorts amid an idyllic rolling hills backdrop. Why not make a trip to savor Napa’s many non-wine things to do? Below is a list of fun things to do in Napa besides wine tasting!
Olive Oil Tastings
Did you think you were buying the best olive oil at your local grocery store? Think again. With its regional similarities to Tuscany, it’s no wonder that Napa boasts high-quality olive oils that you’ll want to buy for later use. Head to any of the mills in Napa, like Round Pond, that offer an olive oil tasting to experience the real deal and say goodbye to the blah stuff you’re used to.
Grape Stomp
Let’s face it: Napa is forever linked to wine. So, even if you don’t want to do the usual wine tastings, you can still have fun at the wineries. Take part in the wine-making process by grape stomping! If you are traveling with a minor, this is another activity they can enjoy too. You won’t actually drink the juice, but it’s still fun to get your feet wet during a good, old-fashioned grape stomp.
World-Class Eating
Just as Napa is home to world-class wineries, it’s also home to world-class eateries. Some of the world’s top chefs have restaurants here, including Morimoto Napa, REDD, and Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry, Bouchon, and Ad Hoc. From Asian fusion to Italian to New American, and everything in between, you’ll be able to find great food at any price point. For lots of variety and budget-friendly options, try Oxbow Public Market, where you can find food, cooking demos, and community events that the whole family will enjoy.
Views from Above
Image via Flickr by Mot the barber
Napa Valley is a scenic region with rolling hills that are best viewed from above! That’s easy to do with a balloon ride. Any balloon ride is quite the experience, but a balloon ride in Napa will offer views of the many wineries, as well as the area’s hills and farmland. If a balloon ride isn’t your thing, you can take a helicopter ride to get equally beautiful views.
Prepare to Relax
What’s a destination without some high-class relaxing? Napa is home to many resorts and spas where you can enjoy some much-needed TLC. You can easily find a spot to take in a spa treatment when you get a nearby hotel. Try a massage or spa treatment, or a mud bath or hot-spring soak in Calistoga. No matter your choice, get ready to say “ahh.”
We know Napa has enough wine to last you a lifetime. But if you’re not so much into raising a glass, you can still enjoy Napa. Activities like olive oil tastings, hot air balloon rides, and spa treatments are just a few ways you can enjoy Napa in a way you hadn’t imagined before.