Updated: Nov 27, 2o24

Published: Nov 26,2023

Things to do downtown Napa range from indulging in exquisite wine tastings at boutique wineries to exploring outdoor art installations along the scenic Napa river promenade. Whether you are a wine aficionado or beginner, a culinary curious or an art enthusiast, downtown Napa has a wide range of activities that you can do during your visit to wine country. In this guide, I share with you my top recommendations of the best things to do downtown Napa on your first visit. From sipping exceptional wines to indulging in culinary masterpieces, here is how you can have fun (and sophisticated booze) in wine country!

Things to do downtown Napa: Wine Tasting

I mean, this goes without saying: but we had to say it still. No visit to downtown Napa is complete without indulging in the quintessential wine-tasting experience. Afterall, Napa California is called wine country! But you don’t need to go to the Napa vineyards to have amazing wine tasting experiences downtown Napa. In fact, the heart of the city is home to an array of exquisite tasting rooms, each offering a unique atmosphere and a diverse selection of the best world’s wines.

From the opulent Krupp Brothers Tasting Room to the traditional and modern vibe of the Levendi Winery Tasting room and the intimate Mia Carta, wine aficionados and beginners are spoilt for choice. Engage your palate in the diverse expressions of Napa Valley’s terroir, and don’t miss out on the personalized experiences at places like Acumen Wine Tasting room or the effervescent offerings at Be Bubbly. If you are really looking for the best things to do downtown Napa, start with a sip of wine. Even that alone will inspire you! 

Things to do downtown Napa: Dine at the best restaurants downtown Napa

When they said that Napa valley is known for amazing food and wine, they were correct! During my trip to Napa, there wasn’t a single restaurant downtown Napa where I ate and wasn’t satisfied (and I ate a lot). If you are looking for a sample itinerary for your trip to downtown Napa, here is what I would suggest: 

Start your day with a stroll through the Oxbow Public Market, where local vendors showcase the best of Napa’s gastronomy at exceptionally affordable prices. Dive into decadent pastries at Model Bakery, sample artisanal cheeses at Oxbow Cheese & Wine Merchant, and relish freshly shucked oysters at Hog Island Oyster Co. For a sit-down experience, downtown Napa restaurants are where you want to be at, and there are so many options that cater for diverse palates.  From the inventive cuisine at Morimoto Napa (by the Japanese masterchef) to the farm-to-table delights at The Kitchen Door, you will dine in Napa like a happy human. 

Things to do in downtown Napa: Explore the Art & Culture 

Beyond the vines, downtown Napa reveals itself as a canvas adorned with artistic treasures. The Napa Art Walk for example, is an ever-evolving exhibition of sculptures by local and international artists. To enjoy this, stroll through the streets and engage with outdoor art installations that are at different spots around downtown Napa. Explore the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art, where avant-garde exhibits blend seamlessly with the picturesque vineyard backdrop. For a deeper dive into Napa’s cultural heritage, the Napa Valley Museum is a hidden gem, offering insights into the region’s history, art, and cultural evolution.

One stop that I made was at the 1870 Gallery, which was previously in Yountville and is now located downtown Napa. This art gallery features work from impressive California-born and international artists such as Eric Christensen and Pete Tillack. Even if you only have less than an hour, make sure you make the stop. You will thank me you did. This was easily one of the best things to do downtown Napa for me. 

Things to do downtown Napa: shop at Chic Boutiques

If you go to Napa for shopping, then there are a handful of charming boutiques and galleries that line the streets of downtown Napa. From stylish apparel at Mecox Gardens to handcrafted treasures at Napa General Store, the shopping scene here caters to a variety of tastes. Make a pit stop at Poor House, where you’ll discover a curated collection of vintage and upcycled items. Whether you’re in search of unique souvenirs, artisanal goods, or one-of-a-kind artworks, downtown Napa’s boutiques definitely have something to offer for the shopping lover. 

Things to do downtown Napa: Relax in Nature Downtown

I will always love a small town with a lot of green spaces. Downtown Napa, you can escape the urban buzz and connect with nature. The Napa Riverfront, with its scenic promenade, provides a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the river at your own pace. Alston Park, just a short drive away, offers hiking trails that lead to panoramic views of Napa Valley. For a more laid-back outdoor experience, grab a picnic basket and relax in Fuller Park, surrounded by lush greenery and the calming murmur of the Napa River. 

Things to do downtown Napa: Learn to cook like a Michelin Star Chef!

If you’re inspired by the culinary wonders of downtown Napa, why not take a piece of it home with you? Cooking classes are definitely a thing to do downtown Napa. If you have 3-5 days in the city, plan one during your stay (usually takes about 2-3 hours, including eating). Several establishments offer cooking classes that provide hands-on experiences with expert chefs. CIA at Copia, part of the Culinary Institute of America, offers a range of classes for all skill levels. From mastering the art of pasta-making to perfecting the nuances of wine and food pairing, cooking classes in Napa would definitely elevate your travel experience and allow you to bring a taste of Napa into your own kitchen when you go back home! Wouldn’t that be cool? Exactly. 

Things to do downtown Napa: Enjoy Live Entertainment at Night 

People would not think about “night life” as one of the things to do downtown Napa. But take it from someone who has been there: nightlife downtown Napa is a little different. As the sun sets, downtown Napa transforms into a lively hub of entertainment. The Uptown Theatre, a historic venue with a modern twist, hosts a variety of performances, from concerts to comedy shows. A handful of wine tasting rooms downtown Napa also offer live music and weekly jazz events.

My best recommendation would be to check out the local events calendar on the Napa Valley website to know what is happening in town when you are planning to visit. Look out for open-air concerts in Veterans Memorial Park in the spring, summer and fall, as well as live music sessions at Silo’s Napa. If you’re in the mood for a theatrical experience, catch a show at the Napa Valley Opera House.

Things to do downtown Napa: Attend Culinary Events

Napa Valley California is a year-round destination, and you can plan your visit to coincide with one of the many culinary events and festivals that grace downtown Napa throughout the year. The Napa Truffle Festival celebrates the exquisite truffle with tastings, seminars, and a Truffle Marketplace. For a broader exploration of Napa’s culinary prowess, the Napa Valley Film Festival combines film screenings 威而鋼 with epicurean delights. Keep an eye out for other things to do downtown Napa like the Flavor Napa Valley and the Napa Valley Restaurant Week, where the city comes alive with a celebration of flavors and culinary innovation. This would literally be the best time to visit Napa Valley for the culinary enthusiast and the foodie!

Things to do downtown Napa encapsulate a rich tapestry of experiences, from wine tastings to culinary delights, to diving into art and entertainment. Whether you’re sipping on the nuanced flavors of Napa valley’s renowned wines, devouring gourmet creations in world-class restaurants, or immersing yourself in the vibrant cultural scene, downtown Napa is truly rich in experiences. So, when you find yourself in the heart of wine country, remember, the list of things to do downtown Napa is not merely a checklist; it’s an invitation to really linger and lean into everything that Napa has to offer!

And to plan your next Napa trip, make sure you check out my ultimate travel to Napa valley: a guide for the seasoned wine lover, or the beginner!