Autumn in St. Helena means vineyard leaves turning gold, cozy evenings, and a touch of spooky charm. Whether you’re here for harvest tastings or historic haunts, here’s how to plan a perfect fall getaway.
An Autumn Retreat
Cozy getaways for a soulful escape
St. Helena’s serene landscapes and crisp autumn air create the perfect backdrop for a tranquil getaway. From artistic hideaways to historic luxury, these accommodations provide a unique sanctuary.
- At the Wydown Hotel, a soulful escape awaits on Main Street. A majestic mural of an ancient oak tree welcomes you, along with a complimentary breakfast to start your day.
- Settle into a cozy stay at El Bonita Motel, where vintage charm meets modern comfort, and lush garden courtyards invite you to unwind.
- Find a moment of quiet reflection at Meadowood Napa Valley’s dedicated Labyrinth, a sacred space that invites you to leave the world behind and reconnect.
The Art of the Artisan
A journey through storied culinary traditions
Autumn here is all about celebrating the harvest. From gourmet dining to scenic train rides, this is the time to savor the region’s bounty.
- Savor a four-course gourmet meal and tastings at iconic wineries aboard the full-day Legacy Experience on the Napa Valley Wine Train, gliding through stunning fall foliage in sophisticated Pullman rail cars.
- Immerse yourself in the lively Julia Child exhibit at the Napa Valley Museum of Art & Culture (The MAC), then step next door to Under-Study, a modern culinary playground.
- Explore the historic Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, where future top chefs create exquisite dishes from on-site gardens, then browse the treasure trove of cookbooks at the Spice Island Marketplace.
- Take a scenic stroll to the Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park. Watch the 1846 millstones in action, slowly grinding grain into a uniquely fresh and flavorful flour you can take home.
Historic Sips & Haunts
Uncover the legends of our vineyards
This Halloween season, explore the dark and mysterious side of our wineries. These one-of-a-kind experiences offer a delightful twist on a classic tasting.
- Uncover the Fairy Circle at AXR Napa Valley, a unique grove grown from a single ancient mother tree, which is said to be haunted.
- Dance the night away at Beringer Vineyards’ Halloween Silent Disco in their spooky wine caves.
- Discover the “prohibition era” at Merryvale Vineyards, the first winery to reopen after Prohibition. Their historic Cask Room, with its towering, century-old redwood casks, sets the stage for an unforgettable tasting.
- Explore Faust Haus, a striking matte-black Victorian with a Prohibition-era cellar. This gathering place offers unique, immersive tastings that blend bold architecture with a creative spirit.
- Take an immersive Harvest Tasting with Cave Tour at Brasswood Winery Estate for a behind-the-scenes look at winemaking during harvest. Afterwards, dine at the cozy Brasswood Bar + Kitchen and ask for their secret menu mozzarella.
A Spooky Historic Stroll
Explore the legends and mysteries of our street
Our Historic Shopping District comes alive with stories from the past. Journey into the heart of the town for a taste of history with a thrilling twist.
- Step into the past at The Saint’s speakeasy, The Vault, a restored 1905 bank vault offering an intimate, candlelit wine experience where secrets still linger.
- Catch a classic film at the Cameo Cinema, California’s oldest continuously operating single-screen movie theater, where a piece of living history sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.
- Savor the rich cultural heritage of authentic Mexican cuisine at Azteca Market St. Helena, a vibrant and soulful spot that offers a true taste of family tradition.
- For a deeper dive into the town’s mysteries, take the St. Helena Historic Society’s digital walking tour and discover the legends behind our charming streets.
Main Street Treasures
Unique mementos from your autumn escape
Beyond the vineyards, our historic downtown offers a world of unique treasures. From historic heirlooms to a thrilling new book, there is a perfect keepsake for everyone.
- Browse the historic collection at E.R. Sawyer Jewelers, a family-owned business for over 140 years, and find a truly timeless piece to cherish.
- Find the perfect outfit for a fall evening at Veronica Beard, the go-to lifestyle brand for the modern woman whose life is always in motion.
- Get lost in a thrilling page-turner at Wild Plum Books, a cozy independent bookstore with a great selection of spooky horror, mystery, and thriller books.
