One visit is never enough. Satisfy your curiosity and zeal for living well.
Within one week, Napa Valley went from bud break to grape leaves. Now is the time to visit, if you close your eyes – you’ll miss it!
Private Estate Stays to Adults Only Resorts
It is true, overnight stays in St. Helena can be hard to come by and sometimes pricey, but it’s for good reason. Oenophiles exclusively choose St. Helena because it’s home to the most prestigious AVAs in Napa Valley and boutique wines you won’t find in a grocery store. The only overnight stay with a 360-degree birds eye view of Napa Valley is the ultra-lux Ink House Napa Valley. A private estate that has a basement speakeasy where Elvis Presley played, is just the icing on the cake.
If an adult-only vineyard view pool and private outdoor soaking tub sounds enticing, make your way to Alila Napa Valley,a Forbes 5-star luxury resort, just an arm’s reach from St. Helena’s Historic Shopping District. Get down and “dirty” at Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Spa. Doc discovered the healing powers of mineral baths and mud soaks before it was cool, and no one does it better.
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The ABCs of St. Helena Wineries
There are more wineries in St. Helena than the number of letters in the alphabet. So let’s start at “A” with ACME Fine Wines. SF Chronicle describes ACME Fine Wines as “a secret society for oenophiles”, and this appointment-only wine shop and tasting room is highly recommended for those looking to expand their cellar and bring home something that will impress a crowd. “B” is for Brasswood Cellars, one of very few custom crush facilities in Napa Valley, with a noteworthy cave, and captivating winery complex that’ll have you canceling your next appointment.
“C” leads us to classic rock, a strong theme embedded into the inviting and artistic, Cliff Lede Vineyards. When a winery names its vineyard block “dark side of the moon”, it’s an indicator that there is no shortage of fun when you visit. Insider’s tip: save time to appreciate the signed memorabilia gracing the walls of the tasting room.
Sips, Snacks, and Sensational Meals
Want to discover the hidden gems of Napa’s food scene? Start the day at Gary’s Napa Valleyfor coffee and pastries on the Adirondacks while soaking in your first vineyard view. Not only do they carry the finest coffee in Napa, but it’s one of the bay area’s best wine shops and food purveyors. Gastronomes will behead us for sharing, but a reservation at the legendary Gatehouse Restaurant at the Culinary Institute of Americais nothing short of memorable.
This is a unique experience, run entirely by elite 4th-year culinary students. Nowhere else will you find a three-course dinner of this caliber for just $60. When you’re ready for a wine break, the bar at Harvest Tablewill surprise you with their selection of top-shelf liquors and cocktails. Concealed by redwoods, this sensuous hotel bar is a favorite amongst those in the know. Insider’s tip: If you’re visiting on a weekday, it has the best happy hour in town.
When in Wine Country, Do as the Locals Do
St. Helena’s Historic Shopping District boasts late 19th-century architecture, housing upscale independent boutiques, vaulted ceiling art galleries, and plenty of places to quench your thirst (or hunger).
Savvy shoppers from around the globe visit Napa Valley’s Main Street, leisurely strolling cobblestone sidewalks on the hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures. Insider’s tip: don’t leave downtown without biting into a Station OG Donut.
Shopping Directory
