Napa Valley has no shortage of romantic over night options, but if you are looking for a little slice of history too, many of the areas bed and breakfasts date back to the early 1900s. These inns have old school charm, beautiful gardens and breakfasts to die for. Each of these inns are situated within walking distance to bustling downtown Napa’s delicious restaurants, wine bars and tasting rooms, and boutiques.
Now in no particular order, here are our top 10 Downtown Napa Historic Inns:
Is a grand historic 1889 mansion situated on a quiet tree-lined street in Napa. As you open the mansion’s massive leaded-glass and redwood doors, behold exquisite parlors showcasing ornately carved columns and moldings handcrafted from redwoods. They have inside and outdoor terrace seating for their beautiful breakfasts. Each evening they have a wine and appetizers.
2. Inn on First
This inn not only features whirlpool tubs for two and gas fireplaces in every room, they have no televisions. Chef and proprietor Jim Gunther whips up great breakfasts and they will provide special sweets in your room upon arrival.
This boutique and historic inn has been stunningly renovated with modern conveniences. Innkeeper Karen Lynch offers her guests tasty gluten-free breakfast from an onsite chef who also hosts cooking classes upon request.
4. 1801 First
Graceful columns and early 20th century detail meet contemporary décor in this downtown inn. The courtyard gardens and beautiful fountains provide plenty of opportunity to unwind on casual strolls outside. The rooms are beautiful, the breakfast is phenomenal, and you can’t beat the wine and hors d’oeuvres every afternoon on the patio.
This inn has three different properties all within walking distance from each other and each has their own uniqueness. The Cabernet House, Merlot House, and Hotel Napa Valley are their three beautiful inns in downtown Napa that feature nightly wine tastings, snacks in the evenings, a great breakfast, and good times for everyone around the fire pit in the back patio area.
Candlelight Inn rests on an acre of manicured gardens. The English Tudor inn built in 1929 sits under a small grove of redwood trees providing a romantic and quiet time to read or enjoy the waters of the pool. The inn offers artisanal treats for guests such cheese plates, chocolate cake and beverages so you won’t have to worry about snacks during your stay.
Hennessey House is located in a residential district at the top of restaurant row in historic downtown Napa. Guests can walk out the front door and enjoy dining at one of 30+ restaurants nearby. The ten unique guests rooms are surrounded by one half acre of gardens and a shaded terrace.
Jim and Carol Beazley opened the doors to Napa’s first b&b in 1981. This dog friendly inn was originally built in 1902 and is nestled right within walking distance from restaurants, wine tasting bars and entertainment. They have nightly wine and cheese hour and fresh baked chocolate chip cookies always available.
This elegant Queen Anne Victorian mansion features a gazebo, rose gardens, a swimming pool and spa. Rooms are furnished with hand-collected antiques and include fireplaces and a whirlpool tub.
The Arbor Guest House is a unique, colonial revival home featuring modern amenities while maintaining its original turn-of-the-century charm. Each of the five-guest suites offers luxurious bedding, unique furnishings, a flat screen television, iPod docking stations and free WI-FI. The innkeepers start their guests each day with a three-course gourmet breakfast and end it each evening with a wine and cheese reception.
