Brannan Cottage Inn | Calistoga
Built in 1860, Brannan Cottage is the last remaining building in Calistoga that was built by the town founder, Samuel Brannan. Today, it retains its old-world charm, but of course, you won’t find it lacking in modern amenities. Marvel at the beauty of this six-room, centuries-old home as you wander lush gardens, soak in amenities such as heated bathroom floors, and leave your troubles in the past.
Lavender | Yountville
This quaint country farmhouse is one of the oldest homes in Napa Valley, and its doors are wide open and waiting for you to book your stay. As a part of the Four Sisters Inns collection, Lavender has been thoughtfully and lovingly renovated to create an atmosphere that truly brings you back in time. And though you’ll hardly want to leave the beauty of the property, this Inn is just steps away from world-class dining, including some of the most iconic kitchens in the country.
Napa River Inn | Napa
Standing as a testament to the once-thriving industrial hub that was Napa in the 1880s, the Historic Napa Mill is now home to a number of upscale experiences, including the Napa River Inn. This cozy, antique riverside inn offers 66 finely detailed rooms perfect for any trip. Wake up to views of the river that supported Napa’s early growth, then step outside into the vibrant Riverfront District, where repurposed warehouses and historic buildings now house shops, tasting rooms, and restaurants.
Aging Like a Fine Wine: Historic Wineries & Tasting Rooms in Napa Valley
Napa Valley’s winemaking legacy spans centuries. To put it into perspective, passionate vintners were growing wine here before the invention of the stop sign, the ferris wheel, and zippers. Many of the wineries that shaped the early industry in the 1800s are still standing today, welcoming guests into stone cellars, Victorian estates, and caves carved into the mountainside. These historic producers not only helped define the region’s signature varietals but also played pivotal roles in elevating California wine onto the world stage.
Charles Krug Winery | St. Helena
Charles Krug has the honor of being Napa Valley’s very first commercial winery. Originally founded in 1861, the winery has since undergone changes of ownership as well as detailed renovations, maintaining its unique historic appeal at every step of the way. It has now been owned by the Mondavi family for four generations, with each successive generation tasked with both preserving and elevating the rich character of this iconic winery. Guests can enjoy tastings surrounded by history, from heirloom vineyards to heritage buildings that have witnessed the Valley’s transformation from frontier farmland to global wine powerhouse.
Beaulieu Vineyard | Rutherford
In the year 1900, Georges and Fernande de Latour purchased the land that would eventually become the Rutherford vineyard, and it was at this point that Fernande uttered the phrase that would shape the winery’s future: “Quel beau lieu!” meaning, “What a beautiful place!” Beaulieu Vineyard went on to become among the first to offer Cabernet Sauvignon, a Napa Valley staple, as their flagship wine. In 1907, with Prohibition on the horizon, they secured permission to make sacramental wine for local churches, allowing them to stay open through an era where nearly every other winery had to close its doors.
Schramsberg Vineyards | Calistoga
Nestled among the hills of Calistoga, Schramsberg Vineyards has been one of Napa Valley’s leading sparkling wine producers for decades. Their Blanc de Blanc was even used by President Nixon in 1972 for his “Toast to Peace” speech, and every presidential administration after has followed in the tradition of offering Schramsberg wines at official State functions. Its iconic underground caves — hand-dug by Chinese laborers in the 19th century — provide a dramatic backdrop for tastings and tours, and you’re sure to leave a visit here with a bottle of your new favorite sparkling wine tucked under your arm.
Beringer Vineyards | St Helena
Although Charles Krug was the first to open, Beringer Vineyards holds the title of the longest continuously operating winery in Napa Valley. Alongside Beaulieu, Beringer was able to secure licensing to produce sacramental wine, and stayed open through Prohibition. Since 1876, this winery has been a must-see spot, owing to the breathtaking Rhine House mansion that perches on the vineyard’s property. There, mesmerizing works of stained glass and carved wood create an atmosphere of otherworldly beauty that has endured all the decades with elegance.
Stags’ Leap Winery | Napa
You'll find this storied estate tucked away along the Silverado Trail in Napa, where it has been creating incredible wines since 1893. The property’s stately 19th-century manor and historic stone cellar transport visitors to a time when wine country was still a rugged frontier. You might think that the Stags Leap District inspired its naming, but in fact, it’s the other way around — this estate’s legacy is so significant that it lent its name to what become the Stags Leap District AVA. Stop by to enjoy their elegant Cab Sauv, as well as a number of Rhône-style varietals.
Chateau Montelena Winery | Calistoga
Among the wineries on this list, Chateau Montelena is perhaps one of the most internationally recognized, thanks to its role in the 1976 “Judgment of Paris.” Prior to this, Napa Valley was already a thriving wine-producing region, but it was not recognized on the same level as the “Old World” — namely France and Italy. That all changed in 1976, when Chateau Montelena submitted its 1973 Chardonnay to compete against a number of French wines and, to the surprise of many in attendance, won. Today, the winery balances its historic gravitas with a timeless sense of craftsmanship, offering tastings that explore both its dramatic rise to fame and the dedicated winemaking practices that continue to this day. It’s a must-stop for anyone tracing the Valley’s path to worldwide recognition.
Generations of Culinary Excellence: Restaurants with Historic Appeal
While Napa Valley has had its finger on the pulse of the world’s wine industry since the 1830s, it would be many years before it became known as the culinary mecca it is today. Now, the Valley boasts a wide variety of Michelin-rated cuisine, but that wasn’t always the case. It took until around the 1970s for things to really start heating up in kitchens across the Valley.
Angéle Restaurant & Bar | Napa
Take a stroll along Downtown Napa’s picturesque riverfront district and you’ll come face-to-face with a French brasserie straight from Paris. Situated in an 1890s boathouse building, the space was once part of the bustling commercial life that shaped Napa’s early days, and today, its rustic beams, cozy dining nooks, and waterfront patio honor that history. On the menu, you’ll find timeless French classics and innovative modern dishes, all made with local ingredients that showcase what Napa Valley is truly capable of producing. Whether you’re sipping a glass of wine while watching the river drift by or savoring a perfectly executed French onion soup, Angéle captures a sense of old-world romance woven seamlessly into Napa’s modern culinary scene.
The French Laundry | Yountville
Even if you don’t know much about Napa Valley, you’ve probably heard of The French Laundry. But long before it became one of the most celebrated Michelin restaurants in the world, it was a simple steam laundry operation serving the then-tiny town of Yountville. Decades later, the name “The French Laundry” has stuck, but everything else about this enchanting building has been elevated to a level of prestige that’s talked about around the world. Thomas Keller transformed the humble stone building into a temple of modern American cuisine in the 1990s, setting the stage for Napa Valley’s rise as a global culinary destination. Its famed blue door has welcomed diners seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience ever since.
The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil | Rutherford
This Rutherford restaurant is, these days, the stuff of legends for those in the foodie sphere, and for good reason — with 18 consecutive Michelin stars under its belt, The Restaurant is one of those bucket-list places that offers a meal you’ll never forget. It first opened in 1981, and though it isn’t as old as some of Napa Valley’s century-old structures, its creation marked a pivotal moment in Valley culinary culture, and helped launch this region into the epicurean acclaim it enjoys today. For the last 40 years, The Restaurant has served up exquisite dishes crafted from local produce, and they show no signs of slowing down.
Bistro Don Giovanni | Napa
Since opening in 1993, Bistro Don Giovanni has become a beloved fixture of Napa’s culinary landscape, blending rustic Italian cooking with the warmth of a countryside villa. This is the perfect spot to try if you’re in the mood for something a little more casual, but no less incredible. This locally favored bistro places a strong emphasis on building community, so you can be sure that you’ll be treated like a member of the family on your visit here.
Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery | Calistoga
Enjoy a local brew and some truly delightful bites as you marvel at the 1880s architecture that houses this Calistoga hot spot. The property’s original water tower has since been converted into a 7-barrel gas fired microbrewery, courtesy of some brilliant minds over at UC Davis. Here, you can soak in live music and a fun, rustic ambience that speaks uniquely to Calistoga’s colorful past.
Market | St Helena
Located in a lovingly restored 1890s storefront on St. Helena’s charming Main Street, Market blends historic character with elevated comfort food. The vintage vibes are alive and well here, with exposed brick walls and gorgeous antique detailing paying homage to St Helena’s origins. On the menu, you’ll find regional ingredients in dishes that feel both familiar and delightfully unexpected, such as truffle mac and cheese, fresh seafood, and classic American favorites crafted with that iconic Napa Valley twist.
Learn Something New (from Something Old): Museums & Historical Landmarks
As you know by now, Napa Valley isn’t just about the wine and food — although we do wine and food pretty well. Part of this region’s rich and enduring history lives on in a number of fascinating historical sites and museums, each offering a unique glimpse into the eclectic tapestry that is Napa Valley. For a true sense of the history of California’s wine country, a visit to a few of these spots is a must on the itinerary.
The MAC - Napa Valley Museum of Art and Culture | St Helena
The Napa Valley Museum of Art & Culture — or, the MAC, for short — offers the chance to appreciate both the Valley’s currently thriving art scene, as well as the foundational heritage that led us here. Rotating exhibits highlight both established and emerging artists, as well as standout moments from the region’s past. Currently, for instance, you can find a fascinating, multi-sensory exhibit dedicated to Julia Child, a Culinary Institute of America graduate who went on to achieve international fame. No matter what you are hoping to discover, the center’s peaceful atmosphere makes it an inspiring stop for travelers wanting to explore beyond wine, with art that reflects the landscape, community, and history of Napa Valley.
The Goodman Library Museum | Napa
The Goodman Library opened as Napa’s first library in 1901, and it remained a library until 1976, when the Napa Valley Historical Society moved in and made the Goodman Library Museum its official headquarters. If you’re in Downtown Napa, stop by for a tour and a chat — the Historical Society folks would love to walk you through the region’s history in more detail. Be sure to ask them about any walking tours they may be offering soon, as those are a great way to see history unfolding right in front of you.
Napa Valley Museum Yountville | Yountville
The sister museum to the MAC, the Napa Valley Museum Yountville is nestled amongst the grounds of the oldest Veterans Home of California, offering the incredible opportunity to explore the intersection of modern artistry and regional history. The museum’s thoughtful curation provides context to the landscapes visitors see every day — turning casual curiosity into meaningful understanding. It’s an ideal stop for families, history lovers, and anyone wanting a foundational look at Napa Valley’s identity.
Robert Louis Stevenson Museum | St Helena
If you aren’t familiar, Robert Louis Stevenson is an author responsible for a number of classics, including Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Treasure Island, and more. You may be wondering — what does that have to do with Napa Valley? Stevenson himself spent his honeymoon in Napa Valley, and wrote a beautiful account of his time there in his book, Silverado Squatters. Now, you can tour this museum dedicated to the author, which currently houses over 9,000 curated pieces.
Sharpsteen Museum | Calistoga
Keeping in theme with famous folks of the Valley, Walt Disney animator Ben Sharpsteen decided to open this museum as a kind of love letter to Calistoga. This accessible, family-friendly spot features detailed dioramas, interactive exhibits, and preserved artifacts, each of which helps to paint a vivid picture of Calistoga’s vibrant history, dating back to the 1800s.
The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone | St Helena
Known as the “Hogwarts of culinary schools,” CIA at Greystone is immediately recognizable for its majestic, castle-like appearance, and the intrigue doesn’t stop there. The stone building first opened in 1889 as one of the largest gravity-flow wineries of its time. Today, it’s home to one of the most renowned culinary schools in the country, where aspiring chefs train in the very heart of California wine country. The building is freely open to the public, and visitors are invited to explore the historic architecture, dine at the student-run restaurant (though a reservation is recommended), or browse rooms dedicated to culinary history — such as the famous Corkscrew Museum.
Napa Valley Wine Train | Napa
Step back in time with a ride on this vintage train car, lovingly restored and perfectly operational. The train features gorgeous vintage Pullman cars that invoke the elegance of early 20th-century train travel. As it winds through Valley’s vineyards, guests can enjoy multi-course meals, local wines, and guided storytelling that brings Napa Valley’s history to life.
Oakville Grocery | Oakville
Tucked away in Oakville, you’ll find the oldest continuously operating grocery store in California, established in 1881. What began as a humble general store for the local farmers is now a gourmet marketplace offering artisanal picnic fare and local goodies. They also have a wine tasting room, so this is the perfect spot to grab a bite and a glass before a day of adventuring around the Valley.
