Things to do in Napa Valley

Beyond the Vines: The Best Things to Do in Napa Valley (That Aren’t Wine Tasting)

Napa Valley. Just saying the name makes you think of rolling vineyards, winery tours, fancy wineries, and endless glasses of Cabernet Sauvignon. And yeah, the wine here is world-famous for a reason. But what if you’re not really a wine person? Or maybe you love wine, but you want to mix things up a little? Don’t worry—Napa Valley has way more to offer than just swirling and sipping.

Whether you’re visiting with kids, coming for a romantic getaway, or just looking for a fun weekend with friends, Napa Valley has something for everyone. From outdoor adventures to food experiences, art, and history, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this beautiful part of California. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Napa Valley that don’t involve wine.

 

Take a Ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train (No Wine Required!)

Okay, hear me out. Yes, it’s called the “Wine Train,” but you don’t have to drink wine to enjoy it. This vintage train takes you on a scenic ride through the heart of Napa Valley, with stunning views of the vineyards, rolling hills, and charming small towns.

Even if you’re not here for the wine, the train experience itself is worth it. The train cars have been restored to their original early 1900s elegance, and you can choose from different meal options, including brunch, lunch, and dinner. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love the feeling of riding an old-fashioned train and watching the scenery roll by. If you’re visiting with a partner, it’s a great way to soak in the beauty of Napa without worrying about driving.

Hot Air Balloon Rides – See Napa from the Sky

If you’ve ever wanted to float above the world in a giant balloon, this is your chance. Napa Valley is famous for its hot air balloon rides, and they’re easily one of the most magical ways to experience the area.

The rides take off at sunrise when the air is calm, and you’ll gently rise above the valley as the sun lights up the vineyards and hills. It’s quiet, peaceful, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. No wine needed—just a sense of adventure.

Most balloon rides include a light breakfast before takeoff, and some even have a champagne toast after landing (you can skip that part if you’re not drinking). If you’re traveling with kids, check with the company first—some have age restrictions for safety reasons.

Hike the Trails of Napa Valley

You don’t have to stay in the tasting rooms to enjoy Napa’s beauty. The valley is home to some amazing hiking trails, perfect for getting outside and breathing in that fresh California air.

Skyline Wilderness Park – Just a few minutes from downtown Napa, this park has miles of trails with incredible views. It’s great for hiking, mountain biking, or even horseback riding.
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park – This is one of the best spots in the area for hiking and picnicking. You can walk among towering redwoods and peaceful creeks, and if you’re into camping, you can even spend the night in a yurt.
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park – This one is a mix of history and hiking. You’ll find an old water-powered grist mill from the 1800s, and you can hike the surrounding trails while learning about Napa’s past.
If you’re visiting in the summer, start your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat. And don’t forget to bring water!

Go on a Food Adventure

Even if you’re skipping the wine, you can’t come to Napa and not eat. This place is a food lover’s paradise, with everything from Michelin-star restaurants to casual farm-to-table spots.

Oxbow Public Market – If you want to try a little bit of everything, Oxbow is the place. This indoor market has a mix of food vendors offering fresh seafood, tacos, pizza, ice cream, and more. It’s a great spot for families since everyone can get what they want.
Gott’s Roadside – A Napa institution. This burger stand has been serving up some of the best burgers, fries, and milkshakes in the area for decades. No fancy reservations, just really good food.
The Model Bakery – People come from all over for their legendary English muffins. Fluffy, buttery, and made fresh daily, they’re the kind of thing you’ll dream about long after your trip is over.
Napa also has a ton of cooking classes if you want to take a hands-on approach. You can learn how to make pasta, roll sushi, or perfect your baking skills.

Relax at a Spa

Let’s be real—Napa is all about relaxation. And what better way to unwind than with a spa day?

Calistoga’s Hot Springs – Calistoga, a small town in Napa Valley, is famous for its natural hot springs and mud baths. If you’ve never tried a volcanic ash mud bath, it’s a unique experience that leaves your skin feeling soft and refreshed.
Spa Solage – One of the top-rated spas in the area, offering everything from facials to full-body massages. It’s a splurge, but totally worth it if you want to treat yourself.
Indian Springs Resort & Spa – This place has been around since the 1800s and has an incredible Olympic-sized mineral pool fed by natural hot springs. Even if you don’t book a spa treatment, just soaking in the warm waters is a great way to relax.

Explore the Art Scene

Napa isn’t just about food and wine—it’s also home to a thriving art community. If you love checking out galleries and sculptures, you’ll find plenty to explore.

di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art – A massive art space featuring modern and contemporary works from Bay Area artists. It’s located on a beautiful property with outdoor sculptures and walking trails.
Napa ARTwalk – This rotating outdoor exhibition features large-scale sculptures throughout downtown Napa. It’s free and a fun way to explore the city.
Jessel Gallery – A hidden gem showcasing local artists, from paintings to ceramics and jewelry. It’s a great spot to find unique souvenirs.

Visit a Castle (Yes, a Real Castle!)

If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale, head to Castello di Amorosa. It’s a 13th-century-style Tuscan castle, complete with towers, dungeons, and a drawbridge. While it’s technically a winery, you don’t have to do a wine tasting to visit. You can take a guided tour, explore the castle on your own, or just wander the grounds and take in the medieval vibes.

Kids especially love this place—it feels like something straight out of a storybook.

Sure, Napa Valley is known for wine. But even if you don’t drink—or just want a break from tasting rooms—there’s so much more to explore. Whether you’re flying above the vineyards in a hot air balloon, soaking in a hot spring, hiking through the redwoods, or eating your way through the Oxbow Market, there’s something here for everyone.

So if you’ve been wondering whether Napa is worth visiting without the wine, the answer is absolutely yes. It’s beautiful, relaxing, and full of fun experiences—no matter your age or interests.