17 Fun Things To Do In Downtown Napa On Your Next Visit

Downtown Napa has changed so much lately. It used to be pretty quiet, but now it’s full of life. You’ll find great restaurants, cool wine tasting rooms, and lots of fun stuff to do. There are so many things to do in Downtown Napa now that you might have trouble choosing.

I’m going to tell you about all the best spots in Downtown Napa. You’ll learn where to get tasty food, which wines you should try, and what fun activities await you. It doesn’t matter if you love eating, drinking wine, or just want to enjoy the town – Downtown Napa has something you’ll like.

Why Should You Visit Downtown Napa?

You might be wondering what’s so special about Downtown Napa. Well, let me tell you – this place is no longer a quick stop to fancy Napa vineyards anymore. Nope, Downtown Napa has become a travel destination all on its own.

What’s in Downtown Napa	How Many	Why It’s Awesome
Wine Tasting Rooms	40+	Try lots of wines without driving
Restaurants	About 80	From cheap eats to fancy dinners
Hotels	15+	Stay right in the middle of the action
Art Galleries	10+	See cool art from local and famous artists

First off, it’s super easy to get around. The whole downtown area is about 20 blocks, which means you can park your car and forget about it for your whole trip. No need for a designated driver here! You can walk from your hotel to restaurants, shops, and many wine tasting rooms.

Speaking of wine tasting, did you know there are over 40 tasting rooms within walking distance of each other in Downtown Napa? But don’t worry if wine isn’t your thing (though I bet it will be after a visit here). There are so much more things to do in Downtown Napa CA.

For food fans, Downtown Napa is a real treat. With about 80 different restaurants, you’ll never go hungry. From fancy spots where celebrity chefs cook fantastic dishes to cozy cafes serving comfort food, there’s something for every taste and wallet.

And let’s not forget about the beautiful Napa River that runs right through town. It adds a lovely backdrop to everything and opens up a whole world of fun activities. You can take a relaxing walk along the riverfront, go kayaking, or even hop on a gondola for a romantic ride.

Explore the Best of Downtown Napa

Downtown Napa has been changing faster than grapes ferment into wine! Here are some of the coolest new additions you’ve got to check out:

1. Visit First Street Napa for Shopping and Fun

First Street Napa is a brand new shopping and dining area that has become the beating heart of downtown. It opened in 2018 and covers a whopping 325,000 square feet.

In First Street Napa, you’ll find more than 20 trendy shops where you can find unique clothes and gifts, art galleries showing off local talent, and some seriously good restaurants. There’s also 45,000 square feet of office space, bringing more life to the downtown area during the workweek.

Here’s a quick comparison of these shopping areas:

Shopping Area	Type of Shops	Notable Stores
First Street Napa	Local & national brands	Makers Market, Mecox, Lululemon
Oxbow Public Market	Local food & craft vendors	Napa Bookmine, Monkey Flower Group
Main Street	Local boutiques	Yarns on First, Napa Valley Traditions

Take note that many shops in Downtown Napa are small, local businesses. Shopping here is a great way to support the local community!

One of the neatest things about First Street Napa is how it blends the old with the new. They’ve taken some of the historic buildings and given them a modern makeover. So while you’re shopping in a hip new store, you might actually be standing in a building that’s over 100 years old!

A standout in First Street Napa is the Archer Hotel. This 183-room luxury hotel is like the cherry on top of the First Street sundae. It’s got a rooftop bar with amazing views of the valley, and it’s become a popular spot for both visitors and locals to hang out.

2. Find Yummy Food at Oxbow Public Market

Now, if you’re a food lover, you’ve got to check out Oxbow Public Market. This place has a big open market filled with local vendors selling everything from fresh oysters to handmade chocolates.

Oxbow Public Market opened in 2007, but it keeps getting better and better. It’s a 40,000 square foot marketplace that’s home to dozens of local food vendors, artisan cafes, and organic produce outlets.

At Oxbow, you can watch cheese being made, try different olive oils, pick up some fresh bread for a picnic, or sit down for a full meal. It’s a great place to try a bit of everything.

Here’s a quick look at some of the must-try vendors at Oxbow Public Market:

Vendor Name	What to Try	Why It’s Special
Hog Island Oyster Co.	Fresh oysters	Sustainably farmed, super fresh
Gott’s Roadside	Ahi Tuna Burger	A healthier take on fast food
The Model Bakery	English muffins	Oprah’s favorite – need we say more?
Anette’s Chocolates	Wine truffles	Combines Napa’s two favorite things
The Olive Press	Olive oil tasting	Learn about different olive varieties

Oxbow Public Market is open daily from 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM, but individual vendor hours may vary. It’s a great spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just snacking throughout the day.

3. Learn About Food and Wine at CIA at Copia

CIA at Copia is another new addition that’s got everyone talking. No, it’s not a spy school – CIA stands for Culinary Institute of America. This place opened in 2016 and it’s like Disneyland for food and wine lovers.

At CIA at Copia, you can take cooking classes taught by pro chefs, check out cool food and wine exhibits, or just enjoy a great meal at their restaurant. They’ve even got a theater where they show food-related movies and host talks by famous chefs. It’s a great place to learn more about the food and wine that makes Napa Valley so special.

The cooking classes at CIA at Copia are really something special. You can learn everything from basic knife skills to how to make fancy French pastries.

Prices for classes range from $15 for a wine tasting to $150 for a hands-on cooking class. And the best part? You get to eat what you make!

CIA at Copia is located at 500 1st Street, right next to Oxbow Public Market. It’s open daily, but hours can vary depending on the classes and events scheduled. It’s a good idea to check their website or give them a call before you visit.

Taste Amazing Wines in Downtown Napa

Alright, let’s talk about what Napa’s really famous for – the wine! Downtown Napa has some awesome tasting rooms where you can sample local wines without having to drive out to the vineyards. Here are some spots you shouldn’t miss:

4. Try Unique Wines at Vintner’s Collective

Vintner’s Collective is housed in an old saloon from the 1800s and offers tastings from over 20 small wineries. These boutique producers are too small to have their own tasting rooms, so it’s a great chance to try some unique Napa wines you won’t find elsewhere.

When you walk into Vintner’s Collective in Downtown Napa, it’s like stepping back in time. The building still has its original stone walls and wooden beams. But don’t let the old-timey look fool you – the wines here are top-notch and totally modern.

They offer different tasting options, but I’d recommend going for the “Taste of Napa Valley” flight. It lets you try wines from different parts of the valley, so you can really get a sense of how the land shapes the taste of the wine. Tastings range from $50 for a walk-in tasting to $85 for a seated tasting experience.

Vintner’s Collective is located at 1245 Main Street and is open daily from 11 AM to 7 PM. It’s a good idea to make a reservation, especially during the busy summer months.

5. See Art and Drink Wine at Acumen Wine Gallery

If you’re into high-quality, organically-grown wines, Acumen is the place to go. They specialize in wines from Atlas Peak, known for producing some killer Cabernet Sauvignons. The tasting room has a modern, artsy vibe that’s super inviting.

What’s really cool about Acumen is that they change their art exhibits regularly. So every time you visit, you might see different artwork on the walls. It’s like visiting a wine tasting room and an art gallery all in one!

Acumen offers tasting experiences ranging from $50 to $125 per person. They have both walk-in and by-appointment experiences available. You can find them at 1315 First Street, and they’re open daily from 11 AM to 7 PM.

6. Listen to Music While Tasting Wine at JaM Cellars

JaM Cellars combines wine tasting with music, creating a really fun and relaxed atmosphere. They’ve got a vintage vinyl collection and even host live music sessions. It’s like a wine bar meets a music lounge!

JaM Cellars is known for its easy-drinking wines with fun names like “Butter” Chardonnay and “Toast” Sparkling Wine. They’ve got a great “JaMSession” tasting where you can try their core wines while listening to some tunes. Tastings start at $25 per person.

You can find JaM Cellars at 1460 First Street. They’re open Sunday-Thursday from 10 AM to 10 PM, and Friday-Saturday from 10 AM to midnight. It’s a great spot for a night out in Downtown Napa.

Here’s a quick comparison of these tasting rooms:

Tasting Room	Specialty	Unique Feature	Price Range
Vintner’s Collective	Small production wines	Historic building	$50-$85
Acumen Wine Gallery	Atlas Peak wines	Rotating art exhibits	$50-$125
JaM Cellars	Easy-drinking wines	Music-themed experience	Starting at $25

These are just a few of the many tasting rooms in Downtown Napa. Don’t be afraid to explore and find your own favorites!

Eat at Top Restaurants in Downtown Napa

Downtown Napa has become a serious foodie destination. From fancy restaurants to casual eateries, there’s something for every taste and budget. Here are some places you shouldn’t miss:

7. Eat at a Famous Chef’s Restaurant: Morimoto Napa

Yes, that Morimoto – the Iron Chef himself! This riverside restaurant serves up some of the best Japanese cuisine you’ll find outside of Japan.

The sushi is amazing, but don’t miss out on their other dishes like the ishiyaki buri bop – yellowtail cooked at your table in a hot stone bowl.

What makes Morimoto Napa special is how they blend traditional Japanese techniques with local Napa Valley ingredients. It’s like Japan and California had delicious food baby!

You can find Morimoto Napa at 610 Main Street, right on the Napa Riverfront. It’s open for dinner every day and for lunch on weekends.

8. Try French Food at Angèle Restaurant and Bar

For a taste of the French countryside in the heart of Napa, head to Angèle. This charming spot serves up classic French dishes with a California twist. Their duck confit is legendary, and the riverside setting makes for a super romantic dinner spot.

Angèle is housed in a historic boathouse from the 1890s, so you’re dining in a piece of Napa history. The outdoor patio is perfect for a sunny lunch or a dinner under the stars. You can find Angèle at 540 Main Street, and it’s open daily for lunch and dinner.

9. Taste Different Foods at Oxbow Public Market

While not a single restaurant, Oxbow Public Market deserves a special mention. This 40,000-square-foot marketplace is home to a variety of food vendors, offering everything from oysters to artisanal ice cream. Here are some must-try spots:

• Hog Island Oyster Co.: Fresh oysters and seafood
• C Casa: Innovative, upscale Mexican cuisine
• Gott’s Roadside: Gourmet burgers and shakes
• The Model Bakery: Famous for their English muffins
• Kara’s Cupcakes: Delightful, freshly-baked cupcakes

Oxbow Public Market is located at 610 1st Street and is open daily from 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM.

10. Eat Food from Around the World at Celadon

Celadon, located at 500 Main Street, offers what they call “global comfort food.” Chef Greg Cole combines flavors from around the world to create unique and delicious dishes.

Here’s a quick look at these dining spots:

Restaurant	Cuisine	Must-Try Dish	Price Range
Morimoto Napa	Japanese	Ishiyaki Buri Bop	$31 and $50 per person
Angèle	French	Duck Confit	$31 and $60 per person
Oxbow Public Market	Various	Hog Island Oysters	$10 to $30 per person
Celadon	Global Fusion	Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart	$31 and $50 per person

Their Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart is a local favorite. The Celadon restaurant is housed in a beautiful historic building and offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

Enjoy Outdoor Fun in Downtown Napa

Things to do in Downtown Napa aren’t just about eating and drinking (though that’s a big part of it!). There are plenty of ways to enjoy the beautiful Napa Valley weather right in the heart of downtown. Here are some ideas:

11. Have Fun on the Napa River

The Napa River runs right through downtown Napa, and it’s a great place for some outdoor fun. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards from Napa Valley Paddle and explore the river at your own pace.

Their shop is located at 680 Main Street, right on the riverfront. Rentals start at $25 per hour for a single kayak.

As you paddle along, keep an eye out for local wildlife – you might spot herons, river otters, or even the occasional sea lion! The best time for kayaking is usually in the morning when the water is calmer and the temperatures are cooler.

If you’re not feeling up to paddling yourself, you can take a gondola ride instead. Napa Valley Gondola offers authentic Venetian gondola rides on the river. It’s super romantic, especially at sunset! Rides last about 50 minutes and cost $95 for two people.

12. Relax at Oxbow Commons Park

This park is a local favorite for outdoor activities. It’s got a great walking trail, and plenty of green space for picnics, and it even hosts outdoor concerts in the summer. It’s the perfect spot to relax after a day of wine tasting.

What’s really neat about Oxbow Commons is that it serves a dual purpose. During the rainy season (usually November to April), part of the park actually becomes a bypass channel for flood control. It’s pretty cool to see how the park changes with the seasons!

You can find Oxbow Commons between McKinstry Street and Soscol Avenue, just a short walk from Oxbow Public Market.

13. Ride a Bike on the Napa Valley Vine Trail

If you’re feeling active, rent a bike and hit the Napa Valley Vine Trail. This 12.5-mile paved trail runs from Downtown Napa all the way to Yountville. It’s a great way to see more of the valley and work off some of that amazing food and wine!

The trail is mostly flat, so it’s good for all fitness levels. And the best part? It passes by several wineries, so you can make some tasting stops along the way!

You can rent bikes from Napa Valley Bike Tours, located at 6795 Washington Street. Rentals start at $45 for a half-day.

Here’s a quick comparison of these outdoor activities:

Activity	Location	What to Expect	Cost
Kayaking/Paddleboarding	Napa River	Scenic views, wildlife spotting	From $25/hour
Gondola Ride	Napa River	Romantic experience, city views	$95 for two people
Walking/Picnicking	Oxbow Commons Park	Green spaces, possible events	Free
Biking	Napa Valley Vine Trail	12.5-mile trail, winery access	From $45 for half-day rental

Napa Valley has great weather most of the year, but it can get pretty hot in the summer. If you’re planning outdoor activities, try to do them in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.

Discover Art and Culture in Downtown Napa

Downtown Napa has a thriving arts and culture scene too. Here are some ways to soak up some culture during your visit:

14. See Cool Sculptures on the Napa Art Walk

Take a stroll around downtown and you’ll spot some amazing public art. The Napa Art Walk is a rotating exhibition of sculptures by artists from all over the West Coast. It changes every two years, so there’s always something new to see.

The Art Walk features about 10 sculptures at a time, scattered throughout the downtown area. You can download a map from the Napa Art Walk website to guide you through the current exhibits. It’s a great way to explore Downtown Napa and see some cool art at the same time!

15. Watch a Show at Uptown Theatre

This beautifully restored 1937 art deco theater hosts live music and comedy shows. The Uptown Theatre has hosted some big names over the years, from B.B. King to Lewis Black. Even if you don’t catch a show, it’s worth walking by to check out the beautiful neon sign and art deco facade.

You can find the Uptown Theatre at 1350 Third Street. Check their schedule online to see what’s playing during your visit. Ticket prices vary depending on the show but generally range from $40 to $100.

16. Visit the Old Napa Valley Opera House

Don’t let the name fool you – this historic venue hosts all kinds of performances, from jazz concerts to stand-up comedy. The downstairs Blue Note Napa club is a great spot for intimate live music shows.

The Opera House was built in 1879 and has been beautifully restored. Even if you don’t see a show, you can often take a tour to learn about its history and see the beautiful interior. It’s located at 1030 Main Street.

17. Learn About Napa at the Napa Valley Museum

While technically in Yountville, the Napa Valley Museum is just a short drive from Downtown Napa and well worth the trip. Here’s what you can expect:

• Permanent exhibits on the history and environment of Napa Valley
• Rotating art exhibitions featuring local and international artists
• Interactive displays about winemaking and the region’s geology
• A sculpture garden with works by local artists

The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM. Admission is $15 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.

Here’s a quick look at these cultural venues:

Venue	Type	What to See/Do	Cost
Napa Art Walk	Public Art	Self-guided tour of sculptures	Free
Uptown Theatre	Performance Venue	Live music and comedy shows	$40-$100
Napa Valley Opera House	Historic Venue	Various performances, Blue Note jazz club	Varies by show
Napa Valley Museum	Museum	Art and history exhibits	$15 for adults

How Can You Get Around Downtown Napa?

One of the best things about Downtown Napa is how easy it is to get around. Here are your main options:

Walking

Downtown Napa is very walkable. Most of the best things to do in Downtown Napa, including the main attractions, restaurants, and tasting rooms, are within a few blocks of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city at a leisurely pace and maybe discover some hidden gems along the way.

Biking

If you want to cover more ground, consider renting a bike. Napa Valley Bike Tours and Rentals, located at 6795 Washington Street, offers a variety of bikes, from simple cruisers to electric bikes if you want a little extra help on the hills.

Biking is especially great if you want to explore the Napa Valley Vine Trail, which starts in Downtown Napa and extends north through the valley. The trail is 12.5 miles long and mostly flat, making it perfect for a leisurely ride.

Napa Valley Wine Trolley

For a fun and unique way to get around, hop on the Napa Valley Wine Trolley. It’s not just for wine tours – you can use it to get around downtown too. The trolley runs on a loop through the main areas of Downtown Napa, making it easy to hop on and off as you explore.

Rideshare

If you need to get somewhere quickly or you’re heading a bit out of the downtown area, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Napa.

Here’s a quick comparison of these transportation options:

Method	Cost	Best For	Notes
Walking	Free	Exploring downtown core	Most eco-friendly option
Biking	$55 and $115 per day	Covering more ground	Great for Vine Trail
Wine Trolley	$125 per person day tour	Scenic tour of downtown	Fun, unique experience
Rideshare	$10-$20 or more per ride	Longer distances	Most convenient for trips outside downtown

If you plan on doing any wine tasting, it’s best to leave the car parked and use one of these other options to get around safely!

When’s the Best Time to Visit Downtown Napa?

Downtown Napa is a year-round travel destination, but each season offers something a little different. Let’s break it down:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a beautiful time in Napa. The weather is mild, and the vineyards are starting to green up. You might catch sight of yellow mustard flowers blooming between the vines. It’s less crowded than summer, but be prepared for some rain, especially in early spring.

Key points for spring visits:

• Average temperatures range from 48°F to 71°F (9°C to 22°C)
• Mustard flowers bloom in March, creating picturesque landscapes
• The Napa Valley Marathon typically takes place in early March
• Easter celebrations and spring wine releases occur during this time

Summer (June to August)

This is peak tourist season in Napa. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities. However, it can get pretty hot, especially in July and August. This is also the busiest time, so expect higher prices and bigger crowds.

Summer highlights:

• Average temperatures range from 53°F to 82°F (12°C to 28°C)
• Napa Porchfest, a unique music festival, usually happens in July
• Many wineries host outdoor concerts and events
• Farmers’ markets are in full swing with fresh local produce

Fall (September to November)

Many people consider this the best time to visit Napa. The weather is still warm but not as hot as summer. This is harvest season, so there’s a lot of excitement in the air. The vineyards turn beautiful shades of red and gold. It’s still pretty busy, especially in early fall.

Fall features:

• Average temperatures range from 51°F to 79°F (11°C to 26°C)
• Grape harvest season, with many wineries offering special harvest experiences
• The Napa Valley Film Festival usually takes place in November
• Fall foliage in the vineyards creates stunning scenery

Winter (December to February)

This is the quietest time in Napa. It’s cooler and there’s more chance of rain, but you’ll find lower prices and fewer crowds. Many restaurants offer special winter menus, and it can be cozy to sip wine by a fireplace. Just note that some outdoor activities might be limited.

Winter notes:

• Average temperatures range from 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C)
• The Napa Lighted Art Festival typically happens in January
• Many wineries offer “cellar season” specials and more intimate tasting experiences
• Mustard flowers start blooming in late winter, usually February

Here’s a quick comparison:

Season	Weather	Crowds	Prices	Special Features
Spring	Mild, some rain	Moderate	Moderate	Mustard flowers, green vineyards
Summer	Hot, dry	Very busy	High	Perfect for outdoor activities
Fall	Warm, dry	Busy	High	Harvest season, fall colors
Winter	Cool, rainy	Quiet	Low	Cozy atmosphere, winter menus

Remember that these are general trends. It’s always a good idea to check specific weather forecasts and event calendars when planning your trip.

How Can You Save Money in Downtown Napa?

Napa can be a pricey destination, but there are ways to enjoy it without breaking the bank. Here are some tips:

• Visit in the off-season: Winter and early spring generally have lower prices for accommodations and some activities.
• Look for tasting room deals: Many tasting rooms offer deals if you visit earlier in the day or during weekdays.
• Get the Downtown Napa Wine Tasting Card: This card offers discounts at multiple tasting rooms in downtown. It costs $15 and can save you up to 50% on tastings at participating locations.
• Picnic instead of eating out: Pick up supplies at Oxbow Public Market and have a picnic in a park. Veterans Memorial Park by the river is a lovely spot.
• Take advantage of happy hours: Many restaurants offer great deals during happy hour. For example, Carpe Diem Wine Bar offers half-off small plates and $5 house wines from 4-6 PM daily.
• Use free transportation: Walk or use the Napa Valley Vine Trail instead of paying for transportation.
• Check out free events: Look for free concerts, art walks, and other events happening downtown. The Napa Art Walk, for instance, is always free.

Keep in mind that the goal is to enjoy your time with all the top things to do in Downtown Napa. Sometimes it’s worth splurging on a special experience, but these tips can help you save on other aspects of your trip.