The Best Things to Do in Calistoga, California in 2025

Meowdy, fellow felines, and curious humans! If you’ve ever wondered what life is like in the charming town of Calistoga, California, you’re in for a cat treat. Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, this purrfect destination offers more than just vineyard views and hot springs. Join me, your sophisticated traveling cat, as I share the inside scoop on the “Things to Do in Calistoga”. From napping spots with panoramic views to secret, sun-soaked nooks that even locals don’t know, it’s time to grab your curiosity and get ready to explore!

Is Calistoga Part of Napa Valley?

Running between the Vaca Range and the Mayacamas Mountains, Napa Valley is roughly 30 miles long and 5 miles wide. The valley is home to two main towns: Napa, a larger more metropolitan town located at the southern end of the valley, and Calistoga, a slower-paced, resort-focused community located on the northern end. 

Being the lesser-known town in Napa Valley, Calistoga has fewer crowds while offering the same proximity to vineyards. If you are looking for a combination of hot springs, nature, and local shops then Calistoga could be your dream destination. Travelers looking for a bigger variety of restaurants and more lively nightlife should take a look at staying in the town of Napa. 

For those adventurous souls who opt to stay on the northern side of the valley, you’ll have plenty of options for things to do in Calistoga, California. 

1. Experience the Healing Mud of Calistoga

One of the most popular experiences in the town of Calistoga is soaking in the region’s unique mud. A time-honored tradition, soaking in mud is a unique healing experience due to evenly distributed heat and balanced minerals. Calistoga is renowned for its healing mud which is a mix of volcanic ash from Mt St. Helena and mineral water from the geothermal springs that populate this part of the valley. 

Most spas in the area feature a mud bath experience, however, some of the better-known facilities are Dr. Wilkenson’s Mud Baths, Roman Spa, and Indian Hot Springs. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the unique culture of Calistoga then dipping into a tub of healing mud should be at the top of your agenda. 

2. Go Wine Tasting in Town 

Visiting the tasting rooms on Lincoln Boulevard in Calistoga, California, is a popular activity for a good reason. Throughout this small and walkable area, you’ll find a variety of amazing tasting rooms that represent a specific vineyard or offer a range of wines from multiple vineyards. This is the best way to taste a variety of wines within a walkable area.

In each tasting room, you’ll be greeted by knowledgeable baristas who will guide your wine-tasting journey. You can use the opportunity to learn the intricacies of how soil influences flavor or simply relax and try something new. One beloved tasting room is Tank Garage Winery which offers a variety of wines in a 1930s-style filling station. 

No matter how deep you decide to dive into your wine-tasting experience, you will encounter friendly faces and taste some truly unique, local wines.

3. Visit a Nearby Vineyard or Two

You can not come to Napa Valley without visiting a vineyard or two during your stay. Aside from tasting wines you can’t get at the grocery store this is also a great opportunity to tour one-of-a-kind estates and learn about California wine culture. Luckily, Calistoga is located near some of the most dramatically beautiful vineyards in the whole valley. 

Most vineyards require a reservation to do a tasting. Tastings generally last around 45 minutes to 1 hour and include 4 to 5 “tastes” of wine, which normally add up to about one full glass. A friendly barista will provide information on where the grapes originated, how the wine was made, and some notes on what to look for when tasting the wine. 

While the tasting experiences at these well-known wineries can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for wine enthusiasts, one of the best things about visiting the vineyards is walking around the grounds. This area is known for some of the most picturesque vineyards in the country so make sure to take a walk around bring your camera for some stunning photo opportunities.  

One must-see vineyard in the area is Chateau Montelena. This is home to the Chardonnay that won a famous tasting contest in Paris, which put Napa on the map. Sterling Vineyards is also close to Calistoga and is known for amazing views as well as a variety of delicious wines.

4. See the Petrified Forest

Located just 5 miles outside of Calistoga, you’ll find a little nature preserve called the Petrified Forest. This natural wonder is more like an outdoor museum, showcasing ancient redwood trees turned into stone over millions of years. The petrification process, caused by volcanic activity and mineral-rich waters, replaces the wood fibers with minerals, creating remarkably well-preserved fossils. 

To experience this unique landscape you’ll need to pay a small fee of $12 per adult. The area offers two .5 mile trails, requiring roughly 1 hour to fully explore all the exhibits. Stopping by the Petrified Forest is a great way to take a break from tasting all that delicious wine!

5. Eat Your Way Through Restaurant Row

Aside from great wine, Napa Valley is best known for its amazing food scene. With top-notch chefs, fresh ingredients, and creative twists on the classics, it’s no wonder that both wine and food enthusiasts flock to the town of Calistoga. 

One of the best places to experience Napa Valley’s food scene is Restaurant Row on Lincoln Avenue in downtown Calistoga. This vibrant stretch of delicious restaurants showcases a range of experiences, ranging from cozy cafes to upscale eateries. Visitors can savor a variety of cuisines, from locally inspired dishes to international flavors, providing an answer to nearly any craving. 

Hydro Grill, featuring a range of local and seasonal cuisine is a main staple in the area. Another must-try restaurant is Calistoga Inn Restaurant. Best known for its extensive outdoor seating with live music, this restaurant also offers a traditional menu of delicious mains along with a seasonal selection of pasta and pizza.   

6. Soak in Calistoga’s Famous Hot Springs

Visiting the natural hot springs in Calistoga is the perfect pairing to a day of tasting delicious wine. These natural springs are enriched with minerals, believed to offer various health benefits, including relaxation and skin rejuvenation. 

Calistoga is renowned for its geothermal activity, creating an ideal environment for hot springs to flourish. When considering a visit, some recommended locations include the luxurious Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa, the tranquil Indian Springs Resort, and the welcoming Calistoga Spa Hot Springs. These establishments offer a range of hot spring experiences, from communal pools to private soaking tubs, as well as unique spa treatments. 

7. Visit a Geyser

One of the lesser-known attractions of the area, the Old Faithful Geyser of California is worth a visit. Erupting every 15 to 30 minutes, this is one of three geothermal geysers in the world that have earned the “Old Faithful” designation. This is also one of the most photographed geysers in the world. 

Located just outside of town, admission to this attraction is $15 per adult. Upon entry, you’ll also gain access to the surrounding park, which includes a small animal farm. Why not grab a picnic and spend the morning exploring this unique attraction?

8. Take a Stroll in the Park

Exploring Bothe-Napa Valley State Park in Calistoga provides an invigorating outdoor experience. The park is home to diverse ecosystems, including redwood forests, meadows, and oak woodlands, making it a great destination for nature lovers. 

During the hot summers, one of the most popular activities at this park is taking a dip in its public swimming pool. With over 10 miles of trails and plenty of picturesque spots to picnic, you could easily spend an entire afternoon at this lovely park. 

9. Explore the Town of St. Helena

Located just 15 minutes south of Calistoga, a visit to St. Helena, California is a great way to dive into the culture of Napa Valley. This charming small town, nestled in the heart of the valley, is celebrated for its rich history and contributions to the world of wine. The town’s Main Street is dotted with boutique shops, galleries, and eateries, offering a pleasant stroll through its cultural and culinary offerings. 

Aside from a bustling Main Street, St. Helena is also home to the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone. Here visitors can enjoy a meal at their full-service restaurant or sign up for wine tasting or a guided tour of the campus.

10. Eat at a Michelin Star Restaurant

Eating at a Michelin-starred restaurant is a highly sought-after experience for visitors to Napa Valley. Luckily, Calistoga is home to Auro, which has earned recognition for its exceptional cuisine.

Recently earning one star in 2023, the menu here showcases a rotating tasting menu focused on local food that is currently in season. Led by Chef Rogelio Garcia, Auro is known for creating dishes that are both delectable and artistically presented. Of course, you can also expect one of the most impressive wine lists in the valley.

11. Explore Nature and History on the Oat Hill Mine Trail

Embarking on the Oat Hill Mine Trail in Calistoga, California, is an engaging outdoor adventure with historical significance. Weaving through the area’s scenic hills, this trail was once used for transporting mercury. Hikers can explore the relics of the old mining structures, gaining insight into the region’s past. The trail spans approximately 8.3 miles and offers varying levels of difficulty, making it suitable for both novice and experienced hikers. 

12. Grab a Cup of Coffee With a Side of History 

Grab a taste of history at Sam’s General Store between your Calistoga adventures. Located in the last standing cottage built by Sam Brannan, the town’s original founder, this unique building is an icon in Calistoga.

The delicious coffee, fresh baked goods, and legendary picnic baskets also make it a popular stop for tourists and locals alike. Make sure to leave time to relax on the lush lawn surrounding the store. This is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee while planning your next adventure.

Conclusion on Things to Do in Calistoga, California

As our whisker-filled journey through Calistoga, California, comes to a close, I hope you’ve been inspired by all this charming town has to offer. From mud baths to sipping wine, this is a unique destination that caters to both relaxation and exploration. 

As a lesser-known hidden gem, Calistoga manages to retain its quaint charm while providing access to the same natural wonders and culinary delights as its more bustling counterparts. It’s time to get ready to experience the healing embrace of hot springs, the panoramic views of the Oat Hill Mine Trail, and the culinary delights on Lincoln Avenue’s Restaurant Row. Until next time, happy exploring!