Top 20 Things to Do in Downtown Napa in 2024

As a slow-traveling cat, it’s easy to find reasons to love downtown Napa, California. Just imagine strolling through the vibrant streets of downtown, nestled in the heart of California’s famous wine country. Now everyone knows that cats do not drink wine, however, we have a penchant for humans who do! And let me tell you, my human absolutely adores herself a glass of Cabernet. However, downtown Napa is about so much more than just wine. From fine food to culture to outdoor adventure, this small area has a lot to offer humans and felines alike. Let’s take a look at the best things to do in downtown Napa. 

1. Wine and Dine at Oxbow Public Market

Located in the heart of downtown Napa, California, the Oxbow Public Market is a bustling hub of local flavors. Offering a diverse array of artisanal foods, fresh produce, and local wines, it’s the go-to spot for locals and travelers, alike. 

Visitors can explore the market’s vibrant atmosphere, chat with local vendors, and sample a variety of delicious treats. Make sure to visit the famous Hog Island Oyster Bar to sample the grilled oysters and enjoy a glass of their house white which is specially blended to pair with Hog Island oysters. If oysters are not your thing, another crowd-pleaser is Live Fire Pizza, featuring freshly baked pizzas from a wood fire oven.  

Whether grabbing a quick bite or stocking up on goodies for a picnic, the Oxbow Public Market is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring downtown Napa.

2. Take a Ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train, situated in downtown Napa, offers visitors a unique way to experience the beauty of wine country while indulging in gourmet cuisine and fine wines. The train offers various options to cater to different tastes and preferences. 

For those seeking a leisurely journey, the scenic ride aboard the train’s vintage Pullman railcars provides panoramic views of the rolling hills of Napa Valley. Additionally, guests can opt for different dining experiences, including 3, 4, and 7-course meals which take place at either lunch or dinner time. The train also offers afternoon tea and occasional theme nights. 

With its blend of luxurious travel, delicious food, and wine-tasting opportunities, the Napa Valley Wine Train promises an unforgettable experience for all who come aboard.

3. Immerse Yourself in Public Art

In downtown Napa, public art can be enjoyed year-round in various locations throughout the city. From vibrant murals to whimsical sculptures scattered across parks and plazas, there’s always something new to discover. 

Visitors can explore downtown Napa to find a plethora of public art installations, including the Napa Art Walk, an ongoing exhibit that features outdoor sculptors from rotating artists. Additionally, numerous galleries, wineries, and cultural institutions throughout Napa showcase local and regional artists’ works, solidifying art as a cultural mainstay. For the most current offerings, check out the Napa City website. 

4. Taste the Wine

Tasting wine in downtown Napa is a must-do for any traveler to the area. Offering a unique opportunity to explore the diverse flavors of Napa’s wines, Napa’s downtown tasting rooms provide a welcoming environment for all levels of expertise. 

With dozens of tasting rooms and wine bars within walking distance of each other, visitors can sample various great wines crafted by local winemakers. Visiting tasting rooms also provides a unique opportunity to learn about different grape varietals, winemaking techniques, and flavor profiles. Whether you’re seeking a casual afternoon of wine tasting with friends or a more formal guided tasting, downtown Napa’s wine scene provides an enjoyable and educational wine-tasting experience.

While it’s easy to find tasting rooms all over downtown, if you are looking for somewhere to get started, we recommend JaM Cellars centrally located on 1st Street. JaM offers a great mix of well-known local wines and a laid-back atmosphere with a rock-and-roll vibe. If you want a more unique experience, Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin BBQ offers an interesting pairing of local wines and fresh BBQ. And finally, Alpha Omega Collective offers a classic wine-tasting experience with an elegant atmosphere and high-end wines. 

5. Appreciate Live Jazz

Blue Note Napa, located in downtown Napa, offers a vibrant live jazz experience. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy performances by talented musicians and bands in an intimate and cozy setting. Shows are typically scheduled for Thur-Sun, but scheduling may vary. Check out their website to see current offerings. 

With its prime location in the heart of downtown Napa and a lineup of top-notch performers, Blue Note Napa is not only a must-see for travelers but a local favorite as well. 

6. Take in the View from Above on a Hot Air Balloon Ride

For an unforgettable experience in Napa Valley, consider taking a hot air balloon ride to soak in the breathtaking views of the region’s rolling hills and picturesque vineyards. A highly recommended tour company based in downtown Napa, California, is Balloons Over the Valley, which offers exhilarating hot air balloon adventures guided by experienced pilots. 

As you float above the valley, you’ll witness the California sun casting its golden hues across the landscape, creating a truly magical moment. Napa Valley Balloons provides a safe and enjoyable journey, allowing passengers to marvel at the beauty of Napa Valley from a unique vantage point high above the ground. 

7. Indulge in Local Sweets

Downtown Napa boasts a delightful array of bakeries where visitors can indulge in sweet treats and freshly baked goods. Taking a stroll around downtown and sampling some of the city’s best-known treats is a must-do on any vacation agenda.   

Model Bakery, known for its famous English muffins and artisan bread, offers a delectable selection of pastries and sandwiches perfect for a quick bite or leisurely brunch. Kara’s Cupcakes specializes in decadent cupcakes crafted from high-quality ingredients, with flavors ranging from classic vanilla to inventive seasonal creations. Meanwhile, Anette’s Chocolates tempts visitors with handcrafted chocolates and confections, including truffles, caramels, and chocolate-covered fruits. 

Whether you’re craving a flaky croissant, a gourmet cupcake, or a rich piece of chocolate, downtown Napa’s bakeries are sure to provide a delightful culinary experience.

8. Explore 1st Street in the Heart of Downtown Napa

Visiting 1st Street in downtown Napa provides a bustling and vibrant experience for both locals and visitors alike. Lined with diverse shops, cafes, and restaurants, 1st Street offers something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a stroll, a delicious meal, or some retail therapy, you’ll find plenty of options to explore along this lively thoroughfare. 

Additionally, 1st Street often hosts community events and festivals, adding to its status as the central hub of activity and excitement in downtown Napa. Whether you’re a visitor looking to dive into the local culture or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of First Street Napa, this area is sure to leave a lasting impression.

9. Learn Something New at the Napa County Historical Society 

Visiting the Napa County Historical Society in downtown Napa provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history. Established to preserve and share the stories of Napa County’s past, the Historical Society offers visitors a wealth of resources, including archives, exhibits, and educational programs. 

The Napa County Historical Society exhibit hall is located in the heart of downtown Napa and is free to the public. Offering rotating exhibits, visitors are invited to explore an array of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the area’s past. Additionally, the society hosts events and lectures that delve deeper into various aspects of Napa’s history.

10. Explore the Art and Science of Food and Wine at the CIA at Copia

Visiting the CIA at Copia in downtown Napa offers a dynamic experience for food enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. Acting as the main hub for the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Napa, Copia offers a range of food-related experiences.

Here you’ll find a variety of culinary classes, workshops, and demonstrations led by expert instructors. In addition to its educational offerings, Copia houses a restaurant, wine-tasting rooms, and culinary gardens, inviting visitors to dive into the vibrant culinary culture of Napa Valley. 

11. Enjoy a Great Meal

You don’t have to be a foodie to appreciate the myriad of fine dining options available in downtown Napa. Known for fantastic restaurants, planning for at least one nice meal out is a great addition to any travel itinerary. 

From intimate bistros to elegant Michelin-starred establishments, there’s no shortage of options to indulge in gourmet meals paired with fine wines. With so many options available, it can be hard to figure out where to start. Depending on your preferences and pocketbook, we recommend the following.

If you are looking for a mid-range price tag, with a varied menu and great atmosphere, Kitchen Door is a local restaurant that you can’t miss. This is one of the best places downtown to relax while enjoying a thoughtful menu with the perfect wine pairing. 

ZuZu, also located in downtown Napa, is known for its tapas (small plates) and fantastic paella. A crowd-pleaser, dining a Zuzu offers the opportunity to try a variety of dishes while relaxing in a laid-back dining area. 

Finally, if you are looking for an ultra-upscale experience, we recommend Kenzo, the only Michelin-star-rated restaurant in downtown Napa. Focused on providing an authentic Japanese dining experience, guests enjoy an intimate atmosphere and elevated food experience. As with most Michelin-starred restaurants, make sure you are ready to pay a premium for access to this level of food and service. 

12. Go Olive Oil Tasting

Embarking on an olive oil tasting excursion in downtown Napa is a unique opportunity to learn about this culinary staple. Napa Valley is known for producing high-quality olive oil alongside its famous grapevines.

During an olive oil tasting experience, participants learn about the nuances of different olive oil varieties, including extra virgin, flavored, and specialty blends. Tastings often involve guided sessions led by knowledgeable staff who provide insights into the production process, flavor profiles, and culinary uses of olive oil. We recommend checking out the Olive Press in Oxbow Market and Napastak, located on 1st Street. 

13. Bike Through the Valley

Biking on the Napa Valley Vine Trail offers a scenic and enjoyable way to explore the beauty of Napa Valley. A 12.5-mile, off-street, paved bike path, the Vine Trail runs from downtown Napa to Yountville, a small town located in the middle of Napa Valley. While you’ll find plenty of bike rental stores in Napa, the easiest place to rent from is Napa Valley Bike Tours & Rentals. With locations in downtown Napa and Yountville, guests can opt to ride the path from point to point for a small bike relocation fee. 

The path itself is a beautiful ride. Running through the heart of wine country, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stop at nearby wineries and lots of places to break for a picnic. The path is also relatively flat but also has little shade at some points. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen for your cycling adventure. 

14. See the Outdoor Art at RAD Napa

RAD Napa in downtown Napa is an up-and-coming art district that showcases a variety of murals and other public art alongside special exhibits and occasional events. Also known as the Railroad Arts District, visitors can enjoy a variety of colorful murals that transform this semi-industrial area. 

RAD Napa is best explored on foot, starting at the Oxbow Public Market and meandering two miles outward along the train tracks. Running alongside the Vine Trail, you can explore the exhibits by bike or catch a glance from the Napa Valley Wine Train. Set against an unlikely background, viewing the art at RAD Napa is a unique and picturesque experience. 

15. Watch the Sunset at Main Street Boat Dock

Watching the sunset at the Main Street Boat Dock in downtown Napa offers a serene experience for both visitors and locals. This relatively small dock is limited to small private boats and non-motorized craft, making it a quiet location to relax and enjoy the beautiful river.

Aside from providing an ideal vantage point to admire the stunning colors of the sunset reflecting off the water, this is also an ideal spot for wildlife viewing. Here you are likely to spot a variety of birds and, if you are lucky, you may see a playful river otter or two.  

16. Boat Along the Beautiful Napa River

Renting a kayak to explore the Napa River offers an exciting opportunity to experience downtown Napa in a new way. Offering a unique perspective of downtown, as well as, long stretches of stunning nature with plenty of wildlife, exploring the river is a great way to spend an afternoon in Napa. 

While you can opt for a guided kayak tour from a company like River’s Edge, many inexperienced kayakers also explore on their own. Known for its calm waters, the Napa River is easy for most beginners to navigate. One popular route is to start at the Main Street Boat Dock and paddle approximately 7 miles to Cuttings Warf.  

17. Take a Cooking Class

Taking a cooking class in downtown Napa offers an opportunity for aspiring chefs of all levels to dive into the Napa food scene. With a variety of classes available, participants can explore different cuisines, cooking styles, and ingredients under the guidance of experienced instructors. These classes emphasize hands-on learning, allowing students to actively participate in preparing and cooking dishes from start to finish. 

Whether you’re a novice cook looking to build a foundation or a seasoned chef seeking to expand your repertoire, downtown Napa’s cooking classes are a great addition to your itinerary. One highly recommended destination for cooking classes is the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Copia. Located in the heart of downtown Napa, CIA at Copia is well-known for its expert chefs and is a great option for your cooking class experience.

18. Explore Napa’s Riverfront Promenade

Exploring the riverfront promenade in downtown Napa offers a lively experience along the Napa River. Located adjacent to Main Street between 3rd and 5th St, the promenade stretches along the riverbank, providing a charming pathway for pedestrians to stroll, shop, grab a bite, or simply enjoy the waterfront views. 

Lined with unique cafes and local shops, the promenade offers opportunities to truly experience the Napa lifestyle. With near-perfect weather year-round, this is also a great place to sit next to the water and rest your feet after a day of exploring downtown Napa.   

19. Support the Napa Farmers Market

Located in the heart of downtown Napa, at Pearl St and West St, the Napa Farmers Market has a long-standing reputation for working with local farms to provide amazing local produce, artisanal goods, and culinary delights. Visitors can browse a variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and homemade goods while engaging with local vendors. The farmers market is a great opportunity to support local farmers while also experiencing the rich agricultural heritage of the Napa Valley region.

The market is open on Saturdays from 8 am to 12 noon year-round and also operates at the same times on Tuesdays from April to December. This is the perfect place to shop locally and find unique additions to your wine country picnic basket. 

20. Indulge in a Spa Day

A visit to Napa, CA is all about indulgence, and one of the best ways to really sink into your vacation is to book a spa treatment in downtown Napa. With a variety of spas located throughout the area, visitors can choose from a range of treatments designed to promote wellness and relaxation. From massages and facials to body wraps and hydrotherapy, spa-goers can indulge in services tailored to their individual needs and preferences. 

We recommend checking out the spa at Napa River Inn and the rooftop spa at Archer Hotel.

Conclusion on Things to Do in Downtown Napa

In conclusion, the city of Napa presents a treasure trove of experiences ranging from relaxing and indulgent to active and adventurous. Well known for its abundance of wine-tasting rooms, this area has so much more to offer!

From culinary delights at the Oxbow Public Market to cultural enrichment through public art and historical exploration, downtown Napa offers an array of activities to suit every taste and interest. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll along the riverfront promenade, an evening of live jazz at Blue Note Napa, or a thrilling hot air balloon ride over the valley, downtown Napa has something for everyone. 

With its charming streets, welcoming atmosphere, and opportunities for exploration, downtown Napa invites visitors to create lasting memories. So whether you’re looking for a weekend adventure or seeking an unforgettable getaway, downtown Napa awaits with open arms.