At the foot of the Napa Valley, charming Downtown Napa has transformed into a culinary and entertainment destination that should not be missed.
Back in 1847, the town of Napa was founded at the uppermost point of the Napa River to act as a hub for trade and transportation. Today, Downtown Napa has become a hub of a different kind, bringing world-class wine, food, and culture into one vibrant place. It seems there’s always something exciting happening in Downtown Napa: the opening of a new tasting room, a new art exhibit, or a new restaurant featuring another great chef. Rest assured, Downtown Napa is not a tourist trap. It’s genuine and real. In fact, this urban spot has become a gathering place for locals to meet, hang out, and savor all the good things Napa Valley has to offer. So next time, when in Napa Valley, do as the Napans do, and “do” Downtown Napa.
LOCAL FINDS
Start at the Napa Valley Welcome Center on Main Street to plan the details of your visit with the support of an iPad station and a real live concierge. Napa ARTwalk is a free, self-guided, outdoor sculpture exhibit you can do 24/7, 365 days a year. Oxbow Public Market is action central, with tasting rooms, delis, and restaurants all under one roof, plus the Napa Farmers’ Market on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Shop until you drop in the clothing boutiques, antique emporiums, and culinary and wine shops. Taste wine in some of the more-than 20 tasting rooms within walking distance.
Eat! Enjoy breakfast at ABC Bakery, lunch at Grace’s Table, sushi at Morimoto, pizza at Oenotri or another of Napa’s more than 70 restaurants and sweet shops. Go along on a Culinary Crawl, a monthly walking food and wine tour. Behold the pride of the city, the historic Napa Valley Opera House. Its calendar has all kinds of shows, from classical music to comedy acts. After a show at Uptown Theater or Silo’s grab a nightcap or bite at a tavern, wine bar, or late night bistro.
LOCAL LODGING
Whether you’re looking for an intimate bed and breakfast, a stylish hotel, or a comfortable, budget friendly inn, you’ll find it in Downtown Napa. Many Napa B&Bs and hotels are found just blocks, or even steps, from the shops, art galleries, and restaurants. For details and a calendar of events, visit donapa.com.
INSIDE SCOOP
To fully appreciate this vibrant town, reserve a room and plan to stay out and enjoy a laid-back style of nightlife. Details can be found at the above-mentioned website.
Touring & Tasting is a media company that produces a wine and travel magazine and is also partner in the Hitched Wine Club.
Steve Cooper is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of Hitched. You can follow him on Twitter at @hitchedmedia.
