Napa Valley, located in California's renowned wine country, is a popular destination throughout the year. However, the summer season holds a particular allure for visitors. Here are some reasons to visit Napa Valley this summer and a few local tips for what to do while you're here.
- Outdoor Dining: Napa Valley experiences warm and sunny weather during the summer months, with average temperatures ranging from the 80s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (around 27 to 35 degrees Celsius). This is the perfect climate for all things outdoors whether it be a picnic, wine tasting or outdoor dining.
- Local Tip: Here are some of my favorite spots for outdoor dining in the Napa Valley
- Brix - Gorgeous outdoor gardens and delectable farm to table food make this a must-visit during the beautiful summer months.
- Bistro Jeanty - Feel like your dining in the south of France at this charming french bistro with the perfect patio setting to compliment your french bistro fare.
- Bistro Don Giovanni - A Napa Valley staple for locals and tourists alike. The outdoor courtyard and fountain evokes memories of being in the Italian countryside and the classic Italian fare never disappoints.
- Napa Yard - Beer garden with a casual outdoor setting along the Napa River perfect for grabbing a few beers or cocktails with ample space for the kids to run around.
- Oakville Grocery & Napa Valley Olive Oil Manufacturing Company - Ready for a picnic? Whether you want to dine at picnic tables or grab some gourmet food to take on a picnic of your own, these are your go-to spots. Oakville Grocery has gourmet sandwiches and deli fare while Napa Valley Olive Oil Company has a more rustic selection of cheeses, meats and Italian deli items.
- Gotts Roadside - For a burger or sandwich in a casual setting you can't go wrong with Gotts. Their outside picnic grounds in St. Helena are ample and relaxing while the outdoor patio at Oxbow's bustling market will provide a completely different experience.
- C Casa - Light, fresh Mexican fare meets a well appointed patio location at the Oxbow Public Market.
- The Grove at Copia - Dine outdoors amidst the gardens and olive trees all adorned with sparkling white lights while enjoying Mediterranean farm-to-table inspired cuisine.
- Hop Creek Pub - Friendly locals spot great for families and casual, laid back food and craft beers.
- Vineyard Tours and Wine Tasting: Napa Valley is renowned for its vineyards and wineries, and summer is an excellent time to embark on vineyard tours and indulge in wine tasting experiences. The lush green vineyards, picturesque landscapes, and blooming grapevines offer a visually stunning backdrop for visitors as they learn about the wine-making process and sample a variety of exquisite wines.
- Local Tip: Here are some must-visit locations that offer spectacular outdoor settings
- Round Pond - Set amidst a sea of vineyards in Rutherford, Round Pond offers a wide selection of wine experiences to choose from.
- Artesa - Artesa’s modern architecture was designed to take full advantage of the stunning Napa Valley landscape. Guests can enjoy the estate’s avante-garde art while sipping varietals that the Carneros region is known for, including pinot noir & chardonnay, then move to the hillside patio with views of the Mount Veeder foothills.
- Chappellet - Located at the very top of Pritchard Hill, you can soak up stunning views with an outdoor tasting at Chappellet. Book a 4x4 vineyard tour or a stroll through the scenic vineyards on their intimate hike experience.
- Mumm - Taste a flight of sparkling wines on the beautiful outdoor patio located in the heart of the Napa Valley while enjoying views of the surrounding vineyards and the Mayacamas Mountains.
- Shadybrook Estate - Located in beautiful Coombsville country, this location is near and dear to my heart having grown up here and having built our family's winery here. They now own a piece of the property that used to be Frazier Winery (my family), including the caves we originally drilled.
- Outdoor Recreation: Napa Valley's summer weather invites outdoor enthusiasts to engage in a range of activities. Visitors can explore the numerous hiking trails, enjoy hot air balloon rides over the picturesque landscape, or embark on scenic drives through the rolling hills and vineyards. The region also offers opportunities for golfing, cycling on The Vine Trail, and even kayaking or paddleboarding on the Napa River.
- Culinary Experiences: Napa Valley is renowned for its farm-to-table cuisine and world-class restaurants. In the summer, visitors can savor the freshest produce, attend cooking classes, and indulge in outdoor dining experiences. Many wineries also host tastings with food pairing, where guests can savor the flavors of the region paired perfectly with Napa Valley wines.
- Art and Culture: Napa Valley is not just about wine; it is also a hub of art and culture. The region boasts numerous art galleries, museums, and cultural centers that host exhibitions and performances during the summer months. Visitors can explore art galleries, attend live music at various venues around town, and immerse themselves in the creative spirit of the area.
- Local Tip: Here are some must-visit venues for art and music in Napa
- di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art - di Rosa engages its community in the connective power of art and nature through its permanent collection of Northern California art and contemporary exhibitions set amidst the scenic Carneros backdrop.
- Blue Note Jazz Theatre - Enjoy jazz in an intimate venue in the heart of downtown Napa alongside optional food and wine from their seasonal menu.
- JAM Cellars Ballroom - Located in the historic Napa Valley Opera House is a stunning 650 venue for music and performing arts. Performances here frequently include BottleRock Napa Valley AfterDark shows, world-class jazz artists booked by Blue Note Napa, as well as community arts events.
In conclusion, the allure of Napa Valley during the summer lies in its beautiful weather, outdoor dining, wine tasting experiences, vibrant events, outdoor recreation opportunities, and rich art, culture & music scene. These factors combine to create a memorable and enchanting summer experience for visitors. For more local tips don't hesitate to reach out! As a Napa Valley local I am always happy to share my top tips for visiting and living in the Napa Valley!
