An integral part of Napa Valley’s Wild West/winemaking history, Calistoga is not only is home to some of the region’s most treasured wineries, but remains a premier wellness getaway due to its mineral-rich waters and geothermal hot springs. Located at the northernmost tip of Napa Valley, and only a 90-minute drive from Central Marin, the laid-back town offers a charming rustic vibe paired with Wine Country spoils that make for a perfect day or weekend getaway.
1429 Tubbs Lane
This storied family-run winery is every bit as magical as you would imagine. Covid-friendly outdoor experiences and a new luxe Concierge Service (oenophiles will enjoy exclusive access to an extensive cellar of wines, some dating back to the 1970s) allow visitors to enjoy the pastoral grounds and warm, never pretentious hospitality.
1400 Schramsberg Road
Winemaking at Schramsberg began in the 19th century, and pick marks from the original excavation can be still seen on the cave walls. Go for the sparkling wine, but stay for the cabernets and pinots, bottled under the Davies label. It’s an Old-World experience you won’t want to miss.
1226 Washington Street
This delightful little bistro specializes in classic French cuisine with a touch of New Orleans Creole flair. The wine list offers both Old World and New World selections, while the patio has plenty of atmospheric outdoor dining spots. The best part? This lively little eatery is attached to an equally charming city hall.
1300 Washington Street
One would be remiss to visit Calistoga and not partake in the healing mud and mineral baths. We highly recommend a soak in the mud — a mix of volcanic ash, natural peat and geothermal mineral water — between tastings (the spa is located just off the main drag). You’ll be renewed, refreshed and ready to keep on sipping.
Dr Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs
1507 Lincoln Avenue
This iconic resort — founded in 1952 and one of the town’s first health spas — has just received a full renovation and now boasts midcentury design touches as well as 50 refreshed guest rooms and new dining options. The updated spa includes three geothermal mineral pools, CBD and aromatherapy treatments, and new outdoor treatment rooms as well as eight mineral baths.
Buster’s Original Southern BBQ
1207 Foothill Boulevard
A Calistoga staple, this place has been serving Southern barbecue since 1965. Umbrella-covered outdoor picnic tables, paper plates and live music (Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m.) are the weekend escape we have been needing. The come-hither aroma from the outdoor roasters? It’s enough to convert a vegetarian.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley
400 Silverado Trail
Opening in early 2021, Four Seasons’ hotly anticipated newest slice of luxury is coming to Napa Valley. With 85 guest rooms, its own vineyard and tasting room and an eight-room spa complete with steam pods and hammocks that are suspended over geothermal pools, it’s a luxe spot for a special weekend stay.
Napa Brewing Company at the Calistoga Inn
1250 Lincoln Avenue
In a town known for wine, Napa Brewing Company certainly makes a strong argument for craft beer (it’s also the first commercial brewery in Napa post-Prohibition). Part of the Calistoga Inn, the brewery is situated right on the Napa River and offers plenty of casual beer garden–type seating and a weekend brunch menu that pairs great with a cold one.
1347 Lincoln Avenue
Located right in the heart of downtown Calistoga, Blackbird is just the shop for finding all the things you never knew you needed. It stocks a curated array of must-have books, design-forward tabletop items, rustic Wine Country–inspired art and ceramics, and plenty of games and toys for the kids, too. It’s the place to buy thoughtful gifts — for yourself or someone else.
Vintage Treehouse
1117 B Lincoln Avenue
Tucked away at the far end of the shopping and wine tasting thoroughfare you’ll find this treasure trove of antiques (along with a few other can’t-miss antique dealer shops in the same area). With wares ranging from vintage furniture to charming knickknacks, 1950s and ’60s nostalgia pieces, vintage clothing and collectible dishes and flatware, it’s definitely worth
the short walk from downtown.
