Exploring Napa

Napa California's roots go back to the Gold Rush era of the mid 1800's.Over 200 buildings are listed on the National Historic Registry. Several architectural styles are represented, including Victorian, Spanish Colonial, Art Deco and Classic Revival.

Since the devastating flood of 97, Napa has been undergoing revitalization and transformation from being merely a gateway to wine country to becoming a destination in itself, thanks to Copia, new restaurants and the riverfront project.

The area's current notoriety as a world-class wine region began when Franciscan priests began planting wine grapes for the local missions in Sonoma and San Rafael.

Though wine tasting is the major draw to the area, there are other attractions as well. Copia, the Center for Wine, Food and the Arts has lots to experience and is well worth a visit.

Another popular attraction is the Napa Valley Wine Train, which begins here and travels leisurely up the scenic valley, serving a gourmet lunch along the way.

If you fancy taking to the skies for a bird's eye view of the vineyards and wine country, there are several companies who will oblige with a hot air balloon ride.

Not too far from town is the di Rosa Art and Nature Preserve, located at 5200 Carneros Highway (Highway 121). It is a fairly rural experience, on 217 acres and surrounded by vineyards. There is also a lake and a sculpture meadow. Three art galleries feature the work of hundreds of artists. It is a good idea to take the tour. Call 707-256-5991. www.dirosapreserve.org

As for wine tasting, there are several tasting rooms in and around town. Here you'll find a list of local wineries and their hours, locations and tour information. For something a little different, the Hakusan Sake Gardens, just outside of town, offers sake tasting. It is a very nice tasting room overlooking Japanese Gardens. You can also watch a short video on the making of sake. You'll find the Hakusan Sake Gardens south of Napa, where Highway 12 and Highway 29 meet.

You can tour the river on an electric boat. Bird watchers will enjoy cruising through the wetlands. Napa River Adventures offers 2-hour guided river tours. They leave from the Kennedy Park Dock. Kayaks and canoes are also available to rent. Call 707-224-9080 for more information.

If you want to base your wine country tour from Napa, click on hotels or bed and breakfasts for lodging options.

Some of the most popular local dining choices include Pearl, High Tech Burrito, Fazerrati's, Celadon and Zuzu, to name just a few.

Click here to learn more about restaurants in Napa.

To go to the Experience Wine Country home page, click here.