Napa

Welcome to Napa

Fashionable, lively, breathtaking — there’s a bevy of ways to describe the trendy enclave that acts as the center of the cherished, globally-famous Napa Valley. Located north of San Francisco and surrounded by 400-plus internationally renowned wineries, this buzzy hamlet is big on encouraging its residents and visitors to enjoy life to the fullest, whether it’s dining at a James Beard-noted eatery, perusing the mix of eclectic and upscale boutiques downtown, hiking to a peak on a trail nearby, or cycling around the city. 

Napa is the largest and most electrifying city in the valley, and its picturesque streets flourish with outstanding architectural gems, welcoming breweries, luxury hotels, and excellent tasting rooms. A bounty of outdoor recreation activities and a vacation feel elevate its allure, explaining why people have long been called to this beautiful region.

What to Love

• Brimming with historical charm and beautiful buildings
• A playful, artistic, community-focused spirit
• Excellent nightlife and superb entertainment
• Filled with world-class dining options
• A mere 45 minutes to San Francisco
• Proximity to the gems of Napa Valley, like Yountville

Local Lifestyle

Napa’s splendid combination of outdoor adventures and luxe amenities makes it a completely organic fit for affluent professionals and their families, while its proximity to San Francisco renders it a great match for workers with a hybrid or remote career. Artists have long been drawn to the beauty of Napa, while retirees who enjoy an active lifestyle and a strong community vibe relish living here. You’re bound to run into your neighbors enjoying all that Napa has to offer, whether they’re checking out live music at a local tavern or kayaking on the Napa River.

Dining, Shopping & Entertainment 

Napa Valley is essentially the epicenter of California’s culinary scene, and its primary city is no exception. Whether you’re in the mood for a sumptuous dinner at an award-winning restaurant or have a hankering for a cup of gourmet coffee and artisan-baked food, you’ll find nearly everything your heart desires in Napa.

Kick off your morning at Model Bakery in the Oxbow District, a cozy gem that Oprah has famously listed as one of her favorite places. There are few better ways to start your day than with a cup of coffee and their iconic English muffins. When lunchtime rolls around, slip into Angele Restaurant & Bar, where you can enjoy a Nicoise salad with tuna conserva, relish a mid-day glass of wine, and indulge in a slice of pumpkin pie with whipped chantilly cream, all while absorbing the views of the mesmerizing Napa River.

Come dinner, and your expectations will be surpassed at the rustic-chic haven that is Celadon. Pan-roasted mussels with lemongrass and Thai green curry and Moroccan-glazed lamb chops with toasted almond couscous are just two spectacular dishes on their menu.

Shopping is also a downright joy in Napa. Head to its downtown district, where you’ll discover a bounty of boutiques specializing in everything from handcrafted sweets to sustainable home decor.

Things to Do

Two dozen wine-tasting rooms line the verdant streets in downtown Napa. Translation? A stroll and sip-excursion is a beloved pastime for Napa residents. Vintner’s Collective is especially enchanting with the wine it showcases from more than 15 wineries. When you’re craving a different but no less delectable taste, explore the California Brandy House in the heart of the town, where you can sample a panoply of delicious concoctions.

The Oxbow Public Market, meanwhile, offers a wealth of dining and shopping opportunities, including intimate cafes and a craft brewer (and a boatload of outdoor seating). And for a special occasion or just a Sunday morning from the sky, book a seat on a hot air balloon with Napa Valley Balloons. The views from above are phenomenal.

Schools

Children who reside in Napa are educated under the Napa Valley Unified School District and, depending on where they live in the city, may have the opportunity to attend:

• Napa High School
• Valley Oak High School
• Blue Oak School