Best Things to Do in Napa this summer

Summer in Napa offers the perfect blend of warm weather, world-class wine tasting, and outdoor adventures along the Napa River. For the ultimate getaway, stay at RiverPointe Napa Valley. It is a peaceful, convenient retreat near downtown Napa, providing easy access to wineries, seasonal festivals, and farm-to-table dining.

We are absolutely thrilled to welcome you to the sunny vineyard views and warm, golden evenings of Napa Valley! Summer is one of the most exciting seasons to visit our beautiful region. With long daylight hours and a vibrant community atmosphere, you will find the perfect balance of relaxation, exploration, and entertainment. If you are traveling with family, a partner, or a lively group of friends, summer in napa is an experience you will cherish forever.

What are the best things to do in Napa during the summer?

When you visit our region, you are stepping into a world of incredible possibilities. Let’s explore some of our favorite ways to spend a sun-drenched day.

Napa Valley Wine Train

Where can you experience the best Napa Valley wine, the Napa Valley Wine Train, and outdoor fun?

Exploring scenic vineyards is an absolute must. Napa Valley features over 400 physical wineries, offering everything from immersive educational tours to relaxing garden picnics, with guided visits that explain how grapes become world class wines and stops at places like Rutherford Hill Winery or Castello di Amoroso. Napa Valley’s Mediterranean climate, varied topography, and more than 100 soil types across 16 nested sub-regions help create wines prized for their depth and concentrated fruit flavors. Cabernet Sauvignon accounts for nearly half of production here and is known locally as “The King of Grapes.” We love seeing guests learn about our rich winemaking heritage while taking in the beautiful landscapes! To complete the wine experience, you can also ride the Napa Valley Wine Train through Napa Valley wine country on a three-hour, 36-mile round-trip past beautiful vineyards, with gourmet dining aboard restored rail cars. If you prefer a wine tour, the Wine Trolley is worth planning for since it visits three local wineries, and reservations are smart to make in advance so you can prepare.

But the fun certainly does not stop at the tasting room. For outdoor enthusiasts, kayaking or paddleboarding down the peaceful napa river is a fantastic way to spot local wildlife and enjoy the sunshine. Alternatively, you can take a sunrise hot air balloon flight for unforgettable aerial views of the rolling hills, or rent a bike to explore wine country on two wheels along the Vine Trail, a route linked to the Napa Valley Vine Trail, which is planned as a 47-mile trail system. There’s also plenty of hiking and easy trail access for more scenery, while Safari West offers guided jeep tours for visitors who want wildlife beyond the vineyards.

Which attractions in Downtown Napa California are best for families and foodies?

There is so much more to our home than just wine! Families will love discovering downtown Napa, where arts spaces, museums, nearby parks, and scenic riverfront walks make it easy to relax, shop, and enjoy the local scene. In Napa CA, Oxbow Public Market spans 40,000 square feet of local food vendors, making it a great stop for coffee, lunch, wood-fired pizza, or Hog Island Oysters. It is an easy place to dine, grab a drink, or enjoy a glass with friends, especially if you are a foodie. Our seasonal community gatherings—like outdoor concerts, bustling farmers markets, and lively food festivals—bring everyone together to celebrate local culture. Napa Valley Film Festival arrives every November with screenings and special events. These events are fantastic ways to experience the joy of our region, offering an amazing experience for all ages.

When you get hungry, you will find that the restaurants Napa California offers are truly world-class. Enjoy spectacular farm-to-table dining with seasonal menus featuring fresh, local ingredients and outdoor patios, and consider the CIA at Copia for culinary classes, dining experiences, and more than one event that connects visitors with food’s past. Compline Wine Bar & Restaurant is a wine lover’s paradise, while Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar pairs great food with views of the sky, and its bright setting adds a great vibe. For easy day trips, we invite you to explore the world-renowned dining in charming Yountville, the historic boutique shopping in St. Helena, or the relaxing wellness hot springs in Calistoga.

RiverPointe Napa Valley 1bdk living room

Why is RiverPointe Napa Valley your ideal summer retreat?

At Grand Pacific Resorts, we believe that where you stay should be just as incredible as what you do. RiverPointe Napa Valley serves as your perfect home base for all your wonderful summer adventures. Our comfortable, residential-style accommodations offer a peaceful atmosphere just minutes from downtown Napa. After a busy day of exploring, you can unwind in quiet, scenic surroundings, enjoying the perfect balance between vibrant activity and genuine relaxation.

What does a perfect 3-day summer itinerary look like?

If you are wondering how to fit it all in, here is a lovely sample itinerary that highlights the best things to do in Napa:

  • Day 1: Arrive and settle into your accommodations at RiverPointe Napa Valley. Spend the afternoon exploring downtown Napa’s public art and boutique shops, followed by a beautiful riverside dinner.
  • Day 2: Enjoy a sunny morning of vineyard tours and wine tastings. In the evening, gather your loved ones for an outdoor summer concert under the stars.
  • Day 3: Visit a local farmers market for artisan goods, embark on a fun river kayaking adventure, and end the day relaxing at your cozy retreat.

Are you ready to discover the best of Napa Valley?

To make the most of your trip, we highly recommend planning ahead for accommodations, tours, tastings, dining, and winery reservations, though some places may still accept walk ins when space is available. Pack comfortable walking shoes, plenty of sunscreen, and layers for those cooler summer evenings. Napa Valley is California’s first commercial wine region, and its modern reputation was cemented by the 1976 Judgment of Paris. You might also consider visiting during the weekdays for a wonderfully relaxed experience.

We invite you to experience the very best that our community has to offer. Book your stay at RiverPointe Napa Valley today, and let us help you create wonderful, lasting memories!