Well, hello there! Braden and I recently got back from our two-year wedding anniversary trip to Napa Valley and boy, was it perfect! There’s not much more that can make me happier than my sweet husband, great wine, and ideal fall temperatures.
I’ve rounded up all of our favorite places that hopefully can help you when planning your next trip to Napa. Since there are so many great wineries and restaurants, I’ve narrowed each category down to our top 3-4 for time purposes and only the best of the best can be included in The Ultimate Napa Valley Travel Guide! 😉
If you have any specific questions, don’t hesitate to reach out directly.
WHERE TO STAY:
Vintage House: We had the most incredible lodging experience courtesy of Vintage House in the quaint town of Yountville and it honestly made our trip what it was (…perfect!). I’m one of those people who base their entire vacation on the hotel experience and Vintage House did not disappoint! As soon as you arrive, the property boasts a sophisticated and passionate vibe all while being super glamorous and luxe. The staff was so welcoming and willing to assist us in whatever we needed.
Each room is tucked away across the 22-acre property and is complemented with stunning french doors, wood burning fireplaces (my favorite!), walnut plank floors, glass-enclosed showers, and plush linens on a perfectly made bed. The entire trip I felt like I was sleeping in a cottage designed and decorated by Chip and Joanna Gaines — it was that cute!
Plus, they offer a delicious Wine Country-style breakfast every morning from 7:00-11:00 and offer 24-hour in-room dining. We had a few late night cravings and the in-room dining sure did come in handy! We felt so at home in our darling little cottage.
Learn more about Vintage House here
While our stay at Vintage House was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
WHERE TO EAT:
Lucy Restaurant & Bar: We celebrated our Anniversary Dinner at Lucy and we couldn’t have picked a more charming spot. Their menu is garden-inspired and they use all seasonal and locally grown ingredients. After having way too much cheese and bread throughout our trip, this meal left us feeling refreshed and energized. We were able to try 7 offerings from the menu and we loved every single bite! My personal favorite was the Kale Pesto Gnocchi and Braden’s favorite was the Baby Beet Salad. Plus, it’s in our favorite small town of Yountville, so after your meal, you can take a stroll around the adorable city. Highly recommend!
Grace’s Table: As soon as we landed in San Francisco, we hopped into our rental car and drove straight to Grace’s Table for a late breakfast. This Michelin-recognized restaurant offers a “global kitchen” focusing on comfort foods from many heritages. We highly recommend the Iron Skillet Cornbread and Chilaquiles. So, so yummy!
Restoration Hardware Restaurant: Perhaps the most beautiful restaurant I’ve ever stepped foot in. It’s the perfect integration of design, food, and wine, in the heart of downtown Yountville. We stopped in for light bites before dinner and while the food was delicious, we just couldn’t get over the captivating ambiance. Such a great spot, especially on a perfect fall day.
Brasswood Bar + Kitchen: All I have to say is, you must get the Mozzarella appetizer! They’ve taken it off the menu, but it’s available upon request. We ordered two of them if that tells you anything. Oh, and be sure to order a drink from their swanky bar.
WHERE TO WINE:
The great thing about Napa Valley is you really can’t go wrong with any of the wineries and/or tasting rooms. Since we had visited the area before, we knew it was best to make reservations at each of the wineries we really wanted to visit. Not all wineries require reservations, but it’s definitely best to do your research beforehand to ensure availability.
Joseph Phelps Vineyards: Alongside the picturesque view, the wine at Joseph Phelps was our absolute favorite. We participated in their “Insignia Blending” class where we were able to create our own wine varietal and learn tasting notes from one of the best sommeliers in the valley. The experience was so much fun and Braden and I both agree that it was our favorite activity we participated in on the entire trip. I highly recommend checking the availability of the class if you’re planning to visit Joseph Phelps!
Robert Biale Vineyards: Let me start by telling you we joined our first wine club at Robert Biale! The overall experience was phenominal—the views, the service, and the wine were all exceptional. Their iconic “Black Chicken” wine a must try! I’m anxiously awaiting our first shipment to come in.
Keenan Winery: First and foremost, they have a miniature pig named Billy who roams around the property. That within itself made my entire day getting to pet and obsess over him. But in addition to the cutie little pig, Keenan Winery has such great wine at the most affordable price point we came across our entire trip! We also joined the wine club at Keenan because you just couldn’t beat their Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. Plus, the drive up to their property is absolutely magical!
OUTFITS:
Blouse || Denim Jacket || Mom Jeans || Shoes (similar)
Sweater || Silk Scarf || Jeans || Purse
Jacket (similar) || Jeans || Booties
Rach says
I went to Napa once for a quick trip and omg it was amazing. I definitely want to go back! Your time there looks incredible! I’m definitely taking notes on the restaurant recs!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Liz says
What a gorgeous place to stay! Looks like you had a relaxing visit!
Cathy says
I love Napa. I’ll have to check out Vintage House, it looks so cozy and chic! Great post, you’r trip looks fun!
XOXO
Cathy
Ashley DTKAustin says
I still have NEVER been to Napa and I have been wanting to go SO bad!! Your post is so helpful and it looks like you had so much fun!
Rachel says
Happy Anniversary! The Vintage House looks absolutely stunning! I need to get up to Napa one of these days — hopefully in 2019.
Rachel
http://www.hello-her.com
Tanvi Rastogi says
I have never been … and it is on my list. Looks like you had a wonderful trip. Loved your looks.
❥ tanvii.com
Greta says
Napa is one of my favorite places in the world. Wine, good food and beautiful scenery. What’s not to love!
Megan says
This looks so beautiful. I would like to visit so bad, I could see myself never wanting to leave. lol.
Rachel says
It’s been SO LONG since I was in wine country! Your gorgeous photos are making me miss it!
Laura Leigh says
The vintage house looks and sounds amazing! So many amazing snaps!
xo Laura Leigh
http://www.louellareese.com
Lindsay says
I’ve only been to Napa once but would love to go back! I’ll definitely have to check out some of these spots