The Ultimate Guide For Things To Do In Calistoga

We love Calistoga. Calistoga is charming gem in the heart of California’s Napa Valley.

You’ll find our guide full of tours, award winning and legendary wineries and five-star accommodations.

If you have a passion for fine wines and a desire to explore the art of winemaking with picturesque landscapes as your backdrop, this is the perfect destination for you.

Let us be your trusted guide to the most fun-filled things to do in Calistoga, with a special focus on wine tours.

We’ll also recommend some places to stay in the area and other interesting things to try while you’re there!

pro tip: bookmark this page to return to later

Map Of Wineries And Hotels in Calistoga

10 Best Wineries In Calistoga

These 10 best wineries in Calistoga offer a unique blend of history, stunning vineyard landscapes, and exceptional wines.

Whether you’re seeking bold reds, crisp whites, or sparkling delights, these renowned estates promise an unforgettable tasting experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the world of wine.

1. Chateau Montelena Winery In Calistoga

• Website: https://montelena.com/
• Address: 1429 Tubbs Ln, Calistoga, CA 94515
• Hours: Daily 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM

Chateau Montelena is approximately 45 minutes from Napa’s downtown and two hours from San Francisco.

The winery’s 1973 Chardonnay created history at the 1976 Paris Judgment with its victory. The evaluators ranked it as the best white wine compared to four white Burgundies and six California Chardonnays.

Even though this winery is renowned for its Chardonnay, you will find their Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel among the finest in the region. The volcanic soil in their vineyards produces flavorful, low-yielding, highly concentrated grapes. It is also home to Zinfandel vines that are decades old. 

Why we love this place: Chateau Montelena is a stunning property. When you’re here you really feel a part of history.

2. Castello di Amorosa In Calistoga

• Website: https://castellodiamorosa.com/
• Address: 4045 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA 94515
• Hours: Mon – Thurs 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM | Fri – Sun 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Castello di Amorosa is one of the most renowned wineries in Calistoga. Many individuals who see photographs of this property seek this “castle winery in Napa Valley.” 

In 2007, after 15 years of construction, Castello di Amorosa’s winery opened to the public. This medieval Tuscan structure encompasses more than 1 hectare.

Inside, there are 107 rooms spread across eight levels. Many of the rooms can be visited on self-guided or guided tours.

Castello di Amorosa offers an extensive selection of wines, including popular Napa Valley varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay and classic Italian varieties like Sangiovese and Barbera.

Why we love this place: We love the feeling of being inside a Disney movie!

3. Tamber Bey Vineyards In Calistoga

• Website: http://www.tamberbey.com/
• Address: 1251 Tubbs Ln, Calistoga, CA 94515
• Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tamber Bey Vineyards is a winery and equestrian facility. This winery at the Sundance Ranch in Calistoga, a 22-acre equestrian facility, was formerly a riding arena.

It now has cutting-edge winemaking facilities and a crush pad with 36 fermentation containers for vineyard-designated wines.

This means you can drink world-class wines while interacting with resident horses and possibly watching them perform.

Why we love this place: We loved the Courtyard Tasting. You’ll taste five of Tamber Bey’s current releases while overlooking the stables and with stunning views of Mount St. Helena.

This tasting is available by reservation only.

4. Tank Garage Winery In Calistoga

• Website: https://www.tankgaragewinery.com/
• Address: 1020 Foothill Blvd, Calistoga, CA 94515
• Hours: Tues – Thurs 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Fri – Mon 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

This winery is one of the hippest in Calistoga, as it is housed in a 1930s service station with vintage Americana décor. Tank Garage specializes in one-of-a-kind, limited-edition California wine blends with labels worthy of their own gallery, created through collaborations with photographers, tattoo artists, designers, and other distinct brands. Bring your “Anti-Capitalist” Friend here.

The mission of Tank Garage Winery is to craft refreshing wines from California’s most prestigious vineyards. They produce red and white blends, natural wines, orange wines, rosé, and pét-nat sparkling wine.

Why we love this place: It’s the ambiance for sure. If you’re walking down the street in downtown Calistoga, please stop in!

5. Sterling Vineyard In Calistoga

• Website: https://www.sterlingvineyards.com/
• Address: 1111 Dunaweal Ln, Calistoga, CA 94515
• Hours: Thurs – Mon 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Tues – Wed Closed

Both the wine and the experience at Sterling Vineyard are exceptional. The winery is a stunning Greek-inspired white structure perched on a steep hill in Napa Valley. The panoramic vistas from the summit are breathtaking.

The aerial tram is the only means to reach the summit. As you ascend the hill for your wine sampling, you will appreciate the views afforded by the four-sided glass enclosure.

In 1969, Sterling Vineyards produced the region’s first single-variety Merlot. Their wineries have received numerous accolades over the years. Additionally, they were chosen as the official wine of the 2016 Emmy Awards and the 2017 Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc are some of their most well-liked wines. Additionally, they offer a beautiful rosé and some sparkling wines.

Why we love this place: The Hilltop Experience should not be missed! It’s a 90 minute tasting with views of Napa Valley. Great wine, great views, incredible experience!

6. Bennett Lane Winery In Calistoga

• Website: http://www.bennettlane.com/
• Address: 3340 CA-128, Calistoga, CA 94515
• Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM by Appointment Only

Bennett Lane calls themselves “the friendliest tasting room in Napa Valley.” They specialize in classic Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and a delicious red blend called “Maximus” that contains a trace of Syrah, Merlot, and Malbec with a Cabernet base.

Bennett Lane is located at the northern end of the Napa Valley, at the point where the valley floor joins the Mayacamas Mountains. Calistoga is close by, surrounded by the rugged Palisades and crowned by Mount St. Helena.

Why we love this place: We made a last minute/walk-in tasting. We were greeted with all smiles. The winemaker, Rob Hunter, even made an appearance. Bennett Lane is so accommodating and laid back we felt like old friends immediately! Their website feels a bit intimmidating but the whole bunch of guys and gals are welcoming and lovely!

7. Schramsberg Vineyards In Calistoga

• Website: http://www.schramsberg.com/
• Address: 1400 Schramsberg Rd, Calistoga, CA 94515
• Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Schramsberg, also known as “America’s House of Sparkling Wine,” has produced classic method sparkling and still wines for over 50 years.

While Napa Valley is renowned for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, exquisite sparkling wines are also available.

The property features candlelit, 130-year-old caverns that store around 2.7 million bottles of aging sparkling wine. These caves are both spooky and romantic.

Innovators Jack and Jamie Davies developed the first vintage-dated Blanc de Noir with Pinot grapes from the United States.

This marked the beginning of their prosperous sparkling winemaking enterprise. Schramsberg continues to grow and produce some of the finest sparkling wines in Napa Valley today. 

Why we love this place: We opted for the all sparkling tasting and cave tour. Schramsberg is definitely worth the hype! It was super fun to learn the history of the winery and also to have a sneak peak into their winemaking process. Oh and… our wine tasting right in cave where bottles were being aged all around us, was pretty amazing too. This was probably our favorite experience in Calistoga.

8. Vincent Arroyo Winery In Calistoga

• Website: https://www.vincentarroyo.com/
• Address: 2361 Greenwood Ave, Calistoga, CA 94515
• Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Petite Sirah enthusiasts must include Vincent Arroyo Winery on their itinerary of things to do in Calistoga. 

Vincent Arroyo Winery produced its first vintage in 1984.

Today, the winery produces approximately 8,000 cases per year and remains a family enterprise. Their signature wine is still their Petite Sirah, but they also offer a wide variety of expertly crafted single-varietal and blended wines.

Why we love this place: The Petite Sirah is phenomenal and has become so popular that it sells out almost before it is bottled every year. There are two tastings available by appointment only. Their tastings are so affordable, beginning at $30, it would be a mistake to miss an opportunity to try their wine.

9. Frank Family Vineyards In Calistoga

• Website: https://www.vincentarroyo.com/
• Address: 21091 Larkmead Ln, Calistoga, CA 94515
• Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Frank Family Vineyards has one of the most inviting tasting rooms in Napa Valley, located in the property’s original yellow Craftsman home. Tastings occur on the back patio, the shady estate courtyard, or a private chamber in the Craftsman home. 

The tasting room was voted “Best Napa Tasting Room” in the 2022 Best of Napa Valley Readers’ Choice Awards. In addition, they offer six distinct wine societies, ranging from varietal-specific to reserve and everything in between.

Why we love this place: The tastings are so laid back and unpretentious here. Frank Family Vineyards has really made their wine approachable the way it should be. It feels so 1970s Napa Valley because everyone that works here just wants to share good wine with you and treats you as a friend.

10. Clos Pegase Winery In calistoga

• Website: https://www.clospegase.com/
• Address: 1060 Dunaweal Ln, Calistoga, CA 94515
• Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The Clos Pegase Winery is a distinct destination that features modern European design elements. You will discover a magnificent structure with clean lines, well-kept gardens, and a warm, inviting tasting room.

Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Merlot are on the wine list. Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc are uncommon reds planted in Napa Valley. Additionally, they have excellent Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Their Rose is the ideal beverage for a warm summer afternoon.

Why we love this place: We chose the Cave Tour and Tasting Experience for $125 per person. Their caves span over 6,000 square meters. And just like Schramsberg, their wine casks and bottles are all of still undergoing the aging process.

Calistoga Wine Tours

If you’re looking for an immersive and unforgettable experience, Calistoga’s wine tours offer the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence.

Discover the artistry behind crafting some of the world’s finest wines, savor the diverse flavors that grace your palate, and soak in the beauty of this region through this list of wine tours centered in Calistoga. 

Napa Valley winery tour from San Francisco

This exclusive Napa Valley winery tour from San Francisco includes all tasting expenses for a day in the wine country!

A small group tour begins at Castello di Amorosa and visits three estate wineries. A private tour guide walks you through discovering the winemaking process and the varietal distinctions.

Enjoy the Yountville, St. Helena, and Rutherford areas of Napa Valley. Your group can stop at the “Welcome to Napa” sign and the Golden Gate Bridge for photographs.

private wine tour from San Francisco

This private wine tour from San Francisco visits some of the finest wineries in Napa and Sonoma counties.

You will experience wine tastings at select wineries while traveling in a private vehicle driven by your chauffeur. Enjoy inexpensive wine sampling at wineries chosen from a list provided by the tour operator, or create your list of wineries to visit to personalize your tour.

Private Tour Of Napa Or Sonoma

A trip to California is not complete without a day spent in wine country, but choosing which wineries to visit can be difficult if you are unfamiliar with the area.

This Sonoma or Napa Private Wine Tour with Concierge Service ensures you pay full attention to any wineries you want to visit. In addition, you can appreciate the day without worrying about transportation.

Where To Stay In Calistoga

Whether you’re interested in a luxurious spa resort, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a charming boutique hotel, Calistoga has the perfect lodging option to suit your preferences.

Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa

Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa is the ideal location to unwind after a day of sightseeing or wine tasting in Calistoga, as it is ideally located at the tip of the Silverado Trail in the heart of California’s wine country. Guests can relax in mineral pools fed by geothermal hot springs or drink wine by the lovely pool. Recently, they opened a new restaurant called Fleetwood Restaurant.

UpValley Inn & Hot Springs

UpValley Inn & Hot Springs is a charming and historic inn near downtown Calistoga’s restaurants and wineries. Contemporary rooms feature vibrant color palettes, Victorian-style furnishings, fireplaces, and rainfall showers. Made-from-scratch breakfasts with homemade pastries and fresh fruit are typically served for guests. This is one of the first structures in Calistoga to be included on the National Register of Historic Places.

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs is an iconic resort and spa in the center of Calistoga. It was established in 1952 by chiropractor and health enthusiast John Wilkinson. 

Guests can unwind in the secluded Spa Garden, soak in the spring-fed mineral pools, or detox in the volcanic ash mud baths. If you’re searching for quality R&R in Napa Valley, you shouldn’t miss this stunning wellness resort. 

The Francis House

The Francis House, featured in Architectural Digest, is a compact luxury hotel in downtown Calistoga with five distinct guest rooms. On a sunny day, guests can unwind by the pool or revitalize in the infrared sauna and salt room. This hotel’s architecture and surroundings make it well worth a visit. 

The hotel is the only authentic French Second Empire structure in Napa Valley. It’s one for the newlyweds!

The Bergson

The Bergson is a charming retreat with gable-roofed terraces and a courtyard garden. The 21 contemporary rooms feature a fashionable Cape Cod design with vibrant color and pattern accents. The freestanding tubs and private balconies are a true treat. A unique B&B conveniently located near Calistoga’s vineyards and restaurants. Contemporary and romantic.

Tips For Exploring Calistoga

From insider recommendations on hidden gems to practical advice for easily navigating the area, we’ve got you covered. Don’t limit yourself to exploring a wide array of attractions in Calistoga!

Mud Baths

Calistoga’s natural muds are renowned for their curative and beautifying properties. Calistoga was originally inhabited by the Wappo tribe approximately 8,000 years ago. The Wappo believed that the geysers’ mineral water contained curative properties. 

Calistoga baths are highly coveted because they combine two prized ingredients: mineral-rich hot springs water and volcanic ash abundant in the area’s soil due to Mount St. Helena’s eruption millions of years ago. When combined, they create an elixir.

The mud bathing options in Calistoga range from opulent to rustic. Regardless of the manner you choose, the results will be therapeutic. Here are some places you can try and visit for a one-of-a-kind mud bath:

1. Indian Springs Resort & Spa
2. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs
3. Solage, an Auberge Resort
4. Golden Haven
5. Baths at Roman Spa

The “Hot Springs of the West”

Calistoga is known as “The Hot Springs of the West” due to its abundant geothermal activity and natural hot springs.

Calistoga’s mineral pools and spas make it simple to make rest a top priority during a trip. Calistoga’s hot springs are renowned for their therapeutic advantages, which include soothing sore muscles, relieving arthritis pain, promoting healthy circulation, and calming skin conditions.

Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park

Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park provides an authentic glimpse into the rural heritage of Californians. The mill, constructed in 1846, played a pivotal role in the early development of the Napa Valley, as settlers arrived to have their grain ground into meal or flour.

The Bale Grist Mill, which is now protected as a State Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is managed by Napa Open Space in collaboration with the Napa Valley State Parks Association. In addition to the mill, the park contains the first chapel established in Napa Valley and the historic Pioneer Cemetery.

You’ll Never Run Out Of Things To Do In Calistoga

Calistoga is a treasure trove of experiences that promises to captivate every traveler’s heart. From its renowned hot springs and world-class wineries to its breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality, this charming town offers endless activities that cater to all interests and passions.

Embrace the therapeutic warmth of the hot springs, savor the diverse flavors of its exquisite wines, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture that defines this enchanting destination. With each visit, the town reveals new treasures and hidden gems, ensuring you’ll always have things to do in Calistoga.

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