Best time to take a trip to Napa Valley

Napa Valley enjoys pleasant, some would say perfect, weather nearly all year. In late summer, temperatures can approach 100 degrees Fahrenheit, especially in the northwestern part of the valley. Winters are pleasantly mild. Most of the year's rain falls in the winter, but that's only about 24 inches. High temperatures in December and January are usually in the 60s or low 70s. In terms of weather, there's no bad time to visit Napa Valley. Great events happen all year long, but especially in summer and fall. The Music in the Vineyards Festival in August pairs some of the world's elite classical musicians with the stunning scenery of the Napa Valley wineries.

Insider tips for Napa Valley travel

Sonoma Valley

Visit the Sonoma Valley and travel back oads such as Carriger Road to get a feel for the rustic winemaking life.

Sonoma Plaza

Spend three or four hours shopping in the Sonoma Plaza and visit the side-streets to see the older historic homes.

Sharpsteen Museum

When (if) you get tired of wine, take a few hours to visit the Sharpsteen Museum in Calistoga, which houses a great collection of Disney animation and California history.

Napa Sonoma Wine Tours

Take a private limousine tour of the wine country with Napa Sonoma Wine Tours.

Celadon Restaurant

Enjoy locally inspired cuisine at Celadon restaurant. It's one of the best-kept secrets in Napa Valley, but maybe not for long.

Calistoga Inn

This historic inn, restaurant and brewpub has something for everyone. Relax with live jazz music on the outdoor patio, or step out on the dance floor on the weekend.

Napa Valley Conservatory Theater

Located in the city of Napa, the conservatory produces great theatrical entertainment. Both classic and contemporary shows are on the schedule.

Spice Islands Marketplace

The Culinary Institute of America operates this eclectic market on St. Helena. You can do lunch with friends, or sign up for cooking or wine tasting classes.

Fish Story

Savor the flavors of the ocean at Fish Story, a restaurant specializing in sustainable seafood served in gorgeous surroundings.

Annette's Chocolate Factory

Pick up a chocolate and wine sauce for your ice cream at Annette's Chocolate Factory on 1st Street in Downtown Napa.

Things to do in Napa Valley

Napa Cellars

The atmosphere at Napa Cellars is laid back and inviting, and you can pick up a souvenir too.

Castello Di Amorosa

Experience a winery like few others in the Tuscan-inspired medieval castle of Castello Di Amorosa.

Meadowood Napa Valley

Meadowood is the premier golf, tennis and wine resort in Napa Valley.

The Meritage Resort and Spa

Experience wine tasting in a massive cave at Meritage. This luxurious resort in the southern Napa Valley also features a spa, private wedding chapel and entertainment space for 200 people.

Robert Louis Stevenson State Park

Get away from civilization in Robert Louis Stevenson Park, located on 5,000 sprawling acres around Mount St. Helena.

Napa Valley Opera House

The historic Napa Valley Opera House was constructed in 1879 and features performances ranging from theater, comedy, modern dance, blues and world music.

Di Rosa

The gallery at Di Rosa showcases the artistic creations of Bay Area artists. The exquisite scenery of the nearby vineyards is a big part of the experience.