Freetime Suggestions
Napa and Sonoma Valleys
KAYAKING
The Russian River area in Sonoma County is famous for its vineyards and stunning views. Kayaking tours on this gentle river are very popular. Launch south of the Healdsburg Dam and have opportunities to see Snowy Egrets, Blue Heron and other wildlife as you wind past vineyards and perfect spots for swimming. Enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch at one of the many beaches.
SAFARI TOUR
Safari West, located between Calistoga and Santa Rosa, maintains over 400 acres with some 350 species of animals. Tours are led by resident naturalists with half the time being spent in an open-air safari vehicle, and half on foot. Private twilight safaris in the summer with wine and cheese (from 7:00 until the sun is gone), and private sunset safaris in the spring and fall, also featuring wine and cheese can be arranged.
SHOPPING
There are great and varied shopping opportunities in the Valley, beginning with downtown Napa, and going all the way north to Calistoga. Here’s just a partial list of fun places to go:
Downtown Napa
The Hatt Market in Napa
Southern Yountville, including Vintage 1870 Shops
Olive Oil Shop at the corner of Rt. 29 and Rutherford Rd.
Main St. in St. Helena
Lincoln Ave. in Calistoga
Ca' Toga Galleria in Calistoga
FARM FRESH TOURS
Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley offers some of the best produce, fruit and wine anywhere on the planet. Besides an amazing climate and great soil, creative local artisan producers have come up with some wild and wonderful organic and sustainable farming methods. These tours take you behind the scenes to see where many of the top local restaurants get their produce. Led by the best bike guides in the business, visit farms, wineries, fruit producers, garlic specialists, olive oil specialists, and lots more.
FLY SILENTLY
Ever considered the sheer serenity of riding smoothly and silently through the air in a glider? Crazy Creek Gliders in Middletown offer varying lengths of rides with expert pilots. The scenery and the ride are breathtaking.
FESTIVALS AND THE ARTS
Throughout the year there are many festivals in the area that don’t just have to do with wine, as well as a number of shows, concerts, and arts demonstrations. Just to name a few, there is the Napa Valley Dog Show, The Zarzuela Opera Festival, The Napa Chef's Market, The Wine Country Film Festival, The Music Festival for Health, Bluegrass jams, The Micro-Brew Fest, The Mustard Festival, The Memorial Weekend Sprint Car Races, The Silverado Parade, The Napa Valley Shakespeare Festival, and The Antique Car Show. Check the internet for dates and details.