{"id":12369,"date":"2024-07-26T08:39:07","date_gmt":"2024-07-26T15:39:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/?p=12369"},"modified":"2025-06-23T13:29:19","modified_gmt":"2025-06-23T20:29:19","slug":"weekend-in-st-helena","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/blog\/weekend-in-st-helena\/","title":{"rendered":"Ultimate Guide to St. Helena"},"content":{"rendered":"
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Located in the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena<\/a> beckons with its beautiful wineries<\/a>, five-star dining experiences<\/a>, and luxurious places to stay<\/a>. Whether you come for the quality wine, food, or accommodations\u2014or better yet, a combination of all three\u2014St. Helena has everything you need for a memorable weekend getaway in Napa Valley. Here\u2019s our guide to what to see and do in the charming town of St. Helena.\r\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Where to taste:<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n

Charles Krug<\/a><\/h3>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”36126″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.charleskrug.com?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\n2800 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 967-2229<\/em>\r\n\r\nFounded in 1861, Charles Krug<\/a> is not only home to California\u2019s first tasting room, but is also where the Mondavi dynasty first started. Known for its storied heritage and famed wines, Charles Krug Winery is a worthy stop, especially if you\u2019re interested in the legacy of Napa Valley winemaking.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> If you\u2019ve ever wanted to experience what it’s like to be a sommelier, hop on the Blind Taste Like a Somm experience. In this interactive wine tasting workshop, you\u2019ll learn how color, aromatics, structure, and grape markers can identify which wine varietal you are drinking.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Merryvale Vineyards<\/a><\/h3>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” el_class=”image-gallery”][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″ offset=”vc_col-lg-3 vc_col-md-3 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”60562″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.merryvale.com?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″ offset=”vc_col-lg-3 vc_col-md-3 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”60561″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.merryvale.com?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″ offset=”vc_col-lg-3 vc_col-md-3 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”60559″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.merryvale.com?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″ offset=”vc_col-lg-3 vc_col-md-3 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”60575″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.merryvale.com?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text el_class=”photo-label”]\r\n\r\nPhotos courtesy of Merryvale Vineyard<\/a>\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\n1000 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-7777<\/em>\r\n\r\nSituated on the bustling Main Street of St. Helena, Merryvale Winery<\/a> is an institution in Napa Valley. Established in 1983, Merryvale is home to the first winery production facility built after the repeal of Prohibition. Since then, the winery has earned a strong reputation for its premium Bordeaux varietal wines, diverse tasting options, and delightful culinary-focused experiences.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip: <\/strong>In Napa\u2019s warmer months, the Profile Estate Picnic is hard to beat. Offered April through October, this seasonal experience will find you picnicking and sipping wine atop a picturesque ridge 800 feet above the valley. It\u2019s quite a memorable way to \u201cwine taste\u201d in Napa.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Lithology<\/a><\/h3>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][winecountry_wistia_hero show_popover=”1″ embed_code=”89ali1oz38″][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\n500 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 968-9030<\/em>\r\n\r\nA relative newcomer on the scene, Lithology<\/a> specializes in handcrafted wines from select growing areas within the Napa Valley. Their mission is deeply rooted in honoring the unique qualities of the land, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and minimal intervention in the vineyard. This commitment shines through in their wines, offering vibrant expressions of Napa\u2019s unique terroir.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip: <\/strong>Make an appointment at the winery, located at the bottom of Howell Mountain, to sample these exclusive wines for yourself. The experience pairs an educational vineyard tour with a selection of Lithology’s finest wines, allowing you to fully explore what this brand is all about.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\nAlso worthy of a stop is HALL Wines St. Helena<\/a>, where a dedication to beauty shows in everything from the wine to the extensive artwork and sculptures throughout the property, and Trinchero<\/a>, which has been crafting wine since 1948. Last but certainly not least is Fantesca Estate<\/a>, tucked just outside of St. Helena on Spring Mountain<\/a>. This stunning winery and vineyard is a must for anyone looking for an exclusive and intimate tour and tasting of highly acclaimed wines.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Where to eat:<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n

Violetto<\/a><\/h3>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”60252″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.violettonapavalley.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]1915 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-9004<\/em>\r\n\r\nLocated inside the Alila, Violetto<\/a> is a brand-new restaurant celebrating the rich Italian and French culinary heritage of Napa. Chef Thomas Lents draws inspiration from the abundant regional produce, including fresh ingredients from their own kitchen gardens, to craft exquisite dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For the ultimate dining experience here, opt for the sumptuous seven-course tasting menu\u2014a true delight.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> If brunch is more your thing, stop by Violetto for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays to start your day with dishes like the croissant bread pudding French toast and Fogline Farm saltimbocca.\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch<\/a><\/h3>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”54211″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.longmeadowranch.com\/eat-drink\/restaurant?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\n738 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-4555<\/em>\r\n\r\nAttached to Long Meadow Ranch<\/a> winery, Farmstead’s American farmhouse cuisine is good any time of day, but brunch should not be missed. Featuring ingredients sourced from their farm, ranch, and vineyards, Farmstead is all about eating fresh and local food, whether reaching for the fresh-squeezed carrot ginger juice or grass-fed beef tartare.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> The restaurant\u2019s warm cinnamon rolls will likely be a highlight of your day, so don\u2019t skip an order of these to share.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Gott’s Roadside<\/a><\/h3>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”36183″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.gotts.com?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\n933 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-3486<\/em>\r\n\r\nThis Napa Valley favorite is an American classic, serving mouthwatering burgers from its roadside diner since 1999. Stop by for a classic burger made with a \u2153 pound Niman Ranch beef patty, or dig into something more adventurous, like the kimchi burger with fried egg and spicy mayo. You’ll also find salads, fries, milkshakes, and, because it’s Napa Valley, a selection of wines by the glass and bottle.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> If you save room after your meal, Gott\u2019s<\/a> offers soft-serve ice cream by the cup or cone, available with all the fixins.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

The Charter Oak <\/a><\/h3>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”56377″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.thecharteroak.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\n1050 Charter Oak Avenue, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 302-6996<\/em>\r\n\r\nHidden behind the ivy-clad exterior, The Charter Oak<\/a> offers a laid-back dining experience created by acclaimed Chef Christopher Kostow, formerly of the Three-Michelin-starred Restaurant at Meadowood<\/a>. This charming Napa Valley eatery boasts a tree-covered courtyard patio and a stylish, spacious interior, where simple, farm-inspired dishes highlight ingredients primarily sourced from the restaurant’s own 2.5-acre garden.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> Don’t miss their legendary cheeseburger or the artfully arranged starters like farm-fresh eggs drizzled with parmesan and cracked black pepper.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When you\u2019re ready for more, head to the heart of downtown St. Helena to stop at the charming Model Bakery<\/a> for their famous English muffins or a breakfast sandwich to go with your coffee. This location has been a bakery since 1908, and Model Bakery still bakes in the original brick ovens from the 1920s. Also worth checking out is Harvest Table<\/a>, where inspired California fare highlights locally sourced ingredients, much of which comes from their five culinary gardens. And at the upscale gastropub Goose & Gander<\/a>, located in downtown St. Helena, you\u2019ll find classic American fare with a Wine Country twist, plus a tasty selection of libations.[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Where to stay:<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n

Alila Napa Valley<\/a><\/h3>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” el_class=”image-gallery”][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″ offset=”vc_col-lg-3 vc_col-md-3 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”60552″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.alilahotels.com\/napa-valley\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″ offset=”vc_col-lg-3 vc_col-md-3 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”60553″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.alilahotels.com\/napa-valley\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″ offset=”vc_col-lg-3 vc_col-md-3 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”60555″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.alilahotels.com\/napa-valley\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″ offset=”vc_col-lg-3 vc_col-md-3 vc_col-xs-6″][vc_single_image image=”60576″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.alilahotels.com\/napa-valley\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text el_class=”photo-label”]\r\n\r\nPhotos courtesy of Alila Napa Valley<\/a>\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]1915 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-7000<\/em>\r\n\r\nOccupying a 1907 Georgian-style farmhouse and situated against the vineyards of adjacent Beringer Vineyards, Alila<\/a> is a luxury retreat that has everything needed for a perfect stay in Wine Country. This adults-only hotel includes an array of guest rooms and suites, an on-site spa and fitness center, a pool, and a signature restaurant, Violetto, as mentioned above, where Italian-French fare highlights the best of Napa Valley\u2019s seasonal ingredients.\r\n\r\nInsider tip: <\/strong>There are over 10 different styles of rooms and suites available at the 64-room Alila, most of which feature outdoor terraces with fireplaces and vineyard views; however, for unobstructed views and plenty of room to unwind, book the Vineyard View Grand Suite with Balcony\u2014a top floor, one-bedroom suite with over 1,500 square feet of space.\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Meadowood Napa Valley<\/a><\/h3>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”54461″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/meadowood.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\n900 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 531-4788<\/em>\r\n\r\nFor a five-star experience in Wine Country, head to Meadowood Napa Valley<\/a>, where you\u2019ll find tastefully decorated rooms and suites, farm-to-table dining, and a spa that caters to your well-being. There\u2019s also a wide range of amenities and perks included with a stay here, from tennis and hiking to shoe-shine services, fitness classes, and complimentary car service to St. Helena and Yountville. It all adds up to a blissful way to experience Napa Valley.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip: <\/strong>There\u2019s no better way to spend a warm day in Wine Country than beside a pool, particularly when said pool is at Meadowood. And with three pools on-site\u2014one for swimming laps, another for family fun, and one for adults only\u2014there\u2019s something for everybody.\r\n\r\nSpecial Offer: <\/b>Psst… don\u2019t miss out on the More at Meadowood Package. This special offer includes overnight accommodations, a bottle of Napa Valley wine upon arrival, and a $750 estate credit to use for dining, spa treatments, or retail. Package starts at $1,475, and is only available through 2025. Click here<\/a> to book.<\/span>\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Also worth noting is the picturesque Harvest Inn<\/a>, a welcome respite after a day of wine tasting, where 81 spacious rooms, lushly landscaped grounds, and two heated outdoor pools await.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

What to do:<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]\r\n

The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone<\/a><\/h3>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”36120″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.ciafoodies.com\/cia-greystone\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\n2555 Main Street, St. Helena, CA, (707) 967-2530<\/em>\r\n\r\nBuilt in the late 19th century and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this gorgeously imposing building houses cooking demonstrations and classes, wine seminars, a marketplace, restaurant, bakery, and a wine key museum\u2014everything that a gourmand or oenophile could ask for.\r\n\r\nInsider Tip:<\/strong> The CIA<\/a> also has a location in downtown Napa, offering additional experiences tailored for wannabe chefs, wine enthusiasts, and those who just like good food.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum<\/a><\/h3>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”54205″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/stevensonmuseum.org?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n\r\n1490 Library Lane, St. Helena, CA 94574, (707) 963-3757 <\/em>\r\n\r\nThis two-room museum next to the St. Helena Library houses artifacts and manuscripts from the famous author\u2019s life in Napa Valley, providing the unique opportunity to experience his life and legacy without a fee, since the museum offers free admission.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When visiting St. Helena, be sure to wander Main Street (aka Highway 29) between Adams Street and Pope Street for some serious window shopping. Don\u2019t miss Woodhouse Chocolate<\/a> or Pearl Wonderful Clothing<\/a>. Numerous high end art galleries dot the street too, for the collector or the curious. Or, catch a film at the old fashioned movie house, Cameo Cinema<\/a>, where owner Cathy Buck personally welcomes the audience before each showing.\r\n\r\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text el_class=”conclusion”]\r\n

Conclusion<\/h3>\r\nAs you can see, it\u2019d be easy to spend your entire Napa Valley vacation exploring the charming town of St. Helena\u2014and with so much to eat, drink, and explore in one small part of Napa Valley, we wouldn\u2019t blame you if you did just that! [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

St. Helena beckons with beautiful wineries, five-star dining, and luxurious places to stay \u2014 everything you need for a memorable weekend getaway in Napa Valley.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":78,"featured_media":36184,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"templates\/blog-v2.php","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[75,73],"tags":[99,100,135,116,82,153,118],"class_list":["post-12369","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides","category-travel","tag-attractions","tag-culinary-activities","tag-napa-valley","tag-restaurants","tag-st-helena","tag-things-to-do","tag-wineries"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12369"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/78"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12369"}],"version-history":[{"count":17,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12369\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":60579,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12369\/revisions\/60579"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/36184"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12369"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12369"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12369"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}