{"id":15040,"date":"2025-05-21T13:00:33","date_gmt":"2025-05-21T20:00:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/?p=15040"},"modified":"2025-11-14T11:17:36","modified_gmt":"2025-11-14T19:17:36","slug":"things-to-do-in-calistoga","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/blog\/things-to-do-in-calistoga\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 9 Things to Do in Calistoga"},"content":{"rendered":"
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]While Napa Valley certainly draws visitors for its world-class wineries and vineyard views, there\u2019s much more to Napa than just wine, and nowhere is this more evident than in Calistoga<\/a>. Located in the northern part of the Napa Valley, Calistoga is a great place to go wine tasting, no doubt, but it\u2019s also home to some truly outstanding attractions and experiences, making for a vast array of things to do in Calistoga. A few standout Calistoga activities include the incredible hot springs spas, local shops and eateries, and some of the most picturesque scenery in the region.<\/p>\r\n

Before you plan your trip, dive into our guide to nine of the best things to do in Calistoga and make your next visit that much more memorable.[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator el_class=”text-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Soak in Thermal Hot Springs<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]If there\u2019s one word that should be associated with Calistoga, it\u2019s relaxation, and thanks to the area\u2019s numerous mineral pools and spas, it\u2019s easy to make R&R a top priority when visiting. More than just a stress reliever, Calistoga\u2019s hot springs are known for their many therapeutic benefits, including easing sore muscles, relieving arthritis pain, promoting healthy circulation, and calming skin conditions, while mineral-rich mud baths and massage treatments purify toxins to leave you feeling totally blissed out.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”46227″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/www.indianspringscalistoga.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]When it comes to Calistoga activities centered on wellness, you\u2019ve got options. Many of the hotels and inns in and around Calistoga offer access to their on-site mineral pools, including Dr. Wilkinson\u2019s Backyard Resort<\/a>, Calistoga Spa Hot Springs<\/a>, Solage<\/a>, and Golden Haven Hot Springs Spa & Resort<\/a>, making it easy to experience Calistoga\u2019s hot springs at your leisure. Or, you can check out the historic, Olympic-sized mineral pool at Indian Springs Resort<\/a>. While hotel guests get free access to the pool, Indian Springs does offer limited day passes for a fee, which is available when booking a spa treatment. Experiencing its famous thermal hot springs is one of the most rejuvenating and unique things to do in Calistoga. Ready to get your zen on? Check out the top spas in Calistoga<\/a> for more R&R inspo. [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Visit a Geyser<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Just a few minutes outside downtown Calistoga is Old Faithful Geyser of California<\/a>, a must-visit for a remarkable experience. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of water erupting into the sky every 30 to 40 minutes, a natural phenomenon that has captivated visitors for generations. It\u2019s one of the top-rated things to do in Calistoga, with plenty of activities for a full day of fun, but this isn\u2019t just about the geyser. A visit offers a more well-rounded experience than one might expect, thanks to picnic grounds with bocce courts and cabanas, a garden area featuring native plants and grasses, an on-site geology museum, and an animal farm, where you\u2019ll find goats, sheep, and llamas. Llamas and pygmy goats and geysers, oh my! These creative Calistoga activities, all in one convenient location, add up to an unforgettable afternoon.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Go On a Hike For Sweeping Views of the Area<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]When Napa\u2019s outdoor activities<\/a> call, Calistoga\u2019s Palisade Trail is the spot to go. Though the 10-mile round trip, 2,000-foot climb hike is challenging, experienced hikers will be rewarded with beautiful natural scenery and some of the most spectacular views in all of Napa Valley. Just don\u2019t forget to bring your water, as it can get hot in the sun. For a shortened version, opt to hike along the lower Oat Hill Mine Road, a four-and-a-half-mile round-trip trek that provides equally wonderful scenery along the way.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Explore An Ancient Forest<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]If a unique outdoor experience with the family is what you seek, don\u2019t miss a visit to Calistoga\u2019s Petrified Forest<\/a>. This preserved ancient forest is a sight to see, featuring a majestic display of fossilized redwood trees\u2014the result of being buried in lava over 3 million years ago. These massive trees are a staple of California\u2019s natural history, and their sheer size makes seeing them bucket list-worthy. Walk along the trails on your own to explore this ancient phenomenon, or opt for a guided tour for a deeper understanding of how this forest came to be. If you\u2019re a nature lover narrowing down what to do in Calistoga, add this to the top of your list.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row el_class=”ad-row”][vc_column][vc_separator el_class=”text-width”][vc_column_text el_class=”ad-disclaimer”]Sponsored Content[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner el_class=”ad-module-2 text-width” css=”.vc_custom_1696535448234{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column_inner][vc_single_image image=”67922″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text el_class=”text-width”]\r\n

Visit Calistoga<\/h4>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”text-width”]\r\n

Sip. Soak. See<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”text-width”]From winery tastings to geothermal spas and local bites, Calistoga delivers the best of Napa Valley in one laid-back destination. Download your FREE guide to start exploring.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”DOWNLOAD FREE GUIDE” style=”outline” shape=”square” color=”default” size=”lg” align=”center” i_align=”right” i_type=”material” i_icon_material=”vc-material vc-material-arrow_forward” add_icon=”true” el_class=”mid-width” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwinecountry-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F4%2F2025%2F05%2F16062339%2FVisit-Calistoga-Things-To-Do-and-Activities-Guide.pdf|title:DOWNLOAD%20FREE%20GUIDE|target:_blank”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_separator el_class=”text-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Sip & Shop in Downtown Calistoga<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]It\u2019s easy to get wrapped up in Calistoga\u2019s natural surroundings, but it\u2019d be a shame not to spend some time exploring downtown. Downtown Calistoga produces a delightful mix of small-town appeal and Wine Country sophistication, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the area. In Calistoga, find things to do by simply wandering through the heart of town and soaking in the local vibe. There are lots of boutique shops and tasting rooms, all within walking distance, which makes it easy to sip and stroll all afternoon.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”46230″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/visitcalistoga.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]Plan to peruse the assortment of artisanal goods for the home and garden at Blackbird<\/a>, shop for antique goods and vintage posters at Rags to Riches<\/a>, and check out Calistoga Pottery<\/a> for their selection of handmade pottery. Also downtown is Copperfield\u2019s Books<\/a>, featuring a wide range of books from local and international authors, Flourish Chocolate<\/a>, with one-of-a-kind chocolate creations, and Monastery Books and Gifts<\/a> (yes, actually located inside a Christian Monastery for women) for a selection of spiritual books, homemade goodies, olive oils, teas, and honey. You\u2019ll also find a variety of art galleries and clothing shops around town that are worth popping into.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”46231″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/www.tankgaragewinery.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]When you\u2019re ready to whet your palate with some locally made wine, Calistoga\u2019s tasting rooms have something for everyone. Located in a vintage 1930s gas station, Tank Garage Winery<\/a> charms with its hip vibe and limited-edition blends and natural wines. Nearby, on Lincoln Avenue, Olabisi<\/a> features limited-production wines from a high-spirited husband-and-wife-duo.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row el_class=”ad-row”][vc_column][vc_separator el_class=”text-width”][vc_column_text el_class=”ad-disclaimer”]Advertiser Content[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner el_class=”ad-module-2 text-width” css=”.vc_custom_1696535448234{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column_inner][vc_single_image image=”70937″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text el_class=”text-width”]\r\n

Visit Calistoga<\/h4>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”text-width”]\r\n

Wine. Dine. Unwind.<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”text-width”]Enjoy 21 wine tastings plus spa, dining, and lodging specials with Calistoga\u2019s Winter in the Wineries Passport \u2014 all for just $80.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”EXPLORE NOW” style=”outline” shape=”square” color=”default” size=”lg” align=”center” i_align=”right” i_type=”material” i_icon_material=”vc-material vc-material-arrow_forward” add_icon=”true” el_class=”mid-width” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fvisitcalistoga.com%2Fwinter-in-the-wineries-passport%2F%3Futm_source%3Dwcm%26utm_medium%3Dnv-top-9-things-to-do-in-calistoga%26utm_campaign%3Dnativead|title:Visit%20Calistoga|target:_blank”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_separator el_class=”text-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Visit a Nearby Winery<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]When perusing top recommendations for what to do in Calistoga, wine tasting is bound to come up. You could easily stay in town to taste great wine, hopping from tasting room to tasting room, but it\u2019s certainly worth jumping in the car and driving a few miles to explore some of the surrounding wineries.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”59514″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/www.sterlingvineyards.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]Just three minutes from downtown Calistoga, Sterling Vineyards<\/a> offers more than just Napa Valley wines to taste. The winery is perched atop a picturesque hillside, providing visitors with epic views while they taste. What makes this winery special, though, is that it\u2019s accessible by aerial gondola\u2014and the journey to the top is as memorable as the destination itself.<\/p>\r\n

Also a few minutes from town, but in the opposite direction, is Tamber Bey Vineyards<\/a>. This winery is unique in that it\u2019s located at a working equestrian facility, and every part of the wine-tasting experience reflects the owners\u2019 love of horses and wine. Tour the winemaking facility, which was once a covered riding arena, before sampling wine in the courtyard of the original barn, where you can sip wine while admiring the horses. Be sure to add a picnic lunch or savory cookie pairing to really round out this entertaining Calistoga activity.<\/p>\r\n

Another smaller, hidden-gem winery with a rich history is Canard<\/a>, with its 25-acre property to visitors. From their sustainably grown, dry-farmed grapes, owners Rich and Carolyn Czapleski carefully produce nine single vineyard wines to showcase the complexity of their estate\u2019s terroir. Don\u2019t miss the Estate Zinfandel, sourced from the property\u2019s nearly 140-year-old Zinfandel vines.<\/p>\r\n

Finally, serious Cabernet fans won\u2019t want to miss a visit to Larkmead Vineyards<\/a>, one of the oldest family-owned wineries in Napa Valley. This tranquil winery offers a personalized tasting experience tailored to each group\u2019s preferences, along with an idyllic Wine Country setting looking out at the vines. Need some more suggestions? Explore our picks of the top 15 Wineries in Calistoga<\/a> to visit. [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1747786570521{background-color: #ede2d0 !important;}”][vc_column][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]\r\n

Your\u00a0Guide\u00a0to\u00a0Calistoga\u00a0Hotels &\u00a0Resorts<\/h3>\r\n

Looking for where to stay in Calistoga? This free, expertly curated guide highlights the region\u2019s top hotels and resorts, complete with spa amenities, scenic views, and proximity to Calistoga\u2019s best attractions. A smart resource for travelers seeking comfort, location, and quality.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”Download the Calistoga Hotels Guide” style=”outline” shape=”square” color=”default” size=”lg” align=”left” el_class=”text-width” link=”url:%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F4%2F2025%2F03%2FVisit-Calistoga-Resort-and-Hotel-Guide-2025.pdf|title:Download%C2%A0the%C2%A0Calistoga%C2%A0Hotels%C2%A0Guide|target:_blank”][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Savor Gourmet Fare<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Whether you\u2019re hungry for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Calistoga\u2019s restaurants<\/a> and caf\u00e9s offer a perfect mix of casual ambiance and good food. Known for its farm-to-table focus and Wine Country influence, Calistoga\u2019s eateries focus on seasonal, regional ingredients, bringing the vibrant flavors of Napa Valley to every plate.<\/p>\r\n

For gourmet coffee and a scrumptious pastry or breakfast sandwich, stop by Sam\u2019s General Store<\/a>, located in the original cottage of Calistoga\u2019s legendary founder, Samuel Brannan. Or, grab a selection of goods to curate your own picnic lunch later in the day. The long-standing Cafe Sarafornia<\/a> is another top spot for the breakfast\/lunch crowd, where a menu of comforting classics is offered all day from this quaint, casual spot. While the southwestern-inspired breakfast and lunch offerings at House of Better<\/a> are a delight, it\u2019s worth dining here for the impressive homemade pies alone. Green chili apple pie, anyone?[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”48397″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” el_class=”mid-width” link=”https:\/\/www.houseofbetter.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content”][vc_column_text]One of the most popular restaurants in town for dinner is Evangeline<\/a>, a French bistro \u201cwith a Creole soul\u201d in downtown Calistoga. The covered outdoor patio makes for a lovely setting to enjoy the restaurant\u2019s French bistro classics and creole-inspired dishes. Down the road, Sam\u2019s Social Club<\/a> is another worthy dining choice, where California-focused cuisine highlights fresh, local ingredients in a playful, creative way.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Go Rogue Sampling Beer<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]We know, we know\u2026 you probably didn\u2019t come to Napa Valley to try beer. But the Calistoga Inn, Restaurant & Brewery<\/a> is a great pit stop for a brewski. Its Napa Valley Brewing Company<\/a> was actually the first brewery that opened up post-Prohibition. Today, the brewery puts as much love and care into making their Pacific Pale Ale and Blitzen IPA as if they were fine Cabernets. Sit in their Beer Garden\u2014one of the best outdoor spaces in UpValley\u2014and don\u2019t forget to order some grub from the Calistoga Inn Restaurant<\/a>.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]\r\n

Attend a Seasonal Festival or Event<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Calistoga\u2019s year-round allure gets an extra boost when Napa Valley\u2019s exclusive seasonal and annual Napa events occur<\/a>. This is when visitors get the chance to experience the town\u2019s vibrant community spirit in a distinctive way. The Calistoga Harvest Table<\/a>, held on the second Sunday of each September, transforms Lincoln Avenue into a one-of-a-kind outdoor dining experience featuring local chefs and wines. The whimsical Lighted Tractor Parade<\/a>, held on the first Saturday in December, is fun for the whole family and free to attend. For food lovers, the Calistoga Food & Wine Festival in the fall is a must, showcasing some of the best things to do in Calistoga for culinary enthusiasts.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Insider Tip:<\/strong> No matter when you\u2019re planning your visit to Napa Valley, there\u2019s always something special happening in Calistoga. However, always check event details, including dates, pricing, and availability, as these are subject to change.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text el_class=”conclusion”]\r\n

Conclusion<\/h3>\r\n

Calistoga may be best known for all things rest and relaxation, but it\u2019s far from a snooze-fest. Whether you\u2019re the active, outdoorsy type or a dedicated foodie, there\u2019s a wide variety of unique things to do in Calistoga to keep you entertained in this small corner of Wine Country. Get started planning your trip by reading up on the best 15 wineries in Calistoga<\/a>. Enjoy![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\r\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

While wine tasting may be a given, Calistoga charms even non-wine drinkers with its array of unique activities. Here are the top 9 things to do when visiting. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":78,"featured_media":67924,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"templates\/blog-v2.php","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[99,81,108,110,111],"class_list":["post-15040","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-things-to-do","tag-attractions","tag-calistoga","tag-outdoor-activities","tag-spas","tag-wine-tasting"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15040"}],"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=15040"}],"version-history":[{"count":17,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15040\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":65924,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15040\/revisions\/65924"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/67924"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=15040"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=15040"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=15040"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}