Spring is always an exciting time, but it feels extra special this year. As sunshine increasingly warms and brightens our days, we are finding more opportunities to gather safely outdoors with loved ones. A weekend getaway to Napa is the perfect way to celebrate the new season, and there’s no need to worry if your travel-planning skills are a bit rusty these days—we’ve got the perfect itinerary ready to go. Just add reservations!
SATURDAY
Rise and Shine with Breakfast from the Model Bakery
Fuel up for the day at the Model Bakery in charming St. Helena. This historic establishment has nearly 90 years of experience to perfect its offerings of artisanal breads, delicious pastries, and freshly brewed coffee.
Taste Bordeaux-Inspired Wines at Foley Johnson
Kick off the wine tasting fun in Rutherford with a toast at Foley Johnson. Enjoy picturesque views of the estate vineyards while you sip a flight of Bordeaux-inspired Napa wines on the peaceful outdoor patio. Don’t miss the Luxury Cab Vertical—this enticing offering features three outstanding vintages from three premium single vineyards, including the 96-point 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon from sister winery Merus.
Satisfy Your Hunger With Lunch at The Charter Oak
Experience fun, casual family-style dining with an elevated feel at The Charter Oak, a St. Helena restaurant from Meadowood Michelin-three-star chef Christopher Kostow. Just a short drive from Foley Johnson, this warm, welcoming spot just might be the home of the best burger in Napa Valley. Simply prepared and perfectly executed with thin, juicy patties, diced onions, and irresistible melted cheese, it’s the perfect match for a bottle of Banshee Pinot Noir.
Shop for Mementos on Main St. in St. Helena
The quaint, charming town of St. Helena is small, but it’s surprisingly full of fun art galleries and shops offering beautiful clothing, jewelry, home décor, and delicious treats to bring home. Most are open and operating (inquire about capacity and social distancing procedures in place.) Epicureans won’t want to miss the oils, vinegars, herbs, and spices at Olivier. The Cognac mustard and the VSOP balsamic vinegar are must-buys.
Unwind with Dinner and a Cocktail at Goose & Gander
Even before the pandemic, the best seats in the house at buzzy St. Helena restaurant Goose & Gander were in the lush, inviting outdoor garden. The modern classic American food on the seasonally inspired farm-to-table menu pairs perfectly with inventive cocktails from legendary mixologist Scott Beattie.
Check into Vista Collina for Some Upscale R & R
Get your beauty rest in a suite at Vista Collina, Napa’s newest luxury resort. This gorgeous Tuscan-style property might be difficult to leave, especially if you choose to spend time lounging by the pool or exploring the mini village within the hotel—or if you decide to book a spa treatment at the sister property Meritage Resort across the street, so we suggest leaving ample time in the morning to roam the vast 11-acre grounds.
SUNDAY
Stop by the Iconic Oakville Grocery
Get your morning coffee and grab some culinary souvenirs at this Napa Valley institution. Established in 1881, the Oakville Grocery is a high-end market stocked with locally made delicacies and features a carefully curated selection of premium wines from Napa and beyond.
Pick up a Picnic at the Oxbow Market
This San Francisco Ferry Building offshoot features some of the Bay Area’s best dining establishments all under one roof. There’s something for everyone at the Oxbow Market, whether you’re craving oysters, ice cream, or tacos. Pick up an assortment of enticing treats and head over to the nearby Napa River for a picnic brunch. Online ordering and curbside pick-up are available at most of the restaurants.
Experience the Vista Collina Tasting Room
Head back to Vista Collina for an indulgent afternoon of wine tasting. Foley Food & Wine Society is one of the nine wineries and breweries conveniently located on-site at the Vista Collina Tasting Room. The outdoor FFWS experience allows you to enjoy flights, glasses, or bottles from many Foley Family estates in one place, including Chalk Hill, Chalone, Ferrari-Carano, Foley Sonoma, Sebastiani, Roth Estates, and more.
Enjoy an Early Outdoor Dinner at Bounty Hunter
This beloved BBQ spot and wine retail shop in the heart of downtown Napa is a must-visit for anyone who loves great food and great wine. Arrive early to avoid a wait—Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ doesn’t take reservations. But it’s well worth the effort, with its mouthwatering menu, 18-page bottle list, and over 40 wines by the glass.
