Tucked into the northern tip of Napa Valley, Calistoga, California is one of the most charming and laid-back wine country towns you'll find. But this small town offers much more than just Cabernet and mineral pools. With mild winters, hot summers, and plenty of indoor-outdoor experiences, there are countless fun things to do in Calistoga any time of year.
While Calistoga is famous for its wineries and mud baths, it's also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers, art seekers, and families. From castle tours and hiking trails to bike loops and bubbling geysers, the Calistoga attractions go beyond the expected.
The Calistoga Hot Springs are legendary, thanks to the area's natural geothermal activity. Resorts like Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs and Indian Springs Calistoga offer year-round access to mineral pools and spa amenities. The warm water is rich in minerals and ideal for relaxing after a day of wine tasting or hiking.
One of the most unique Calistoga attractions, Castello di Amorosa is a fully functioning winery housed inside a 13th-century-style Italian castle. Complete with towers, a drawbridge, and dungeon, it offers tastings, tours, and stunning views. A must-see for first-timers and returning wine lovers alike.
If you’re looking for outdoor things to do in Calistoga, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park delivers. The park features redwood groves, scenic creeks, and hiking trails of all levels. It’s open year-round, with picnic areas, a campground, and cabins available for those who want to stay longer.
Calistoga is synonymous with mud baths, and several spas in town still honor this unique tradition. Golden Haven Hot Springs and MoonAcre Spa at Dr. Wilkinson’s offer warm volcanic ash mud treatments that are relaxing, detoxifying, and distinctly Calistogan.
Downtown Calistoga is charming, walkable, and full of surprises. You’ll find boutique shops, art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and cafes like Sam’s General Store or Calistoga Roastery for coffee breaks between stops. Great for a relaxed afternoon stroll.
Yes, Calistoga has its own Old Faithful Geyser! This family-friendly spot features a reliably erupting geyser, plus a small petting zoo and geology exhibit. It’s a great choice for younger visitors or anyone interested in the natural volcanic activity that makes Calistoga so unique.
One of the best things to do in Calistoga for active travelers is to rent a bike and cruise the Calistoga Loop. This scenic ride takes you past vineyards, hot springs, and mountains. As of early 2024, the Calistoga section of the Napa Valley Vine Trail has officially been completed, now connecting Calistoga to St. Helena by bike path. Rentals are available locally through companies like Calistoga Bikeshop.
While Calistoga is home to some big names, the charm is in its small, family-owned wineries. Consider visiting Tamber Bey Vineyards, Chateau Montelena, or Clos Pegase for intimate tastings, vineyard views, and a more personal connection to the region.
Ca' Toga is the whimsical home and gallery of artist Carlo Marchiori. The gallery in downtown Calistoga is open regularly, and guided tours of the Villa Ca’ Toga estate are offered seasonally. A must for art lovers and fans of bold, theatrical design.
No visit to Calistoga is complete without a scenic meal. Local favorites with patio seating include Lovina, Buster's Southern BBQ, and Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery, which features a spacious beer garden and shaded tables along the Napa River. Ideal for sunset dinners or a casual lunch surrounded by vineyards and hills.
From geothermal wonders to castle tours and forest hikes, Calistoga delivers a full itinerary in every season. Whether you come for the wine, the mud, the views, or the food, you’ll find fun things to do in Calistoga that make it more than just another stop in Napa Valley.
Bonus Idea: Looking for a truly unforgettable way to see Napa Valley from above? Book a sunrise flight with Napa Valley Balloons and enjoy sweeping views of Calistoga’s vineyards, mountains, and hot springs from the sky. It’s a magical way to start the day before diving into the rest of your Calistoga itinerary.
Calistoga is most famous for its hot springs, mud baths, and laid-back vibe, as well as wineries like Chateau Montelena and Castello di Amorosa.
Yes, most Calistoga hot springs resorts are open year-round, with heated pools and indoor spa facilities perfect for both summer and winter visits.
Downtown Calistoga is very walkable, with shops, tasting rooms, and restaurants clustered together. But to reach trailheads, wineries, and outlying attractions, a car (or bike) is recommended.
