Calistoga

If you go just a smidge north of Napa, you’ll end up in the hot spring filled town of Calistoga. Walking the downtown area is like stepping into an old country western movie. This tiny town has adorable cafes, trendy bars and cute shops. We stayed in the Calistoga Hot Spring Hotel. From the looks of it, this town doesn’t offer much in terms of luxury, and this hotel was no exception. The room felt more motel-like, but it was convenient, clean, and the hot spring pools were a fun evening activity.

Cute Calistoga

Vintage shops and gardens in Calistoga

It’s an affordable town to use as a launching pad to Napa or Sonoma. I bought a smoothie one day and it cost $5! I’m used to paying around $10 a smoothie in Boston.

Meals out by the many wineries will likely fill your itinerary, but plan to spend a morning walking the shops of Calistoga and grabbing breakfast. You don’t need much time to explore the town. It’s really a place to start or end your day on your way to do other things. It’s charm is certainly worth it though.

Eating in Calistoga

There are many options within close proximity for terrific food in this tiny town.

A dreamy outdoor eating area

Calistoga Inn Brewery and Restaurant

This local eatery is the perfect place to enjoy dinner during the warm months. The outdoor area has a fire pit, string lights and live music. The perfect combination for a delighteful evening. It’s on the higher end of prices, so if you’re on a budget, just plan to pop by for an after dinner cocktail.

An outdoor bar at Calistoga Inn

Cafe Sarafornia

No doubt- the best meal I had in Calistoga was breakfast at this casual cafe. Check out this pork tostado. Might have been a questionable choice as my base meal before a day of wine tasting, but I loved every bite.

A quirky cafe in Calistoga is the perfect place to start the day

Pork Tostado and french toast at Cafe Serafornia

All the cafes…but here are two!

Calistoga Roastery was the great cafe with the $5 smoothies. Of course iced coffees, bagels and other morning goodies are available.

Calistoga Roastery

Sam’s General Store is in a cute BnB that is tucked away. If you walk just beyond the main strip and turn up a side street, you’ll come across this gray and yellow house. Rooms are pretty expensive for a night, but plan to come by for a small bite or a refreshing cage beverage.

Sam’s General Store

Sam’s General Store

Calistoga’s popularity is sure to grow rapidly over the next few years, so visit while it still has its quaint vibes. You won’t go wrong making this sweet little gem your launching pad for a memorable winery weekend.

Enjoying Calistoga and the old trains behind me