You step off the shuttle on Lincoln Avenue, and the scent of fresh coffee mixes with the faint mineral tang of hot springs in the air. A family pedals by on bright blue cruiser bikes, laughing as they weave past quaint shops. It’s a small town with a relaxed pulse, inviting you to slow down and soak it in.
This spot hums with about 5,000 residents and draws visitors for its natural springs and vineyards. The main drag, lined with 20 or so boutique stores and eateries, hosts a farmers market every Saturday. Events like the Calistoga Harvest Table, a street-long dining experience in September, showcase the town’s tight-knit community spirit.
Welcome to Calistoga, California, tucked at the northern tip of Napa Valley. This charming town, founded by Sam Brannan in the 1860s, blends rustic roots with modern comforts. Known for its geothermal hot springs and world-class wineries, it’s a haven for relaxation and exploration.
Soak in the Springs
Calistoga’s hot springs are a must, drawing visitors since the 1800s. Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort offers mud baths starting at about $150, blending volcanic ash and mineral water for a detoxifying soak. Indian Springs Resort, with its Olympic-sized mineral pool, has day passes for non-guests when you book a spa treatment—perfect for a budget-friendly dip.
Sip at Iconic Wineries
Wine lovers flock to Castello di Amorosa, a 13th-century-style Tuscan castle with tours from $45. Winemaker Dario Sattui’s creation offers family-friendly tastings and stunning valley views. Nearby, Chateau Montelena, famed for its 1973 Chardonnay that outshone French wines, provides tastings starting at $50, with grounds perfect for a picnic.
Explore Nature’s Wonders
Old Faithful Geyser of California erupts every 20–30 minutes, shooting water up to 60 feet. Admission ($16 for adults, $8 for kids) includes access to a petting zoo with fainting goats, a hit with families. The Petrified Forest, a 10-minute drive away, features 3-million-year-old redwood fossils along easy trails, with tickets at $12 for adults.
Stroll Downtown
Lincoln Avenue buzzes with local flavor. Stop by Calistoga Depot, a historic 1868 train station turned gourmet market, where owner Jeanette McGarry stocks local wines and picnic supplies. For a casual lunch, Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery serves farm-fresh dishes by the Napa River, with beers brewed on-site.
Get Active Outdoors
Rent bikes at Calistoga Bike Shop for $15/hour to pedal through vineyards or tackle the 4.5-mile Oat Hill Mine Trail for scenic views. For a thrill, Calistoga Balloons offers hot air balloon rides at sunrise ($239 per person), floating over rolling hills. Book early, as flights fill up fast.
Calistoga is easy to reach, about 1.5 hours from San Francisco by car via Highway 29. Public shuttles from Napa make it accessible without a vehicle. Parking is free downtown, and most attractions are walkable, though bikes make exploring a breeze. The town feels safe, with a small-town vibe where locals like shopkeeper Mike Barrett at Papa Lou’s Wine & Spirits greet you like an old friend.
For family fun, Pioneer Park offers a playground and picnic areas, while the Sharpsteen Museum ($3 donation) dives into local history with kid-friendly exhibits. Check visitcalistoga.com for event updates, like the whimsical Lighted Tractor Parade in December, a free spectacle for all ages.
Venture nearby to St. Helena’s The Charter House restaurant (15 minutes by car) for a farm-to-table dinner or visit Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park (10 minutes) to see a restored 1846 mill. Bothe-Napa Valley State Park (12 minutes) offers hiking trails through towering firs.
Ready to unwind in Calistoga? Visit the Calistoga Welcome Center at 1133 Washington Street to plan your trip, and use a map to navigate the compact downtown. Check visitcalistoga.com for the latest on events and deals.