10 of the Best Reasons to Plan Weekend Getaways from San Francisco to Napa Valley

The intricate streets of San Francisco are mesmerizing and the Golden Gate Bridge is too magnificent to just drive over. You need to walk the pedestrian path to experience it. But, sometimes you need to go outside of the city (via the Golden Gate Bridge), because something just as mesmerizing lies beyond it: Napa Valley! Here are 10 things you must experience on your weekend getaways from San Francisco to Napa. 

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Great Reasons to Plan Getaways from San Francisco to Napa Valley

Napa is less than two hours from San Francisco. As one of the most beautiful and beloved wine regions in the world, any visit means a real treat for all of your senses! 

1. Get Back to Nature

While city life has its advantages, as you drive into Napa Valley with the windows down, you’ll immediately become enamored by its rolling hills spotted with vineyards and the Napa River snaking through the valley. The fresh air and beautiful scenery make for a more than picture-perfect weekend road trip from San Francisco. Outside of the beautiful vineyards, Napa Valley’s parks are a wonderful opportunity to get back to nature. Take a leisurely stroll or a heart pumping hike and stop to enjoy a lovely picnic with an incredible view. Robert Louis Stevenson State Park and Westwood Hills State Park are just a couple of the many wonderful parks to visit.

2. Lace-Up and Go for a Hike

Speaking of heart-pumping hikes, lace up your shoes, pack a day pack and head out to one of 7 Napa Hiking Trails You Need to Explore. In addition to the accomplishment you will feel after having challenged yourself on the hike, you’ll more than deserve an afternoon spent tasting wines or dining at Napa’s delicious restaurants.

3. Napa Valley Vine Trail

Created by a group of volunteers, the Napa Valley Vine Trail is an off-road paved trail that’s perfect for families, cyclists, walkers and joggers. The scenic trail will eventually span 47 miles in Napa Valley end to end from the historic Vallejo Ferry Terminal to Calistoga.

4. Annual Events

COVID-19 UPDATE: Please check all event websites for the latest information.

Year-round, you’ll discover events that represent the area’s cultural diversity and beauty. A few of the area’s most famous events include:

The Napa Valley Marathon is one of the most beautiful and professionally organized races in the entire country, and a must for any serious marathoners out there. It takes place each spring, usually in March.

Each summer the Bottle Rock Festival takes place in downtown Napa, attracting both internationally renowned musicians, chefs, and brewmasters who combine forces to create one of the most coveted music and food festivals around.

A fall season favorite is the Napa Valley Film Festival celebrating independent films made around the world, and covering everything from moving features, to groundbreaking shorts.

5. Wine Tastings

It may surprise you to know that Napa Valley has more than 475 physical wineries and 700 grape growers in 14 different regions (appellations). Here in Napa, we also have almost two dozen local tasting rooms (within walking distance of Churchill Manor, no less!). Where should you begin? Start with our list of 10 Amazing Places to go for a Napa Valley Wine Tasting!

6. Napa Valley Wine Train

One Wine Country Tour you should have on your bucket list is a luxurious ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train. Choose between their winery tours, dining journeys and even sunset excursions to experience Napa Valley in a unique way that combines the best of the region’s scenery, cuisine and wine!

7. Nightlife in Napa

COVID-19 UPDATE: Bars remain closed and restaurants can only serve guests at outdoor seating. Please check websites or call businesses before heading out for the evening.

Your days may be filled with outdoor activities and wine tastings, but save a little energy so you can experience a bit of Napa Valley nightlife.  After you’ve had a chance to rest and change clothes, take a short walk into town for delicious food, beverages and even music and dancing.

8. Day Trips to Napa Valley from San Francisco

While we recommend spending a few days in Napa to get the full experience, if a day-trip is more your style, you have plenty of options. Several tour companies offer San Francisco to Napa Valley Tours allowing you to sit back and relax while they do the driving. Enjoy the lovely scenery as you make the short trip from the Bay Area to Napa Valley and enjoy wine tastings at various wineries before heading back home. The number of wineries you visit generally depends on the number of people on the tour. More information is available in our blog about San Francisco to Napa Valley Tours.

9. Exquisite Accommodations at Churchill Manor

Our circa-1889 stately mansion located just a block from historic Downtown Napa offers a charming 19th century ambience, for a delightful vacation in Northern California Wine Country. After a wonderful night’s rest in one of our 10 exquisite rooms, you’ll enjoy delicious breakfast each morning, afternoon wine reception and luxurious surroundings that will have you thinking about a return trip the moment you step through the doorway.

10. Romantic Getaway Packages

With weekend getaways from San Francisco to Napa Valley a possibility, it’s easy to take a little weekend trip into Wine Country for a romantic getaway. If you don’t have much time to plan a romantic weekend the way you’d like to, let Churchill Manor assist you with our compilation of 3 of the Most Romantic Napa Valley Packages for Couples.

For more information about Churchill Manor and the many things to do and see during your visit, download our free Vacation Guide.