Fun things to do in Downtown Napa

Over the past several years, Napa has transformed from a sleepy wine country town into a mecca for food, wine and art, while retaining its small town charm. As of early 2008, Napa's downtown district includes over 16 wine tasting rooms or wine bars, 40 top restaurants, many of them Zagat rated, and an expanding number of delightful shops and galleries. Other additions are COPIA, the Opera House and, most recently, the Oxbow Public Market.

The Inn on Randolph is conveniently located within walking distance of the downtown district. If you prefer, hop on the downtown trolley, a free service that will transport you around town.

Here are some of our favorite Downtown Napa Fun Things – we're also including a sampling of local events you may not want to miss.

COPIA (American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts)
Opened in late 2001, COPIA combines edible gardens, interactive exhibitions, wine and food programs and events such as "Friday night Flicks" and a diverse Concert Series, offered in their outdoor river amphitheatre during warmer months of the year.

Oxbow Public Market
Opened in 2008, this much anticipated public market next to COPIA is a showcase for artisans and food and wine purveyors. Visit their site.

Napa Valley Opera House
A centerpiece of Napa's cultural renaissance, the historic 1879 Napa Valley Opera House reopened in 2002 with a wide variety of matinee and evening performances ranging from jazz, theatre, comedy, classical, Broadway, opera and more.

Napa Valley Wine Train
An elegantly restored train, riders enjoy a leisurely journey through the valley while enjoying brunch, lunch or dinner. Special events such as Winemaker Dinners and Murder Mystery are also available. Visit their site.

Downtown Tasting Rooms
An assortment of intimate and eclectic tasting rooms and wine bars are dotted around the downtown district. These wine merchants offer not only an excellent selection of small-production and often elusive premium wines, but knowledgeable advice in a fun, casual atmosphere. For information on special wine events at one of our favorites, check Back Room Wines.

River Activities
Winding through downtown Napa is the Napa River, one of the largest protected wetlands on the West Coast. Stroll and shop along the river or view the town from a different perspective - by canoe, kayak or luxury cruise. Options can be viewed at Napa River Adventures.

Outdoor Recreation
With its year round temperate climate and spectacular scenery, Napa is ideal for outdoor recreation. For the golfer, Napa's public course is located in nearby Kennedy Park and offers 18 holes, plus a driving range and practice putting greens. If you would like a choice of two spectacular courses set among 150 acres of vineyards and protected open space, there's nearby Chardonnay Golf Club. For special rates for inn guests, click on Special Indulgences.

Restaurants
From sushi to steak, tapas to tortillas, pasta to paella, eating well in Napa presents a delightful and delicious dilemma. Choose a multi-course repast, or sample lighter fare at a café or wine bar. We provide menus for guests to peruse at their leisure and we'll be happy to provide suggestions, directions and reservation assistance. If you would like to peruse menus in advance of your arrival, view napadowntown.com and click on “Food”.

Entertainment
In addition to COPIA and the Opera House, a number of restaurants offer live music for your enjoyment before, during or after your meal. Although venues, artists, dates and times vary during the year, we're happy to keep you informed of options during your stay.

Health Clubs
Trying to maintain a fitness routine while away from home? Exertec Fitness Club, located within walking distance of the inn, has facilities that include a 25 yard indoor pool, aerobic studio, personal trainers, indoor cycling and gym equipment. Guests of the inn are invited to enjoy the club during their stay with day passes ($10.), which include use of all facilities, as well as lockers and towels.

Special Downtown Events

Chef's Market
Anyone visiting Napa between May and August in years past may be familiar with Chef's Market. We're shaking things up in 2008, moving this popular event to Thursday night and adding exciting new elements to the mix. This is an opportunity for out of town visitors to feel like a local, with food, wine, art and a Farmer's Market filling the streets every Thursday from May 31 to July 31. It's free, fun, and a short stroll from the inn. Check out our Chef's Night Special.

Wine Country Cajun Festival
Bring a little bit of Mardi Gras to Napa, throw in Zydeco bands and New Orleans style street parades and mix with Napa chefs offering their spin on classic Big Easy dishes, and you've got a great downtown food and wine fest. In 2008 it's Saturday, October 4 from 1-6, so plan accordingly!

Happy Days Car Show
If you love cars and music from the 1950's and 60's, mark this one on your calendar. Featuring over 300 pre-1976 cars parked on our downtown streets, this show is held August 16 from 10-3.

Farmer's Market
Held on Tuesday's and Saturday's, May through October, this is a great place to sample the incredible bounty of California fresh produce.

B & B Holiday Tour and Taste Event
A great way to combine Christmas shopping and a fun getaway is the fourth annual December event offered by Napa's Bed and Breakfast Association, of which the Inn on Randolph is a proud member. A ticket to this popular December 1st event entitles you to food and wine provided by some of Napa Valley's finest restaurants and wineries, along with entertainment, at each of the 13 member inns. Contact us for additional information or to purchase tickets. The 2007 event was sold out well in advance, so don't delay!

Dreamweavers Theatre
A variety of amusing live theatre productions, located minutes from the inn. Visit their site.

Jarvis Conservatory
Select productions during the year, including Opera Night the first Saturday of each month. Visit their site.