Napa Valley isn't just wine country; it's a playground for the young and young at heart, especially teens looking for a mix of adventure, creativity, and chill vibes. Here's your insider guide to making the most out of Napa Valley with your teens, ensuring a vacation that's memorable for the whole family.
Entertainment and Exploration
Start your visit at the Clay & Glass Center Napa Valley, where teens can unleash their inner artist through pottery and glass-making classes. It's a hands-on way to engage with local artistry and maybe even create a souvenir to take home.
If your teen prefers the sound of pins crashing, head to Napa Bowl. This isn't your typical bowling alley; it's soaked in local flavor with a friendly atmosphere that makes everyone feel like a regular.
For a dose of fresh air and local culture, Napa Yard is a must-visit. This beer garden offers tasty bites, live music, and outdoor games that both adults and kids can enjoy. It's a fantastic spot to relax and soak in the Napa vibe.
Don't miss the Napa Farmer's Market on Tuesdays and Saturdays. It's the perfect place to stroll, munch on local delicacies, and shop for unique crafts. While downtown, swing by Color Theory for art supplies or dive into the literary world at Book Mine.
Active Adventures
Teens with energy to burn will love renting a bike from Napa Valley Bike Shop and cruising the Rail Arts District, where stunning murals transform the streets into a vibrant outdoor gallery. Extend the adventure along the Vine Trail for breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards.
Skateboarding enthusiasts can head to Napa Skate Park, a local hotspot perfect for both novices and experienced skaters. If climbing is more their style, Rockzilla offers over 8,000 square feet of thrilling indoor rock climbing right in the heart of downtown.
For a unique water experience, Napa Valley Paddle offers paddleboarding that's perfect for cooling off and enjoying the serene waters of the Napa River. It's a relaxing yet engaging activity that lets teens explore nature from a different perspective.
For those who prefer hiking, the trails at Skyline and Bothe State Park promise an excellent workout and sweet views amidst some of the most beautiful scenery in Napa Valley.
For the Auto Enthusiasts
If cars are more your teen's style and you're in town on the second Sunday of the month, make sure to check out the Napa Valley Hot Rods Cars n Coffee. Held from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Brewed Napa, 865 Factory Stores Drive, this event is a must-see for any car enthusiast. Enjoy a morning surrounded by unique and classic hot rods while sipping on some of the best coffee in town. (don't pass on the cookie dough)
Cultural Enrichment: di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art & Gordon Huether Gallery
Enhance your Napa journey with a visit to the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art in Carneros. This unique museum is nestled among vineyards and offers a fascinating collection of works by Northern California artists. It's an inspiring outing that showcases the region's vibrant and diverse artistic culture.
Further immerse yourselves in art at the Gordon Huether Gallery. Known for his large-scale installations and use of diverse materials, Gordon Huether's works are thought-provoking and visually captivating, providing an excellent discussion ground for teens interested in modern art and innovative techniques.
Family-Friendly Winery Experiences
Integrating wine tasting with family time is easy in Napa Valley, thanks to several wineries that cater to all ages. Here's a list of my top picks for family-friendly wineries that offer more than just wine:
- Sterling Vineyards – Enjoy stunning views from their aerial tram and a self-guided tour that's informative and fun.
- Honig Winery – Known for its sustainability efforts and engaging tours, it's a place where the family can learn about eco-friendly wine production while enjoying delicious wines.
- Frog's Leap – Known for its organic farming and relaxed setting, it's a place where you can genuinely unwind while the kids explore the gardens or have a grape juice tasting.
Napa Valley offers many ways to connect and create lasting memories, whether through exploring, bowling, biking, climbing, visiting modern art museums, paddleboarding, or sipping. So, pack your adventurous spirit (and maybe some comfy shoes), and get ready to explore Napa with your teens.
This article has been brought to you by Cuvée. Cuvée is a Napa Valley Winery Guide built by a team of locals who are passionate about discovering new brands and unique experiences.
