Find the Best Things to Do in Yountville
By Brooke Lewy
Napa Valley Local Expert
About Yountville
Tucked in the middle of Napa Valley, Yountville is known primarily for its incredible food. People like to joke that the small town has more Michelin stars per capita than anywhere else in the world, and while this may elicit a few laughs, it's likely true.
See & Do
While Yountville is primarily known for its delicious food, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the town's wine, champagne and art in between meals. There are five tasting rooms within walking distance near or on Washington Street. The beautiful Ma(i)sonry combines wine tasting with art perusal--their collection is carefully edited, resulting in a cool collection. The town itself embraces an artistic spirit and has an outdoor art walk, with sculptures placed along the main pathways.
Eat
Yountville takes its food seriously. In just the short span of Washington Street there are an almost ridiculous number of excellent places to eat. Thomas Keller has spread throughout the town, with the famed French Laundry at one end, Ad Hoc at the other, and Bouchon and Bouchon Bakery in between. He's in good company, too. Richard Reddington's two spots, Redd and Redd Wood turn out Asian inspired fare and perfect pizzas, respectively. Oh yeah, and there's Michael Chiarello's Bottega, and others, too.
Party
Yountville isn't known for it's raucous nightlife, but that doesn't mean that the party has to end early. Hurley's is a great place to sit at the bar and order from their excellent wine list and late night menu (available from 9pm to midnight) or to hang out with friends on their patio for a bottle or two. If you tire of the exquisiteness of it all, Pancha's on Washington Street can add a dose of dive bar to your experience.
Stay
There's no shortage of great hotels in Yountville. Many of them allow you to walk to the town's plethora of restaurants and tasting rooms. The North Block Hotel, formerly the Hotel Luca, is a relative newcomer and has a decidedly industrial chic vibe. Those looking for a more classic kind of resort, the LEED-Platinum Bardessono is an exceptional retreat in the middle of town.
Shop
It's tempting to only leave Napa Valley with full bellies, cases of wine and maybe a hangover. However, it's a great place to pick up art, hand-pressed olive oil, and other souvenirs as well. The V Marketplace has a little bit of everything, with emphasis on wine country inspired home accessories (tablecloths, glassware, ceramics) and gifts. Ma(i)sonry sells beautiful, eclectic art (Bart Simpson as a samurai warrior and warm leather furniture) and wines from small local producers.