Whether you’re the organizer in your family – or the one who puts everything off until the last minute – January 25th is a special day designed just for you.
The last Tuesday in January has been designated as National Plan for Vacation Day, a time designed to encourage Americans to plan their vacation days for the whole year at the start of the year.
As increased workloads and health and safety concerns have workers feeling burnt out, only one-quarter of Americans used all of their earned time off in 2021. Many firms don’t let their employees carry vacation days over to the next year, so it’s important – from both a work-related perspective and your mental well-being – to plan time off early in the year.
If choosing where to vacation isn’t your strong point, let us make it easy for you: Downtown Napa. Whether you’re looking for a place to escape and relax, or if adventure is your way of relieving stress, Downtown Napa is the place to be. From budget-friendly inns to luxurious resorts, you’ll find a wide range of lodging options conveniently located near all the fun and excitement of Downtown Napa.
We’ve put together a variety of two-day itineraries to lessen the guesswork, although you’re welcome to veer off the path if you prefer a little more of this or a lot more of that. And feel free to add an extra day – or three – to make sure you get the most out of your vacation days. A brief look at some of the itineraries follows; for a complete list and details, click here.
THE FOODIE
If you enjoy anything food-related – cooking it, exploring its history or, of course, eating it – the CIA at Copia should be your first stop of the day. The Culinary Institute of America’s food and beverage hub, located in Downtown Napa’s Oxbow District, is part restaurant/museum/wine bar/cooking classes/marketplace and more. It’s also the ideal place to plan a wedding, party or team-building event.
Afterwards, enjoy a view of the sunset and a gourmet meal from the Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar at the Archer Hotel Napa, top it off at Morimoto Napa, Napa’s only Sake and Japanese Whiskey bar, then start looking forward to a good night’s sleep and another day of fun, food and adventure.
WELLNESS AND RELAXATION RETREAT
A U.S. Travel Association survey found that 61% of respondents said their travel priority in 2022 would focus on prioritizing health and well-being. This Downtown Napa itinerary begins with a body-nourishing meal at Hudson’s Green & Goods or Napa Valley Bistro, followed by a chillaxing walk, bike ride, paddleboard or gondola ride through downtown. There are several spas and salons for the ultimate in relaxation, followed by wine tastings and dinner from restaurants that use local, organic ingredients. Day 2 includes breakfast, yoga, spa treatments and lunch before you head out … or stay another day.
TASTE, SIP AND SEE NAPA
This two-day itinerary may be one you’ll want to repeat several times a year; it’s that good. Begin your day with Oprah Winfrey’s favorite English muffins or other baked goods at the Model Bakery, followed by a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the hills, valleys and vineyards of Napa. Or you can stay grounded and enjoy an excursion aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train, which will include a four-course lunch, sparkling Napa Valley wine and views of the area’s magnificent vineyards. Rest up, then get ready for wine tastings, delicious cuisine and a night of live entertainment at Blue Note Napa. Day 2 is all about food, wine, art and chocolate. Yep, you’ll definitely need to book another vacation in Downtown Napa; maybe two more.
GUYS, GALS AND COUPLES
There are itineraries designed specifically for an all-guy or all-gal getaway, as well as romantic vacations for couples in love. For guys, plan to stop at a few of Downtown Napa’s thriving craft breweries, take a guided or self-guided tour of the area, enjoy a hike or mountain bike ride at Skyline Wilderness Park and top it all off with a delicious meal and a night of entertainment.
A girlfriend getaway includes a spa day at Spa Terra located in an underground wine cave, shopping for unique gifts at the Napa General Store, wine tastings, mouthwatering appetizers and dinner fare at Napkins Bar & Grill. Breakfast, art, lunch and more make for a memorable two-day adventure.
Couples who wish to venture out on their own should drop by the Napa Valley Welcome Center for a self-guided tour of the charming neighborhoods and historic sites of Napa. There are also itineraries designed for couples that include romantic meals for two at Downtown Napa’s first-class restaurants, wine tastings, unique works at the Napa ARTwalk, music, spa treatments and then back to one of the area’s bed-and-breakfasts for some chill time.
Discover the beauty of Downtown Napa. Book your stay today.
