Easy Traveling in Calistoga

  • Guides
  • by WINECOUNTRY COLLECTIVE
  • on AUGUST 1, 2017
  • 2475
  • 0
When you’re seeking the perfect mix of country relaxation and urban convenience, look no further than Calistoga, California. This little city in the country is a great place to get away from it all and still stay connected. Not to mention it’s an easy drive from the local airports and only an hour from the heart of wine country, Napa Valley. So if you’re in the mood for an easy way to get away – check out some of our top tips for visitors below.

AIR TRANSPORT

Image Source: Facebook – Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport (STS)

Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport (STS)
2290 Airport Blvd. Santa Rosa, CA 95403
P: 707-565-7240

The Charles M. Schulz – Sonoma County Airport (STS) is undoubtedly the closest you can get to landing in the vineyards, as incoming flights are treated to stunning views of the valley and a private, luxury arrival. Only four commercial airlines service this location, and the majority of flights are private planes and charters, so it’s never overly crowded. Crowds or no crowds, there’s nothing more memorable than touching down right in the center of Wine Country. The following airlines offer direct flights in with non-stop options from these airports:

● Alaska Airlines: LAX, SNA, SAN, PDX, SEA
● American Airlines: PHX, DFW
● United Airlines: DEN, SFO
● Suncountry Airlines: MSP, LAS


Named in honor of longtime resident artist, Charles M Schulz, the airstrip is festooned with Peanuts statues and tributes to Snoopy and the gang. While visitors will pay more for this experience, the reward is definitely worth it.

While STS might be the most convenient way to get to Wine Country, it’s not the only nearby transport hub. The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located roughly 60 miles from Napa proper, and is the largest airport in the bay area and represents a major hub for travel in and out of the City.

GROUND TRANSPORT


From rideshare apps to private cars, shuttles and trains there are many options for ground transport in Calistoga. Whether you’re looking to arrive in style, or need something more budget friendly, there’s an easy way for everyone to get into wine country.

Napa Valley Tours and Transportation
3210 California Blvd,
Napa, CA 94558
Yelp: 4.5 Stars, 59 Reviews

NVTT is one of the premier providers of personal ground transport in the valley. They offer a fleet of modern, clean vehicles to pick visitors up in style. They can arrange all your ground transportation needs, including suburban, sedan, corporate or executive van up to full motor coach pickup and drop-off, group shuttles, and corporate car services to all Northern California Regional and Municipal airports. They can easily adapt to changing travel plans. Getting you to your desired location is fast and easy with their VIP airport transfer service. Along the way to your hotel, home, or meeting, sit back, relax, and enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of the Napa Valley.

Insider Tip: Not just for airport services, NVTT also offers full service winery tour transportation. Let them help you plan an incredible Calistoga(or Napa Valley) wine tasting day trip!

Other transportation companies offering airport pick up from Santa Rosa Airport: Beau Wine Tours, Pure Luxury Transportation and Napa Valley Wine Country Tours

Image Source: Calistoga Wine Tours

Calistoga Wine Tours
1458 Lincoln Ave, Railcar 16
Calistoga CA, 94515
P: 707-942-3995
TripAdvisor: 17 Reviews, 5 Stars

Owned and operated exclusively by Napa Valley locals, Calistoga Wine Tours is the place to go for personal service. With their multi-generational winery relationships they’re able to craft an unforgettable wine country experience like no other. They offer daily tours and private tours that can be tailored specifically to your interest.

Insider Tip: Transport isn’t all they offer! Located in historic downtown Calistoga in an authentic railcar their unique office is also a retail space for handcrafted items from local artists, as well as Calistoga branded merchandise. Great for last minute gifts!

WHAT TO DO


Aside from wine tasting, downtown Calistoga is a walkable mecca of local shops and restaurants. Check out the nine unique retails finds in downtown Calistoga. As well as some of our other favorite Calistoga stops!

Image Source: Calistoga Chamber of Commerce

Old Faithful Geyser
1299 Tubbs Lane
Calistoga, CA 94515
707-942-6463
TripAdvisor: 3 Stars, 766 Reviews

Check out the majesty one of the Valley’s oldest natural wonders – the Old Faithful Geyser. Its regular eruptions have delighted visitors for years and have earned it a place on the list of most photographed sites in California. Fun fact – they geyser has also proven itself to be a handy predictor for earthquakes. If the regular eruptions are delayed, an earthquake is likely on the horizon in the next few weeks. Grab some snacks, your camera and watch the rainbows bloom for this amazing feature.

Insider Tip: The Park surrounding the geyser is the perfect place for a waterfront picnic.

Image Source: Calistoga Chamber of Commerce

Calistoga Farmers Market
1311 Washington St.
Calistoga, CA 94515
TripAdvisor: 4 Stars, 10 Reviews

For the freshest produce and unbeatable local eats, check out the Calistoga Farmers Market. The market happens every Saturday starting at 8:30 AM and showcases local foods, vendors and live music. Get there early before the lines get long and score some tasty in-season produce.

Insider Tip: Who knew that nuns were such great bakers! Be sure to stop by the booth run by the Holy Assumption Monastery for an awesome of baked goods handmade by the sisters.

Image Source: Facebook

Jericho Canyon Vineyard
3322 Old Lawley Toll Rd
Calistoga, CA 94515
(707) 942-9665
TripAdvisor: 4.5 Stars, 32 Reviews

Jericho Canyon Vineyard handcrafts all of their wine in small lots and their dedication shows: each plant is lovingly looked after during the growing season to ensure the optimal amount of sun exposure. Learn more about these techniques by making a reservation to tour the estate’s gorgeous redwood winery.

Insider tip: Try the complex Sauvignon Blanc, which derives its satisfying taste from the volcanic canyon soil in which the grapes are planted.

WHERE TO EAT

Image Source: TripAdvisor

Calistoga Inn Restaurant and Brewery
1250 Lincoln Ave
Calistoga CA, 94515
P: 707-942-4101
TripAdvisor: 3.5 Stars, 77 Reviews

Don’t think that wine is the only thing brewery in Napa Valley; historically The Inn was the first establishment to brew beer commercially in Napa County since the end of prohibition in 1933. There are four House beers: Calistoga Wheat Ale, Pilsner, Red Ale & Porter, in addition to several seasonal beers. Their location on Lincoln Ave is very convenient for travelers that want the opportunity to walk to various shops and restaurants in the main area of downtown. Their quaint Bed and Breakfast has a limited selection of rooms, so book early.

Insider Tip: During the high season, the Inn hosts’ local musicians for live music Fri-Sun nights.

Image Source: Indian Springs Resort

Sam’s Social Club
1712 Lincoln Ave
Calistoga, CA 94515
707-942-4913
TripAdvisor: 4.5 Stars, 100 Reviews

Located on the beautiful grounds of Indian Springs Resort, Sam’s social club is a local on-resort favorite. Named after the resort’s founder and first California Millionaire, Samuel Brannan, the restaurant serves rustic American cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their full bar – and awesome happy hour – serve up craft cocktails, local wines and craft beer brewed on site.

Insider Tip: As a Premier Partner of WineCountry.com and Napavalley.com, Indian Springs is able to offer guests exclusive rewards through our special online offers. Click HERE to select date(s) of stay, guest count and number of rooms needed.

WHERE TO STAY

The Bergson
1010 Foothill Blvd
Calistoga, CA 94515
(707) 942-5755

TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 507 reviews The Bergson boasts beautiful rooms and suites with spacious balconies and working gas fireplaces. The continental breakfast offered every morning includes house-made granola and is best enjoyed in the shady courtyard lined with stately stone pillars. The hotel helps its guests explore the surrounding wine country by offering a centralized location and frequent discount passes for popular wineries.

Insider tip: Most of the town’s best restaurants are within walking distance, but make sure to use the hotel’s complimentary Calistoga shuttle for destinations that are a bit further away.

BIO: Nicole McLaughlin is a food and lifestyle writer from California. When she’s not in the kitchen testing her latest recipes, you can find her out exploring the wonders of fermentation in San Diego’s vibrant craft beer scene.


Author

WineCountry Collective

WineCountry is made up of a dedicated and passionate team of wine, food, and travel aficionados. We diligently explore regions, both near and far, to curate the best ideas and resources. Whether you're musing over your next wine escapade, planning a romantic weekend away, embracing the Wine Country lifestyle at home, or are simply looking to be entertained for a moment, trust us to be your comprehensive guide.