16 Things to Do in American Canyon (and nearby Napa)

Situated only 10 miles away from downtown Napa, American Canyon offers visitors many local perks without the Napa crowds or price tags. Whether you are looking for outdoor activities, relaxing wine tasting experience or shopping, American Canyon offers a mix of all.

Eat Deliciously

Image Source: Yelp

Canyon Cafe 3845 Broadway St. American Canyon, CA 94503 (707) 644-5011 TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 21 reviews Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at Canyon Cafe. This laid-back dining spot is an example of simple, home cooked food done right. Dine on pancakes and fruit or eggs over-easy and fresh-cut hashbrowns. Its old-school diner atmosphere, friendly service, and casual vibe make it popular among locals and visitors. Insider tip: Try some of the bacon. They smoke it themselves!

Image Source: Yelp

Tacos Michoacan 3945 Broadway St. American Canyon, CA 94503 (707) 642-2349 Stop in for a quick lunch that’s full of authentic Mexican flavor. This restaurant is a favorite among past diners because of their carnitas and homemade tortillas. Try their spicy pork tacos or charred chili peppers. Insider tip: Request a seat on the patio to dine casually on picnic tables.

Image Source: Yelp

Ristorante La Strada 6240 Napa Vallejo, Highway 29 (also known as 6240 Broadway Street) American Canyon, CA 94503 (707) 226-3027 TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 89 reviews Make a reservation or walk in for dinner at one of American Canyon’s best Italian restaurants. With hand-painted murals of Italy, it has a Mediterranean feel in the middle of California. Insider tip: Try their calamari steak for a new take on surf and turf.

Image Source: Yelp

Gaia Restaurant 3600 Broadway American Canyon, CA 94503 (707) 674-2100 TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 40 reviews Stop by the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Spa to dine in their highly revered restaurant, Gaia. Touted for its local ingredients and sustainable practices, which have helped them achieve LEED certification for environmental friendliness, this popular restaurant is one you won’t want to miss. Insider tip: Try the shrimp bruschetta that comes in a scoopable form.

Image Source: Yelp

Country Creamery 101 W American Canyon Rd. # 512 American Canyon, CA 94503 (707) 643-2230 End your evening with a cherry on top, literally. This ice cream shop serves up heaping bowls and cones of fresh ice cream every day and evening. Bring your ice cream back to your hotel or enjoy eating it on the stoop outside. Insider tip: Try the Ube (Taro) and Buko Pandan flavors. They’re two you won’t find in every ice cream shop!

Drink Up

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Jamieson Ranch Vineyards 1 Kirkland Ranch Rd. American Canyon, CA 94503 (707) 254-8673 TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 38 reviews Reservations: Required Visit this western lodge inspired vineyard for an incredible wine tasting experience. With over 300 acres of green land and vineyards, it will take your breath away. No matter what you do, you’ll hear all about the winemaking process and take home some new knowledge to share with friends. Insider tip: Enjoy a meal prepared by the chef’s very own organic garden—located right outside the kitchen for optimal freshness.

Image Source: Yelp

Back Room Wines 1000 Main St. Shop 120 Napa, CA 94559 (707) 226-1378 TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 22 reviews Although it’s not a vineyard, you can still hang out and enjoy world-class wines. At this fine wine shop, taste a variety of local and international wines. Choose from flights, glasses, and bottles of your favorites. Get the help you need to decide too by talking with one of the helpful employees or attending one of the daily Off-The-Grid tastings. Insider tip: Flying home? Don’t worry. This shop will ship any bottle you want to your address.

Play a Round of Golf

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Chardonnay Golf Club 2555 Jameson Canyon Rd. American Canyon, CA 94503 (707) 257-1900 TripAdvisor: 4 stars, 44 reviews Take your golf game to the vineyard. This epic golf course tees off throughout thriving Chardonnay and Merlot vineyards and provides an exquisite backdrop to your game. Once you’re done playing, you can make your way up to the clubhouse for glasses of local wine and a beautiful view of the whole property. Insider tip: Play for free on your birthday when you sign up for their e-newsletter.

Image Source: Eagle Vines Vineyards & Golf Club & Yelp

Eagle Vines Vineyards & Golf Club 580 S Kelly Rd. American Canyon, CA 94503 (707) 257-4470 TripAdvisor: 3.5 stars, 17 reviews An award-winning golf course, Eagle Vines Vineyards & Golf Club is also another that designed its greens to amble alongside the grape vines. Everywhere you look, you’ll enjoy vineyard views and beautiful vistas. This course is considered to be challenging and we donít doubt it with all of its pleasant vineyard distractions. Insider tip: Get yourself a glass of wine in the Clubhouse after your game. They’re made from grapes located on the property.

Experience Arts, Culture, and History

Image Source: Yelp

Uptown Theater Napa 1350 Third St. Napa, California 94559 (707) 259-0123 TripAdvisor: 4.5 stars, 106 reviews Comedy, music, dance. You can find it all at Uptown Theater Napa. While the headliners are constantly changing, the building’s art deco architecture and status as a local landmark never do. Built in 1937, you can be a part of history when you attend a show here. Insider tip: Eat at their restaurant, The Courtyard Cafe, and try their Jack Daniel’s tri-tip sliders.

Image Source: Napa ARTWalk

Napa ARTWalk Downtown Napa Redesigned every year, this outdoor walk features juried sculptures from remarkable artists. Whether you’d like to take a stroll to walk off dinner or enjoy an iced coffee while taking in some art, you’ll enjoy the different interpretations of dozens of artists. Insider tip: Hear about the artwork when you download the Otocast app and look up Napa ARTwalk.

Image Source: Facebook & Yelp

Napa County Historical Society 1219 1st St. Napa, CA 94559 (707) 224-1739 Take a tour and learn a bit more about the history of Napa and its people when you stop by the Napa County Historical Society. With tours of the Ackerman Heritage House and rotating exhibits, there’s always something to learn when you’re in town. Print off a walking tour map so you donít miss a thing. Insider tip: If you’re hungry, stop by Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ for some of their famous beer can chicken.

Take Home Souvenirs

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The Cottage Corner 1370 2nd St. Napa, CA 94559 (707) 252-6353 Shop antiques and do-dads at this charming shop. You’ll never know what you’ll find until you get there. People have walked out with vintage suitcases, retro outfits, and more. Insider tip: Make sure to bring a bag to carry all of your goodies if you’re planning on making a day of shopping in downtown Napa.

Image Source: Facebook

Boho Lifestyle 1390 1st St. Napa, CA 94559 (707) 337-5870 Enjoy some boutique shopping while you’re visiting downtown Napa for the day. This shop specializes in breezy, comfortable, and stylish clothing for women. Pick up a new outfit for wine tasting or an extra layer if the temperatures are cooler than you expected. Insider tip: Have the shopkeepers style you to give you a new Napa look.

Image Source: Facebook

Danielle 770 Main St. Napa, CA 94559 (707) 226-2786 Shop for a statement wardrobe at this upscale boutique. From casual jeans to fancy dresses, there’s something for everyone and every occasion. Insider tip: This store offers a unique “shop in a box” option where they will ship you an outfit based on your style.

Image Source: Facebook

Mustard Seed Clothing 1227 First Street Napa, CA 94559 (707) 255-4222 Voted the top boutique in downtown Napa for the past 16 years, this shop is one you should make time for. With clothing from a number of designers, you can meander through the store and sift through racks of beautiful fabrics and styles. Insider tip: If you’re shopping with an unenthusiastic partner, they have a “Guy chair” where he can sit and get comfortable while you shop!

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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.