Explore The Napa Valley

1. Wineries & Tastings

Outdoor ActivitiesNapa Valley is world-renowned for its wine, and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the region’s culture than by exploring the exceptional wineries located just minutes from the Silverado Resort. Whether your taste leans toward bold Cabernet Sauvignons, crisp Chardonnays, elegant sparkling wines, or unique small-batch blends, Napa offers a rich and diverse tasting experience that caters to every palate. Between conference sessions, attendees can unwind with a glass in hand, taking in panoramic vineyard views, warm hospitality, and the peaceful ambiance that defines wine country. Many of the nearby wineries offer beautifully landscaped patios, guided tastings, behind-the-scenes tours of their winemaking process, and even chef-curated food pairings that elevate the experience. From iconic estates steeped in history to boutique producers tucked away in the hills, each stop offers a distinctive story and a chance to savor the artistry behind every bottle. A visit to these vineyards is more than just a tasting it’s an invitation to slow down, connect, and enjoy the essence of Napa Valley. Don’t miss the opportunity to make the most of your time here by experiencing the region’s most celebrated treasure: the wine.

Top Picks Nearby The Silverado:

  1. Domaine Carneros (20 min) - Elegant sparkling wines with a French-inspired terrace and valley views.

  2. William Hill Estate Winery (10 min) - Intimate tastings with sweeping views of Napa Valley’s benchlands.

  3. Hess Persson Estates (25 min) - Mountain estate winery with bold reds and a contemporary art gallery.

  4. Etude Wines (25 min) - Known for premium Pinot Noir and educational tastings in nearby Carneros.

  5. Andretti Winery (10 min) - A charming, Tuscan-inspired estate with approachable wines and relaxing ambiance.

2. Dining & Culinary Experiences

Outdoor ActivitiesNapa’s culinary scene is every bit as impressive as its wine, offering an unforgettable journey for food lovers just minutes from the conference venue. From elegant fine dining restaurants to charming casual cafés and vibrant artisanal markets, the region boasts a diverse and flavorful landscape that reflects its agricultural richness and creative spirit. Whether you’re seeking a refined multi-course meal with expertly curated wine pairings or a quick, satisfying bite between sessions, Napa has something to satisfy every craving and schedule. Local chefs pride themselves on using seasonal, farm-fresh ingredients, often sourced from just down the road, and blending global techniques with California flair. You’ll find everything from riverside French bistros and rustic Italian trattorias to Michelin-starred tasting rooms and bustling food halls filled with passionate local vendors. Every meal is a celebration of craft and community, served with the warm hospitality that defines the Napa experience. Dining here is more than nourishment—it’s a chance to slow down, indulge the senses, and discover why this region is a world-class destination for both food and wine.

Top Picks Nearby The Silverado:

  1. Oxbow Public Market (10 min) - Casual, high-quality dining with many local food vendors under one roof.

  2. La Toque (10 min) - Michelin-starred fine dining and wine pairings at The Westin Verasa Napa.

  3. Angele Restaurant & Bar (10 min) - Upscale French bistro on the Napa Riverfront.

  4. The Grove at Copia (10 min) - Garden-to-table cuisine at The CIA at Copia, ideal for food lovers.

  5. Gott’s Roadside (Napa) (12 min) - Famous for gourmet burgers, tacos, and shakes in a relaxed outdoor setting.

  6. The French Laundry (14 min) - World-renowned, three-Michelin-star restaurant by Chef Thomas Keller, offering an elegant, multi-course tasting menu that showcases the finest seasonal ingredients.

3. Outdoor Adventures & Wellness

Outdoor ActivitiesNeed to recharge between lectures? Napa Valley offers a wealth of outdoor and wellness experiences that perfectly complement your conference stay. With its stunning landscapes and mild climate, the region invites visitors to step outside and reconnect with nature in meaningful ways. For those looking to stay active, there are scenic hiking trails that wind through oak-studded hills, picturesque cycling routes through vineyard lined roads, and world-class golf at Silverado Resort’s championship courses. Prefer something more restorative? Treat yourself to a luxurious spa experience with locally inspired treatments, soak in mineral-rich hot springs, or rise early for a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the valley at sunrise. Napa’s natural beauty is everywhere from golden fields and tree covered ridges to tranquil riverbanks and rolling vineyard vistas providing the perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking movement, mindfulness, or a moment of stillness between sessions, the region offers a harmonious blend of action and serenity to balance your academic retreat.

Top Picks Nearby The Silverado:

  1. Skyline Wilderness Park (10 min) - Hiking and biking trails with scenic views just minutes from downtown Napa.

  2. Silverado Resort Golf Course (on-site) - Championship course designed for serious and casual golfers alike.

  3. Spa Terra at The Meritage Resort (20 min) - Underground luxury spa experience in a wine cave setting.

  4. Napa Valley Bike Tours (10 min) - Rent bikes or join guided vineyard rides through scenic backroads.

  5. Hot Air Balloon Rides (Napa Valley Balloons) (20-25 min) - Breathtaking sunrise flights over the valley.

  6. Napa Valley Wine Train (12 min) - Vintage railcars offering gourmet dining, wine tastings, and scenic tours through Napa’s world-famous vineyards.

4. Arts, Culture & Local Attractions

Outdoor ActivitiesNapa Valley isn’t just about world-class wine, it’s also a vibrant hub for arts, music, and culture that adds depth and character to your visit. Between conference sessions, take time to explore the region’s creative heartbeat through an array of enriching experiences just minutes from the resort. Stroll through contemporary art galleries showcasing local and international talent, admire historic architecture that tells the story of Napa’s past, or attend a live performance at one of the area’s intimate theaters or outdoor venues. You’ll find public murals brightening city streets, artisan markets filled with handcrafted goods, and cultural centers that highlight the region’s diverse heritage. For something truly unique, visit a culinary or wine museum that blends Napa’s sensory traditions with visual storytelling. Whether you’re enjoying a jazz concert under the stars, joining an art walk, or simply taking in the beauty of Napa’s creative spaces, these cultural offerings provide a meaningful way to connect with the local community. It’s a refreshing and inspiring complement to the academic focus of the conference, a reminder that Napa’s richness extends far beyond the vineyard.

Top Picks Nearby The Silverado:

  1. di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art (15 min) - Indoor/outdoor exhibits with regional and contemporary works.

  2. Blue Note Napa (10 min) - Live jazz in an intimate venue at the historic Napa Valley Opera House.

  3. Rail Arts District (RAD Napa) (10 min) - Outdoor murals and installations along the Vine Trail.

  4. Napa Valley Opera House (10 min) - Historic performing arts venue with music, theater, and lectures.

  5. The CIA at Copia (10 min) - Culinary museum and interactive food and wine experiences.

5. Day Trips & Hidden Gems

Outdoor ActivitiesLooking to venture a little further during your stay? Within a short, scenic drive from the conference, you’ll discover a collection of charming towns, historic landmarks, and tranquil corners of wine country that offer a refreshing change of pace. These nearby destinations showcase a different side of Napa, slower, quieter, and steeped in local character. Spend an afternoon in Yountville, known for its Michelin-starred restaurants, upscale boutiques, and walkable streets lined with art installations and gardens. Meander through the Carneros region, where gently rolling hills and open skies create a serene setting for wine tasting and countryside exploration. History buffs will enjoy a stop at Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, where a fully restored 19th-century water-powered mill offers a glimpse into the valley’s agricultural roots. You might also visit St. Helena for its small-town elegance, or Calistoga for mineral springs and relaxed charm. Each of these destinations can be explored in just a few hours, making them ideal for a pre- or post-conference excursion that adds depth and discovery to your Napa Valley experience.

Top Picks Nearby The Silverado:

  1. Yountville (25 min) - Chic small town with luxury boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet dining.

  2. Carneros Region (20-25 min) - Peaceful countryside with rolling vineyards and scenic drives.

  3. Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park (30 min) - Working 1846 grist mill and scenic hiking area.

  4. Trefethen Family Vineyards (10 min) - Historic estate with garden tastings and elegant wines.

  5. Napa Valley Distillery (12 min) - Hidden gem offering craft spirits, tastings, and vintage barware.