Napa, California – home to wineries, restaurants, beautiful sights, and plenty of EV charging stations. If you want to plan an electric car trip through the valley, look no further; we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of things to do in Napa. Of course, we’ve included lots of wine selections, but if you’re not into the winery scene, stick around. We’ve also got a selection of things to do in Napa besides wine. Let us be your electric vehicle road trip planner.
Tourists travel into Napa regularly throughout the year, so be sure to choose your dates carefully. Notably, “crush” (harvest season) runs from August until October. While this can be an exciting time to visit if you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ll be faced with lots of people and higher prices for just about everything.
Now you can confidently explore Napa in an electric vehicle. See our guide below!
Explore St. Helena Highway
With 150 wineries in the St. Helena region alone, it’s difficult to choose which wineries to visit when touring the Napa region. To help, we’ve curated a selection of five wineries along St. Helena Highway. Plenty of wineries allow walk-in tastings, but if there are any you know you want to visit, it’s smart to make a reservation. They promise great wine, beautiful scenery, and sustainable practices – and we’ve noted where to find EV charging in Napa along the way. This itinerary spans just over six miles of wineries, and you could drive from the first to the last in under half an hour; so, you won’t need all of these charging stations.
Of course, even if the point is to plan an electric car trip, we want you to drink responsibly! So, choose a designated driver. Or, charge at one of the Napa wineries with EV charging, relocate to another parking spot (to be courteous to other EV drivers), and then take a Lyft or Uber to your next destination.
Raymond Vineyards
This vineyard, founded in 1974, is one of the valley’s pioneers. In addition to finding a wide range of wines in their catalog, you also have a series of experiences to choose from. Sip decadent wine in their tasting room, the grove, their private cabanas, or the library (each of these require a reservation, so plan ahead!).
What’s most notable about Raymond Vineyards? Their commitment to sustainability. In 2013, they became the largest, 100-percent solar powered winery in Napa, and their dedication has only continued. Their 90-acre estate is certified organic and Biodynamic. They go one step further by eliminating the use of synthetic pesticides/fertilizer and recycling all of their water into irrigation for their vineyards. It’s a must-stop location for those interested in wine and sustainability.
EV charging available. You’ll find one level-two station (J-1772 plug) next to the entrance. Bonus? The station is powered by renewable energy.
Del Dotto Estate Winery & Caves
Next, stop at Del Dotto, right across the street from Raymond Vineyards. If you’re searching for beauty alongside your wine tasting, add this to your itinerary. The white stone building sits in a garden of green hedges against a mountain backdrop. The splendor continues inside, where vaulted ceilings, marble columns, and frescoed ceilings await.
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to taste cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, sangiovese, sauvignon blanc, pinot noir, and chardonnay, as well as limited amounts of syrah, sauvignon blanc, sparkling grenache, and mourvedre. If you really want an experience, opt in for one of their signature cave tours, where you will taste their premium wine in the historic caves they use to age the wine.
Note that Del Dotto has several locations, including Historic Del Dotto and Piazza Del Dotto. The location along this route is Del Dotto Estate, though the others are worth a trip if you’re in that part of Napa.
As of publication, Del Dotto does not offer EV charging. We know – that seems silly for an electric vehicle road trip planner. But it makes this list because of the quality of the wine and its proximity to other EV chargers. You’re just 1.2 miles from your next stop.
HALL Wines
We move from the Italian elegance of Del Dotto Estate to the modern chic of HALL. Select the tasting package that’s right for your palette, choose a table alongside their floor-to-ceiling windows, and enjoy the views of the vineyard. Tired of sitting inside? There is plenty of modern art to admire around the building as well as a selection of seating options and sculptures outside.
HALL was awarded LEED Gold Certification for its tasting room and production facility. To reduce water usage, they use recycled water to irrigate their vineyards and landscaping. Nearly one mile of solar panels powers their facility. For that reason alone, it deserves a place on your plan for an electric car trip.
Getting hungry? You have two great options after leaving HALL. Either stop across the street at V. Sattui Winery, which features an extensive deli and plenty of picnic tables, or continue on to Long Meadow Ranch, where you can reserve a table at their on-property restaurant.
EV charging available. You’ll find two Tesla wall chargers and one J-1772 at HALL Wines.
Long Meadow Ranch
Just up the road from HALL, you’ll stop at our final cluster of wineries, starting with Long Meadow Ranch. No EV charging at Long Meadow, but it makes the list because you need to fuel yourself, too, and they feature a celebrated farmhouse restaurant. The menu changes frequently because they source their ingredients from their farm and ranch.
Either enjoy a wine pairing with your lunch or head into their tasting room, located in the middle of their general store. Friendly, knowledgeable staff will walk you through your tasting, with a particular focus on pinot gris, chardonnay, and pinot noir. These wines thrive in the soil of Long Meadow’s vineyards, which is blanketed by a natural marine layer.
Long Meadow prioritizes sustainability at every level. They employ a “full circle farming” approach, focused on organic, sustainable, and integrated farming practices.This includes composted fertilizer and solar power that saves nearly 70 tons of carbon monoxide annually.
Merryvale Vineyards
Merryvale flies under the radar for many, but it earns its place on this list because it offers EV charging and a fun selection of tasting options. In November and December, indulge in coziness with their Winter Wine Pairing, which brings wines and mini quiches together for the first time. Get specific with a cabernet tasting that places five cabs side by side, go for an elevated experience with their Profile Library tasting, or opt for a classic artisanal wine and cheese pairing.
Like many of the others on this list, Merryvale boasts their environmental responsibility. In addition to a host of certifications (Napa Green Farm, Napa Green Winery, Bay Area Green Business, and Napa Sustainable Winegrowing Group), they also recycle 100% of their winery process water and fertilize with compost.
EV charging available. You’ll find one Tesla charger at Merryvale Vineyards.
Stay at Wine Country Inn & Cottages Napa Valley
After a day at the wineries, you’ll need to rest and recharge. Why not do both at an inn nestled in acres of lush green trees and vineyards? Wine Country Inn & Cottages offers quaint comfort, EV charging, and plenty of amenities. Choose a cottage, suite, or guest room with a vineyard or garden view. Most accommodations include either a private patio or a deck. Need a little more relaxation? Take a dip in the heated swimming pool or the hot tub.
EV charging available. You’ll find one J-1772 plug. If the charging station is taken, you can find J-1772 plugs less than a mile away at William Cole Vineyards and Freemark Abbey Winery or Tesla chargers at Melka Estate Winery or Trinchero Napa Valley Winery.
Things to Do in Napa Besides Wine
There are plenty of things to do in Napa besides wine tours. Whether wine isn’t your thing or you just want to explore more of the valley, give a few of these local attractions a try on your visit.
Looking for more? See if any EV clubs are holding meetings in the Napa area while you’re in town. It’s a great way to stay connected to EV owners in your area.
The Rail Arts District
This two mile stretch of art runs through downtown Napa. The city showcases murals from selected global artists, bringing a vibrant energy to the downtown district. Think of it like a free, outdoor contemporary art museum. Visitors can walk or bike the trail, or check out the art via the Napa Valley Wine Train.
EV charging available. You’ll see your first public art pieces where Trancas St and California Blvd intersect. Park at the Target across the street, where you’ll find four J-1772 plugs and 12 caveSuperchargers.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
Hot air balloons are central to Napa Valley’s vibe. You’ll see them floating over the valley on fairweather days, and you can find magnets, artwork, and other souvenirs celebrating them in every gift shop. To see the valley from a whole new vantage point, choose a reputable company and fly high! You’ll need to channel your inner “morning person” to take advantage of this unique adventure, though; most companies launch just after dawn (when winds and temperatures are low). Expect about three to four hours of fun and baskets holding between eight and 20 passengers.
Rock Out at a Music Festival
Did you know that Napa Valley is home to many annual music festivals? Actually, tons of festivals take over the valley each year, but if music is your thing, we recommend a few specific ones:
- BottleRock in May - This three-day festival centers around music, wine, food, and beer. The experience has something for everyone: multiple stages for musical performances, a culinary stage hosted by Williams Sonoma, a silent disco, and a “spa” building for henna tattoos, crystal shopping, and even haircuts. The artists are names you’ll recognize, too. Prior lineups have included Metallica, P!nk, Stevie Nicks, Foo Fighters, Lil Nas X, Mumford & Sons, Stevie Wonder… It's always a serious lineup! They also strive to be a sustainable festival.
- Blue Note Jazz Festival in July - This festival juxtaposes the small-town feel of Napa with big names. The 3-day event showcases tons of talent and features an artist in residence. Outside of the music, they keep things simple with great food and wine. Previous musical acts have included Mary J. Blige, Nas, Corinne Bailey Rae, Maxwell, and Chaka Khan, among others. Robert Glasper has been the artist in residence for the last two years.
- Music in the Vineyards in August - Compared to the others, this festival is very lowkey. The summer festival spans three or four weekends each year and highlights string quartets. You have the opportunity to hear both distinguished musicians and emerging talent in a truly unique setting. In addition to the summer festival, Music in the Vineyards hosts occasional performances throughout the year.
Parking at any festival is tough, so it’s probably best to choose a hotel with EV charging for this trip.
Visit Connolly Ranch
Connolly Ranch strives to connect children and adults to nature. They celebrate farm life and encourage their community to learn about the agricultural practices around them. There are a few ways to enjoy the ranch:
- Self-Guided Tours - On Saturdays, they welcome visitors from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for self-guided tours. During this time, you can meet barnyard animals, learn about the edible garden, and enjoy a picnic breakfast.
- Kids’ Day Camp - With a little pre-planning, adults can drop the kids off for day camp before heading out to enjoy other Napa attractions! Registration is available until 10 a.m. the day before. Kids will explore the “outdoor classroom,” spend time with the animals, hike, and get creative with nature-based crafts.
- Unique Annual Events - Check Connolly Ranch’s calendar regularly to see what events are happening when you’ll be in Napa. Previous events include harvest festivals, Earth Night, Dinner at the Ranch, and Green Friday.
Connolly Ranch doesn’t offer EV charging yet, but it’s not far from downtown Napa, where you’ll find several parking lots, parking garages, and hotels with EV charging available. Download You.Car’s app to find the EV charging station that meets your needs in the moment.
Napa is jam-packed with EV-friendly destinations. Choose which of these experiences sound best to you, download You.Car’s app so you always know where to find EV charging in Napa, and then settle in for a good time.
Looking for other electric vehicle road trip planner articles? How about a Texas BBQ tour, a drive through the pacific northwest, or an eco-conscious New England weekend?
