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Top 10Calistoga

Located at the northern end of Napa Valley, this resort town was laid out as a spa destination in the 1860s by millionaire businessman Sam Brannan as a West Coast equivalent to Saratoga Springs in New York. While drunk, Brannan proclaimed that it would be the “Calistoga of Sarafornia!” The slow-paced town sits atop thermal springs that supply its many spas. The main street and leafy backstreets are lined with historic stone, brick, and timber buildings housing eclectic stores, inns, and restaurants. Wineries and several natural attractions within walking distance add to Calistoga’s charm.



Top 10 Features



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1Lincoln Avenue

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Calistoga’s tree-lined main street invites leisurely exploration on foot to admire its vintage store-fronts, browse bookshops and art galleries, sample wines, and perhaps enjoy an impromptu spa treatment.

2Old Faithful Geyser of California

One of only three geysers in the world that erupt at regular intervals, Old Faithful shoots a jet of scalding water 100 ft (35 m) in the air every 30 minutes.

3Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort

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Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort

This heart-of-town spa, founded in 1952 by Dr. John Wilkinson, is famous for its signature therapeutic mud bath in which guests float in a mixture of volcanic ash, hot mineral water, and peat.

4Clos Pegase Winery

Named for the mythical horse, Pegasus, this winery has 20th-century works of art displayed in its sculpture garden. Its modern architecture by Michael Graves is also a highlight. Barrel-aging caves extend into a rocky knoll that rises from the vineyards.

5Calistoga Pioneer Cemetery

Remains of Napa Valley pioneers and Civil War veterans lie beneath tomb-stones shaded by oaks. Look for the grave of Bud Philpot, a stagecoach driver killed in a 1881 hold-up.

6Calistoga Depot

Listed as a National Historic Building, Calistoga Depot was built in 1888. The depot and six antique railroad carriages house a wine center, and railroad memorabilia.

7Calistoga Balloons

Float over wineries in a hot-air balloon, experiencing the valley from a new angle. Trips begin around dawn.

8Schramsberg Vineyards

An obligatory guided tour of this winery, founded in 1867, includes founder Jacob Schram’s Victorian mansion, plus barrel-aging caves. Visitors can learn how sparkling wines are made, and opt for a tasting experience.

9Sterling Vineyards

Perched atop a rocky knoll, Sterling Vineyards is reached by an aerial tram. The brilliant white architecture mimics that of the Greek island of Mýkonos. The self-guided winery tour is enhanced by motion-activated information screens.

10Castello di Amorosa

Replicating a medieval Italian castle, this winery offers horse-drawn carriage tours through the vineyards, past historic relics, such as Napa Valley’s first schoolhouse.


Tip: Start your day with granola with fruit and yogurt at the Calistoga Roastery, 1426 Lincoln Av., Calistoga, 94515.

Steep in Mud

Calistoga’s signature spa treatment is a hot mud bath. Participants float, as if weightless, while cocooned in a mixture of warm, soft volcanic ash from nearby Mount Konocti, peat, and mineral water scented with lavender. The treatment is said to improve skin complexion, remove toxins, and relieve joint and muscle pain.

Visitor Information

  • Calistoga Pioneer Cemetery
  • Foothill Blvd.