Downtown Napa hotels: 8 great places to stay

Published Date: May 22, 2023

City of Napa view across the Napa River
Downtown Napa is an ideal jumping-off point for exploring California Wine Country. Not only does it serve as the southern gateway to the eponymous Napa Valley, but it’s a charming small city in its own right, with a vibrant arts scene, a beautiful riverfront, ample outdoor activities and more than 40 tasting rooms. While the town of Napa spans only 18 square miles, it offers a range of lodgings, from small B&Bs to upscale hotels and everything in between. Many are within walking distance to everything Napa has to offer, and all of them put you within driving distance of the most important wine tasting areas in Northern California. Here are eight favorites. 

Archer Hotel

Chic, modern Archer Hotel is located in Napa’s super-walkable downtown core. This five-story hotel has 200-plus rooms and suites, many with private balconies offering downtown views. The best vistas are undoubtedly from the rooftop bar, which offers appetizers, cocktails and (of course) wine. There’s also a reservation-only whiskey bar, a spa and Archer’s Water Deck, a guest-only shallow water deck with lounge chairs and cabanas. 

Blackbird Inn

Lovers of architecture will want to book a stay at the Blackbird Inn. A wonderful California Craftsman built in the Arts & Crafts style, Blackbird Inn welcomes guests with a river rock and brick porch. Inside, there’s a cozy stone fireplace, period lighting and beautiful stained glass. Breakfast is included each day, as are afternoon wine, tea and hors d’oeuvres. You can even end your day with freshly baked cookies. 

Milliken Creek Inn 

This romantic hotel gives visitors the best of both worlds: You’re just a short walk or bike ride to downtown restaurants and shops, yet you’re surrounded by nature. Milliken Creek Inn is located on three acres alongside the Napa River. A boutique property with just 11 rooms, Milliken offers top-notch service and pampering amenities like daily breakfast delivered to your room and an afternoon wine and cheese hour. 

Hennessey House

For those looking for unique accommodations, check out Hennessey House. You can’t miss it when walking through downtown Napa: a monochromatic purple Victorian home that’s been converted into a charming 10-room bed and breakfast.  Best of all, it is within walking distance from the Napa Wine Train Depot and less than a mile from the Oxbow Public Market. 

Andaz Napa

With more traditional hotel accommodations, Andaz Napa offers rooms wow with hardwood floors, marble bathrooms, rainfall showers, glass fireplaces and soaking tubs. There are dog-friendly rooms stocked with doggy beds, bowls and cookies for those traveling with their pup. The al fresco Mercantile Terrace is a great place to end your day. Sample items from the farm-to-table menu while cozying up around a fire pit. 

Napa River Inn

The Napa River Inn has an enviable location in the heart of downtown. Guests enjoy a waterfront location within the historic Napa Mill and a wide range of amenities. River-view rooms are available and the on-site spa offers massages and facials, making the Napa River Inn a wonderful place to relax. Did we mention free pastries are delivered daily?

The George Inn

Commissioned in 1891 as a private residence, the George Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places in recognition of its late 19th century architecture. With just nine rooms, the George is an intimate luxury accommodation that combines historic charm with all the best of today’s amenities — think heated bathroom floors, Matouk luxury linens and Molton Brown bath amenities. Common areas include a grand living and dining room and a beautiful garden. 

Westin Verasa Napa 

The Westin Verasa Napa is a great pick for travelers who want a resort feel without sacrificing location: across the street from the Napa Wine Train and down the road from Oxbow Public Market. Be sure to book a table at the Westin’s La Toque Restaurant, the French-California fusion restaurant from Michelin Star-awarded chef Ken Frank. The restaurant also boasts Wine Spectator’s Grand Award for wine pairings. 

Set down roots in Napa 

Can’t resist the call of California Wine Country? Instead of booking a hotel, find your own home away from home with Pacaso. Thanks to our hassle-free co-ownership model, you’ll have time to sip and savor the bounty of the region year-round. Every Pacaso is professionally decorated and managed, so you can just unwind surrounded by effortless luxury. Check out our current listings and find your Wine Country retreat.

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Jen Lyons


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