When you think of Napa Valley, California, it’s easy to picture wineries, Michelin-star menus, and endless vineyard views. But if you want to mix up your trip (or you’re traveling with kids, non-drinkers, or just want a “day off” from tasting rooms), Napa has plenty of memorable experiences that have nothing to do with swirling a glass.

Below are four classic non-wine adventures—updated with better details—plus a handful of “bonus” ideas that many visitors don’t realize are right here in Wine Country.

Quick list: best non-wine activities in Napa Valley

Go on safari at Safari West (an easy day trip from Napa) Sonoma County Tourism
Catch a game at Napa Valley College’s Storm Field
Take a hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley at sunrise BALLOONS ABOVE THE VALLEY
Browse boutiques and galleries at V Marketplace in Yountville The Estate Yountville Resort+1
Family day trip: Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo Six Flags
Try a guided fly-fishing trip on Putah Creek or nearby waters Napa Valley Fly Guides

1) Safari West Wildlife Preserve

If “watching giraffes and zebras roam” sounds like your kind of vacation day, Safari West delivers big-time—without boarding a plane to Africa. This wildlife preserve (just over the hill from Napa Valley in Santa Rosa) spans about 400 acres and is home to 900+ animals across 90+ species. Sonoma County Tourism

What to do there

Guided safari tour: Ride in an open-air safari vehicle with a guide who shares conservation stories and animal facts. Safari West
“Glamping” overnight: Safari West is famous for its luxury safari tents, which turn a day trip into a full-on mini-adventure.
On-site dining: A great option if you want the whole day handled in one place.

Warm tip: Book earlier time slots if you can—animals are often more active when it’s cooler.

2) Catch a ballgame in Napa

Your original post called out the “Napa Silverados,” and while the team did play independent pro baseball in Napa in past seasons, the easiest “right now” win for live baseball in town is:

Napa Valley College Storm Baseball (Storm Field)

Napa Valley College fields teams in multiple sports, and you can check out baseball games at Storm Field during the season. NVC Storm+1

It’s a fun, local atmosphere—more “community hang” than mega-stadium chaos—making it perfect for an easy afternoon or evening plan.

Want more baseball nearby?

If you’re up for a short drive, Northern California has a lively summer baseball scene, including the Sonoma Stompers (Sonoma) and teams in Vallejo. Sonoma Stompers Baseball

3) Hot air balloon rides in Napa Valley

A sunrise balloon ride is one of those “I can’t believe this is real” Napa moments—vineyards, rolling hills, and golden light everywhere you look.

Two well-known operators with Napa Valley flights include:

Balloons Above the Valley (one of Napa’s original balloon companies). BALLOONS ABOVE THE VALLEY
Napa Valley Aloft (popular for classic sunrise experiences). Napa Valley Aloft+1

What it typically costs

Prices change seasonally, but current starting rates are often around $280+ per person (and up), depending on the day and package. BALLOONS ABOVE THE VALLEY

Good-to-know: Ballooning is an early-morning sport—think “pre-coffee early.” Most companies offer light pre-flight refreshments, and flights usually last around 45–60 minutes. BALLOONS ABOVE THE VALLEY

4) Boutique shopping + art browsing at V Marketplace (Yountville)

If your perfect vacation includes strolling pretty paths, popping into shops, and leaving with something you actually love (not just a souvenir spoon), put V Marketplace on your list.

This charming Yountville shopping complex (also known historically as “Vintage 1870”) is known for a mix of upscale boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stops, all in a walkable setting. The Estate Yountville Resort

Shops that visitors often look for here

Tenant mix can change over time, but V Marketplace has been known for spots like:

Montecristi Panama Hats
Tay & Grace Tay and Grace
i•elle (women’s boutique)
A Little Romance (gifts/home finds)
North Bay Gallery (art + gifts)

Friendly heads-up: Your original post included long, quote-style shop descriptions. For an updated blog, it’s usually better (and more SEO-friendly) to describe the experience and encourage readers to check the current directory so your post doesn’t age overnight.

Bonus ideas: more fun things to do in Napa Valley (no wine required)

5) Six Flags Discovery Kingdom (easy family-friendly day trip)

Traveling with kids—or just craving roller coasters and animal encounters? Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo is a popular option within easy driving distance of Napa. Six Flags

6) Guided fly fishing (yes, really)

Napa isn’t just vines—it’s also water, creeks, and plenty of room to cast a line. Guided trips are available for places like Putah Creek (often touted for trout), plus other nearby fisheries depending on season. Napa Valley Fly Guides

7) Rent bikes and cruise the valley at your own pace

Even if you never step foot in a tasting room, Napa’s scenery is worth experiencing on two wheels. Plan a relaxed route, stop for coffee, browse a farm stand, and treat it like a choose-your-own-adventure day.

8) Get outside: easy hikes with big views

Napa has a surprising number of trails and parks, from mellow walks to heart-pumping climbs. If you’re building a “non-wine” day, a morning hike + lunch + shopping is a perfect combo.

9) Do a classic Calistoga-style “spa day”

If you want a “vacation reset,” Calistoga’s spa culture (hot springs and mud-bath vibes) is practically a Napa Valley tradition. It’s the kind of day that makes dinner taste even better.

10) Explore downtown Napa’s riverfront vibe

Downtown Napa is great for wandering—especially if you like public art, river views, and popping into shops for little finds.

Final thought

Napa Valley is absolutely famous for wine—but it’s also a place where you can wake up in the dark for a sunrise balloon ride, spend the afternoon browsing boutiques in Yountville, watch a local baseball game, or even go on safari—all in the same trip.

With years of experience and a deep understanding of Napa’s attractions, Vacation-Napa.com is your trusted source for expert recommendations and insider tips on the best activities in Napa, CA.

12 Fun Things to Do in Napa Valley Besides Wine Tasting (Updated Guide)