Napa Valley holds a brilliant range of small towns and hidden gems, but St. Helena may be one of the most scenic. Located about 65 miles north of San Francisco, this quaint Bay Area hamlet serves as a gateway to 80 wineries in the St. Helena American Viticultural Area. From the downtown National Historic District to the rolling hills spanning out in all directions, St. Helena offers a range of activities for every type of traveler.
In fact, World Atlas named St. Helena among the 13 prettiest towns in Northern California, alongside popular spots like Carmel, Nevada City, Healdsburg, Pacific Grove, and Ferndale. Keep reading to find out more about why it made the list.
You can make the drive from San Francisco to St. Helena in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
History of St. Helena
The Indigenous Wappo people originally inhabited today’s St. Helena as early as 2000 B.C., but the land became part of a Mexican land grant in 1841 before being sold to early settlers. The city was founded and expanded in the 1850s, with Charles Krug producing the first wine in Napa Valley in 1858.
After warm mineral springs were discovered in the town in 1848, St. Helena developed California’s first resort facility called White Sulphur Springs. Most of the historic resort structures were tragically destroyed in the 2020 Glass Fire.
With the arrival of the railroad in 1868, thanks to the work of Chinese laborers, St. Helena became a shipping and commercial hub for local agriculture. The town’s wine industry flourished, welcoming celebrated wineries that endure today.
Things to do in St. Helena
Wine tasting
Wine tasting is a quintessential experience to seek out in St. Helena, offering visitors a blend of historic estates and cutting-edge tasting rooms. Here are a few that stand out, but keep in mind that the St. Helena American Viticultural Area has over 400 vineyards and 80 wineries to explore.
- Charles Krug Winery – This historic estate is home to California’s first tasting room. The winery dates back to 1861 and is considered a pioneer of California viticulture.
- Beringer Vineyards – As Napa’s oldest continually operating winery, dating back to 1876, Beringer Vineyards offers elegant tastings and tours in its historic Rhine House.
- V. Sattui Winery – This lively winery hosts a vibrant social atmosphere and is perfect for groups.
- Clif Family Winery – Savor these small-production wines in their tasting room on St. Helena’s Main Street.
- Hall Wines – Come for the bold wine tastings, stay for the dramatic modern art installations.
Farm-to-table dining
As is often the case in these small Northern California towns, farm-to-table dining is king in St. Helena. From acclaimed restaurants like Goose & Gander and Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch, to family-style California cuisine at The Charter Oak, you’ll enjoy the bounty of fresh California produce throughout St. Helena. Stick around for the St. Helena Farmers’ Market from 7:30 am – 12 pm on Fridays.
Historic downtown
St. Helena’s downtown includes a National Historic District, and you’ll find that the town has worked to preserve its historic architecture and rural charm throughout Main Street. Browse dozens of boutique shops, art galleries, spas, and gourmet food destinations.
Outdoor recreation
Thanks to its location in the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena offers a convenient access point for hiking, camping, and picnicking in local redwood forests and oak woodlands. Look into Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, and Moore Creek Park.