Napa Valley’s artistic spirit has grown hand in hand with its world-famous vineyards. This itinerary offers a chance to discover a vibrant legacy of contemporary art, from cosy galleries to sweeping sculpture gardens, all complemented by the region’s celebrated wine and cuisine. Renting a car or arranging a private shuttle is recommended for comfortable travel throughout the valley.

Morning: start your day at the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art. This remarkable cultural campus houses one of the largest and most significant collections of Northern California contemporary art. Explore the indoor galleries showcasing works by artists such as Bruce Nauman and Imogen Cunningham. Then step outside to the Sculpture Meadow, a tranquil outdoor gallery where monumental sculptures sit harmoniously within the natural landscape. Guided tours are recommended to gain deeper insight into the collection. If you would like to book one, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your member liaison!

Mark di Suvero, For Veronica, 1987. Courtesy Di Rosa Collection.

Midday: from di Rosa, drive approximately 15 minutes to downtown Napa and visit the Art Gallery Napa Valley. This vibrant gallery represents around 50 local artists working in a variety of media including ceramics, jewellery, oil paintings and sculpture. It offers a rich perspective on the region’s creative scene. Afterwards, take a short walk to Oxbow Public Market for lunch. This bustling market features local food vendors, artisanal products and occasional art installations. It is the perfect spot to enjoy fresh Californian cuisine while soaking in Napa’s artistic energy.

Browsing At The Oxbow Public Market. Photo: Prayitno/Flickr/Cc By 2.0

Afternoon: next, head about 20 minutes north to the Donum Estate in Sonoma County. This estate is a must-see destination for art lovers. The sculpture park, set among vineyards and olive groves, features large-scale outdoor works by acclaimed artists including Ai Weiwei, Tony Cragg and Beverly Pepper. Donum offers a curated wine-tasting experience paired with a seasonal lunch made from estate-grown ingredients. This multi-sensory experience combines art, nature and cuisine unforgettably.

Donum Estate in Sonoma County. Courtesy Donum Estate.

Evening: finish your day with a 15-minute drive to Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford. The resort’s sculpture garden spans 33 acres and includes more than 100 works by over 60 artists including Matt Gil and Giuseppe Palumbo. Set among olive trees and vineyards, it is a contemplative space to enjoy art as the sun sets over the valley.

L’Esprit du Soleil, Auberge du Soleil, Auberge Resorts Collection.

For dinner, enjoy a short drive to The Charter Oak in nearby St. Helena. Led by Michelin-starred Chef Christopher Kostow, the restaurant offers a relaxed, family-style dining experience with seasonal dishes that highlight locally sourced ingredients. Share grilled meats, fresh vegetables and excellent local wines in a warm and inviting atmosphere. It is the perfect way to end a day dedicated to the best of Napa Valley’s art and culture.