Let's face it. You're drinking wine all day like you just fell off the wagon, the last thing you want when you get back to your hotel is to have to get back in the car and drive to the action. That's why I like Downtown Napa. Over the years downtown has evolved from a vacation afterthought to a true destination. The small town architecture feels a bit like Mayberry... but with wine bars, restaurants, and nightlife. And right in the heart of it is The River Terrace Inn.
1600 Soscal Ave / Downtown Napa / 707 320-9000
What's cool about downtown is that everything doesn't close up at night. A late night dinner, some live jazz afterwards, then a short drive and you're back at the hotel. And if downtown doesn't have vineyard views, the wineries on are just minutes away.
And while downtown has plenty of terrific dining options, right across the parking lot at The River Terrace Inn is Cuvee restaurant, a nice local hangout with one of the better happy hours. $6 specialty drinks, $6 appetizers, it's a great place to kick back and relax. It's so good you might be tempted to just sit there all night!
If the Wine Train is on your agenda, the train station is right down the street. Better yet, the Oxbow Market with small boutique vendors and lots of food options is close as well. Look, can I make it any more clear? This is a great location!
I used to only stay in 4 or 5 star hotels. Maybe it's the recession, but lately I look for a hotel that provides the best value. I still want the full hot (and free) breakfast, the cool lobby, the trendy room decor. And I still insist on spa-like baths, whirlpool tubs and flat screen TV's. The only thing I don't want is the giant sucker bill slid under my door at the end.
And that's why I like The River Terrace Inn. It comes darn close to delivering what the big Yountville resorts do, at a fraction of the price. And the good news is that you might not even notice the difference. Here's an idea - take the money you saved and go splurge on a fancy dinner at one of the big restaurants. You can call it rationalization, I call it being responsible!
Let's see how it compares to the big buck hotels.
BIG ROOMS: Yes, big enough for a separate sofa sitting area and balconies off the back. Get a room facing the river for the best view.
POOL: Yes, and a nice setting, too.
BREAKFAST: Yes, with eggs, potatoes and sausage, fresh fruit and cereals, coffee and juices, pastries and breads, right on site for a reasonable price.
FULL LOBBY BAR: Yes, and big comfy sofas next to the fireplace for a romantic nightcap.
FOOD SERVICE: Right at the bar, or walk across the parking lot to Cuvee, or take a 2 minute drive to the many downtown options.
If by now you're getting the idea that I like this place, it's because I do. And if you're thinking they paid me to write this, well, they didn't!
So when it's time to book a hotel for your Napa Valley getaway, do what I do and just book The River Terrace Inn. And please, if you can, book through my site where I offer the Best Rate Guarantee and safe BBB approved booking. Booking with me is what keeps my local site running so thanks in advance!
Cheers,
Local Wally, 2012
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SPRING 2012: The bright yellow mustard plants, the vines starting to bud, and best yet, fewer crowds make this one of the best times to visit Napa. It certainly is my favorite time to go.
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Cheers!!
Local Wally