Pet Friendly Napa Valley

Need to get away, but don’t want to leave your four-legged friend out of the fun? No problem; there are plenty of things for you and Fido to do together. Here are some of the must visit places while you’re here:

-Where to stay-

Napa River Inn

Of course, I’m a little biased (can you blame me?), but the Napa River Inn is the best place to stay with your furry friend. Accepting dogs up to 75 pounds, you and your pet can roam around the Mill, take the Historic Walking Tour, walk along the river-walk, dine at the Napa General Store, or just sit on your balcony while the ducks float by. Included in your $25 pet fee is a VIP (Very Important Pet) package that includes a pet mat, food and water dishes, doggie bags, dog treats and Fido’s very own blanket.

However, let’s just assume we’re sold out… Then I’d go to:

Beazley House

If you’d like something a little more intimate, the Beazley House might be your style. Also located in Downtown Napa, and in a Victorian neighborhood. The historic inn has pet friendly rooms in the Carriage House and in the Mansion. The cost is $30 for up to 2 pets and they even have a couple of golden retrievers that look forward to playing with all the new friends that come in the door.

-Where to Eat-

Rutherford Grill

Oh Rutherford Grill, how do I love thee? Let me count thy ways… Everything on this menu is delicious and the restaurant is always packed. Since they don’t take reservations, try dining during the off hours or having an early dinner. If you don’t mind waiting, there are bars both inside and outside to enjoy a tasty beverage while you wait for your table. They only allow dogs on their patio, but it’s usually open year round except when it’s raining. The ribs are a popular dish, but the bones are too splintery for dogs. Ask your server to grab you a nice juicy rib-eye cast-away from the kitchen. They usually hang onto them just for this occasion….

Angele Restaurant

Friendly dogs are welcome on the patio where seating is available most of the year. Located in the Historic Napa Mill, Angele is located along the river-walk in downtown Napa. This sheik bistro has something for everyone; great ambiance, fantastic food and a very lively bar scene.

Bistro Don Giovanni

If your dog is skittish around the kitties, it might not be a good idea to hit Don G’s. It’s not uncommon for their resident feline to come up for a pet at some point during your meal. But if you’re confident you can keep the barking to a minimum, there is a lot of open space to sit in their garden near a lovely oversized fountain.

Hurley’s

Serving fresh seasonal wine country cuisine with a Mediterranean flair, this eatery is also popular for their “wild game” dishes and wonderful wine and food pairings. They feature a full bar with a large open patio for outside dining, weather permitting. Pet’s are welcome to join you at the outdoor tables.

-Pet-Friendly Wineries-

Dogs must be leashed at all times and most wineries will not let the dogs inside the tasting rooms. However, there are plenty of places where you can still enjoy the outdoor areas of the winery and enjoy a taste (or a glass…or a bottle…) of wine.

Dutch Henry Winery

Dutch Henry considers themselves the best kept secret in the Napa Valley. Don’t tell Scott – the secret is out. Don’t miss the Syrah and the Pinot Noir, two personal favorites. Your canine is welcome on the grounds and will most likely be greeted by the winery’s four-legged companions. There are picnic areas and places for dogs to play.

Cuvaison Winery

An intimate tasting room up in Calistoga in a Historic setting. Don’t miss their Block F5 Pinot Noir. Cuvaison has embraced sustainability as part of themselves and have pioneered many green initiatives. One of the few tasting rooms that allows dogs, Cuvaison Winery allows tasting both inside and out at their picnic tables.

Domaine Chandon

This secluded winery offers several sparkling and varietal wines, regular events, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Dogs are allowed on the grounds and on the terrace – both fantastic areas to sit and enjoy the stunning views of the Napa Valley.

Clos du Val Winery

Another of the few that allows dogs in the tasting room; Clos du Val seems to have pet loving people working at all times. I think sometimes it’s more fun to play with the doggies than to pour another taste of wine but they seem to be able to do both with ample style. Don’t miss the Cab here. Any year makes me happy…