• Calistoga is famous for its natural hot springs and healing mineral waters
• The town is home to Old Faithful Geyser and petrified forest
Have you ever dreamed of a place where you can soak in natural hot springs, taste world-famous wine, and see a real geyser all in one day? That’s exactly what you’ll find in Calistoga, California, a town at the top of Napa Valley.
It’s famous for its mineral pools, mud baths, boutique spas, and unique natural wonders. When I first rolled into town, I had no idea there was so much to do. Ready to dive in?
A Quick Calistoga History
Let me take you back for a second. Calistoga’s story starts with its geothermal hot springs. Long before hotels and spas, the Wappo tribe used these hot springs for healing.
In the 1860s, Samuel Brannan, a gold rush millionaire, saw the potential in these springs. He built California’s first luxury resort right here, naming the area Calistoga, mixing “California” and “Saratoga,” after the famous New York spa town. That was the beginning of the Calistoga we see nowadays - luxurious, comfy, and welcoming.
Here’s a fun fact: Calistoga is now a California Historical Landmark.
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Top Things to Do in Calistoga
The main attraction of Calistoga is a hot spring soaking. But there is more to the town than just that. Every time I visit, I find something new and exciting. Here’s my go-to list, filled with the best Calistoga attractions.
Relax at Calistoga’s Best Spas & Hot Springs
This is THE thing to do. Calistoga is packed with day spas, mineral pools, and mud baths. The water comes straight from the earth, heated by ancient volcanoes.
My top picks for spa lovers:
Calistoga Spa Hot Springs: Modern pools and classic mud baths
Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs: Retro vibes and a famous mud treatment
Indian Springs Resort & Spa: Huge mineral pool and peaceful gardens
Golden Haven Hot Springs: Cozy private tubs and relaxing couples’ mud baths
Roman Spa Hot Springs Resort: Mediterranean-style pools, soothing mineral water, and a super friendly staff
When you sit in a hot mineral pool, worries melt away. Have you ever tried a mud bath? I was skeptical at first, but now I’m a believer, and my skin never felt better!
Visit the Old Faithful Geyser of California
You don’t have to go to Yellowstone to see an impressive geyser. Calistoga’s Old Faithful Geyser erupts every 30-40 minutes, with hot water shooting up to 85 feet in the air! It’s always fun to watch, especially with kids. There’s also a little petting zoo with goats, llamas, and sheep.
Explore the Petrified Forest
Calistoga has one of the best petrified forests in the U.S. Ancient redwood trees turned to stone after a volcano erupted 3.4 million years ago. You can walk easy hiking trails and see giant fossilized logs.
Walking among these stone trees is like stepping into the past. Ever touched a tree that’s older than humankind?
Enjoy Wine Tasting at Napa Valley’s Top Wineries
Calistoga wineries are some of the best in California. Even if you’re not a wine expert, you’ll find something you like.
My favorite wineries:
- Castello di Amorosa: A real Italian-style castle with award-winning reds
- Chateau Montelena: Famous for winning the “Judgment of Paris” in 1976
- Sterling Vineyards: Ride a gondola up to the winery and get amazing views
Discover Downtown Calistoga
Don’t miss the downtown area. It’s packed with cute shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes and bakeries. I always grab a coffee and just wander.
Taste Local Food
No trip is complete without food! Calistoga has some great locally owned farm-to-table restaurants. I always grab a bite of something I never tried before after a long soak.
Hit the Trails: Biking & Hiking Near Calistoga
If you like the outdoors, you’ll love the trails around town. I’ve biked along the Napa Valley Vine Trail and hiked in Bale Grist Mill State Park. The views are amazing.
- Easy bike rentals available
- Hiking trails for all levels
- Stunning mountain and vineyard scenery
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