St. Helena welcomes you and your pup to experience all things wine country! Whether it’s a stroll to the dog park or enjoying a glass of wine in the vineyards there’s plenty of open space to enjoy. Believe it or not, wine country is very pet-friendly!
First up… Shopping Main Street with your pup. St. Helena’s downtown is very pet-friendly. Many of the stores on Main Street have dog bowls with water and will hand out dog treats if you visit and shop. Stop into Fideaux and explore this pet store full of unique gifts for that special furry friend. This is a great way to kick off your three-day weekend, by getting some fresh air and giving Fido his daily exercise routine, while exploring the heart of downtown.
Next stop, check into one of the many pet-friendly hotels St. Helena has to offer. Harvest Inn has plenty of space for you and man’s best friend. Located on an eight-acre resort, The Harvest Inn is a dog-friendly hotel offering many amenities. Upon arrival to your room, receive dog toys and treats from the local boutique Fideaux. There is also a comfy pet bed as a nice hospitable addition. Enjoy a glass of wine out on your private patio overlooking the plush vineyards as you watch the sunset.
As the sun rises and you begin your second day in wine country, spend the early morning strolling Wappo Dog Park. This park features multi-use trails that loop around the park and also offer a large off-leash gated dog park.
After your dog park excursion, finish out the morning by enjoying breakfast out on your patio amongst the vineyard vines, back at the hotel.
Ready to enjoy the wonders of wine country? Miner Family Wines is a family-owned pet-friendly winery tucked away just south of St. Helena in the eastern hills of the Oakville appellation. Out on the terrace enjoy a seated tasting of current release wines while overlooking the valley floor. Most pet-friendly wineries will put out a dog bowl and water for your pet.
Want a true wine country pet experience? Located at Raymond Vineyards, this winery’s décor is inspired by the owner’s Frenchie. The Frenchie Winery, named for and inspired by the beloved French Bulldog of Raymond Vineyards Proprietor Jean-Charles Boisset, is the only tasting room designed exclusively for dogs. Also, the first two wines in a series of wines bearing the Frenchie label are available for purchase at the winery.
There is an outdoor dog suite that features plentiful space for your pup to soak up the sun or relax in a wine barrel bed in their private air-conditioned suite. While you’re enjoying a tasting, you can watch your pup from the suite on the Frenchie cam! Above the beds, in the “Gallery of Frenchie”, hang canvas portraits depicting Frenchie as historical icons such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Julius Caesar, and Marie Antoinette. Truly a unique pet-friendly experience.
Next head north to Charles Krug Winery. This is the official oldest winery in Napa Valley. You will learn the rich history by exploring the grounds, all while enjoying delicious wines. On property friendly chickens roam and you might even see the owner’s dog frolicking through the vineyards. Enjoy wine, pizza, and other culinary offerings out on the great lawn that is spacious for dogs of any size!
How about a winery that has a pet mascot? Crocker and Starr Winery is known for delicious wines and their furry friend Griffon who greets visitors every time! The wineries owner Pam Starr’s vineyard dog Griffon is a wirehaired pointing dog that won’t disappoint with his friendly demeanor. The dog usually greets visitors with his sister Whatwhat the Nubian goat. Immerse yourself in the wineries organically grown vines where your pup will feel like a true wine dog. Enjoy the afternoon tasting small production estate wines while your pup relaxes beside you.
Head back to your hotel and soak up the California sun poolside! No, your pet can’t go into the pool… but he can join you outside!
For dinner enjoy American Farmhouse cuisine at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch. This restaurant offers expansive outdoor dining so both you and your pup can enjoy an evening out. Fridays you can expect live music played by local artists on the front patio.
The next day, start your morning with coffee and pastries at The Station. Located in a historic gas station in downtown St. Helena, this eatery serves up local coffee, organic pastries, and sandwiches. Water bowls are posted in the front for your pup to stay hydrated.
Clif Family tasting room is just a short walk south of downtown. Clif Family makes small production Napa Valley wines and handcrafted foods in a low-key setting. With an ample amount of outdoor space, the patio is a perfect setting for relaxation and very dog-friendly. Your pup will be treated to a complimentary dog bowl to stay hydrated while you enjoy the vino! Don’t miss out on ordering lunch from their Bruschetteria Food Truck! Afterward, head back to the hotel and enjoy an afternoon stroll with your pup throwing the tennis ball through the eight-acre property.
For dinner, indulge in American eats at Gott’s Roadside! Serving juicy burgers, classic sides, salads, hand-spun milkshakes, and seasonal offerings. The back patio is lit up with lights and offers plenty of picnic tables that make for the perfect pet-friendly backyard feel to enjoy your classic roadside meal.
Explore one last stop. Titus Vineyards loves welcoming dogs to the winery. The wineries owner, Eric Titus’s dog Tin is always at the winery and welcomes guests who give him a treat! Enjoy a seated tasting on the shaded patio while overlooking the vineyard vines. Your pup may even be featured on their Instagram page when visiting, so don’t forget to say cheese!
As you head back home, explore the countryside and drive to Lake Berryessa. Explore the many hiking trails available along the hillsides of the Lake. Expansive views of the lake create a beautiful and serene setting. You won’t want to miss out on this outdoorsy adventure!
Cheers to an unforgettable wine country escape, that will leave you and your pet wanting more.