Neighborhood Spotlight: Napa, California

Though known in modern times as the county seat of one of the most important wine-producing regions in the world, Napa is so much more than just a popular tourist destination. The city builds on a rich history and offers residents a wonderful array of amenities that truly make this a special place to live.

Napa at a glance

The City of Napa is the county seat of Napa County in California. It’s the largest city in the county and has a current population of approximately 78,130. It’s also one of the older cities in California, dating back to 1847. Once known for its leather tanneries, it is now famous as the hub of one of the world’s greatest wine-producing regions. While it has a strong respect for its past, the city is vibrant and modern and offers a host of amenities for both residents and visitors alike.

Napa real estate and neighborhoods

Napa’s homes are as beautiful and eclectic as those who live here. Not only will you find gorgeous Victorian-era homes that date back to the town’s founding, but you’ll also see visually-stunning contemporary architecture. The median home price in Napa is approximately $270,750, which is affordable compared to many other prominent cities in California. The city is comprised of several unique and charming neighborhoods. Some of the most popular include:

• Alta Heights – Here you’ll find homes with sweeping views of the city and the surrounding area.
• Beard – This neighborhood offers a nice balance of both residential and commercial areas.
• Central Napa – Located in the northwest area of the city, this neighborhood is known for the Alphabet Streets.

Napa history

The original townsite of Napa was laid out by Nathan Coombs in 1847. It was centered around the Napa River in a location that necessitated a change in mode of transportation. This allowed it to become a natural center of trade in agricultural, industrial, and commercial goods. It also hosted a number of travelers, including gold miners who overwintered in Napa. Napa became connected to San Francisco in 1850 with the introduction of steamboat ferries. The railroad followed in 1868, which brought more travelers and attention to the area. By the early 20th century, Napa was the center of business and economy in the Napa Valley. In the early 2000s, downtown Napa saw significant growth in its hotels and restaurants. Today, Napa is one of the premier tourist destinations for those touring Napa Valley’s abundant wineries and vineyards.

Napa amenities

History buffs will enjoy the many historical sites located in Napa. The city is home to a bounty of homes and commercial buildings from the Victorian era, lending the city great charm. Some of the historical places you can visit include the Holden Mansion, the Sawyer Tannery, the Napa Valley Opera House, and the Historic Napa Mill, among many others.

Napa is the perfect jumping-off point for a tour of Napa Valley’s famous wineries. Although most wineries are located outside of the city limits, there are many places in town where you can taste samples from local vineyards. More than 20 tasting rooms and wine bars are located in Napa, with more planned in the future.

Downtown Napa is an excellent destination for food, wine, shopping, and local culture. Here you’ll find eclectic boutiques selling everything from fashion and home decor to antiques and cigars. There are many excellent restaurants to choose from featuring foods from a variety of cuisines. It’s also a place to explore the local culture, including art galleries, theatres, and historical sites.

Of course, with Napa’s enviable Mediterranean climate, there are also many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Hike or bike the numerous trails in the city’s 55 parks, enjoy a round of golf at Napa Golf Course or spend an afternoon in a kayak or canoe on the Napa River.

Napa schools

Students in Napa are served by the Napa Valley Unified School District. Many of the schools in Napa have received excellent ratings on Niche, including Justin-Siena High School, Vichy Elementary School, Northwood Elementary School, and Stone Bridge.

Explore Napa today!

Are you ready to discover why there’s much more to Napa than its nearby wineries? Then view available properties in Napa and schedule your private showing today!