NAPA VALLEY HOTEL & SUITES

The unofficial end of summer and the last big holiday before a new school year begins. Labor Day weekend either spells chaotic, last-minute preparations for families with young kids, or complete relaxation for others. If you are looking to escape the hectic, pre-school frenzy and packed malls and restaurants at your hometown, why not head to the rolling green hills of Napa Valley? Make the most of the mild temperatures, sample a range of culinary delights and soak in the early harvest season’s bounty.

This year, September 2-4 is Labor Day weekend. Here are some options for you to consider if you want to spend this time in Napa Valley.

• Grape Stomping: Grgich Hills Estate in St. Helena is among the handful of Napa wineries that feature grape stomping experiences. Every year, they throw their doors open for this unique offering from the beginning of September. Kick off your shoes, roll up your sleeves, stomp on the grapes and then etch your stained feet on souvenir t-shirts. The

Once you have set your sights on wine country’s beautiful countryside, the valley’s gorgeous towns with miles of rolling hills, rows of breathtaking vineyards and excellent coastal locations, are all within easy reach. The towns in this region boast a quaint, old-worldly charm, multicultural cuisine and unending farmlands. Most of the major locations that you are likely to explore during your Napa trip lie along Highway 29.

Here are the top not-to-be-missed places during your visit to Napa Valley:

• Downtown Napa: At the edge of the scenic Napa River, downtown Napa is one of the trendiest spots in the Valley. Most of the tourist attractions begin here and this is an ideal, central location for your wine country stay. With plenty of buzzing bars, attractive tasting rooms and restaurants starring award-winning chefs, you can enjoy a unique dining and entertainment experience.
• Yountville: Known as Napa’s culinary capital, Yountville is home to the renowned, Culinary Institu