Napa Valley Wine Train with Gourmet Lunch
Active
3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step back in time aboard the Gourmet Express, where elegant details like gleaming silverware, crystal-clear glassware, etched glass partitions, rich mahogany paneling, and warm natural wood tones set the stage for a classic rail dining experience. This beautifully restored train reflects the timeless Napa Valley Wine Train tradition that began with its first voyages in 1989.
Enjoy a leisurely three-hour daytime journey traveling roundtrip from Downtown Napa to St. Helena. Along the way, savor a relaxed lunch featuring three sumptuous courses, thoughtfully served aboard an antique 1915 Pullman dining car.
This experience is perfect for guests seeking a slower pace, historic charm, and a memorable Napa Valley dining journey.
Available options
Napa Valley Wine Train with Gourmet Lunch
What's included
3-course meal, train fare, sales tax, event fee, welcome taste of sparkling wine, coffee & tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Travel through the lush Napa Valley countryside and be transported back in time. Back to the romance and luxury of the golden age of train travel of the early 1900s, when guests explored the trains beyond their private quarters. Back to a time when a journey was meant to be savored from start to finish. Guests aboard the Gourmet Express experience both dining and lounge service, with some courses of your gourmet meal served in each car.
Heading North, first seating guests begin their journey in the dining car, enjoying their fresh Sonoma greens or soup du jour and choice of entrée—roasted tenderloin of beef, lemon thyme roasted chicken, or gemelli pasta among them—followed by dessert with complimentary coffee or tea in one of the lounge cars on the return trip.
Second seating guests sample appetizers and beverages in one of our lounge cars en route to St. Helena, and choice of soup or salad, entrée, and dessert on the way back to the station. Fresh California gourmet meals are crafted by Executive Chef Donald Young and his passionate culinary team in one of three onboard kitchens. Located immediately next to each dining area, guests are encouraged to explore the Train and visit the kitchen cars and see our chefs in action.
Choose the Gourmet Express for lunch, when the sun is bright and high in the sky. Or for something even more romantic, join us onboard for evening dinner. In the spring and summer, the long, warm California twilight means that when you take your Wine Train journey, Napa Valley’s vineyards are bathed in beautiful, golden hour sunlight for most of the way, with the opportunity to see some spectacular Napa sunsets. In the Fall and the Winter, when the train departs after sunset, you will experience the romance and adventure of an antique train traveling through the dark, starlit Napa Valley night.
In the spirit of traditional rail seating, you may share the experience—and a table—with another party. Need a bit of privacy? Private seating is available in the Champagne Vista Dome on dinner trains and some private tables (for two) are available on lunch trains.
What's not included
Additional beverages such as wine, beer, cocktails & other non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
207 reviews
5★
143
4★
43
3★
13
2★
5
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.3
196 reviews
5★
126
4★
32
3★
18
2★
12
1★
8
Important information
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Any reserved seats not claimed within 10 minutes prior to departure may be released for resale
Meeting point
Take advantage of our Station Cafe and Gift Shop and introductory video. Arrive at 10:30am
About Napa & Sonoma
Napa and Sonoma are renowned for their world-class vineyards, scenic landscapes, and exceptional wine-tasting experiences. These neighboring counties offer a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration, making them a top destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Top Attractions
Castello di Amorosa
A stunning 13th-century-style Tuscan castle and winery offering tours, tastings, and special events.
Historical/Entertainment
2-3 hours
Moderate
Sonoma Plaza
A charming town square surrounded by historic buildings, boutique shops, and restaurants.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore
Bodega Bay
A scenic coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
Nature/Beach
Half day to full day
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Artisan Cheese
Sonoma and Napa are known for their artisanal cheeses, made from local milk and featuring unique flavors.
Snack/Dessert
Vegetarian, some vegan options available
Wine Pairing Dinners
Many restaurants offer wine pairing dinners, featuring local wines and gourmet dishes.
Dinner
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available
Farm-to-Table Cuisine
Restaurants in the region focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, often from nearby farms and vineyards.
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available
Popular Activities
Hiking
Biking
Wine tasting tours
Hot air ballooning
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Picnicking in vineyards
Beachcombing
Best Time to Visit
September to October
This is the harvest season, offering the best wine-tasting experiences and beautiful fall foliage. The weather is pleasant, and the vineyards are bustling with activity.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Napa and Sonoma are generally safe destinations, with low crime rates and a focus on tourism. However, it's always important to take basic safety precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid leaving valuables unattended
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Sonoma County Airport • 20 miles from Sonoma
- Oakland International Airport • 50 miles from Napa
By train
Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART)
By bus
Sonoma County Transit, Golden Gate Transit
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and convenient for getting around, but schedules may be limited.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Napa Valley
Sonoma Plaza
Healdsburg
Day trips
San Francisco
50-70 miles • Full day
A vibrant city known for its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and cultural attractions.
Point Reyes National Seashore
40 miles • Full day
A scenic national seashore known for its rugged coastline, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
Mendocino Coast
80 miles • Full day
A scenic coastal region known for its beautiful beaches, redwood forests, and charming towns.
Festivals
Sonoma County Wine Country Weekend • September
Sonoma Valley Harvest Festival • October
Sonoma County Harvest Fair • October
Pro tips
- Visit wineries during the week to avoid weekend crowds
- Book wine tastings and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Try local wines and cuisine to get a true taste of the region
- Consider staying in a vineyard or boutique hotel for a unique experience
- Plan your itinerary in advance, as there is much to see and do in the region
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
