United States, North America
Napa Valley in November
Fall color lingers early in the month and crowds thin. A strong value pick.
The straight answer
November is a good month to visit Napa Valley. Fall color lingers early in the month and crowds thin. A strong value pick.
- Weather
- Cool, highs near 67F (19C), rain returning
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What November is like in Napa Valley
November is cool and calm, with highs near 67F (19C) and rain starting to return later in the month. Early on, the vineyards still glow with fall color. Harvest crowds are gone, prices drop and winery appointments get much easier. Some wineries close on Thanksgiving, so check before planning that day.
November is one of the best-value months in Napa, great for couples, friend groups and anyone who missed October. Come in the first half for color and drier weather. Families can pair it with Thanksgiving break, keeping in mind that Napa is adult-focused. For spring green, plan April instead.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Napa Valley this month.
Lingering fall color
In early November, the vine leaves are often still gold and red, with far fewer people than in October.
Easy reservations
Popular wineries that were booked solid during harvest often have openings now.
Cozy tasting rooms
Cool days make fireside tastings and long dinners feel just right.
What to pack for November
- A warm sweater and a light rain jacket
- Comfortable shoes for damp vineyard paths
- An umbrella for late-month showers
- A cooler bag for holiday wine shopping
Our timing tip
Visit in the first two weeks of November for the last fall color, and confirm holiday hours if you plan to taste over Thanksgiving.
Book Napa Valley for November.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Napa ValleyOpens a hotel search for Napa Valley in November, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Napa ValleyWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Napa ValleyTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Napa Valley for November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Napa Valley
Winery tastings
Most wineries now require reservations. Plan two or three per day, not five, and book popular estates weeks ahead in harvest season.
Napa Valley Wine Train
Vintage rail cars with lunch or dinner service through the valley, with some packages that include winery stops.
Robert Mondavi Winery
The Oakville estate that helped launch Napa's modern era, a good classic first stop.
Castello di Amorosa
A medieval-style castle winery near Calistoga, fun for groups and families.
Oxbow Public Market
A food hall in downtown Napa with local producers and good casual eating.
Calistoga mud baths and hot springs
A classic Napa afternoon, best after a morning of tastings.
Beat the crowds
- Visit midweek. Weekend traffic on Highway 29 and weekend tasting room crowds are far heavier, and rates drop Sunday through Thursday.
- Use the Silverado Trail instead of Highway 29 to move up and down the valley with less traffic.
- Choose spring or November over peak harvest for easier reservations and lower rates.
- Book your most-wanted winery first, then build the day around it; morning slots are calmer and your palate is fresher.
Know before you go
- Most Napa wineries now operate by appointment only. Walk-ins are limited, especially on weekends and during harvest.
- Wildfire season, typically late summer into fall, has disrupted the valley in several recent years with smoke, road closures, and power shutoffs. Check conditions before you go.
- The valley is open year-round. Winter brings quieter tasting rooms, and a few smaller wineries reduce hours.
- Some wineries close on major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Napa Valley in November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Napa Valley?
November is a good month to visit Napa Valley. Fall color lingers early in the month and crowds thin. A strong value pick.
What is the weather like in Napa Valley in November?
Cool, highs near 67F (19C), rain returning.
Is Napa Valley crowded in November?
Crowds in Napa Valley are moderate in November; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
Keep planning Napa Valley.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
Before you book.
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