Welcome to Browns Valley
This endearing Napa neighborhood offers charm and serenity
Named in 1840 for a Napa Valley surveyor, John E. Brown, the town has a lively and colorful history. Rumour has it that Browns Valley began when Brown played a game of cards with landowner Salvador Vallejo. Down to his last dollar, John bet his horse and buggy, something Vallejo coveted. It inspired the landowner to bet the entire valley and, in a stroke of luck, or perhaps destiny, John Brown won the game, collected the land, and renamed the area.
What to Love
- Peaceful living
- Tight-knit community
- Sweeping views of Napa Valley
People & Lifestyle
Family life thrives in this quiet neighborhood, and the many parks and playgrounds are often bustling with youngsters. Residents love to walk the nearby trails or lounge in the park with a picnic. Schools here are excellent, making this a top choice for young families.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The small-town vibes of Browns Valley extend to its businesses and make for easy living and friendly interactions, no matter what your outing entails. Browns Valley Market, a small specialty shop with cheeses, deli meats, and prepared food, is a fun stop for picnic fare. With a wide variety of gourmet cheeses and unique menu items, like Whiskey Ham on Sweet Bread, this quaint market is a local favorite.
For a warm welcome and friendly atmosphere, Hop Creek is a must. This gastropub and nanobrewery is a favorite for families and even offers pet-friendly dining. The casual eatery specializes in locally sourced cuisine, craft beer, and classic pub food. Being a Napa restaurant, they also offer an extensive selection of wine. With an ever-evolving selection of Cabernet Sauvignons & Pinot Noirs, Aiken Wine Consulting provides a small batch of site-specific bottles.
Household pets rank as full-fledged members of the family in Browns Valley, and the town offers plenty of animal-related care and amenities, including The Cat’s Meow, a professional pet sitting and pet photography studio.
Things to Do
Part of what makes Browns Valley a coveted family destination is the bounty of green space and parks. Take your pick of parks and outdoor recreation, and enjoy Napa’s gorgeous weather and fresh air.
Westwood Hills Park provides wooded trails and grassy meadows, as well as expansive views of the surrounding valley. Kids will love the children’s corner, which offers nature education and hands-on play. Kensington Park is a perfect spot for family parties and weekend playtime full of grassy play areas, barbeque facilities, and picnic tables.
Schools
Browns Valley is home to Napa Valley Unified School District. Top educational choices include:
- Justin-Siena, 9-12, Catholic day and boarding school
- Redwood Middle School, 6-8, top middle school
- Browns Valley Elementary School, K-5, Common Core elementary school
- Willow Elementary School, K-5, a magnet school