Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa

Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa, a Michelin Key Selected property nestled in the Napa/Sonoma Valleys, offers a distinctive and enjoyable stay that reinterprets the classic American roadside motel experience with a retro-modern twist.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa is highly positive, with ratings frequently in the "Very Good" to "Excellent" range, including an 8.0 rating based on 340 reviews and a 94% approval based on over 1,600 ratings on other platforms. Guests appreciate its unique, quirky charm and relaxing atmosphere. The property is a "JdV by Hyatt Hotel" and has been noted for its "down-to-earth culture that leaves the old Napa in the dust."

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of the Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa:

• Design & Vibe: The lodge's "retro-modern" and "mid-century modern" design, featuring bright colors, vintage-inspired fabrics, and cheeky art, creates a whimsical and inviting atmosphere. The decor includes unique touches like armadillo knit heads and needlepoint signs.
• Mineral Pools & Spa: A major draw are the three geothermal mineral pools, including two outdoor pools and a hot tub, all fed by natural hot springs. The on-site MoonAcre Spa, described as playful and chilled out, offers a range of treatments from massages to mud baths and salt soaks.
• Thoughtful Amenities: The hotel provides a variety of engaging amenities such as complimentary cruiser bikes, lawn games like bocce ball and cornhole, fire pits, and even nostalgic items like Polaroid cameras, hula hoops, Mad Libs, and Etch A Sketches. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the property.
• Service & Staff: The staff is frequently praised for being accommodating, friendly, and providing outstanding hospitality.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa are described as "retro-modern" and generally clean. Each room typically includes a flat-screen TV, complimentary WiFi, an iHome alarm clock, a refrigerator, a mini-bar, and a single-serve gourmet coffee machine with pour-over coffee. Bathrooms are tiled and feature rainfall showers and signature bath products from the MoonAcre Spa. Guests also enjoy custom-designed hoodie bathrobes.

While some "Camper Rooms" may appear small online, guests have found them to be roomy in person, featuring a king bed, sitting chair, closet, and patio chairs outside the door. The "new deluxe rooms" are noted for being spacious with custom furnishings and private patios. Hypo-allergenic bedding can be requested. It's important to note that "Camper Rooms" are pet-friendly, but "Deluxe Rooms" are not.

4. Dining Experience

The on-site restaurant, Fleetwood Restaurant, serves Italian and Mediterranean wood-fired inspired cuisine in a casual setting. The menu emphasizes fresh, local produce from nearby farms and offers a selection of small-batch wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails. Fleetwood serves breakfast daily from 7 AM to 11 AM, lunch from Sunday to Thursday (11 AM to 3 PM), and dinner nightly (5 PM to 9 PM, extending to 9:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays). A happy hour is available Sunday through Thursday from 3-6 PM. There is also a snack bar/deli on-site.

Some guest experiences regarding breakfast have been inconsistent; a recent review indicated that breakfast was not offered on the weekend, with 500 loyalty points provided as compensation.

5. Service & Staff

The staff at Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa consistently receives positive feedback for their accommodating and friendly nature. Guests have highlighted their helpfulness in providing recommendations for local activities and overall outstanding service.

6. Location & Accessibility

The lodge boasts a convenient location at the beginning of the Silverado Trail, placing guests within easy reach of Calistoga's attractions. It's an 8-minute walk to downtown Calistoga, offering access to restaurants, shopping, and local museums and art galleries. The property is also next to the Oat Hill Mine Trail, ideal for hiking or biking. For further exploration, the hotel provides complimentary bicycles and a free area shuttle. Napa is a 40-minute drive north, and San Francisco is approximately 75 miles away.

7. Value & Pricing

While exact pricing varies, a 1-night stay for two adults can start from around $249 (as of January 28, 2026), with some rates seen as low as $174 for standard rooms. Some guests have noted that as a Category 6 Hyatt property, the pricing can feel "rich," especially if not receiving an upgrade from a basic room. However, many consider it a "hip & affordable" option in Napa Valley, particularly given its unique offerings and amenities.

8. Common Complaints

While generally well-regarded, some recurring criticisms or issues include:

• Room Size: Basic "Camper Rooms" can sometimes feel cramped, leading some guests to recommend securing a larger "balcony room" or "deluxe room" if space is a priority.
• Breakfast Inconsistencies: There have been conflicting reports on breakfast availability, with some guests stating it's not consistently offered on weekends, leading to compensation with loyalty points.
• Facility Cleanliness/Maintenance (Older Reviews): Some older reviews highlighted issues with cleanliness and outdated facilities, though recent renovations likely address some of these.
• Minor Amenities: A specific complaint mentioned rough 2-ply toilet paper. There is also only one ice machine, located near the office.
• Chlorine Smell in Pools: Despite being mineral springs, some guests have noted a chlorine smell in the pools.
• Staffing Issues: One guest reported a wait at the front desk and had to find staff in the restaurant for check-in.

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