With gas prices easing and summer in full swing, road trip season has officially arrived. Families are planning vacations, weekend getaways, and staycations to make the most of the warmer months.
Many of you are already taking part in our Summer Library Adventure, where every minute spent reading earns you a chance to win prizes under this year’s Plant a Seed, Read theme. But whether you’re gearing up for a road trip or relaxing at home, the library has a variety of free resources to make your summer more enjoyable—and help you save time and money. Here are just a few ways we can enhance your plans.
Hit the Road
Explore California’s State Parks—for Free
One of our most popular offerings is the California State Library Parks Pass. Available for checkout, the pass provides free vehicle day‑use entry to more than 200 participating state parks. From local favorites like Bothe‑Napa Valley and Sugarloaf Ridge to iconic parks across California, this pass makes it easy to explore the state’s natural beauty without paying admission. Some parks do reach capacity, so planning ahead is always helpful.
All library locations carry Parks Passes. You can place one on hold for easy pickup or simply drop in—we typically have plenty available. Calling ahead or placing a hold through our website ensures you’re ready to hit the road with savings in your pocket.
Discover Museums and Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for destinations beyond hiking trails, our Discover & Go program offers free or discounted admission to dozens of museums, cultural sites, and family attractions across Northern California. You’ll find well‑known spots like the Exploratorium and the Legion of Honor, along with delightful surprises such as the Cartoon Art Museum or the San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles. It’s an affordable way to try something new while supporting regional cultural institutions.
In the Car
Once you’re on your way, the library can help make travel time more enjoyable. Audiobooks and music on Hoopla, Libby, or CD are always great choices—but we have a few other options, too.
For families hoping to avoid endless scrolling, library Launchpads offer educational, self‑contained tablets organized by theme, including titles like Lots and Lots of Playful Penguins and A World Full of Letters. Prefer non‑screen activities? Borrow a few card games to keep passengers entertained. The driver may need to stay focused on the road, but everyone else can enjoy the ride.
Stay Close to Home
If your summer plans keep you local, the library can still help make your downtime memorable.
Beyond books, movies, and magazines, Napa County Library’s Library of Things features hundreds of unique items you can borrow with your library card. For a relaxing afternoon, check out an adult coloring book and a set of pencils or markers. When temperatures rise and you’re staying indoors, try one of our jigsaw puzzles, including the popular Napa Valley Puzzle in 500‑piece and 70‑piece versions.
Want a little outdoor fun without traveling far? Borrow a metal detector, binoculars, or astronomy kit. And when game night rolls around, skip the store—check out classics like Clue and Backgammon, enjoy them for the weekend, then return them for others to discover. You can even host a poker night with a full set of clay chips and return the case once the winnings are counted.
Whether your summer includes exploring California state parks, visiting a museum for the first time, or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home with a puzzle or coloring book, your Napa County Library card gives you access to resources that can make your summer memorable. Explore resources right here on our website or stop by our library locations in American Canyon, Calistoga, Napa, or Yountville.
Anthony Halstead
Director of Library Services
A version of this blog was originally published online in the Napa Valley Register on July 7, 2026.
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