calpine geothermal visitor center

This was an alternative to (or diversion from) the wineries, and part of an enjoyable day trip from Calistoga. There is gr8 information on the deveolpement, but not a lot of bling.I had no idea of the huge amount of alternative energy that is being produced in the area at the largest geothermal complex in the world. The history and exhibits were informative and the recent graduate who answered our questions was very helpful. It would have been ideal to take a guided tour, but they only run once or twice a month. I may plan a visit in the future by checking ahead online for the dates. We also planned to visit the Solar Living Institute in Hopland on our return, but the curves along the mountain road slowed us down and it was late in the day, so that will be another trip. This was part of a loop from Cloverdale to Calistoga and back to our RV. We did it in a tow car and I'm not sure that I'd want to drive a big rig along the hairpin turns with steep drop-offs on Hwy 175 back to Hwy 101, but it was very scenic. If you get car-sick, take meds or skip it.

We heard about the underground steam in the area that is used to make electricity and thought this visitor center would be interesting. NOT! There were a few exhibits and the building was new.The woman in the office never acknowledged us or asked us if we needed help. No one else was there. It looks more like a place for experts in the field to visit. There were conference rooms.I would recommend it as an excellent bathroom stop with nice restrooms.