day trips near sacramento ca

Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 15 Best Day Trips from Sacramento

15 Best Day Trips from Sacramento

Contrary to popular belief the city of Sacramento is in fact the capital of California. Home to half a million people Sacramento lies at the confluence of the American River and the Sacramento River.

Having played a pivotal role in the Gold Rush Sacramento is now somewhat overshadowed by Los Angeles and San Francisco. Nevertheless there is plenty to see and do in the California state capitol. The Railroad Museum, Sutter’s Fort and the Crocker Art Museum are all waiting to be explored. Don’t miss the opportunity to get up close with the giraffes at Sacramento Zoo.

Once you’ve ticked off all the must-do activities you can venture outside the city limits and get to experience more of what California has to offer.

Let’s explore the best day trips from Sacramento :

You could spend a whole vacation in Napa and only just scratch the surface.

Best known for its incredible vineyards and wineries there is so much to explore and discover in Napa Valley.

For the budding sommelier no visit to Napa would be complete without a jaunt on the Napa Valley Wine Train, it’s just the best.

This vintage locomotive doubles as a traveling restaurant and makes for a wonderful, fulfilling and high class day out.

For those unfused by wine, perhaps the Sharpsteen Museum or the Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park would be of more interest during a day trip to Napa.

2. San Francisco

There is a wealth of history and culture to discover in San Francisco.

Another of California’s cities where a day is not enough, you’ll have to stick to your timings to tick everything off.

Naturally, the first port of call would be the Golden Gate Bridge.

This iconic art deco bridge was first opened in 1937 and has been the symbol of the city ever since.

Alcatraz Island is of great interest to many who visit San Francisco for it was once the world’s most notorious prison.

It is possible to take guided tours around the island complex and learn about the lives of those who resided there.

Pier 39 is perhaps a more family friendly way to spend a day in San Francisco.

3. San Jose

San Jose is the gateway to the Silicon Valley.

The highlight of any visit to the city of San Jose is surely a visit to the Tech Museum of Innovation.

This hands on, interactive museum features its own IMAX theatre and exhibits on innovation of all kinds across the eras.

In the afternoon a visit to the Winchester Mystery House makes for a great addition to a day trip to San Jose.

The Winchester Mystery House is a quirky, old mansion with a series of rather odd design features that is said to be designed specifically to confuse ghost.

Make sure to look out for the staircase that leads to nowhere.

4. El Dorado National Forest

The El Dorado National Forest is a truly wonderful landscape to explore.

Featuring pine forests, tranquil lakes and easily accessible hiking trails if you want to reconnect with nature this is the place.

Sacramento is a hustling, bustling city and as such El Dorado National Forest provides a welcome contrast.

It is possible to camp overnight at this national forest should you arrive and not want to leave.

The El Dorado National Forest is a quiet park that is never overcrowded or particularly busy meaning that all too often day trippers have the hiking trails to themselves.

Pretty perfect indeed.

5. Tahoe National Forest

When it comes to national forests in California you are totally spoiled, especially when it comes to Tahoe National Forest.

With simple, easily accessible routes, Tahoe National Forest is perfect for novice hikers or those who are working on improving their fitness levels.

At the visitors centre you can pick up a map of the routes and set out on your day’s explorations.

Tahoe National Forest is the perfect place for a picnic and there are countless shady spots in which to open up the blanket and bust open the sandwich tin.

The Grouse Ridge Trail and Blue Lake Trail are particularly popular hiking routes.

Truckee is a small, sleepy Californian town with a heap of hidden gems to explore.

The Emigrant Trail Museum shares fascinating insights into the history of the region and has some really interesting artefacts on display too.

The Donner Memorial State Park makes for a relaxed afternoon stroll.

Perhaps if you’re feeling a little more energised you can take a walk around Donner Lake itself.

Truckee is best known as a ski town as there are a great selection of ski fields that tower over the town.

Northstar California is the most popular resort, closely followed by the Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area.

7. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular natural wonders in all of the United States of America.

You could spend a week or more hiking through this incredible landscape but it is more than possible to tick off the highlights of Yosemite on a day trip from Sacramento.

Walk through the forest hugging one ancient sequoia tree after another.

Be sure to make time to visit Bridal Veil Falls, as well as the jagged cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome.

Budding photographers will feel in their element at Yosemite National Park, as will any nature lover.

The village of Yosemite is home to dozens of souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants to explore away from the hiking trails.

8. Tahoe City

If you are keen on skiing then a visit to the tiny Tahoe City is in order.

The Squaw Valley Ski Resort and the Homewood Mountain Resort both offer day passes and are open the year-round.

If you’re not a fan of the snow and ice then a visit to the Gatekeeper’s Museum and Watson Log Cabin would be an enriching way to spend a day.

The Gatekeeper’s Museum features exhibits on local history and is set inside a traditional, historical log cabin.

The city itself has all the usual souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.

Charming and relaxed Tahoe City is something of a hidden gem.

9. Calistoga

Tucked away in Napa Valley is the quaint city of Calistoga.

Best known for its hot springs and amazing wineries Calistoga makes for a classy and relaxed day out.

The Castello di Amorosa falls high on the bucket list of many who travel in California for it is an Italian, Tuscan, inspired castle that has its own mud baths and winery.

What more could you ask for? While visiting Calistoga is is also possible to visit the Old Faithful Geyser that regularly erupts and makes for quite the show.

You can incorporate a visit to Calistoga with a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train should you so desire.

If you are seeking an easy and accessible day trip from Sacramento then a visit to Folsom would tick all the boxes.

Lying just a 30-minute drive from Sacramento city centre Folsom has a wealth of history to explore.

For those who enjoy being in the great outdoors then Folsom Lake is calling you.

There are a number of easy hiking trails and it is possible to rent paddle boats and get out on the water too.

For those interested in local history there are two little gems to explore.

The Folsom History Museum and the Folsom History Society both offer an in-depth insight as to the history and social development of this small, but significant, city.

11. Nevada City

Confusingly Nevada City is a small city in California, not in Nevada state.

Confusions aside Nevada City is a great place to spend a day.

If you’re interested in locomotives and transportation history then a day trip to Nevada City is a must for it is home to the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad and Transportation Museum.

Featuring not only the locomotives themselves the museum also features countless artefacts and photographs that each have an impressive story to tell.

Alternatively, you can get outdoors and explore the Scotts Flat Reservoir which is truly picturesque or perhaps Purdon Crossing if you fancy the challenge of jumping from boulder to boulder to take in the amazing river view.

12. Carmel By Sea

Escaping the city smoke and heading to the seaside is always a good idea and thankfully Carmel By Sea is just a couple of hours drive away.

This popular seaside city has everything the family could ask for; soft sand, lazy waves and even it’s own aquarium.

If you fancy taking in the rugged, rustic Pacific Coastline of California then take time out of your day to wind through 17-Mile Drive.

Point Lobos is something of a hidden gem and if you time your visit right you could even be in with the chance of spotting whales out in the distance.

Bird lovers could easily spend the whole day looking through their binoculars for the Camel Beach is home to a diverse range of bird species.

13. Mendocino National Forest

With Yosemite National Park just around the corner Mendocino National Forest all too often gets overlooked.

If you are looking for an off the beaten track nature experience then Mendocino National Forest is the perfect place to head.

It is the only national forest in California not to be transected by a major road, which makes Mendocino truly enchanting.

Lake Pillsbury is the first port of call for many visitors who travel to Mendocino National Forest and it is simply stunning.

Perfect for canoeing and swimming it wouldn’t be a shame if you spend the whole day relaxing by the lakeside and taking in the forest and mountain views.

Amador is a sleepy county that falls on the border of Stanislaus National Forest.

This is a quintessentially Californian town that seems to be trapped in time.

For those looking for a relaxing and authentic day trip from Sacramento Amador County may just be the perfect place.

The Knight Foundry is a popular spot for visitors as is a cast iron foundry that opened in 1873. Other little gems to explore are the Amador Country Museum, the Monteverde General Store and the Amador Whitney Museum.

You can drop by Amador on your way to El Dorado State Forest if you want to add an extra element to your day.

Affectionately named ‘The Biggest Little City in the World’ Reno could be also called the mini Las Vegas.

Home to dozens of casinos, most famously the Silver Legacy and Circus Circus, Reno has a whole host of entertainment to explore.

The National Automobile Museum is home to over 200 beautiful vintage cars and can be found in the buzzing downtown district.

If you want to get shopping then head to Reno MidTown and if you want a moment’s peace and quiet get yourself to the Idlewild Park.

Reno makes for a fun and frenetic day trip from Sacramento that will not be forgotten in a hurry.

15 Best Day Trips from Sacramento:

• San Francisco
• El Dorado National Forest
• Tahoe National Forest
• Yosemite National Park
• Nevada City
• Carmel By Sea
• Mendocino National Forest

The 10 best day trips from Sacramento

Jun 2, 2021 • 9 min read

Charming towns and jaw-dropping landscapes, including at Yosemite National Park, are within day-tripping distance of Sacramento © haveseen / Shutterstock

Located roughly halfway between San Francisco and Lake Tahoe, Sacramento is the ideal launchpad for reaching some of California's most popular destinations on easily accessible on day trips.

When you're ready to head out of California's capital city, you can point your GPS in any direction to find gorgeous national parks, old-timey gold mining towns and lush valleys full of world-renowned vineyards. These are the best day trips to take from Sacramento .

1. San Francisco

Get to know the capital of weird from the inside out, from mural-lined alleyways named after poets to clothing-optional beaches on a former military base. But don't be too quick to dismiss San Francisco 's wild ideas – biotech, gay rights, the internet, cable cars and organic fine dining were once considered outlandish, before San Francisco introduced these underground ideas into the mainstream decades ago.

San Francisco's morning fog erases the boundaries between land and ocean, reality and possibility. Rules are never strictly followed here. The  Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz are entirely optional – San Franciscans mostly admire them from afar. Instead of sightseeing, just follow your bliss through Golden Gate Park , past flamboyantly painted Victorian homes, and through art-filled Mission streets. Just don't be late for your sensational, sustainable dinner : in San Francisco, you can find happiness and eat it too.

How to get to San Francisco from Sacramento:  Traffic and parking can be tough in San Francisco, so hop on the Capitol Corridor train instead. This route links Sacramento to Oakland, which has frequent public transport connections to San Francisco. The journey takes about two hours.

The 16 best California road trips

2. Lake Tahoe

Shimmering in myriad shades of blue and green, Lake Tahoe is the USA’s second-deepest lake. Sitting at 6245ft, it is also one of the highest-elevation lakes in the country. Driving around the 72-mile shoreline is a spellbinding adventure, with curves, viewpoints and beckoning trails. Generally, the north shore is quiet and upscale; the west shore, rugged and old-timey; the east shore, undeveloped; the south shore, bustling with motels and casinos. The horned peaks surrounding the lake are year-round destinations. The sun shines on Tahoe three out of every four days. Swimming, boating, kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) and boat cruises prevail in summer, as do hiking, camping and wilderness backpacking. Winter brings bundles of snow, perfect for hitting Tahoe’s top-tier ski and snowboard resorts.

How to get to Lake Tahoe:  Lake Tahoe straddles the California–Nevada state line. It takes about two hours to drive the 115 miles to Tahoe City, the western shore's commercial hub.

The best time to visit California

3. Yosemite National Park

The jaw-dropping head-turner of the USA's national parks, and a Unesco World Heritage site, Yosemite National Park garners the devotion of all who enter. From the waterfall-striped granite walls buttressing emerald-green Yosemite Valley to the skyscraping giant sequoias catapulting into the air at Mariposa Grove the place inspires a sense of awe and reverence – four million visitors wend their way to the country’s third-oldest national park annually. But lift your eyes above the crowds and you’ll feel your heart instantly moved by unrivaled splendors: the haughty profile of Half Dome , the hulking presence of El Capitan  (known to the Indigenous Ahwahneechee as  To-tock-ah-noo-lah) , the drenching mists of Yosemite Falls , the gemstone lakes of the high country’s subalpine wilderness and Hetch Hetchy 's pristine pathways.

How to get to Yosemite National Park: Yosemite National Park makes for a long day trip from Sacramento, but it's doable and worth your time if you can only spare a day. The Yosemite Valley Visitor Center is 165 miles from Sacramento, and the drive takes three and a half hours.

How to spend your first visit to Yosemite National Park

4. Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay is the first pearl in a string of sleepy fishing towns that line the North Coast and was the setting of Hitchcock’s terrifying 1963 avian psycho-horror flick The Birds . The skies are free from bloodthirsty gulls today (though you'd best keep an eye on your picnic); it’s Bay Area weekenders who descend en masse for extraordinary beaches, tide pools, whale-watching, fishing, surfing and seafood. Mostly made up of a few restaurants, hotels and shops on both sides of Hwy 1, Bodega Bay's downtown is not made for strolling, but it is a great base for exploring the endless nearby coves of the Sonoma Coast State Beach. Hwy 1 runs through town and along the east side of Bodega Bay. On the west side, a peninsula resembling a crooked finger juts out to sea, forming the entrance to Bodega Harbor.

How to get to Bodega Bay: Bodega Bay is on the Pacific coast west of Sacramento. The drive is about 110 miles, and the journey time is a little over two hours. 

Although Lodi was once the watermelon capital of the world, today, full-bodied wine rules this patch of the valley. Breezes from the Sacramento River Delta soothe the area’s hot vineyards, where some of the world's oldest zinfandel vines grow. Lodi’s diverse soil is sometimes rocky, sometimes fine sandy loam, giving its grapes a range of distinctive characteristics that allow for experimentation with some less common varietals. Lodi is an ideal destination for those looking for a low-key, budget-friendly wine trip . The town also hosts a slew of festivals dedicated to their famous export, including the Wine and Chocolate Weekend in February and ZinFest in May.

How to get to Lodi: Lodi lies approximately 35 miles southeast of Sacramento. The drive takes about 40 minutes.

6. Sausalito

Perfectly arranged on a secure little harbor on the bay, Sausalito is undeniably lovely. Named for the tiny willows that once populated the banks of its creeks, it’s famous for its colorful houseboats bobbing in the bay. The town sits on Richardson Bay, a smaller bay within San Francisco Bay. Much of the well-heeled downtown has uninterrupted views of San Francisco and Angel Island, and because of the ridgeline at its back, fog generally skips it. Sausalito is (understandably) a major tourist trap, jam-packed with souvenir shops and costly boutiques.

How to get to Sausalito: Sausalito is the first town you encounter after crossing the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, so daytime crowds turn up in droves and can make parking difficult. Either start this day trip early — it's about an hour and 45 minutes driving from Sacramento — or ferry over from San Francisco for a more relaxing excursion. 

7. Nevada City

Nevada City knows it's charming, but it doesn't like to brag. The shops sell prayer flags and chia smoothies, while the drinking holes sling all manner of liquid enlightenment. The person browsing the history museum with you is just as liable to be an old-timer, a road-weary backpacker or a mystical folk artist. In the midst of all this are the requisite Victorian and Gold Rush tourist attractions – an elegantly restored town center and frilly B&Bs. 

Nevada City’s strollable streets are especially lively in summer. In December, the snow blanket and twinkling lights are something from a storybook. Nevada City is the gateway to Tahoe National Forest  , but linger to experience inviting NorCal culture and the energetic, youthful vibe. The theater companies, alternative film houses, bookstores and venues put on shows almost every night; tune into radical local radio station kvmr.org at 89.5FM to catch the vibe and hear what's on.

How to get to Nevada City: Despite its name, Nevada City is in California, and it's about 60 miles northeast of Sacramento. The drive takes about an hour and 15 minutes.

8. Lassen Volcanic National Park

The dry, smoldering terrain within the 106,000-acre Lassen Volcanic National Park stands in stunning contrast to the cool, green conifer forest that surrounds it. That’s in summer; in winter tons of snow ensures you won’t get too far inside its borders without some serious gear. Still, entering the park from the southwest entrance is to suddenly step into another world.

The lavascape offers a fascinating glimpse into the earth’s fiery core. In a fuming display, the terrain is marked by roiling hot springs, steamy mud pots, noxious sulfur vents, fumaroles, lava flows, cinder cones, craters and crater lakes. In earlier times, the region was a summer encampment and meeting point for the Atsugewi, Yana, Yahi and Maidu Native American tribes. They hunted deer and gathered plants for basketmaking here. Some indigenous people still live nearby and work closely with the park to help educate visitors on their ancient history and contemporary culture.

How to get to Lassen Volcanic National Park: To reach Lassen Volcanic National Park's headquarters, it's a two hour and 45 minutes drive from Sacramento, clocking in at 170 miles.

Introducing California's national parks

9. Napa Valley

Napa Valley is exactly what you expect when you think of Wine Country: hillside chateau wineries, bold cabernets, vast expanses of perfectly ordered grape vines, grassy slopes speckled by the tungsten sun, restaurant dinners that go on for hours, and some of the finest and most luxurious small-scale boutique hotels anywhere in California. Beyond the typical, Napa has some great hiking in the hillsides, exhilarating mud baths up north in the more working-class town of Calistoga , and plenty of small shops, wineries and classy bistros in the tony village settings of St Helena and Yountville.

How to get to Napa Valley: Most journeys start and end in the city of Napa proper, which is about 60 miles from Sacramento. The drive to Napa takes just over an hour.

10. Empire Mine State Historic Park

Atop 367 miles of mine shafts tunneling almost a vertical mile beneath the surface, Empire Mine State Historic Park , the Gold Country’s best-preserved gold-quartz-mining operation, is worth a day’s exploration. From 1850 to 1956 the miners here, mostly Cornish, produced 5.8 million troy ounces of gold (worth about $8 billion today). The visitor center has maps and leads guided tours. It also houses an intricate scale model of the Empire-Star Mine from 1938. Detailing all the tunnels and connections, it was once a closely guarded secret.

It's also well worth paying to enter the mine yard, littered with mining equipment and buildings constructed from waste rock, and to view the main shaft's claustrophobic entry, next to the former site of the head frame (a tall structure used to haul ore and people from underground). Nearby is the English-manor-style summer cottage and 13 acres of gardens belonging to the Bourn family, who originally owned the mine; though this now appears incongruously idyllic, the noise of the mining activity must have been deafening. Hiking backcountry trails that meander past abandoned mines and equipment is free. Trailheads are located at the parking lots behind the visitor center and Penn Gate to its west.

How to get to Empire Mine State Historic Park:  From Sacramento, it's a 60-mile drive to Empire Mine State Historic Park, which takes a little more than one hour.

You might also like: Visit all of California's national parks on this legendary road trip Why you should drive California's scenic Highway 395 Climb aboard for the USA's 6 most amazing train journeys

Explore related stories

Sustainable Travel

Jul 22, 2022 • 10 min read

Road trips are a cornerstone of US culture. But can they be done in an electric car?

Mar 14, 2022 • 12 min read

Jan 29, 2021 • 6 min read

Oct 8, 2020 • 6 min read

Apr 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 28, 2024 • 4 min read

Mar 28, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

30 Great Day Trips from Sacramento

One of Sacramento’s biggest selling points is that it is centrally located. Day trips from Sacramento to the mountains, beach, Wine Country, and San Francisco are all within easy reach. As this region continues to grow rapidly, so do the opportunities to get out and explore.

I spent over a decade exploring Northern California from our home base in the Sacramento area, and it really is amazing how many different types of destinations are just a day trip away! Day trips from Sacramento often felt like mini vacations, re-energizing my spirit to face grind of the week ahead.

Here are my favorite Sacramento day trips. There really is tremendous variety awaiting you just a short drive from home.

Ready for a weekend escape? Here are our 25 favorite Northern California weekend getaways .

San Francisco

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 88 miles (90 minutes)

San Francisco is a city with endless possibilities for a day trip. Whether you’re looking to take in the city’s iconic landmarks, indulge in some delicious food, or explore the unique neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone in the City by the Bay.

Start your day with a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge , San Francisco’s most famous landmark. You can walk or bike across the bridge and take in the breathtaking views of the city.

For the best photo opportunities, head to Fort Point , a historic military fort located directly under the bridge or the Marin Headlands on the north side of the bridge. Baker Beach is another great spot to enjoy Golden Gate views.

Next, explore the charming neighborhoods of San Francisco, each with its own distinct character. Head to the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood for a glimpse of the city’s hippie culture, or wander through the colorful houses of the Mission District. Be sure to grab a carnitas burrito at La Taqueria . It will be one of the best you will ever have.

The Castro neighborhood is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community and iconic movie theater. Chinatown is a great destination to eat dim sum and then stroll the interesting shops filled with everything you can imagine (and some things you never would). Delicious Dim Sum and Wing Sing are solid options.

San Francisco is also known for its seafood, so head to Fisherman’s Wharf for some clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin’s . For a sweet treat, visit the world-famous Ghirardelli Square for a decadent chocolate sundae.

In the afternoon, visit one of San Francisco’s many museums or art galleries. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is home to an impressive collection of contemporary art, while the Exploratorium is a hands-on science museum that’s fun for all ages.

In Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences features a planetariums, rainforest, and natural history displays like dinosaur skeletons. Golden Gate Park is also home to great playgrounds, swan boats on Stowe Lake, and the enchanting Japanese Tea Garden.

Another great experience is taking the ferry to Alcatraz Island , the former federal prison that’s now a popular tourist attraction. The audio tour takes you through the cells and gives a glimpse into what life was like for the prisoners who were housed there.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 62 miles (one hour)

One of the world’s premier wine regions is just an hour away from Sacramento. Napa Valley is the ultimate destination for wine lovers and foodies. The region is home to over 400 wineries, so the first thing on any itinerary should be a wine tasting. Many wineries offer tastings and tours, and there are several wine tour companies that can arrange transportation and tastings for a fee.

In addition to wine tasting, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Napa Valley. Take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of the vineyards and valley. Hot air balloon tours typically take off early in the morning and include a champagne brunch upon landing.

For a more relaxing experience, visit one of the many spas in the area. Several spas offer mineral-rich hot springs and mud baths, a popular activity in Calistoga. After a day of wine tasting, a soak in a hot spring followed by a massage is the perfect way to unwind.

For those looking for a more active day, there are numerous hiking trails in the area, including the popular Mount St. Helena Trail . The trail offers panoramic views of the valley and on a clear day, you can see all the way to San Francisco.

Finally, no trip to Napa Valley would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The region is known for its farm-to-table restaurants, offering fresh, seasonal ingredients. Many wineries also have their own restaurants, providing the perfect pairing of wine and food.

Grass Valley and Nevada City

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 56 miles (one hour)

Grass Valley and Nevada City are charming historic towns located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. They offer a glimpse into California’s Gold Rush era, with preserved Victorian architecture and unique local shops and restaurants.

Start your day trip in Grass Valley by visiting the Empire Mine State Historic Park , one of the oldest and richest gold mines in California. Take a guided tour of the mine and see the restored buildings and gardens, or explore the hiking trails and picnic areas.

Afterwards, head to the historic downtown area of Grass Valley, where you can wander through the unique shops and art galleries. Stop by the Grass Valley Brewing Company for a refreshing craft beer.

Next, head to Nevada City, a small town known for its beautiful architecture, including the Nevada Theatre , the oldest continuously operating theater in California. Take a guided tour of the theater or catch a live performance.

For lunch, try the New Moon Cafe , known for its organic and locally sourced ingredients. Or, head to Lefty’s Grill for some classic American fare and a wide selection of local wines.

In the afternoon, explore the South Yuba River State Park , located just outside Nevada City. The park offers hiking trails, swimming holes, and picnic areas, with stunning views of the Yuba River and the surrounding mountains.

You may also want to make time to visit the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum , located in Nevada City. The museum features a collection of historic locomotives and railroad artifacts, offering a glimpse into California’s transportation history.

Folsom Lake

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 32 miles (40 minutes)

Folsom Lake is a reservoir located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, just a short drive from Sacramento. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially in the summer when those Sacramento temperatures climb up into the 90s or higher.

Start your day at the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area , where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other watercraft. Spend the morning exploring the lake’s tranquil waters and scenic shoreline.

If you prefer to stay on land or visit during the cooler season, the recreation area also offers hiking and mountain biking trails.

For lunch, pack a picnic and head to one of the park’s many picnic areas, with views of the lake and the surrounding hills.

After lunch, head to the nearby Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park . This historic hydroelectric power plant dates back to the late 1800s and offers a glimpse into California’s early energy industry. Take a guided tour of the plant and learn about the history of hydroelectric power in the region.

If you like to shop, head to the Folsom Historical District, a charming downtown area filled with local shops, restaurants, and museums. Folsom is also home to a large outlet mall.

The Folsom History Museum offers exhibits on the town’s history, while the Folsom Prison Museum showcases the history of California’s prison system.

If you want to extend your day trip to an overnight stay head to the Lake Natoma Inn , located just steps from the lake. Relax and unwind at the hotel’s spa or enjoy a delicious dinner at the on-site restaurant, offering a farm-to-fork menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 46 miles (55 minutes)

Coloma is a small town located in the Sierra foothills, about an hour’s drive from Sacramento. The town has great historic significance, as it was the site of the first discovery of gold in California. A day trip to Coloma offers the chance to explore this fascinating history, as well as to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Start your day at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park , where you can take a guided tour of the historic gold discovery site and learn about the town’s history. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a museum with exhibits on the Gold Rush era. Make time to explore the charming downtown area of Coloma, with its unique shops and galleries.

Marshall Gold Discovery SP made our list of the 30 best state parks in California . See what other special spots made the list!

For lunch, try the Sierra Rizing Cafe , a local favorite that offers delicious sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. Alternatively, head to the Argonaut Farm to Fork Cafe in the heart of the state park for a farm-to-table meal featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Another great option is to get out on the river where you can go rafting, kayaking, or tubing. Half day and full day Class III river rafting can be enjoyed on the South Fork of the American River. The river also offers great fishing opportunities, with rainbow and brown trout among the species found in its waters.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 103 miles (~2 hours)

Lake Tahoe is a breathtakingly beautiful alpine lake, straddling the border of California and Nevada. It’s a popular year-round destination, offering a wealth of outdoor activities, scenic beauty, and a lively dining and nightlife scene. A day trip to Lake Tahoe can be packed with adventure and relaxation, depending on your preferences.

Start your day by taking a scenic drive along the lake’s eastern shore, with stops at overlooks like the Inspiration Point Vista and the Emerald Bay Overlook. These viewpoints offer panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

If you are visiting in the warmer season, head to one of the lake’s many beaches for some water sports and relaxation. The most popular beaches include Kings Beach, Sand Harbor, and Zephyr Cove, where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or jet skis.

You can also explore the lake’s many hiking trails, such as the Tahoe Rim Trail which offers some of the tremendous views of the lake and the Rubicon Trail which is a moderate hike with plenty of photo opportunities.

If you are visiting in the winter, you will definitely want to head to the slopes and enjoy a ski day at a local resort like Heavenly or Sierra-at-Tahoe .

You might want to end your day trip with a sunset cruise on the lake, enjoying the colorful skies and peaceful surroundings. Tahoe Gal and Cruise Tahoe are two popular companies that offer lake cruises.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 165 miles (3 1/2 hours)

Yosemite is a destination that would take weeks to fully explore but if you live in Sacramento, a long day trip is a fun option as well. The key is to arrive at the park early to make sure you can pack in as much fun as possible.

The best time of year to visit Yosemite and see its waterfalls at peak flow is late spring and early summer.  In addition to flowing falls, you will also be able to enjoy longer days, so you will get the most out of your Yosemite day trip.

Possible destinations inside the park include the sequoia groves of Merced and Tuolumne Grove , exploration of the Yosemite Valley and its many meadows and cascading waterfalls, or even a trip to Hetch Hetchy , a valley that was filled with water to become a reservoir for the city of San Francisco and a lovely place to hike.

Read our complete Yosemite day trip itinerar y to plan your own getaway. You should also read about the best easy hikes in Yosemite and find a couple that fit in your itinerary.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 147 miles (2 1/2 hours)

When the weather heats up, one of the most popular day trips from Sacramento is the pilgrimage to cool temps and beachside fun in Santa Cruz.

Start your day by heading to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic amusement park that dates back to 1907. Take a ride on the Giant Dipper, the park’s classic wooden roller coaster, or try your luck at the arcade games. The carousel is another classic favorite. The boardwalk also offers several beach access points.

If you are a shopper you will want to head to the downtown area, where you can explore the many eclectic shops, galleries, and cafes. The Pacific Garden Mall is a pedestrian-friendly street filled with unique boutiques, vintage shops, and street performers.

For a bit of nature, head to Natural Bridges State Beach , a beautiful beach known for its unique rock formations and tide pools. The beach also offers great birdwatching opportunities, with several species of seabirds and shorebirds in the area.

End your day with a sunset stroll along West Cliff Drive , a scenic drive that offers panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean.

The Marin Headlands & Sausalito

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 92 miles (90 minutes)

Just across the Golden Gate Bridge from bustling San Francisco life slows down a bit and sky scrapers are traded in for houseboats and bluff tops. A day trip to Sausalito and the Marin Headlands is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Bay Area.

Start your day in Sausalito by enjoying a leisurely breakfast at one of the many cafes or restaurants that line the waterfront. Take a stroll through the town’s narrow streets, filled with galleries, boutiques, and cafes, and enjoy the views of the bay and the San Francisco skyline.

Next, head up into the Marin Headlands, a hilly region located just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. The headlands offer wonderful views of the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the surrounding hillsides, as well as several hiking trails that wind through the area. The Point Bonita Lighthouse is a popular destination in the headlands, offering panoramic views of the coastline and the ocean.

For lunch, head back down into Sausalito and enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the town’s many restaurants. Fish is a popular spot, serving up fish and chips, clam chowder, and other seafood favorites.

In the afternoon, you may want work off lunch and rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the waters of the bay.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 68 miles (75 minutes)

A day trip to Sonoma is the perfect way to explore California’s wine country and enjoy a day filled with delicious food, beautiful scenery, and award-winning wines.

Start your day by visiting a winery, such as the Buena Vista Winery , which is the oldest winery in Sonoma County, or the Chateau St. Jean , which is known for its elegant tasting room and stunning gardens. Both wineries offer tastings and tours, providing an opportunity to learn about the history of winemaking in the region and sample some of the best wines in California.

Next, head to the Sonoma Plaza , a charming town square surrounded by historic buildings and boutique shops. The plaza is also home to several excellent restaurants, such as The Girl & The Fig , which is known for its French-influenced, farm-to-table cuisine and extensive wine list.

Also on the plaza, make time to visit Figones Olive Oil Company where you can taste and purchase artisanal olive oils and vinegars made from locally grown olives.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 78 miles (75 minutes)

A day trip to Berkeley is a great way to explore the vibrant cultural scene and eclectic atmosphere of this university town, located just across the bay from San Francisco.

Start your day by visiting the UC Berkeley campus, which is known for its Beaux-Arts architecture and beautiful gardens. Take a stroll through the campus, and visit the famous Sather Tower , also known as the Campanile, which offers panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding hills.

Next, head to the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive , which showcases an impressive collection of contemporary art and classic films from around the world.

In the afternoon, explore the famous “Gourmet Ghetto” neighborhood, which is home to several excellent restaurants and cafes, such as Alice Water’s Chez Panisse , which is known for its farm-to-table cuisine and commitment to sustainability. You can also visit one of three different Farmers’ Markets in Berkeley , which offers fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other local specialties.

There is great shopping to be had in Berkeley, including old record stores, thrift shops, and chic furnishings. Telegraph Avenue and 4th Street are popular shop-til-you-drop destinations.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 82 miles (80 minutes)

A day trip to Oakland is a great way to explore the vibrant culture and diverse neighborhoods of this bustling city that often sits in San Francisco’s shadow.

The Oakland Museum of California showcases the state’s history, art, and culture through a variety of exhibits and programs and is housed in a building that features beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces, making it a great spot for a morning stroll.

Next, head to the Lake Merritt area, which is home to several excellent restaurants, cafes, and shops. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboat and explore the lake, which is surrounded by beautiful parks and walking trails.

In the afternoon, visit Jack London Square , which is named after the famous American author who spent time in Oakland. The area features several historic buildings, including the Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon , which is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It opened in 1884 and its decor reflects its colorful past.

The Oakland Zoo , which is home to over 700 animals from around the world, is well worth a day trip visit as well The zoo features several unique exhibits, such as the African Savanna, which allows visitors to see giraffes, zebras, and other animals up close. The Oakland Zoo is one of the best zoos in California .

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 50 miles (55 minutes)

During the fall, a day trip to Apple Hill is almost a requirement for many living in the Sacramento area who love to celebrate the season.

Start your day by visiting one of the many apple orchards that dot the hillsides. Head to the Apple Hill Growers website to view a map of the area and what each farm has to offer.

You can pick your own apples, take a tractor ride through the orchard, and sample fresh apple cider and other treats. You can also pick up fresh-baked pies, pastries, and other treats made from local apples and other seasonal ingredients.

During the weekend, many of the apple orchards also host craft fairs and have live music to enjoy. We always love to visit several different orchards to see what they have to offer.

During October, you will want to head to one of the many pumpkin patches in the area, where you can pick your own pumpkins, go on a hayride, and enjoy other fall activities such as corn mazes and petting zoos.

There are also several different wineries in the area, which offer tastings of local wines on patios and decks with views of the surrounding hillsides. You can also visit one of the many artisan shops and boutiques in the area, which offer unique gifts, crafts, and other items.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 33 miles (35 minutes)

A day trip to Auburn is a great way to enjoy the scenic foothills of the Sierra Nevada while discovering the town’s rich Gold Rush history.

First head to Old Town Auburn, which features a charming collection of shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Take tmie to visit the historic Aubrun Firehouse and Bell which begs to be photographed.

The Placer County Museum is housed in the historic Courthouse Building and features exhibits on the history of the region.

Dine at Josephine’s , a French bistro located in the historic Odd Fellows No. 7 Lodge which was built in 1894 at the peak of the area’s gold rush. There close to two dozen winieries in Placer County and many of them have tasting room in Old Town Auburn.

Get outside at the Auburn State Recreation Area where you can go hiking and biking as well as swimming or fishing in the American River, which flows through the park. You will also want to make your way over to the Foresthill Bridge which is the highest bridge in California, standing 730 feet above the North Fork of the American River.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 120 miles (Two hours)

San Jose is the third largest city in California and a hub for technology companies so it makes send to start your day trip by visiting the Tech Interactive. It features interactive exhibits on science and technology, including a hands-on robotics exhibit and a virtual reality experience.

Art enthusiasts will want to visit the San Jose Museum of Art , which features a collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world. After ou get cultured head to Santana Row which is filled with shops and restaurants.

If you have young children, make your way to Happy Hollow Park and Zoo which sits on 15 acres in Kelley Park. It has rides that are geared towards young children, a puppet theater, and plenty of animals. Expect to see exotic creatures like lemurs, birds, capybaras, and fossa as well as barnyard animals.

One of the most popular destinations in San Jose is the Winchester Mystery House , a historic mansion that is rumored to be haunted. The house was built 100 years ago and underwent continuous construction for 36 years! The house features a variety of architectural oddities and secret passageways and touring this unusual residence is definitely a “must do”.

Sacramento River Delta

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 68 miles (80 minutes)

The Sacramento River Delta is a great place to enjoy outdoor recreation, especially during the summer. It is a popular spot for boating, jet skiing, and fishing. Many of the small towns, like Bethel Island and Discovery Bay, that sit along the Delta have watercraft available.

The Delta Discovery Experience at Big Break Shoreline in Oakley features interactive exhibits on the ecology and history of the Delta. The center also offers guided kayak tours of the nearby waterways, which provide a close-up look at the area’s abundant wildlife and scenic vistas. Fishing off the park’s pier is very popular as well.

The Delta town of Locke, which was established in the early 20th century by Chinese immigrants who came to the area to work in the local rice fields. Today, the town is a National Historic Landmark and features a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums that showcase the town’s unique history and culture.

Point Reyes

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 95 miles (Two hours)

A visit to Point Reyes National Seashore is one of my favorite day trips from Sacramento. Everything about this stretch of land feels rugged and wild, and gives us a glimps at what California’s coast once was before all the development.

Point Reyes National Seashore, which features miles of hiking trails that wind through a variety of ecosystems, including beaches, forests, and grasslands. Elephant seals, whales, and even elk are common sights, as are the cows the still pasture here.

The park’s Bear Valley visitor centerhas a recreated  Miwok Village  and the 0.6-mile  Earthquake Trail  which highlights the 16 feet of land displacement that occurred as a result of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake along the San Andreas Fault.

At the westernmost edge of Point Reyes is the Point Reyes Lighthouse , which offers sprawling views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The lighthouse also features exhibits on the history of the area and the local marine life.

On the other end of the park is Tomales Bay which is a great place to go kayaking, especially in the evening when there is bioluminescence occuring. The trails in this area are also common places to spot the elk.

Visit the nearby Hog Island Oyster Company , which offers tours and tastings of their fresh and delicious oysters. You can also visit the Heidrun Meadery which makes sparkling honey wines and offers tasting flights.

Mount Diablo

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 85 miles (Two Hours)

You have likely seen Mount Diablo looming on the horizon many times, but have you ever paid it a visit? A day trip to Mount Diablo offers visitors breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond, as well as a variety of recreational activities to enjoy.

Begin your trip with a drive or hike up to the summit of Mount Diablo, which reaches an elevation of over 3,800 feet. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Golden Gate Bridge, the Farallon Islands, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Mount Shasta, over 200 miles away.

After taking in the views, explore the Mount Diablo State Park , which offers over 20,000 acres of wilderness and a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Be sure to visit the Rock City area of the park, which features unique rock formations and picnic areas. The rocks are so much fun to climb around on and explore.

Jackson and Sutter Creek

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 50 miles (One hour)

A day trip to Jackson and Sutter Creek is a journey through California’s Gold Country and a glimpse into the state’s rich history.

Begin your trip in Jackson, known as the “Gem of the Mother Lode.” The town is home to many historic buildings, including the Amador County Museum , which tells the story of the town’s mining past. Visit the Kennedy Gold Mine , where you can take a tour of the underground mine and learn about the life of a gold miner in the 1800s.

Next, head to Sutter Creek, a charming town that retains its historic charm. The Main Street is lined with antique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Take a stroll and admire the beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, many of which are now home to unique shops and restaurants.

There are a few wineries in the area that are worth visiting as well, including Avio Vineyards, Bella Grace Vineyards, and Miller Wine Works which also has a gourmet cheese shop.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 52 miles (55 minutes)

Foresthill is a small town in the Sierra Nevada foothills that is a quick escape from life in the flat lands and a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. The town is known for the historic Foresthill Bridge , which spans over 700 feet across the American River Canyon and offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding landscape.

Start your day trip with a hike on one of the many trails in the area. The Foresthill Divide Loop Trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the American River Canyon. This trail is also very popular with mountain bikers so bring yours along if you have one.

If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-pumping activity, head to the nearby North Fork American River, where you can enjoy whitewater rafting . This stretch of river is the only fork of the American River is not dam controlled, so water levels and length of rafting season are dependent on snowpack.

After all that outdoor adventure, head to Brew Masters Deli , a casual joint serving up hot sandwiches, Bavarian pretzeks, and craft beers that locals swear by.

Lake Berryessa

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 60 miles (75 minutes)

Lake Berryessa is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports in Napa County. It is well-known for its famous “Glory Hole,” a unique spillway that allows excess water to flow into Putah Creek below the Monticello Dam.

When you are ready to get out on the water, head to Markley Cove , where you can rent a ski boat, patio boat, or jet ski to explore the lake. The resort also offers a variety of other water sports activities, including kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. If you’re more interested in fishing, Lake Berryessa has bass, catfish, and trout.

For a more relaxed activity, head to one of the many picnic areas around the lake, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and the lake.

End your day with a stop at Berryessa Brewing Company in Winters, a local craft brewery that offers a variety of beers that you can take home and enjoy.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 110 miles (Two hours)

Bodega Bay is a picturesque coastal town located in Sonoma County that is great or enjoying salty air, seafood, and outdoor adventure.

Bodega Bay is one of the best land-based whale watching destinations in Northern California, thanks to Bodega Head, a peninsula that is four miles long and one mile wide. Gray whales migrate past this spot November through April on there journey from Alaska to their Baja birthing waters and vice versa.

You can also get out on the water by renting a kayak. Bodega Bay Kayaks offers guided tours as well as rental options for those who prefer to go it alone. If you would rather stick to the beach, head to Doran Regional Park, which is a great place to fly a kite or sunbathe.

For lunch, head to one of the many seafood restaurants in the area, such as The Tides Wharf & Restaurant , which serves fresh seafood and offers stunning views of the bay. Alfred Hitchcock filmed The Birds in Bodega and some scenes were filmed at this restaurant. You can also visit the famous Potter schoolhouse and the St. Teresa of Avila Church which were both featured in the film.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 82 miles (90 minutes)

Petaluma is cute town in Sonoma County, California, with a nice little dowtown and lots of interesting history.

Start your day by visiting the Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park which was the site of Rancho de Petaluma and home of General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, who helped rule back when California was a part of Mexico in the 1800s.

Today this national landmark showcases the life and culture of the early Spanish and Mexican settlers in California. The park offers guided tours, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

After, head to the downtown are which features many well-preserved Victorian-era buildings. Explore the unique shops, galleries, and antique stores. Be sure to stop by the Petaluma Seed Bank , a unique and charming store that offers a huge variety of heirloom seeds and gardening supplies.

When you start to get hungry, visit to the Lagunitas Brewing Company , a local brewery that offers a variety of craft beers and live music. Take a tour of the brewery, sample some of their delicious beers, and enjoy a meal in the relaxed atmsophere.

Afterward, work off all those carbs and head to the Petaluma River, where you can rent a kayak or a paddleboard and explore the waterways. The river is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, herons, and eagles.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 98 miles (105 minutes)

Santa Rosa is another great Sonoma County city with plenty of things to do on your day trip from Sacramento.

Start your day by visiting the Charles M. Schulz Museum , which celebrates the life and work of the famous cartoonist who created Peanuts. The museum features a collection of Schulz’s original comic strips, as well as interactive exhibits that are fun for all ages. Then walk over to Snoopy’s Home Ice and ice skate your troubles away.

Next, head to the Luther Burbank Home and Gardens , which showcases the work of the famous horticulturist who developed many new plant varieties, including the Burbank potato and the Shasta daisy. The gardens are a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, and offer a beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature.

Experience an African Safari at  Safari West , where animals roam free on a wildlife preserve. You will encounter rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and numerous other animals of the savannah while on a guided tour of this private facility. There are also luxury glamping tens for those who wish to stay the night and listen to the lions roar at night.

If you are visiting on a Saturday, stop by the Santa Rosa Farmers Market , which offers a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from local farmers and food makers. The market is a great place to taste the flavors of Sonoma County and pick up some unique souvenirs.

After lunch, explore the Railroad Square Historic District, which features many well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The area is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.

End your day with a visit to the Russian River Brewing Company , a local brewery that is famous for its Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger beers. Take a tour of the brewery, sample some of their delicious beers, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Englebright Lake

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 64 miles (75 minutes)

Some of my favorite memories have been made on a patio boat in the middle of Englebright Lake. This lake was created when a dam was constructed in the late 1930’s to control the debris from hydraulic mining happening along the river in the steep Yuba River Gorge.

Today, Englebright is a recreation area, with boat-in campsites and houseboats, speed boats, patio boats, and small watercraft available for rent at Skippers Cove Marina.

I suggest grabbing a few friends, packing a big lunch, and then cruising around the lake on a patio boat. Jump into the refreshing cool water when things heat up. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, as well as local cattle that graze near the lake’s edge.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 86 miles (105 minutes)

Calistoga is known for its wine, its water and its spas.

Start your day by visiting the Old Faithful Geyser , which is one of the three geysers in the world with the name “Old Faithful.” Calistoga’s version erupts regularly every 30 minutes.

Next, head to Calistoga’s Petrified Forest where more than two dozen petrified redwood trees that were knocked over and covered with ash during a violent volcanic eruption, turning them to stone. Take a self-guided tour on the easy trails of Calistoga’s Petrified Forest and see these ancient beauties for yourself.

Then, head to the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs , where you can relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs pools. The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages and mud baths, which are a great way to unwind and pamper yourself.

For lunch, stop by the Solbar Restaurant, which offers delicious farm-to-table cuisine and a great selection of local wines. The restaurant is known for its beautiful setting and outdoor seating, which offer lovely views of the surrounding vineyards.

Finally, end your day with a visit to the Castello di Amorosa , a medieval-inspired castle and winery. Take a tour of the castle and the winery, sample some of their delicious wines, and enjoy the views of the surrounding vineyards.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 15 miles (20 minutes)

Davis, California is a funky college town that offers a variety of fun activities for a day trip.

Start your day by visiting the UC Davis Arboretum which spans over 100 acres and offers beautiful gardens and walking trails along Putah Creek. The Arboretum has 2,400 kinds of trees and plants which can be enjoyed along a 3.5-mile loop trail which you can walk or ride your bike alone.

Next, bike (this is Davis after all) your way over to the Davis Farmers Market , which is held every Wednesday afternoon and Saturday morning. The market offers a variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts from local vendors. There is usually a musical performance happening as well.

Then explore downtown with its eclectic shops, art galleries, cafes, and boutiques. I love stopping at A Better Place to Bead to check out their impressive bead collection, Tibet Nepal which has a great collection of good and jewelery from that part of the world, The Avid Reader bookstore, and the UC Davis store when I visit.

For lunch, head to Woodstock’s for pizza, Cafe Bernardo for comfort food with flaire, Mikuni for sushi, and Sophia’s for Thai food.

End your day with a visit to the Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts , which hosts a variety of music, dance, and theater performances throughout the year. Check their schedule to find a performance or workshop that interests you.

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 100 miles (Two hours)

Truckee is a small mountain town located just outside of Lake Tahoe. It offers a charming, rustic atmosphere, and a wide range of outdoor activities that make it the perfect destination for a day trip.

If you arrive earyl the day enjoy breakfast at  Squeeze Inn , a beloved cafe that is well-known for serving up 60 different specialty omelettes.

During the winter, there are several snow play and ski resorts in the area. Tahoe Donner ,  Boreal ,  Sugar Bowl ,  Soda Springs ,  Northstar ,  Palisades Tahoe , and  Alpine Meadows  are all within 30 minutes.

If you visit outside of ski season or don’t feel like hitting the slopes, take a stroll through historic downtown Truckee, which is filled with quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants. Check out the Truckee River Legacy Trail , a paved path that follows the Truckee River.

You will also want to visit Donner Memorial State Park , which is located just outside of town. Here, you can learn about the history of the infamous Donner Party and enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and a museum that tells the story of the ill-fated journey.

In the summer,  Donner Lake  becomes the main attraction for vacationers enjoying fishing, boating, and water sports. You can also rent rafts and float down the Truckee River for a different take on outdoor fun.

If you are looking to take a unique hike, check out the  Donner Summit Tunnels.  They were built by Chinese laborers in the 1800s and abandoned in 1993 when a new route was established. It is really cool to walk through the tunnels as part of an easy, 4.5-mile round-trip hike. Be sure to bring a flashlight!

Muir Woods National Monument

Distance from Downtown Sacramento: 95 miles (105 minutes)

Muir Woods National Monument is a nature reserve located just 30 minutes north of San Francisco. It is famous for its breathtaking coast redwoods, the tallest trees in the world which can reach heights of over 250 feet

CTL Tip: Muir Woods does require advanced reservations for parking . Make your reservation well in advance, especially if you are visiting on a weeked.

The main trail is a flat, easy stroll that takes visitors through the heart of the forest, passing by trees that are over a thousand years old. The park also offers several longer hikes for those looking for more of a challenge.

For those interested in learning more about the park’s ecology and history, the Muir Woods Visitor Center is a must-visit. The center features interactive exhibits on the redwood forest ecosystem, the flora and fauna that call it home, and the history of the park and its namesake, John Muir.

Make time to take a short drive to nearby Muir Beach . This beach is an excellent representation of the rugged and beautiful beaches along the Northern California Coast.

Healdsburg, located in the heart of Sonoma County, is a charming town known for its vineyards and rich history. There is no shortage of things to do on a day trip to Healdsburg, making it the perfect destination for wine enthusiasts, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape from the city.

One of the most popular things to do in Healdsburg is to explore the many vineyards and wineries that surround the town. Healdsburg is located in the center of three major wine regions – the Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Russian River Valley – and is home to some of the most acclaimed wineries in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour of the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and, of course, sample some of the area’s best wines.

For those who prefer to spend time outdoors, Healdsburg offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking. The town is located near the Russian River, which is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing.

Visitors can also hike or bike through the rolling hills and redwood forests that surround the town, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way.

Another popular attraction in Healdsburg is the Healdsburg Plaza. This historic town square is home to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon browsing and people watching.

12 Best Day Trips from Sacramento

Written by Brad Lane Jan 13, 2022

Several memorable day trips extend from Sacramento, the state capital of California. From mountain towns in Gold Country to not-so-distant beaches on the Pacific Ocean, a big appeal of Sacramento is its central location. And while some destinations require up to a two-hour drive, other scenic days trips are within bicycling distance.

The most challenging part of a day trip from Sacramento is wanting to spend more time. Nearby destinations like San Jose, Lake Tahoe, and Napa Valley deserve weekends, if not weeks' worth of travel. Luckily, all these top places to visit in California have plenty of places to stay.

Pack a bag for all types of adventures when departing Sacramento. Boating, downhill skiing, and farm touring comprise some of the many things to do within a short drive of the city. And always pack the sunscreen, because chances are in the sunny surrounding region, the weather will be nice.

Find your next adventure with our list of the best day trips from Sacramento.

2. Lake Tahoe

3. folsom lake, 5. nevada city, 6. san francisco, 7. san jose, 8. bodega bay, 10. roseville, 11. old town sacramento, 12. yosemite national park.

The agriculturally rich city of Napa is within a 70-mile drive of Sacramento . This proximity enables easy day trips to the famous Napa Valley , where several tourist attractions vie for attention. From fields upon fields of grapes to several locally sourced restaurants, a trip to Napa Valley often caters to the finer tastes in life.

Take some time to enjoy the charming downtown district of Napa. Here, several trendy restaurants and shopping opportunities line the street corners next to the Napa River. Oxbow Public Market is a visitor favorite and a spot to cover all appetites, with several vendors and open-space seating.

But it's not all about dining in Napa. Much of the experience of visiting is spending time outside in the nice weather. From state parks to sunset spots and favorite bike rides, the list of outdoor activities extends throughout the year.

For those interested in dipping a toe in Lake Tahoe, the shoreline is approximately a 100-mile drive from Sacramento. Visitors can head either to the western shore and Tahoe City or South Lake Tahoe with a similar drive. And both offer several reasons for a visit.

South Lake Tahoe is home to several iconic hiking opportunities. Emerald Bay State Park , one of the top attractions at Lake Tahoe , is near the south shore with great views at the aptly named Inspiration Point . Nearby, the Eagle Point Campground offers a lovely place to extend the trip.

Tahoe City is accessible on the western shore with a bit longer drive. The route crosses the Sierra Mountains at Donner Pass near Truckee. Several ski resorts operate along this corridor during the winter. And Tahoe City is a destination itself, with scenic outlooks in every direction and a lovely collection of local restaurants.

Folsom State Recreation Area is a quick 30-mile drive northeast of Sacramento . The recreation area encompasses over 19,000 acres surrounding Folsom Lake, offering a plethora of day activities. Among the favorite things to do are boating, fishing, hiking, and visiting the Folsom Dam .

A challenging but rewarding day trip to Folsom Lake involves not driving a car. The 32-mile Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail stretches from Discovery Park in Sacramento to the recreation area at Lake Natoma. This popular, paved multi-use path cruises the entire American River Parkway , offering several side trips along the way.

The adjacent city of Folsom is also worth a stop. The historic Sutter Street is a must-see when visiting, filled with Gold Rush-era storefronts. Sutter Street is also the place for local restaurants and shopping opportunities. Other top attractions in Folsom include hiking trails, outlet malls, and museums.

Truckee is a postcard-perfect mountain town on the east side of Donner Pass in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. You can reach Truckee with a 100-mile drive from Sacramento. This drive typically takes 90 minutes with good traffic conditions.

Truckee is the spot to explore the surrounding Tahoe National Forest . This abundant acreage surrounds all sides of Truckee, offering numerous activities throughout the year. During the summer, popular outlets include hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. All types of skiing dominate the winter months, such as downhill and cross-country.

Donner Memorial State Park offers a stand-alone reason to visit Truckee. The park encompasses 16 acres, including Donner Lake shoreline. It's also home to a visitor center and museum that details the area's historical significance. A good portion of the museum dives into the fateful Donner Party, who got stuck at the pass in 1846.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Truckee

An hour's drive northeast of Sacramento is Nevada City, a postcard mountain town that sprouted during the mid-1800s California Gold Rush. Today, the Downtown Historic District dates back to the town's original settlement in 1849. Occupying these antique facades are several local businesses offering days' worth of fun.

A big part of any visit should be strolling around this historic downtown district guided by the senses. But this charming commercial corridor isn't the only way to connect with the gold boom legacy of the area. Other historical attractions include the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum and Empire Mine State Park .

Exploring the outdoors is also a big thing to do in Nevada City. Hiking and biking trails spiderweb the western Sierra Nevada foothills surrounding the town. Some of these trails are accessible right from downtown. Activities like boating, camping, fishing, and golfing are also popular.

The scenic streets of San Francisco are approximately a two-hour drive from Sacramento . Depending on the route and time of day, the drive is about 90 minutes long. And for those without a vehicle, Amtrak offers an affordable two-hour trip. Other private bus routes offer similar fares.

While San Francisco can be done in a day, it deserves at least a long weekend to dent the sightseeing attractions. But between colorful neighborhoods, vibrant history, and the general buzz of one of America's most beautiful cities, any trip to San Francisco probably isn't long enough.

For those catching an early train and making the trip in a day, a recommended spot to head is the Golden Gate Bridge . This suspension bridge is an iconic city symbol for a reason, and simply gazing across its coastal expanse is worth the trip alone. However, be sure to take some time to explore the Golden Gate National Recreation Area on both sides of the bridge.

Other San Francisco attractions include Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods, and Chinatown. And for those open to extending their travels, several quality San Francisco hotels offer a stylish place to end the day.

San Jose, California's third-largest city, is a two-hour drive from Sacramento with good driving conditions. As a major city in the San Francisco Bay area and hub for Silicon Valley , San Jose is an energetic place to visit with several community attractions.

Museum-lovers find an assortment of facilities in San Jose. The Tech Initiative and San Jose Museum of Art are close together in the downtown Plaza de Cesar Chavez . This plaza is also the place to visit for downtown concerts and lively people-watching. Other popular museums in Sacramento include the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose and the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum .

And San Jose has so much more to explore . Other top attractions and things to do include zoos, parks, and mystery homes. Be sure to etch out some time to stop by the Municipal Rose Garden . This blooming attraction has a colorful display nearly every day of the year, with more than 3,500 roses planted throughout. The Rose Garden is free to enjoy.

Approximately a two-hour drive from the capital city, Bodega Bay is one of the closest access points to the Pacific Ocean from Sacramento . And this coastal village offers quite the respite, with a much slower pace and distinct saltwater charm.

Cinephiles may recognize Bodega Bay as the setting for Alfred Hitchcock's 1963 classic, The Birds . And while the famous director captured the seaside splendor of this coastal getaway, his sense of terror is never present. The Sonoma Coast Visitors Center in Bodega Bay has information about local filming landmarks.

Fresh seafood, coastal hiking trails, and ocean activities define many a day trip to Bodega Bay. Several seaside hotels are also available for those looking to stay the long weekend.

Modesto is a county seat in the San Joaquin Valley of Central California, approximately a 75-mile drive south of Sacramento . Commuters from the capital city reach Modesto with just over an hour of driving or a 90-minute train ride. Buses are also available.

Modesto offers several reasons to visit , including an agricultural appeal with attractions like the Modesto Certified Farmers Market . However, there's no better reason to visit than the annual Graffiti Summer celebration that takes place the entire month of June. This city-wide event celebrates hometown director George Lucas and one of his earliest movies.

The American Graffiti Festival & Car Show is a signature event presented by North Modesto Kiwanis Club. Expect antique automobiles, parades, and music from the 1950s and 60s during this celebrated street party. Over 1,000 classic cars cruise the main drag during this famous car show, drawing massive crowds from across the region.

Roseville is part of the larger Sacramento metropolitan area, offering an easy day trip in less than a half-hour drive . The city has several unique attractions and things to do , including shopping, museums, and historic sites. Roseville is also popular for a day at the links with several public golf courses nearby.

Roseville enjoys similar sunny weather as Sacramento. Spring and fall tend to be the most desirable time to visit, before summer temperatures settle into the valley. And for those perfect shoulder-season days, the best place to enjoy a natural landscape is on the Miners Ravine Trail . This approximately seven-mile pedestrian path is a favorite for spending time outside.

One of the top reasons to visit Roseville, however, is Denio's Farmers Market & Swap Meet . This celebrated and homegrown market occurs every Saturday and Sunday throughout the year. A smaller outdoor market also occurs on Fridays. Expect a bit of everything at this festive market and swap meet.

You don't need to leave the city for a fun day trip around Sacramento . Sacramento's Old Town is certainly worth an entire day, especially for first-time visitors. This historic part of town is next to the Sacramento River and dates back to the mid-1800s and the California Gold Rush. And today, much of the infrastructure remains the same in appearance.

Old Town State Historic Park encompasses a vast part of Old Town. Walking around today reveals modern restaurants and businesses within the reconstructed storefronts. Expect local fashion boutiques, unique eateries, and souvenir shops in this historic part of town.

One of the best museums in Sacramento , the renowned California State Railroad Museum is also in Old Town. This massive complex hosts a half-million visitors every year. Inside, a detailed look at Iron Horse history tells how railroads shaped the Golden State. Among the collection are over 20 locomotives and railcars, many of which can be toured.

Yosemite National Park, one of California's best national parks , is a three-hour drive from Sacramento. This lengthy commute isn't ideal for day trips, but for those looking for a quick glimpse of some of the state's most supreme nature, it's doable.

Hetch Hetchy is the closest entrance to Sacramento, some 150 miles away. It's an excellent place to enter the park. Here, head up to the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir while passing several trailheads along the way.

Lookout Point is one recommended day-trip hike. It's a two-mile loop that begins near the entrance station and reveals an overlook of Hetch Hetchy Valley. The five-mile round trip to Wanapum Falls is also popular for those interested in hiking farther, beginning from the shoreline.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

More on California

THE BEST Day Trips from Sacramento

Day trips from sacramento.

• Sacramento to Lodi
• Sacramento to Plymouth
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Wine Tasting Audio Tour - Lodi California

2. Wine Tasting Audio Tour - Amador County CA

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley

Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch

"Private Wine Tours of Napa Valley and Sonoma for 2 to 5 people."

Amador County Self-Guided Wine Tour

6-Hour Private Limousine Tour to Napa and Sonoma Valley Wineries

Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour

Sonoma Valley Pedal Assist Bike Tour with Lunch

6hr | 12 Passenger Mercedes Limo Sprinter Bus

Private Napa Wine Tour Up To 6 Guests

Napa & Sonoma Wine Tasting Tours

Full-Day 21 Mile Whitewater Rafting Trip on South Fork from Lotus (Class 2-3)

Private Group Wine Tours in Napa Valley

Bicycle Guided Tour in Napa and Sonoma

Discover Napa Valley’s Hidden Gems with Local Sommelière

Self Guided Full Day E-bike Rental With Picnic Lunch

Discover Sonoma's Natural Wineries in Small-Group Tour

• Destination Drivers
• OUTbound LGBTQ+ Travel iamOUTBound
• Wake Up Wakeboarding School
• Sacramento Outdoor Escape Games
• Keys Company

• Weekend Getaways
• Romantic Trips
• Last Minute

25 Best Weekend & Day Trips from Sacramento

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 14, 2024

More ideas: Places to visit in Northern California

More ideas: Romantic weekend getaways in Northern California

More ideas: Things to do in Northern California

More ideas: Things to do in San Dimas

More ideas: Things to do in Palmdale

Brannan Island State Recreation Area

More ideas: Things to do in Sacramento

The California State Railroad Museum

More ideas: Free things to do in Sacramento

More ideas: Things to do in Sacramento with Kids

Donner Memorial State Park

More ideas: Sacramento breakfast

Emerald Bay State Park

More ideas: Romantic Getaways in Sacramento

Empire Mine State Historic Park

More ideas: Things to do in Woodland

Folsom Lake

More ideas: California beaches

The Locke Historic District

More ideas: Bay Area Beaches

Jelly Belly Factory Tours

More ideas: Beaches near San Francisco

More ideas: Things to do in Lake Tahoe

More ideas: Escapes from San Diego

More ideas: Things to Do in San Diego

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is one of the top wine-growing regions in the Pacific Northwest, acclaimed for its delicious Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot wine varietals. The region gained international prominence following its noted successes at the prestigious 1976 Judgment of Paris wine competition. Today, it is home to over 400 wineries located along the picturesque Silverado Trail, including renowned wineries like Harlan Estate and To Kalon Vineyard. Visitors can enjoy tastings and tours at many of the region's lovely wineries and vineyards throughout the week or explore the region as part of vintage locomotive dinner excursions operated by the Napa Valley Wine Train. Michelin-starred restaurants line the region's business districts, known for their creative Californian cuisine and excellent wine pairing menus. Browse our California weekend getaways guide for more ideas.

Nevada City

More ideas: Things to do in Orange County

More ideas: Things to do in San Clemente

San Francisco

More ideas: Perris

Sonoma Valley

More ideas: Things to do in Yuba City

South Yuba River State Park

More ideas: things to do in Rancho Cordova

More ideas: Day Trips in Southern California

Sutter Creek

More ideas: Hot Springs in California

• 2. Bodega Bay
• 3. Berkeley
• 4. Apple Hill
• 6. Brannan Island State Recreation Area
• 7. The California State Railroad Museum
• 9. Donner Memorial State Park
• 10. Emerald Bay State Park
• 11. Empire Mine State Historic Park
• 12. Folsom Lake
• 13. The Locke Historic District
• 14. Jelly Belly Factory Tours
• 15. Lake Tahoe
• 17. Murphys
• 18. Napa Valley
• 19. Nevada City
• 20. Oakland
• 21. San Francisco
• 22. Sonoma Valley
• 23. South Yuba River State Park
• 24. Stockton
• 25. Sutter Creek

More Features

10 Best Things to Do in Rancho Cordova, California

20 Free Things to Do in Sacramento, CA

20 Breakfast & Weekend Brunch Spots in Sacramento, California That Are Cool

• About Us/Contact Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

The 19 Best Day Trips From Sacramento for Every Style of Adventure

Sactown is a great place to explore on its own, but it’s also perfectly situated for great day trips. Take a little road trip to any one of these nearby gems!

Sacramento is the capital of the great state of California, perched beautifully on the banks of the Sacramento and American Rivers. It is not only a great place to explore on its own, but it’s also perfectly situated for great day trips for every kind of adventurer. After you’ve spent a few days exploring the multiple historic parks, the California State Railroad Museum, and more than forty local farmer’s markets, hop in the car and take a day trip from Sacramento to one of these nearby gems!

Enjoy a scavenger hunt in Sacramento!

Let’s Roam offers over 400 unique tours all over the world, including Sactown. For a fun and exciting way to explore Sacramento , try our “ California Capital ” scavenger hunt. Photo challenges and trivia will keep you on your toes as our adventure app guides you through landmarks, sculptures, and green spaces. Try it today, or search for a city near you or your day trip destination!

Day Trips From Sacramento

Travel times in this guide are estimated by Google Maps at the time of writing, using the California State Capitol Museum as the starting point. Actual travel times may vary depending on your day and time of travel.

1. Sausalito

Distance:  91.3 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 31 mins

Like many towns in the area, the charming Sausalito, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge, was born out of the gold rush. Striking gold made a lot of new settlers very wealthy, and they chose to spend their new bucks on yachts! Sausalito became a hub for commercial fishermen and boating enthusiasts, and eventually, a bit of an artist colony, now populated with hundreds of houseboats.

Sausalito translates to “place of abundance,” and there is certainly an abundance of things to do. Stop by the Bay Model Visitor Center where you can get to know the area a little better by studying the 400-foot, 3D model of the San Francisco Bay Area. 

If you have kids in tow, then stop in the Bay Area Discovery Museum. It’s designed for children ages 6mo-10yrs and features hands-on activities to keep them busy all day. It just received a $20Million makeover, and it’s pretty impressive. 

The museums are nice, but the best part of Sausalito is strolling the promenades. There are two beach boardwalks, north and south of the ferry pier. The north boardwalk is home to over 400 houseboats and one of the most stellar views of the San Francisco Skyline. Sausalito is filled with Victorian-era homes, cute ice cream parlors, boutiques, and artisan shops. It also has a surprising number of fabulous international restaurants for a town so small! 

Sausalito is a great day trip from Sacramento for those wanting to relax in a quaint environment and do a little shopping. You can also cross over the Golden Gate Bridge and explore part of San Francisco, or take a hike in the nearby Marin Headlands. 

2. Santa Cruz

Distance:  146.6 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 25 mins

There is no more carefree day trip from Sacramento than Santa Cruz. The Historic Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park sits right on the beach and is both fun and just adorable! It was built in 1907, and two of the rollercoasters are listed on the Register of National Historic Landmarks, and you can still ride them. The place isn’t all old though. Alongside 120-year old rollercoasters, you will find the latest in virtual reality games, thrilling new rides, and vintage pinball machines. This place has it all, and it is free to enter and walk around. You pay for rides on an individual basis, and they are well-priced.

If nature is more your thing, then head for Monarch Grove to see millions of the black and orange beauties atop the Eucalyptus trees of Natural Bridges State Beach . If you prefer a little more adrenaline in your day trip, then Mount Hermon is your place. Ziplines, train rides, and even Bigfoot hunts are the perfect way to spend the day outdoors. 

Main Beach is good for swimming, and paddleboarding is popular there too. Surfers are not at a loss for a good wave either, and Cowell and Manresa Beach are the places to go, but beware, Manresa is for expert surfers only. If you are a history buff, then head for the Santa Cruz Mission , and learn about the early days of California’s colonization. 

3. San Francisco

Distance:  87.6 miles

​Travel Time: 1 hr 41 mins

The foggy city is a classic tourist destination and with good reason. It’s so dang charming. Take a ride on the vintage cable cars, visit the Full House homes, and visit Pier 39. San Francisco really can’t be conquered in a day, as there are so many things to see and do around the city. First of all, ferry rides to Sausalito are ranked as some of the most beautiful cruises in the nation.

Marin County offers rolling hills, sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, and miles of paved hiking trails. Not to mention some of the best views of the 1937 beauty, the Golden Gate Bridge. Guided tours to the island of Alcatraz, the infamous prison island, are also popular with guests. Schedule a tour of the beautiful gardens around the Cellhouse. The island also offers night tours, for the extra brave!

This doesn’t even begin to touch the list of awesome attractions in San Francisco. For more great ways to explore the city, check out our list of the top things to do in San Francisco .

4. Point Lobos

Distance:  93.1 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 45 mins

Point Lobos is nestled in between Big Sur and Carmel by the Sea, and it makes a great day trip for hikers, scuba divers, and nature photographers. The area is stunning with hiking trails through dense woodlands and towering cliffs. Scuba divers will love exploring the giant kelp forest too. Keep an eye out for playful sea lions.

Whaler’s Cabin is a small museum detailing the unfortunate but true whaling history of the area. It is interesting to see the giant whale skeletons and learn about the process of harvesting blubber. 

Whaler’s Cove is a good stop for those who love SUP or kayaking. Animal lovers will want to visit Point Lobos in the spring when the sea lions at Sea Lion Cove are pupping. Take the Sea Lion Point Trail to the craggy bluffs above and get a great view of all the mommas and their new funny babes. It’s the place to watch the massive waves crash at sunset! There are actually 8 beaches in Point Lobos, so make sure to explore a few of them. 

5. Napa Valley Wineries

Distance:  60.6 miles

​Travel Time: 1 hr 12 mins

Napa Valley is certainly no secret to wine connoisseurs. As America’s premier wine region, it boasts an innumerable amount of vineyards and wine tours. While finding a wine tasting in Napa is pretty easy, one of the best ways to tour the area is by the Napa Valley Wine Train. The vintage locomotive traverses the valley and gives you a beautiful and carefree way to explore several wineries in one day.

Make sure to stop in the Oxbow Public Market for regional delicacies, and if you feel like a splurge, visit the nearby town of Yountville, famous for its sparkling wine and high-end cuisine. 

6. Calistoga 

Distance:  86.0 miles

Travel Time:  1 hr 36 mins

Calistoga is a quaint city tucked in the heart of Napa Valley. If you don’t feel like doing the wine train or hopping from winery to winery, then just park it in Calistoga for the day! For an extra luxurious day, head straight to Castello di Amorosa . 

The fourth-generation sommelier Dario Sattui had a dream of building an authentic medieval castle in Napa Valley, using traditional methods and materials. He styled the castle on a 13th-century Tuscan Castello. Dario’s family was already in the wine business. His grandfather, Vittorio Sattui, was an Italian immigrant that founded St. Helena Wine Cellars in 1885. 

In 1994, he revived the family business by purchasing an incredible parcel of land, on one of California’s oldest vineyards and began building the 121,000 square foot masterpiece. The Italian fortress contains 107 rooms, with four above, and four below-ground levels. There are not enough adjectives to describe how cool this place is. 

The stone is hand-chiseled. The bricks were imported from Europe, and so were the antique furnishings. There is a moat with a drawbridge, five towers, and multiple courtyards, as well as a chapel, stables, and a torture chamber. It also happens to have one of the most celebrated and beautiful wine cellars in the world. Plus, you can enjoy a sumptuous mud bath in the geothermically heated mud while you sip your wine! In fact, this area is laced with geothermal hot springs to explore!

7. Yosemite National Park

Distance:  140.9 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 45 mins

Yosemite National Park is, admittedly, stretching it for a day trip. Not because the drive is that long, but because there is so much to see and do once inside the park. You could easily spend a week hiking here through the internationally famous landscape. We recommend you just choose one major hike and tackle it, saving the rest for another day trip!

For hiking enthusiasts, we suggest booking your permit for Half Dome and taking on the beast. For nature lovers, there is no short of beautiful scenery to explore from giant Sequoia forests to the elegant flow of Bridal Veil Falls. 

The little village of Yosemite is a great place to spend the evening. It has a good selection of cafes and enough souvenir shops to keep you busy for hours. 

8. Lake Tahoe

Distance:  112.9 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 2 mins

Lake Tahoe is possibly one of the most gorgeous (and expensive) pieces of property in the United States. Just a 2-hour drive from Sacramento, the crystal blue wonder is heaven for outdoor enthusiasts! Perfectly clear, ice-cold water, surrounded by towering spruce forests, and some of the best hiking trails around, Tahoe National Forest is the perfect alpine destination. 

Take a hike on the stunning Rubicon Trail (the hiking one, not the nearby 4×4 one, but do that too. It’s super fun!) The Rubicon starts at D.L Bliss State Park or, for a shorter route, from Vikinsholm, but the third option is our favorite. Start at the Parking lot at Eagle Point Campground to avoid the lack of parking and steep descent from Vikingsholm. Ask the attendant in the parking lot to direct you to the trailhead, and then prepare for a 3-hour out and back hike. You can do it in two, but it’s worth savoring! Stop and take a swim at Emerald Bay and enjoy pretty much the most serene environment imaginable. 

If you still have energy left, keep going down to Vikingsholm Castle . The giant Scandinavian mansion is completely out of place and yet looks just right! Mrs. Lora Josephine Knight fell in love with the spot on Emerald Bay, as it reminded her of the fjords she had visited in Scandinavia. She also happened to have a Swedish architect for a nephew. Together, they designed, built, and decorated the castle with authentic materials shipped in from Northern Europe. The house is available for guided tours and a great turn-around point on your Rubicon Trail Hike.

If you would rather travel by car than on foot, then you can’t beat the scenic Ring Road drive around the rim of the lake. Take 3-4 hours, stopping at all the scenic overlooks, and grabbing those Insta shots! Or, even better, put away the technology, and enjoy a picnic on a giant rock, overlooking the sapphire beauty. 

If the weather is warm, stop at one of the hundreds of rental places around the lake and book a clear-bottomed kayak or stand-up paddleboard and take a cruise! There really is no better day trip for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers than Lake Tahoe!

9. Nevada City

Distance:  60.8 miles

Travel Time:  1 hr 6 mins

Nevada City is a step back in time. The Victorian-era city rose up during the mid-19th century, and the residents have had the entire downtown area designated a National Historic Landmark. Not only does the little city hold an amazing and period-authentic Christmas Extravaganza, involving costumed guides, mulled wine, and every other Holiday delight, but the old gold rush town is also home to the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad and Transportation Museum . For train and history enthusiasts, you can’t beat this rail yard. Historical, docent-lead tours are available to guide you through the restoration shop and rail yard where you can explore Engine 5, an 1875 model Baldwin passenger and freight locomotive, numerous wooden rail cars, and countless photos, documents, and artifacts detailing the history of the railroad. 

After the museum, go for a quick hike at Scotts Flat Reservoir or do some boulder hopping at Purdon Crossing. The South Yuba River view from here is excellent! It’s a great place to cool off after a long day of touring. 

Our favorite activity in Nevada City is exploring Main Street with its historic buildings. The town is full of artisan shops, unique boutiques, and wonderful restaurants. Plus, the food truck scene is hopping too! If you decide to stay the night, visit the local winery and book a place in one of the ridiculously cute bed and breakfasts downtown. 

10. Sonoma County Wineries

Distance:  124.9 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 51 mins

Okay, so Napa is the big boy, but that doesn’t count out some of California’s other wine regions. A day in Sonoma County does not disappoint. Sonoma wine country sits in a particularly beautiful spread of land between the Pacific Coast and the Mayacamas Mountains, and believe it or not, it is the largest producer of wine in Northern California. 

Sonoma features more than 60,000 acres of grapes and 425 wineries. Its 18 appellations include the world-famous Russian River Valley. We recommend grabbing the Sonoma County Pass !

Stop in the charming town of Sonoma as well. Sonoma Square is the perfect place to end a busy day eating amazing food, drinking more wine, and exploring the boutiques and art galleries surrounding the square.

11. San Jose

Distance:  119.8 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 56 mins

San Jose has been dubbed the skanky brother of Sacramento and especially San Francisco, but it is actually a pretty interesting city with some quirky attractions! Start your day at Winchester Mystery House . This oddball mansion was built by Sara Winchester, the widow of Winchester Repeating Arms Company founder.

Sara moved from Connecticut after the death of her husband and bought an 8-room farmhouse in San Jose. It didn’t stay that way for long though, Sara had a vision! The woman turned this little farmhouse into a 160-room mansion with a series of false stairways, trap doors, and hidden chambers. Reportedly, the place is haunted too. It took 36 years to complete and has been inviting visitors in since 1923. 

If you are a techie, then you will love San Jose. It is the gate to Silicon Valley and home to the Tech Museum of Innovation , a hands-on museum with a huge IMAX that details all things technology! Exhibits cover body function, medical technological advancements, social robots, and cyber detectives. It’s a pretty fun experience and could easily take up most of your day!

12. Auburn 

​Distance:  33.2 miles

Travel Time: 35 mins

Auburn is another California gold rush town that is out of this world cute. The giant dome of the courthouse will immediately catch your eye. It’s worth the hike up to take a closer look. Visit the Gold Rush Museum and grab a proper diner breakfast at Katrina’s Cafe . Explore some of the boutiques and artisan shops, and then spend the afternoon exploring the natural wonders around Auburn. 

The Auburn State Recreation Area has some beautiful scenery and great short hikes. Lake Clementine and Hidden Falls trails are two faves. After working up a sweat, cool off in The Auburn Confluence Swimming Hole on the American River. It is great for a quick dip. It’s easily accessible and shady! There is a small parking fee, so bring some cash. 

13. Amador County 

Distance:  48.0 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr

If you want to take a wine country tour, but Napa and Sonoma are a bit too expensive for your taste, then head for the much more laid-back Amador County. While doing wine tastings here, you will likely be on family farms, and the owner will probably be doing your tour. We love this because not only do you get better information on the process of winemaking, but you get to experience the passion of the people who make wine their way of life! Amador is home to the oldest documented Zinfandel vines in the Americas. Most of the wineries are in Shenandoah Valley, and you will have more than 40 to choose from! 

Make sure to check out Black Chasm Cavern too. The limestone cavern in the heart of Gold Country is one of the best outdoor activities in the area. The incredible formations were formed from water pressing through porous stone, and it has formed some pretty mesmerizing crystalline structures. The park offers 50-minute walking tours every hour, year-round. Get there early though, as tickets tend to sell out. 

Amador is also a great stop on your way to the epic hikes of El Dorado National Forest. Make a weekend getaway of it!

14. Folsom Lake

​Distance: 24.7 miles

Travel Time: 37 mins

Folsom Lake is an easy day trip from Sacramento. A day at the lake is both beautiful and relaxing. Rent a paddleboat and explore the water, or take one of the 95 miles of hiking and biking trails surrounding the lake. Fishing, horseback riding, and swimming are also popular activities on the lake. 

Folsom is teeming with wildlife too, including wetland birds, gray foxes, and black-tailed deer. If you need an easy day break from the city, Folsom Lake is a solid option for the whole family.

15. Donner Memorial State Park

Distance:  98.3 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 46 mins

Donner Memorial State Park is an eery but wonderful place to visit for history buffs. Tucked in the Sierra Nevada Mountains at about 6,000 feet, the alpine park offers all the normal outdoor activities like camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. However, the park exists to preserve the site of the Donner Party Camp.

Members of the Donner Party were on their way west when they became trapped by storms in the winter of 1846. With no supplies or food, the group eventually had to resort to cannibalism to survive. While that seems pretty grotesque, the visitor center helps explain the dire situation they faced and details numerous other aspects of life in the frontier in the 1800s. After the visitor center, stop by Pioneer Monument and pay your respects before moving on to one of the great hikes! 

Outdoor enthusiasts might consider the 7-mile hike to the Donner Summit (you can also drive up) to check out the view over Donner Lake. Cross country skiing, sledding, and rock climbing are also popular pastimes here.

The nearby town of Truckee is overtly cute and boasts some truly fantastic restaurants. Try out Morgan’s Lobster Shack ! The family-run business is run by a transplant couple from the east coast, and they brought their fare with them. It’s so good, they are opening another one soon in Reno.

16. Sutter Creek

Distance:  44.7 miles

Travel Time: 58 mins

Sutter Creek doesn’t have any super tourist attractions, but it is the most quaint and laid-back old town. The Main Street is lined with Victorian townhouses, and it’s so easy to imagine cowboys stepping out of the saloons and into the dusty streets. There are several great restaurants, remnants of an old mine outside of town, and a handful of small tasting rooms. 

The town is surrounded by California farmland and mountain vistas. Sutter Creek feels a world away from the city. Farm stays are available through Airbnb and Workaway, should you want to stay a couple of days! 

17. Calaveras Big Trees State Park

Distance:  100.1 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 59 mins

Giant Sequoias are a must when in California, but Sequoia National Park is a long way away from Sacramento. If you want to see these massive beauties without the four-hour drive, try out Calaveras Big Trees State Park . It is just outside the town of Arnold, and there are two large groves of the giants to explore. Sequoias can reach up to 325 feet in height and 33 feet in diameter, and many of the trees living today are thought to be as old as 2,000 years. Imagine the history they have seen!

Park Staff and docents offer guided tours and educations programs at the visitor center year-round. 

18. Reno Nevada

Distance:  131.9 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 18 mins

This is our first day trip out of the state. Reno Nevada is totally doable though and popular with Californians who like the slots. “The Biggest Little City in the World” has a lot to offer, especially for casino lovers. Reno is an amazing option because not only do you get more slot machines than you can count and great shows, but you get them at half the price of Las Vegas. 

Circus Circus is a family-friendly and popular place and has arcade games for kids! If you need a break from the casinos though, you can peruse the more than 200 vintage stunners at the National Automobile Museum or take a relaxing walk in Idlewild Park.

19. Carmel by the Sea

Distance:  189.6 mi

Travel Time: 3 hrs 13 mins

Carmel by the Sea feels like an old-world Italian village perched on the Pacific Coast. The white sand beaches are lined with Cypress trees, and the town is full of quaint cottages that now act as art galleries and local boutiques. In fact, everything in Carmel is local because the city has an ordinance against chain restaurants!

The town couldn’t be any more different in culture than the city. You may notice many houses in Carmel are named. That is because there are no street addresses. The original residents wanted everyone to know each other, and so you pick up your mail at the local post office. There are also no street lights so that you can enjoy an untainted view of the moon and stars!

A walk down Ocean Avenue is a must to admire all the cottages. History buffs make sure to visit the absolutely beautiful history museum and grounds at Carmel Mission Basilica ! Carmel is a huge artist’s colony, and there are reportedly over 100 small galleries here, but if we could advise one thing to do, it would be to pay the nominal fee to take the scenic road trip down 17- Mile Drive. The money is refundable if you spend more than $35 at a Pebble Beach restaurant, so it’s totally worth it. You will get a map at the entrance with 17 epic stops along the coast. It will take you about 3 hours. Add some time for a scrumptious lunch!

Carmel by the Sea is one of the best day trips from Sacramento for scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere.

Closing Thoughts

Lovely Sacramento often gets overlooked by its bigger, fancier neighbors, Los Angeles , San Francisco , and San Diego . Don’t miss out! Take some time to explore Sactown and the beautiful landscapes, historic towns, and plentiful vineyards that surround it!

What’s your favorite day trip from Sacramento? Let us know in the comments.

Wherever you roam, look for recommendations in our travel guides and lists of things to do ! And don’t forget to download our adventure app and have a blast on scavenger hunts , pub crawls , art walks, and ghost tours across the globe!

Frequently Asked Questions

The capital of California is great for exploring! Go on a scavenger hunt in Old Town, visit the California State Railroad Museum, or take a day trip from Sacramento to nearby San Francisco.

If you’re a wine lover looking for day trips from Sacramento , you’ll love a drive to the vineyards and wineries of Napa Valley, Calistoga, Sonoma County, Nevada City, or Amador County.

​For a relaxing day trip from Sacramento , head for the charming and upscale cottages of Carmel by the Sea, or book a ticket on the Napa Valley Wine Train to tour some of the world’s most famous vineyards!

Featured Products & Activities

California Beautiful

26 Awesome Day Trips From Sacramento

• January 19, 2023

California Beautiful Team

Have you ever wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of city life for a day, yet stay close enough to be home in time for dinner?

Sacramento has tons of awesome day trip options that are perfect for encountering new sights and experiences without having to go too far from home.

From ziplining through Redwood forests to discovering fascinating animal sanctuaries, there’s something special awaiting everyone around every turn!

So get ready, pack your bag (kinda optional), throw on some tunes, and let’s dive into 26 amazing things for you to do within a one-day road trip radius of California’s capital!

1. Folsom Lake

Travel time from Sacramento to Folsom Lake: (34 min) 27.0 miles Google Maps

If you’re looking for a fun day trip from Sacramento, then look no further!

Taking a day trip to Lake Folsom offers fantastic scenery and enjoyable activities.

Take the winding drive around the lake, complete with panoramic views of tree-covered hills and sparkling water.

Enjoy a picnic lunch at some spots along the way, or find a nice spot to stretch your legs and do some fishing using their provided equipment.

After you’ve had your fill of exploring all that Lake Folsom has to offer, there’s plenty more nearby for you to experience.

There are several trails nearby for hiking, great sites for stargazing in the evening, and many more sights to explore.

A visit to Lake Folsom is sure to make your day an enjoyable adventure worth remembering!

Travel time from Sacramento to Auburn : (35 min) 34.2 miles Google Maps

Taking a day trip from Sacramento to Auburn is an exciting adventure that should not be missed!

The short drive reveals some of California’s most beautiful countryside, ranging from rolling hills and orchards to winding rivers and majestic mountains.

On the way, you’ll pass by cute little towns like Colfax, Grass Valley, and Placerville, each with its own unique charm.

Once in Auburn, you can explore unique attractions like the Gold Country Fairgrounds and Old Town Auburn.

After a full day outdoors, enjoy a delicious meal at one of the city’s many restaurants before heading back to Sacramento.

With so much to see and do, a day trip from Sacramento to Auburn will satisfy even the most ardent adventurer!

Travel time from Sacramento to Lodi : (41 min) 35.6 miles Google Maps

Sacramento may be known for its city life, but a day trip to Lodi provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

With easy driving distances, you can get to know this picturesque small town in just a few hours and make lifelong memories.

From lush vineyards and waterfront restaurants to seasonal events like hot air balloon festivals, there is something for everyone in Lodi.

Spend the day exploring its quaint downtown area filled with boutique shopping and one-of-a-kind eateries before soaking in breathtaking views at Shaboga Springs Park.

An excursion to Lodi promises an unforgettable adventure that’s just a short drive away from Sacramento!

4. Placerville

Travel time from Sacramento to Placerville : ( 44 min) 43.7 miles Google Maps

A day trip from Sacramento to Placerville is the perfect getaway!

The stunning Sierra Nevada Foothills is just a short drive away, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and lush vineyards.

Enjoy sipping on one of the area’s famous wines while exploring local cozy boutiques, scenic hiking trails, and antique emporiums.

The nearby American River is ideal for whitewater rafting or enjoying a peaceful float, as well as fly fishing any time of year.

Once you set foot in vibrant Placerville, known as the “Gateway to the Sierras,” magnificent mountain backdrops await you with plenty of outdoor adventures that will leave you wanting more.

A day trip from Sacramento to Placerville isn’t just a fun break from everyday life—it’s an experience that you’ll never forget!

5. Sutter Creek

Travel time from Sacramento to Sutter Creek : (1 hour 1 minute) 44.7 miles Google Maps

Going on a day trip from Sacramento to Sutter Creek is an exciting way to explore all that Northern California has to offer.

This charming gold-mining town features historic architecture, quaint boutiques and galleries, artisanal specialty stores, and plenty of outdoor activities.

The nearby mining trails will transport you back in time and give you a glimpse into the region’s fascinating history.

Take a stroll along the scenic Amador Creek or venture higher into the Sierra for some uninterrupted outdoor exploration.

After an adrenaline-filled day of adventure and sightseeing, enjoy dinner at one of Sutter Creek’s award-winning restaurants.

With its unique blend of history and modern amenities, this day trip from Sacramento will surely be one to remember.

6. Empire Mine State Historic Park

Travel time from Sacramento to Empire Mine State Historic Park : (1 hr 8 min) 57.3 miles Google Maps

A day trip from Sacramento to Empire Mine State Historic Park is an unbeatable proposition for any avid explorer!

The park has a stunning array of attractions for you to explore during your visit, including beautiful views, fascinating hiking trails, and historic structures.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or a more strenuous hike, the serenity of Empire Mine will provide respite from the hustle and bustle of a big city.

Be sure to take time to explore the exhibits showcasing local history and admire the old mining equipment from days past.

With its amazing wildlife, diverse terrain, and captivating historical relics, Empire Mine State Historic Park promises an unforgettable experience that will be remembered for years to come.

7. Napa Valley

Travel time from Sacramento to Napa Valley : (1 hr 9 min) 56.5 miles Google Maps

Exploring Napa Valley is a captivating experience.

A day trip to this bucolic area from nearby Sacramento promises a little bit of everything: breathtaking vineyards, and stunning vistas.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with family or friends, there’s plenty to explore in this majestic corner of Northern California.

From pampering spa treatments to exhilarating hot air balloon rides to exploring artisanal eateries and tasting rooms, your options are endless in Napa Valley.

So, strap on those hiking boots and start planning the perfect day excursion—you’ll surely have an unforgettable time!

8. Nevada City

Travel time from Sacramento to Nevada City : (1 hr 9 min (60.8 miles) Google Maps

A day trip from Sacramento to Nevada City is an ideal way to experience California’s magic!

From Sacramento, you will drive past stunning rolling hills and meandering streams as you journey through this beautiful corner of the state.

Once in Nevada City , marvel at the picturesque streets of this quaint town filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

Take the time to explore the bookstores and antique stores while you soak up the unique bohemian culture that radiates throughout the city.

A day trip from Sacramento to Nevada City promises adventure, exploration, and fun, so don’t miss out on one of the most remarkable parts of California living!

9. El Dorado National Forest

Travel time from Sacramento to El Dorado National Forest : (1 hr 12 min) 55.9 miles Google Maps

Exploring El Dorado National Forest, which is only an hour and a half drive from Sacramento, is a fantastic day trip!

From the crystal-clear waters of the American River to the soaring peaks of Pyramid Peak and Tripod Rock, there is something here for any outdoor enthusiast.

Take in some amazing views while hiking with friends or enjoy a picnic in sprawling meadows surrounded by fir trees.

Afterward, you can raft down the wild whitewater rapids or kick back with a fishing line along one of the many rivers.

Whatever your desired adventure may be, El Dorado National Forest offers it all!

10. Oroville

Travel time from Sacramento to Oroville : (1 hour 16 minutes) 68.4 miles Google Maps

A day trip from Sacramento to Oroville is a great way to experience the beauty of Northern California.

Located about an hour’s drive away, Oroville features amazing outdoor activities such as rafting on the Feather River and beachcombing in the nearby Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park.

After a long day outdoors, take a break and explore downtown Oroville’s historic architecture, locally owned antique shops, and delicious restaurants for a truly memorable experience.

Whether you’re a thrill seeker or just looking for some good old-fashioned relaxation, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste in this charming city.

11. Sausalito

Travel time from Sacramento to Sausalito: (1 hour 32 minutes) 92.3 miles Google Maps

Exploring the beauty of Northern California is easily accomplished with a day trip from Sacramento to Sausalito!

Driving along the winding coastal roads and taking in the breathtaking Pacific views will inspire wonder and awe.

Then, Sausalito awaits with its art galleries, boutiques, outdoor cafes, and dozens of attractions—perfect for a leisurely day soaking up the miles of waterfront scenery.

Dining and entertainment abound in this Marin County gem, giving visitors an unforgettable experience that rivals any seaside escape!

12. San Francisco

Travel time from Sacramento to San Francisco : (1 hour 41 minutes) 95.3 miles Google Maps

Embarking on a day trip from Sacramento to San Francisco is an exciting adventure that you won’t want to miss.

The picturesque scenery of the California Great Valley will take your breath away as you travel through towns with lively energy and rolling hills in the background.

Soon enough, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge will appear before your eyes, and you’ll be able to explore all of the unique attractions that this bustling city has to offer.

From Fisherman’s Wharf to Chinatown, there are countless sights and adventures that await you in San Francisco.

But don’t forget to bring your camera because you won’t want to forget a single moment of your day trip.

13. Truckee

Travel time from Sacramento to Truckee : (1 hour 44 minutes) 100 miles Google Maps

A day trip from Sacramento to Truckee is one of the best ways to explore the stunning Sierra Nevada region.

The journey by car is a beautiful one, winding through magnificent valleys, and riders can enjoy breathtaking views of lush patches of a mountainside forest.

Outdoor enthusiasts won’t be disappointed with opportunities for sightseeing, including riverside strolls, nostalgic train rides, and mountain hikes with stunning vistas at the peak.

After lunch at a quaint local eatery, it’s time to embark on some water activities such as fishing, boating, or kayaking.

Finally, it’s time for some fun-filled evenings with an array of restaurants, live music, and bustling nightlife.

A day trip from Sacramento to Truckee is sure to make memories that will last a lifetime!

14. Muir Woods National Monument

Travel time from Sacramento to Muir Woods National Monument : (1 hour 45 minutes) 95.4 miles Google Maps

Experiencing the majestic beauty of Muir Woods National Monument is an amazing way to spend a day trip from Sacramento.

A quick drive up to Marin County will bring you to this protected 554-acre forest filled with coastal redwood trees, Californian wildlife, and plenty of trails that wander through the breathtaking landscape.

The wondrous atmosphere set by these towering giants offers a unique opportunity for you to step back in time, reminding us how peaceful nature can be.

Make sure to climb up Mount Tamalpais and enjoy a spectacular view of the San Francisco Bay area afterward!

15. Santa Rosa

Travel time from Sacramento to Santa Rosa : (1 hour 47 minutes) 97.3 miles Google Maps

Visiting the vibrant city of Santa Rosa for a day trip from Sacramento is an exciting way to explore Northern California.

From picnics by the Russian River Valley to exploring the magnificent redwood tree groves, there’s something for everyone in Santa Rosa.

You can stroll through Bohemian-style art galleries, sample small-batch chocolates, or take a stroll along the Sonoma County coastline!

With plenty of outdoor activities and attractions, this destination is sure to be an adventure you’ll never forget.

16. Mendocino National Forest

Travel time from Sacramento to Mendocino National Forest : (1 hr 47 min) 113 miles Google Maps

Exploring Mendocino National Forest on a day trip from Sacramento is an exciting adventure that should not be missed.

From breathtaking views of Lake Pillsbury and lovely scenes of Gracemdale to majestic snow-capped mountains, the natural beauty of this spot will take your breath away.

Within the peaceful confines of the forest, you can meander along trails bordered by vivid blue wildflowers while keeping an eye out for red-tailed hawks flying high above.

For those in search of some fun activities, there are plenty of options available, including fishing, kayaking, and camping.

This special destination won’t disappoint as a perfect day trip from Sacramento, promising a unique opportunity to explore California’s forests up close and personal!

17. Columbia State Historic Park

Travel time from Sacramento to Columbia State Historic Park: (1 hr 49 min) 93.1 miles Google Maps

Taking a day trip from Sacramento to Columbia State Historic Park is an exciting excursion perfect for the whole family.

Having experienced the history of gold rush-era California, it is easy to imagine the bustling activity that took place during this time period.

You’ll have the opportunity to explore an old mining town complete with shops, saloons, and other buildings still standing in much of their former grandeur.

As you meander through these streets, let your imagination run as wide as the great Sierra Nevada mountains around you.

Don’t forget to bring your camera for some great shots—you won’t want to miss out on capturing this unique slice of Californian history!

18. Point Reyes National Seashore

Travel time from Sacramento to Point Reyes National Seashore : (1 hour 50 minutes) 96.6 miles Google Maps

Sacramento is perfect for a day trip to Point Reyes National Seashore!

Located just over an hour away from the capital city, Point Reyes is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Take in stunning views of cliffs and coastlines as you hike along the trails, keeping an eye out for local animal life such as whales and raptors.

Pack a picnic lunch or head over to any of the delicious seafood restaurants that dot the shoreline.

With its calm beaches, rugged bluffs, rolling hills, and extensive forests, it’s no wonder why Point Reyes National Seashore has become one of California’s most popular destinations!

19. Lake Tahoe

Travel time from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe : (1 hour 58 minutes) 113 miles Google Maps

A day trip from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe is an amazing way to experience one of nature’s greatest masterpieces!

You’ll have the opportunity to take in the stunning views of the majestic lake while hiking or skiing down its slopes.

The wildlife of the surrounding area is sure to delight, with deer, eagles, and other creatures often visible during a visit.

No matter what time of year, you can find something thrilling in this slice of paradise, be it splashing through whitewater rapids or simply enjoying a lakeside picnic lunch.

A day trip from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe offers a memorable and exciting experience that won’t soon be forgotten!

20. San Jose

Travel time from Sacramento to San Jose : (2 hours 1 minute) 120 miles Google Maps

For a delightful and adventurous day away from home, consider a day trip to San Jose from Sacramento.

From beautiful vineyards to eclectic local eateries to swaying palm trees and playgrounds, a day spent exploring the capital of Silicon Valley will be filled with joy and curiosity.

Start your morning at one of the area’s quaint breakfast spots, then head over for some shopping and sightseeing.

Don’t forget to take pictures of the picturesque landmarks! And when you are ready for lunch, San Jose offers plenty of restaurants featuring all sorts of cuisines.

A day trip from Sacramento to San Jose is an ideal way to have an exciting yet relaxing getaway!

21. Bodega Bay

Travel time from Sacramento to Bodega Bay: 2 hours 10 minutes (110 miles) Google Maps

Daycations are the perfect way to escape the city without taking up too much vacation time, and a trip from Sacramento to Bodega Bay is no exception.

Located just over two hours away, this coastal paradise promises days filled with activities like fishing, kayaking, and beachcombing–all with breathtaking views of the rocky coast.

A fun-filled day in beautiful scenery should be an indulgence for everyone.

From early morning hikes amidst amazing wildlife to pairing a tasty picnic lunch at one of the area’s many cozy restaurants overlooking the sea, why not treat yourself?

A day trip from Sacramento to Bodega Bay will undoubtedly provide all you need for a weekend adventure in nature that won’t break the bank.

22. Sonoma Coast

Travel time from Sacramento to Sonoma Coast : (2 hours 13 minutes) 111 miles Google Maps

A day trip from Sacramento to the Sonoma Coast is the perfect way to get away and explore beautiful nature.

For those who love outdoor adventures, pack a picnic lunch and soak up the stunning views while trekking along the magnificent coastlines.

Spend some time fishing in the ocean, watching wildlife, and exploring the unique landscape of the Sonoma Coast, which includes rolling hillsides filled with luscious forests and rugged mountain peaks that are lined with breathtaking beaches.

Make sure to take some time to relax as you stroll through quaint seaside towns that offer delicious cuisine and local art galleries.

A day trip from Sacramento to the Sonoma Coast promises an unforgettable experience filled with adventure and relaxation!

23. Half Moon Bay

Travel time from Sacramento to Half Moon Bay: (2 hr 19 min) 114 miles Google Maps

A day trip from Sacramento to Half Moon Bay is an enchanting journey!

Traveling through the Central Valley, you can experience a wide variety of natural beauty – from rolling hills to towering mountains, and everywhere in between.

Make sure you hit up some local stops along the way, like the Oakdale Cheese Factory for fresh, homemade treats, or view the Tranquility Mosaic to learn how this amazing piece of art restored solace to a community.

Once arriving at Half Moon Bay, take a stroll down Miramar Beach or visit Pillar Point for stunning views and potential whale sightings, as majestic marine life often passes through these parts.

With so much to explore along your route, it’s no wonder why a day trip from Sacramento to Half Moon Bay is one of the most popular getaways around!

Travel time from Sacramento to Reno : (2 hours 22 minutes) 135 miles Google Maps

Taking a day trip from Sacramento to Reno is always an exciting and fun adventure.

Start your morning off with a scenic drive up Interstate 80, with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Then, when you get to Reno, take some time to explore all that the Biggest Little City in the World has to offer—ride a rollercoaster at one of the many amusement parks, or take an hour-long ride on a paddle boat around Lake Tahoe.

With all these activities and the culture of Reno, it’s no wonder why this destination makes for an unforgettable day trip from Sacramento.

25. Yosemite National Park

Travel time from Sacramento to Yosemite National Park : (2 hours 47 minutes) 141 miles Google Maps

Ready for an adventurous day in nature?

A day trip from Sacramento to Yosemite National Park is the perfect way to explore the great outdoors and forget your worries.

With miles of trails and breathtaking views, Yosemite offers something for everyone looking for an adventure-filled retreat.

Hike through lush landscapes, take a selfie at iconic viewpoints like Glacier Point, and get lost under a blanket of stars at night.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a weekend explorer, there’s plenty here to excite even the most experienced outdoor enthusiast.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a fantastic escape in California’s crown jewel of natural glory!

26. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Travel time from Sacramento to Lassen Volcanic National Park: (3 hours (192 miles) Google Maps

If you’re looking for a perfect day trip from Sacramento, then Lassen Volcanic National Park is it!

Surrounded by gorgeous forests and grasslands, Lassen Park has geothermal springs, boiling mud pots, and excellent trails for your daily dose of adventure.

You’ll get breathtaking views of snow-covered slopes reminiscent of an icy winter even in the middle of summer!

Make sure to pack snacks and water, as the nearest town lies 20 miles away.

To make a full day out of it, hike the peak trail or relax at Manzanita Lake.

Whether you choose to go solo or with friends and family, leave your worries at home and be ready to experience a variety of splendid sights along the way!

Get Our Latest Articles

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to get our latest tips and travel adventures right in your inbox.

Recent Posts

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Surfing Beaches in California

30 Beautiful Lakes in California: Nature’s Tranquil Escapes

Exploring Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks: Your Ultimate Guide to the Finest Experiences

25 Ocean & Beachfront Hotels in San Diego for Your Coastal Getaway

22 Best Places to See Wildflowers in California (South + North)

23 Fun & Exciting Things to Do in Yosemite National Park: Unleash Your Inner Explorer

Privacy Policy | Sitemap

11 Irresistible Day Trips from Sacramento: Day Escapes to Cities, Parks, and Lakes

From San Francisco to Folsom and Lake Tahoe, there is no shortage of irresistible day trips and weekend getaways from Sacramento. The closest destinations, located less than an hour away, take care of the immediate surroundings of the city. The day trips within 2-3-hour drive from Sacramento introduce you to central and northern California and some parts of Nevada .

Last updated: November 23, 2022

11 Irresistible Day Trips from Sacramento: Day Escapes and Weekend Getaways to Cities, Parks, and Lakes

One of the most underrated cities in California, Sacramento impresses with its rich cultural heritage, green parks, and exceptional dining options. Sadly, due to its role as California’s capital, for many people the city still remains solely the residence of state government and justice. Things slowly turn around, though. As a result, Sacramento gradually comes out of the shadows of other popular destinations in California and attracts its own kind of visitors.

Those who choose to reside or visit Sacramento gush about its Cesar Chavez Plaza, the California State Capitol Museum, and Old Sacramento. Many others can’t stop praising Sacramento for its convenient location that allows for a myriad of the unforgettable day trips. Whether you are in need of escape to nature or another epic city break , these 11 day trips and weekend getaways from Sacramento got you covered .

TIP: The key to a successful road trip lies in a reliable car. In Southern and Central California, you will see us driving our own car. When we travel beyond this region, renting a car is a must. If you’re looking for a place to rent a car in Sacramento, you may want to check out DiscoverCars.com .

HERE ARE THE BEST DAY TRIPS AND WEEKEND GETAWAYS FROM SACRAMENTO YOU SHOULD GO ON

San francisco.

1 hour 30 minutes from Sacramento

Among the best day trips from Sacramento, San Francisco is the most popular, and for a reason. Home to the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge , the city is a desiring destination for millions of people worldwide. Its steep streets, gorgeous colorful structures, and delicious food along with numerous seducing shops entertain and inspire every time.

San Francisco doesn’t cease to astound as a true appreciator of Asian art and culture. With its Chinatown , the largest Chinese community outside Asia, it instills the same love into the hearts of its visitors. In fact, you can visit San Francisco on a few day trips or weekend getaways from Sacramento just to get lost in the chaotic streets of Chinatown. Owning to endless souvenir and herbal shops, antique stores and Asian restaurants, such short visits can last a few days.

Fisherman’s Wharf is another reason to leave Sacramento for the epic day trips to San Francisco. Similar to Chinatown, it has gathered some of the best restaurants, shops, and attractions. The most popular of them are Alcatraz tours and Bay Cruises . The latter take you so close to the Golden Gate Bridge that you feel like you can touch it.

To get a feel of real San Francisco, be sure to explore some parts of this day escape on foot. So go for a morning walk in Tenderloin , North Beach , or Russian Hills and see the city before it gets busy. Keep in mind, though, such walks can tire you down quickly due to the hilly streets of the city. If you must take public transportation, stick to San Francisco’s cable cars and explore the city in style.

Napa Valley

1 hour 10 minutes from Sacramento

The closest neighbor of San Francisco, Napa Valley prepares different environment for the unforgettable day trips and weekend getaways from Sacramento. Hundreds of hillside vineyards change the familiar scenery of San Francisco and fill your days with wine tasting, gourmet restaurants, and spa-treatment centers.

For those who are indifferent to good wine, Castello di Amorosa got different kind of entertainment. Built in the 13th century traditions, this Tuscan castle entices with incredible architecture, a drawbridge over a moat, and beautiful scenery.

Undoubtably, exploring hundreds of wineries in Napa is time-consuming and asks for the multiple day trips from Sacramento. The Napa Valley Wine Train found a solution to this problem. Using restored, hundreds-year-old train cars, it spoils its visitors with a   ride though 36 miles of panoramic, vineyard-lined terrain. The train also serves as a gourmet restaurant with outstanding dishes and Napa’s signature wines.

Those who have enough of the wine and food find a temporary escape at di Rosa , an outdoor sculpture garden with more than 2,000 works. Picking up the baton of offering the most unexpected day trips from Sacramento, Robert Louis Stevenson State Park further inspires you to leave the wineries behind and immerse in untamed nature.

Good to Know: Since Napa Valley is a seasonal destination, the best time to visit it is during harvest season (August through October) or March through May. On the downside, more visitors from nearby areas, including Sacramento, want to get the most out of their day trips to the valley during this time. Thus, prices for just about everything skyrocket.

2 hours from Sacramento

Lake Tahoe calls all nature enthusiasts wishing to escape Sacramento for the irresistible day trips and weekend getaways by the lake. Located just two hours away, the place is a prime jewel in the Sierra Nevada Mountains right on the border of California and Nevada. One of the most sought-after weekend getaways, Lake Tahoe allures with its pristine beaches, gorgeous natural surroundings, crystal-clear water, and top-notch ski resorts.

Hardly any day trips from Sacramento or elsewhere in the country go by without a visit to Emerald Bay State Park . Similar in appearance to Lake Bled in Slovenia, this landmark of Lake Tahoe encompasses picturesque Fannette Island . Standing lonely in the lake, the isle can be viewed from many places along Highway 89.

Although you don’t need binoculars to see the island, Vikingsholm , a 38-room Scandinavian-style mansion, surely asks for it. The latter becomes one of the most irresistible day trips from Sacramento during the warmer months.

Read More : A Guide to Visiting South Lake Tahoe

Day Escapes from Sacramento: Bridgeport

3 hours 30 minutes from Sacramento

No distance is great for the relaxing day trips in hot springs of Bridgeport , away from the hustle and bustle of Sacramento. As the drive requires on average 3 to 4 hours, be sure to leave the state capital early in the morning. You might even want to give yourself some cushion time to take in the natural beauty of central California along the way.

Upon your arrival, shake off the tiredness from the long drive at Travertine Hot Springs . Located south of the city along Route 395, the place consists of a handful of small hot pools. The tiniest and most secluded of them allow you to enjoy the place without a soul nearby. Nothing can beat the relaxing day escapes from Sacramento than this.

The most adventurous travelers try their luck at Buckeye Hot Springs . Yet since there are only two pools, your chances of enjoying one of them by yourself are limited.

Nevertheless, the stunning views, ample hiking trails, and endless water activities at Twin Lakes offer enough reasons to leave Sacramento for the memorable day trips to Bridgeport. For a weekend getaway, add a visit to Mammoth Lakes and Mono Lake to your Bridgeport itinerary.

1 hour 50 minutes from Sacramento

City enthusiasts can’t afford to miss one or a few day trips to San Jose, nestled less than two hours away from Sacramento. One of the largest cities in northern California, San Jose is the cultural and political center of Silicon Valley. Due to its location and innovative nature, the city has earned the nickname of the “ Capital of Silicon Valley ”.

While this alone entices many daytrippers, dying to see original headquarters of Apple, Google, and HP , museums capture the hearts of art lovers. From t he Computer History Museum to The Tech Museum of Innovation , and the Intern Museum and Headquarters , San Jose fills your gap in history of computers and tech innovations.

For a day filled with unique architecture and stories about a haunted house, visit the Winchester Mystery House . The widow of Winchester Rifle started construction of the house in 1886 and 36 years and 160 rooms later, it was still not complete.

On weekends, including Fridays, the San Jose Flea Market allures with captivating stories and antique treasures. Shopping is also a great motivator to plan the short day trips from Sacramento. In San Jose, there is no better places for this activity than Santana Row .

Nature-Infused Day Trips from Sacramento: Yosemite National Park

2 hours 40 minutes from Sacramento

Yosemite National Park is always a good idea for the nature-infused day trips from Sacramento. One of the most beautiful national parks in California, the place has all one need for a day escape from the city. Thanks to its gorgeous waterfalls, scenic hikes, and towering granite monoliths, frequent travelers regard Yosemite as the ultimate playground for the outdoor enthusiasts.

While most of the park’s trails suit all visitors, the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome is the terrain for the fittest and the most adventurous weekend travelers. On the other hand, Yosemite Village is the easiest place to reach on a day trip from Sacramento. It offers incredible views of Yosemite Falls and year-round access to some of the popular hikes.

Reno, Nevada

2 hours 10 minutes from Sacramento

Although Las Vegas can hardly fall into the category of the epic day trips from Sacramento, its “stateman”, Reno, comes to rescue. Home to dozens of casinos, such as Silver Legacy , Atlantic , and Eldorado , is ensures enough of gambling fun and big hotel’s entertainment for the unforgettable day escapes and weekend getawasy from Sacramento. On another note, The National Automobile Museum welcomes all auto fans to enjoy its huge collection of more than 200 cars.

Despite its indoor-oriented nature, Reno enhances the day trips from Sacramento with a myriad of outdoor activities. First thing first, be sure to check out the River Walk , an area along the Truckee River with ample restaurants and galleries. Next, rent a bike and search for Reno’s street murals.

When you really want to get your adrenaline pumping, go rock climbing at BaseCamp Climbing Gym . The world’s largest artificial climbing wall is attached to the side of the Whitney Peak Hotel. A visit to nearby Lake Tahoe also gives you more time to enjoy nature during your day trips from Sacramento.

Eldorado National Forest

50 minutes from Sacramento

Settled less than an hour away, the Eldorado National Forest offers a much-needed escape from the bustling Sacramento. Think of a day trip filled with scenic hikes, cascading waterfalls, pine forests, glittering lakes, and fields of wildflowers.

Rugged landscape of the Mokelumne Wilderness add volcanic ridges and peaks to the panoramic idyll. This natural beauty, however, is not without flaws. Due to the rugged terrain, the trails are challenging for the majority of Sacramento’s daytrippers. Neither cars nor bicycles are allowed in this part of the Eldorado National Forest. Nevertheless, you can traverse the Mokelumne Wilderness on foot or horseback.

Similar regulations apply to the Desolation Wilderness , an area dominated by alpine forests, granite peaks, and glacial-formed valleys and lakes.

Hiking is certainly encouraged in the Eldorado National Forest. In fact, many of its trails combine walking with California’s wildflower viewing. Some not-to-be-missed routes include the Caples Creek Trail , the Lyons Creek Trail , and the Thunder Mountain Trail .

TIP: Although the bicycles are prohibited on some of the trails, you can use your two-wheeled vehicles during the day escapes from Sacramento along the Fleming Meadow Loop and near Sly Park Lake .

Short Day Trips from Sacramento: Folsom

30 minutes from Sacramento

You can’t talk about the best day trips from Sacramento without mentioning Folsom. Located just outside the state capital, this tiny city attracts with the slower pace of life and ample activities at Folsom Lake . Whether you prefer to spend a day with a book by the water or rent a paddle boat, the lake is a perfect place for all of these.

Numerous hiking trails nearby let you dive deeper into the natural beauty of the city and its surroundings. Although any path promises a lot of fun, the Johnny Cash Trail with several artworks and displays remains one of the most popular hikes among the locals and day visitors alike.

History wizards also find Folsom irresistible. For such short day trips from Sacramento, the city surprises with ample historic buildings and museums. The Folsom Prison Museum , the second oldest prison in California, and the Folsom History Museum are by far the best places to start learning about the history of the place on a day trip from the capital of California.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

2 hours 50 minutes from Sacramento

Known as one of the most beautiful beach cities in California, Carmel-by-the-Sea brings a big change to the typical day trips from Sacramento. Apart from incredible museums and galleries along with fairytale cottages, the place is a gateway to the rugged California coastline.

For those who want to stay closer to the city, Carmel Beach offers its rocky bluffs, cypress trees, and beautiful scenery to feast your eyes on.

The 17-Mile Drive takes you a bit farther away from Carmel, asking to plan your day escape or weekend getaway from Sacramento early in the morning. This coastal scenic drive allows you to admire the California Coast all the way to Lover’s Point Park .

Day Trips from Sacramento: Big Sur

3 hours 20 minutes from Sacramento

Drive for about 40 minute south of Carmel-by-the-Sea to reach Big Sur , one of the most gorgeous day trips from Sacramento on our list. The place is world-famous for its winding turns, seaside cliffs, and scenic views. Its pristine beaches, hidden coves, and picturesque waterfalls has earned Big Sur the fame of one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.

The whole place is remarkable and asks for numerous day escapes from Sacramento. However, there are some places you want to explore deeper. Thus, plan on checking out the spectacular rock formations and bluffs of Pfeiffer Beach.

For diving into turquoise waters and enjoying the tucked away coves, there is no better place than Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park . And certainly, no trip to Big Sur is complete without admiring the famous vistas of the Bixby Creek Bridge .

TIP: You can spend the entire day exploring Big Sur or combine your trip with a visit to Carmel-by-the-Sea. Either way, it promises to take your breath away. Moreover, it has all the chances to become one of your favorite day trips and weekend getaways from Sacramento.

• 10 Best Day Trips from Los Angeles for Nature Lovers
• 14 Incredible Day Trips from Santa Barbara
• The 10 Best Day Trips from Medford, Oregon
• 12 Irresistible Day Trips from Boise, Idaho
• 18 Irresistible Day Trips from San Diego: Beaches, Deserts, Mountains, and More
• 12 Incredible Day Trips from Las Vegas: Excursions into Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and California

If you liked these day trips and weekend getaways from Sacramento, don’t forget to pin this post for later and share with your friends.

You may also enjoy:

Lake haiyaha hike in rocky mountain national park – a moderate trail with scenic views, the 7 most photographed places in big sur, ca, your perfect 6-day arizona road trip itinerary: page, flagstaff, sedona, and grand canyon, how to spend one day in hollywood, the busiest neighborhood in los angeles, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Get in touch

Sign up for newsletter.

Join Roads and Destinations' mailing list and get new blog updates, upcoming events, and exclusive travel resourses.

• Last Updated On
• August 26, 2023

35 Best Weekend Getaways From Sacramento — Quick Trips!

Ah, Sacramento, the lush City of Trees. 

Living here in California, you grow to love its comforting embrace. 

But even a local like me, who’s soaked up every inch of its charm, yearns for a change of scenery once in a while.

That’s where the best weekend getaways from Sacramento come into play. 

I’ve trekked through these nearby wonderlands, be it the whispers of history, the pulse of thrilling adventures, or the soothing touch of nature’s wild. 

Magnificent cities and thrilling attractions lie in wait, each holding a treasure chest of memories.

So, grab your family, sling those bags into the trunk, and ready those cameras. 

You’re about to embark on some unforgettable journeys. 

They’re trips I’ve taken and ones you’ll want to relive again and again.

Read on, and plan a fun weekend getaway from Sacramento to remember.

Best Weekend Getaways From Sacramento Compared

Ready to escape the hustle and bustle? 

Check out this list of the ultimate weekend getaways from Sacramento.

Editor’s Choice

The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

This place offers a blend of elegance and comfort that’s hard to beat.

• Room Variety: 5/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 5/5
• Location: 4/5
• Affordability: 2/5
• Family-Friendliness: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Hotel Yountville

Hotel Yountville is like a warm hug wrapped in luxury.

• Room Variety: 4/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 4/5
• Location: 5/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Family-Friendliness: 3/5

#3rd Best Choice

Kimpton Alton Hotel, an IHG Hotel

The Kimpton Alton Hotel in San Francisco is like a breath of fresh air in the bustling city.

Here are top 35 weekend getaways from Sacramento.

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay (Editor’s Choice)

1 Miramontes Point Rd Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 (650) 712-7000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Luxury redefined: Indulge in lavish rooms and top-notch amenities that define luxury at its finest. From plush bedding to stunning ocean views, it’s a treat for the senses.
• Impeccable service: The staff’s attention to detail and personalized service create a memorable experience. 
• Pricey paradise: The luxury comes with a cost. It’s on the higher end of the price spectrum, which might make budget-conscious travelers think twice.
• Limited affordability: While the hotel excels in luxury, it might not be the best fit for travelers seeking a more budget-friendly option.

Seeking a coastal escape that’s both luxurious and family-friendly?

The Ritz-Carlton in Half Moon Bay is calling your name. 

This place offers a blend of elegance and comfort that’s hard to beat. 

Imagine sipping a warm latte and watching the waves while the kiddos explore the beach. 

The spa? 

A dream. 

And the golf courses? 

Top-notch. 

The Ritz-Carlton wraps you in a warm, stylish embrace that feels like home—only better.

2. Hotel Yountville

6462 Washington St Yountville, CA 94599 (707) 967-7900 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Vineyard vibes: Nestled amidst vineyards, this hotel offers wine enthusiasts and nature lovers a picturesque setting. 
• Charming retreat: The cozy ambiance and boutique-style charm create a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s an ideal escape for anyone looking for a romantic getaway.
• Mid-range prices: While not as expensive as some luxury hotels, Hotel Yountville is still in the mid-range in terms of affordability, which might not suit those on a tight budget.
• Family limitations: The hotel’s intimate size and romantic setting might not be the best fit for families with energetic kids in tow.

Hotel Yountville is like a warm hug wrapped in luxury. 

The hotel takes its charm up a notch with its cozy fireplaces and private patios.

Nothing can beat sipping wine with your loved ones, surrounded by lush vineyards. 

Other places might have the glitz, but here, you’ll find the soul.

It’s the perfect blend of elegance and homey comfort that makes you feel like you belong.

It offers a romantic weekend getaway like no other.

3. Kimpton Alton Hotel, an IHG Hotel

2700 Jones St San Francisco, CA 94133 (415) 771-9000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Urban oasis: Positioned in a vibrant metropolitan area, the hotel offers easy access to local attractions and entertainment.
• Pet-friendly approach: If you’re traveling with a furry friend, this hotel’s pet-friendly policies and amenities will ensure your four-legged companion feels just as welcome.
• Affordability tug-of-war: While it’s not the most expensive option, the balance between comfort and price might leave some guests seeking more value for their dollar.
• Family-Friendliness: Although family-friendly, the hotel’s focus on urban exploration might not provide as much family-oriented recreation as other options.

The Kimpton Alton Hotel in San Francisco is like a breath of fresh air in the bustling city. 

Other hotels might dazzle with glitz, but it offers a cozy, family-friendly vibe perfect for your tribe. 

You’ll find spacious rooms and a staff that treats you like family. 

It’s located right in Fisherman’s Wharf, so you’re never far from the city’s charm. 

Compared to the more commercial spots, this place gives you that home-away-from-home feel.

Also See: Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles Weekend Trips From San Francisco

4. Apple Hill

2952 Carson Rd #1 Placerville, CA 95667 (530) 644-7692 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Apple Hill is an apple-growing community near Placerville in the Sierra foothills.

Apple Hill, only under an hour away, is more than just apple orchards.

There’s more to do for everyone, especially if you’re looking for short trips from Sacramento .

Sample beautiful wines from local vineyards, enjoy a picnic amidst scenic views and more.

Autumn is one of the best times to visit for fresh fruits, veggies, and baked goods.

Enjoy picking apples directly off the tree, delectable jams, and portions of homemade pie.

Also, check out the wineries and vineyards with some of the best wine grapes in the region.

If you’re looking for the best romantic getaways from Sacramento, it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon date.

Recommended Hotel: Historic Cary House Hotel

Auburn, CA (530) 823-4211 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Auburn is a city in and the county seat of Placer County.

Are you looking for places to go for a weekend trip near you?

Auburn, just 34 minutes away from Sacramento, is a glittering choice.

It is a picturesque, tiny California town founded during the Gold Rush of the 1800s.

If you’re looking for a place to stay overnight, consider the Super 8 by Wyndham Auburn.

It’s a budget-friendly, modern hotel with all the services you need for a pleasant stay.

Josephine’s is an expensive, stylish French bistro-style restaurant.

Check out the daily chalkboard menu for seasonal specials.

On to the more important stuff: Auburn’s history.

Visit the museums dedicated to telling the tale of its stormy past and vibrant present.

One of them is the Gold Rush Museum in the historic downtown Auburn Depot Building.

The place is filled with interactive exhibits, and there’s a recreation of a mining tunnel.

You can practice gold panning and take pictures holding your treasure.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Auburn, an IHG Hotel

Related: Hotels in Sacramento

6. Brannan Island State Recreation Area

17645 CA-160 Rio Vista, CA 94571 (916) 777-4004 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Brannan Island State Recreation Area is a state park preserving a network of waterways.

Have you been fantasizing about a weekend trip surrounded by water?

Brannan is not exactly an island, but it is surrounded by water on three sides.

It is only under an hour away and offers both outdoor and water activities for tourists.

Boating and water skiing are great options, and the flooded island offers good fishing.

Camping is a popular activity for those who prefer to spend their weekends mostly on land.

Rent trailers or RVs up to 36 feet, or just drive and bring tents, clothes, food, and necessities.

Each location has tables, cookers, showers, toilets, and drinking water.

There is no need to bring too many items from home.

Enjoy a weekend filled with precious memories as you commune with nature and your family.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Delta Inn & Suites

7. The California State Railroad Museum

125 I St Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 445-7387 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The California State Railroad Museum is a world-class homage to the railroad’s role.

Too busy for long weekend trips from Sacramento?

If you’re looking for a quick getaway, Sacramento is already filled with options.

One of them is the California State Railroad Museum, only 3 minutes from downtown.

It’s a terrific place to stop in between places, especially if you’re on your way somewhere else.

The California State Railroad Museum was created to commemorate the railroad’s significance.

Visit the museum and ride the trains along the Sacramento River with your little railfan.

Explore the area’s model trains, exhibitions, and actual locomotives afterward.

Every section is fun and educational, and you’ll feel the time fly by, much like a train ride.

No need to worry about last minute weekend getaways from Sacramento.

Have one without even leaving the city.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Regency Sacramento

Also See: Weekend Getaways From San Diego Best Weekend Getaways Near San Jose

Davis, CA (530) 212-0683 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Davis is the most populous city in Yolo County, California.

If you’re an avid traveler, you know that good deals are a factor when planning a trip.

So if you’re looking for inexpensive weekend getaways near Sacramento, consider Davis.

Davis is a pleasant city recognized for its natural surroundings and unique wildlife.

Fun things to do and beautiful sights to see—mostly free for everyone—patiently await.

It’s also recognized as a bicycle-friendly community, and you can explore its splendor by bike.

No gas, no admission fees, just pure enjoyment, and adventure.

After your bike ride, shop for fresh produce at the Davis Farmers Market.

Alternatively, see the colorful gardens at Häagen-Dazs Honey Bee Haven.

There’s no ice cream here, but you can see plants, flowers, and bee species for free.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt House Davis

9. Donner Memorial State Park

12593 Donner Pass Rd Truckee, CA 96161 (530) 582-7892 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Donner Memorial State Park is located in the scenic Sierra Nevada mountain range.

It’s simply a 1 hour, 47-minute journey to another campground for the entire family.

Donner Memorial State Park Campground is one of the best places to camp in California.

It’s a terrific experience for all ages because of its excellent facilities and magnificent lake.

Swimming, fishing, boating, and waterskiing are available for those who enjoy the water.

Furthermore, the park rangers are knowledgeable about the Donner Party’s tragic history.

You can count on them to accurately depict former events and the lives lost.

As a bonus, there’s no admission fee—you only have to pay for parking.

Recommended Hotel: Truckee Donner Lodge

Related: Weekend Vacations in California

10. Emerald Bay State Park

138 Emerald Bay Rd South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 (530) 541-3030 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Emerald Bay State Park was landmarked in 1994 for its glacier-carved granite.

Visit Lake Tahoe’s gorgeous bay however you like: on foot, by boat, or by flippers.

Emerald Bay State Park, only two hours away, is Lake Tahoe’s crown jewel.

It’s an oasis of brilliant colors set against a stunning mountain backdrop.

Hiking, biking, and water sports are just a few available activities.

One of the most prominent sites to look for is Inspiration Point.

It’s a lookout point with a view of a lake and a Scandinavian 1920s castle.

Bring your camera to capture the spectacular environment and old Fannette Island.

Book a private yacht with Lake Tahoe Boat Rides if you’re feeling the “main character” vibes.

Along the trip, the captain will share some historical information about the area.

Last but not least, the underwater Emerald Bay Maritime Heritage Trail will satisfy the intrepid.

Visitors can follow an underwater “trail” of watery burials using dive or snorkeling equipment.

Consider Emerald Bay for the weekend, and trust us, you won’t be making a grave mistake.

See what we did there?

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Azure

11. Empire Mine State Historic Park

10791 E Empire St Grass Valley, CA 95945 (530) 273-8522 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Empire Mine State Historic Park is the site of one of California’s oldest and richest gold mines.

Care to drive an hour to see an authentic and well-preserved gold rush mine?

This mansion and its underground are only a short drive from Sacramento.

Begin by getting directions and learning about the museum’s history at the visitor’s center.

Next, see the real shaft for a brief glimpse into the 367-mile-long underground labyrinth.

If you prefer an informative tour, choose guided tours (included in the admission charge).

If you’re only doing a quick trip and can’t make reservations, you could also self-tour.

This is a fascinating place to visit, with picnic areas and a walking trail to stretch your legs.

Recommended Hotel: Gold Miners Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection

Also See: Weekend Getaways From Orange County, CA

12. Folsom Lake

7755 Folsom-Auburn Rd Folsom, CA 95630 (916) 988-0205 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Folsom Lake is known for its bass, rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and catfish populations.

Spend the weekend exploring the great outdoors nearby with your family (or just yourself).

Folsom Lake is a haven for outdoor activities and adventure, with a plethora of things to do.

One particular place to go is the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, just 32 minutes away.

This beautiful waterside paradise near the Sierra Foothills has several swimming spots.

Boating, jet skiing, canoeing, and windsurfing are also popular activities.

If you enjoy being on foot, there are over 95 miles of hiking paths to explore.

Don’t forget to enjoy nature and spot some towering blue oaks and gray foxes.

When searching for places near Sacramento for vacation, put Folsom Lake at the top of the list.

Recommended Hotel: Larkspur Landing Folsom-An All-Suite Hotel

13. The Locke Historic District

Locke Walnut Grove, CA 95690 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Locke is known for being the only town in the United States built by the Chinese.

Locke Historic District is a little village on Highway 160 along the levee.

And by little, we mean a 75-person community only 32 minutes from Sacramento.

Yes, it’s small, but it’s also historically significant and still has fascinating attractions for visitors.

Like any other town, Locke features restaurants, hotels, a theater, and a gambling hall.

The Dai Loi Museum contains gambling memorabilia from the town’s gambling house.

If you get hungry, Al the Wops is a casual restaurant and bar available seven days a week.

It’s famous for its great steaks and pasta, and its small-town charm is intimate.

It’s a great place to consider if you’re looking for an exciting weekend visit.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Elk Grove West I-5, an IHG Hotel

14. Jelly Belly Factory Tours

1 Jelly Belly Ln Fairfield, CA 94533 (707) 428-2838 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Jelly Belly is a retail store featuring famous jelly beans in creative flavors.

There is never a shortage of things to do in California.

And the Jelly Belly Factory Tours only add to the excitement for visitors of all ages.

It’s located at 1 Jelly Belly Lane in Fairfield, approximately 47 minutes from Sacramento.

The Jelly Belly Factory Tour is a free forty-minute tour showing how jelly beans are made.

Here’s a rainbow-colored utopia reminiscent of Willy Wonka’s (sadly, without Oompa Loompas).

The experience itself is rich with sensory delights such as sights, smells, and sounds.

Furthermore, the tour is free, making it an excellent choice for frugal families visiting.

Next, you’ll be led to the candy store, where you can purchase as many jelly beans as you like.

As a bonus for parents, Napa Valley is only a short drive away from the Jelly Belly Factory.

Adults who enjoy wine tasting can continue to the vineyards to wind down.

Include this quick and easy tour when planning cheap vacations from Sacramento.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard Fairfield Napa Valley Area

15. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, US (530) 581-6900 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Lake Tahoe is only 2 hours away and is a wonderful sight to behold.

Numerous tourists are drawn by the beauty of its crystal-clear waters every year.

Everything is surrounded by picture-worthy, snow-capped mountains and tall pine trees.

There are hundreds of miles to explore and many more outdoor and water activities.

Hike, swim, picnic, take guided tours, camp, kayak, or sightsee your way around.

Basecamp is beautiful and inexpensive for outdoor adventurers seeking lodging.

It’s a green boutique hotel with bunk beds or a huge canvas tent.

The Cottage Inn is a more romantic option with its quaint, rustic accommodations.

Always start the day at a Tahoe cafe, notably Clyde’s Coffee Roasting Company.

It serves wonderful fresh-roasted coffee to jumpstart your weekend.

Recommended Hotel: The Landing Resort and Spa

Lodi, CA (209) 333-6700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lodi is known as a major wine-producing region in Northern California

Lodi is located in the heart of the Central Valley and is only 38 minutes away.

Because of its location, the city is blessed with glorious sunny days.

Together with a dry climate, it provides excellent potential for winemaking.

If you’re planning a romantic weekend getaway, wine tasting is always a great idea.

But that’s not all there is to Lodi.

Other attractions await curious and daring visitors in the city.

Lodi has something for everyone, from kayaking and biking to wandering in parks.

Visit Micke Grove Zoo to see exotic animals or the Lodi Wine Visitor Center to learn about wine.

Don’t forget to connect with the locals at the Lodi Farmers’ Market and discover new recipes.

Recommended Hotel: Wine & Roses Hotel Restaurant Spa Lodi

17. Murphys

Murphys, CA (209) 728-8471 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Murphys is located in Calaveras County, in the Sierra Nevada foothills.

Murphys is not only a great place to unwind, but it also houses California’s historic sites.

Only an hour and a half away, this city has a rich mining history and is brimming with elegance.

For those who want to taste small-town life, visit during a summer weekend.

It’s when you can spend days enjoying live music, culinary tastings, and fun concert series.

Families can enjoy various shopping, sightseeing, and historical gold rush attractions.

Consider Murphys for a weekend away from the sandy beaches and draining outdoor activities.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Cedar Inn & Suites

18. Napa Valley

Napa Valley, CA (707) 226-5813 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Napa Valley is one of the world’s premier wine regions, boasting over 400 wineries.

Napa Valley, California’s lovely wine valley, is about an hour away from Sacramento.

With its wineries and Michelin-starred restaurants, it has everything you need for a vacation.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, consider the Four Seasons Resort and Residences.

Cool off at one of their pools or enjoy the mountain and vineyard vistas.

Of course, wine tasting is required, and for that, we recommend Far Niente Winery.

It’s a beautiful Oakville winery specializing in cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay.

You’ll also appreciate its verdant gardens with 65,000 plants, oak trees, and redwoods.

Recommended Hotel: Embassy Suites by Hilton Napa Valley

19. Nevada City

Nevada City, CA (530) 265-2496 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Nevada City is Nevada County’s county seat, located 60 miles northeast of Sacramento.

A relaxed historic downtown; tall, evergreen pine trees; and brisk mountain air.

All of those—and more—can be found only after an hour’s drive from Sacramento.

Nevada City is California’s best surviving Gold Rush town.

If you want to visit the mountains but avoid the crowds, this is the place to go.

It’s packed with locals and tourists trying to escape the bustling Bay Area.

There are not just pine forests, pure air, rolling hills, and streams, but it is also quite rustic.

Wander around Nevada City’s historic Broad Street to discover its historic treasures.

There are century-old structures, ancient mining equipment, and red brick stores.

Cool off in the South Yuba River for a dreamy, picturesque experience.

It’s a beautiful blue river with boulders in the middle of the forest, like something out of a movie.

Alternatively, hike the Deer Creek Tribute Trail with a group for a more “out there” trip.

The vista is breathtaking as you go through the forest on a suspension bridge.

Recommended Hotel: Grass Valley Courtyard Suites

20. Oakland

Oakland, CA (510) 839-9000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Oakland is the largest city in Alameda County, located along San Francisco’s East Bay.

When you visit Oakland, try not to be overwhelmed by how much it offers.

Oakland is only an hour away and has so much variety that you’ll have difficulty keeping up.

Its population speaks over 125 languages, and its restaurants are Michelin-starred.

There are also several neighborhoods, a redwood forest, and 19 miles of coastline.

Visit Lake Merritt after breakfast and spend the day sightseeing.

Stroll, jog, paddle, take a gondola ride, or take a detour to Children’s Fairyland.

Your kids will love this storybook theme park (one of the earliest “themed” amusement parks).

Continue your journey in Chinatown to see Three Thirty Three Arts’ fearsome dragon murals.

Don’t forget to try authentic Chinese cuisine for the best dumplings and fortune cookies.

If you want to see new places and try new delicacies, pack your bags and head to Oakland.

Recommended Hotel: Oakland Marriott City Center

21. San Francisco

San Francisco, CA (415) 701-2323 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

San Francisco is Northern California’s commercial, financial, and cultural center.

When visiting California, San Francisco should be at the top of your itinerary.

Its stunning architecture, various communities, and historic landmarks are all must-sees.

There are so many things to do in San Francisco that the hard part will be choosing what to do.

One of the easiest things to do this weekend is to visit the renowned Golden Gate Bridge.

A local tip is to park at Battery Godfrey for the best views.

You can enjoy a unique perspective from here that most tourists never get to see.

Wear layers and comfortable shoes; the Golden Gate Bridge is notoriously windy.

Remember to ride the iconic cable cars and visit the only In-n-Out in San Francisco.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Nikko San Francisco

22. Placerville California

Placerville, CA (530) 642-5200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Placerville is a city in and the county seat of El Dorado County, California.

Make the most of your weekend by traveling to Placerville, 45 minutes away.

This charming village with a rich agricultural past and apple orchards has a lot to offer.

A weekend is too short to see everything, from charming attractions to exquisite wineries.

But if you’re going, here are certain things you should do.

First, take a walk down Main Street to acquire a sense of the city’s history.

The streets are dotted with 19th-century buildings, creating a picture-perfect backdrop.

A trip to Boa Vista for wine tasting is an absolute must-do too.

It boasts a winery and has its own bakery and farmers’ market.

Munch away first and avoid drinking on an empty stomach.

23. Sacramento River Delta

Sacramento River Delta, CA Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The Sacramento River Delta is an expansive inland river delta in Northern California.

Sacramento area weekend getaways would be incomplete without a stop at the Delta.

It is only an hour away from Sacramento and offers a variety of enjoyable outdoor activities.

Water views and activities are a given, with hundreds of miles of navigable waterways.

The activities include fishing, boating, dining, camping, wine tasting, and sightseeing.

Consider Grand Island Mansion for lunch after all that water fun.

Once the area’s largest mansion, it now functions as an upscale dining venue.

Enjoy a champagne Sunday brunch and indulge in the delicious and filling buffet.

Have a hassle-free trip without going far, as it is already one of the getaways in Sacramento.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburg

24. Sonoma Valley Road Trip

Sonoma, CA (707) 996-1090 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Sonoma is a historic city at the heart of the renowned Sonoma Valley winemaking region.

There’s so much more to Sonoma than just wine.

Discover what more it offers in just an hour and a half.

Whether you enjoy history, hiking, or cooking, you’ll find something to do at any time of year.

However, if you’re looking for a weekend getaway, there’s enough to do even for a few days.

Tour Sonoma’s historic mission and barracks or cruise along gorgeous bike routes for fresh air.

Satisfy your green thumb by seeing Quarryhill Botanical Gardens’ gorgeous landscape.

It houses one of the world’s greatest collections of wild-collected Asian plants.

Or, the best activity of all could be doing nothing: relaxing at one of Sonoma’s vacation resorts.

Spend the weekend lounging and curling up in bed with a good book.

For some people (hello, introverts), it’s the perfect weekend vacation.

Recommended Hotel: MacArthur Place Inn & Spa

25. Old Faithful Geyser of California

1299 Tubbs Ln Calistoga, CA 94515 (707) 942-6463 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Old Faithful Geyser is a small, scenic geyser backdropped by palms & mountains.

After a one-hour and 35-minute drive, witness a natural wonder right in front of you.

Nature has its own stunning water show called Old Faithful Geyser of California.

Observe how the geyser consistently erupts every 15 to 30 minutes as it blows off steam.

While you wait, enjoy the tranquil and magnificent environment and do some sightseeing.

Have lunch on the picnic grounds with your family, or visit the fun petting zoo with your kids.

It is home to llamas, horned sheep, mountain goats, and other magnificent farm animals.

Finally, stop by the Geology Museum to learn everything there is to know about geysers.

Recommended Hotel: Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa

26. California Academy of Sciences

55 Music Concourse Dr San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 379-8000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The California Academy of Sciences is one of the world’s most eco-friendly natural history museums.

Travel one hour and a half for a combination of natural wonders exquisitely wrapped into one.

The California Academy of Sciences is one of the world’s largest natural history museums.

It contains a stunning array of never-before-seen primordial thrills and cosmic adventures.

It also includes brilliant gems, minerals, and living samples of rare flora and fauna.

Take a leisurely stroll through its two restaurants, gift store, and nearby garden and aviary.

There is also a scientific archive with over 20 million specimens and an impressive library.

Don’t miss the Rainforests of the World, housed within a 90-foot-diameter dome.

Enjoy being surrounded by butterflies and birds in what seems to be a tropical paradise.

Recommended Hotel: San Francisco Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels

27. Jamestown 1897 State Historic Park (Also Known As Railtown 1897 State Historic Park)

10501 Reservoir Rd Jamestown, CA 95327 (209) 984-3953 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This historic park offers seasonal excursion train rides behind a historic steam locomotive.

Only two hours away, Jamestown 1897 State Historic Park preserves California’s past.

It’s a state park featuring a still-operational steam locomotive facility dating back to 1897.

First, stop into the park’s Depot Store to pick up a free map of the park’s highlights.

There are also tours where you’ll be guided inside some vintage rail cars.

Climb onboard actual steam and diesel trains for a more immersive experience.

It will take you on a round-trip 40-minute trip through the picturesque Sierra Nevada foothills.

If you’re into historic adventures for the weekend, Jamestown is the prime destination.

Recommended Hotel: Jamestown Hotel

28. Columbia State Historic Park

22708 Broadway St Columbia, CA 95310 (209) 588-9128 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Columbia State Historic Park is one of the best-preserved towns of the mid-19th century.

If you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind experience for the weekend, look no further.

Only 1 hour and 45 minutes away is Columbia State Historic Park, a living gold rush town.

This town is incredibly well preserved, with the biggest collection of gold rush-era structures.

Trust me, there aren’t many other 19th-century Gold Rush villages as gorgeous as this.

Make the most of your visit by taking a historical guided tour of the area.

If you want to be alone, you can pick up a self-guided pamphlet from the town’s storefronts.

Gold panning lessons are reasonably priced if you want to get your hands dirty.

There is also a mining supply store, souvenirs, and gold buying and selling.

If you’re in the Mother Lode area, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Lumberjack

29. Tahoe City

Tahoe City, CA (530) 583-3348 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Tahoe City is an unincorporated town in Placer County, California.

Tahoe City is certainly the most beautiful town on the lake, and it’s only two hours away.

With its beautiful water views, it has also become a popular weekend destination.

Boating, exploring the sandy shore, and scuba diving are all popular activities.

Aside from that, it’s a one-of-a-kind winter destination.

If you’re seeking a beautiful holiday, visit its ski resorts and local ski slopes.

On any other day, hire a boat from the Tahoe City Marina or relax at Commons Beach.

Picnics and barbecues are permitted near the public playground equipment.

During the summer, performances with a diverse spectrum of musical lineups take over.

Recommended Hotel: Sunnyside Resort and Lodge

30. Guerneville

Guerneville, CA Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Guerneville is an unincorporated community in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County.

Guerneville is an excellent weekend destination, especially if you need to get away.

It’s over a 2-hour drive and provides a long weekend full of activities for a relaxing vacation.

To begin, take a loved one on a wine-tasting tour of the Russian River Valley.

Enjoy a scenic drive, great Pinot Noirs, and a lively outdoor space with bocce courts.

Remember to stop by the Iron Horse Vineyard on your way, too.

They specialize in estate-grown Chardonnays and offer stunning views of the vineyard.

Cat lovers will be pleased to learn that there is a cute resident cat for an added serotonin boost.

Recommended Hotel: Guerneville Lodge

31. Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg, CA (707) 961-2823 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Situated along Shoreline Highway, this California Historical Landmark impresses visitors with its views of the Pacific Ocean.

You’ll have to drive about 4 hours from Sacramento to reach this city via State Highway 20 E.

Fort Bragg has a lot to offer for visitors willing to stay a night or two.

Visit the lovely Fort Bragg Glass Beach with a less-than-pleasant past.

As the name suggests, the beach is studded with tiny bits of rainbow-colored sea glass.

However, this place was once a dump site, and the glasses are trash people threw in.

The sunset is unbeatable, though, and it would be such a “waste” if not photographed.

For a more joyous experience, stop by the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.

The cliff-top garden has different regions to symbolize diverse ecosystems.

It also provides ocean vistas and picnic areas for families on a day out.

Don’t miss the spectacular hanging Staghorn fern, one of the gardens’ prize items.

Recommended Hotel: North Cliff Hotel

32. Monterey

Monterey, CA (888) 221-1010 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Monterey is a city located in Monterey County on the southern edge of Monterey Bay.

Only 3 hours away is Monterey, a beautiful coastal California town.

It offers not only breathtaking lake views but also other picturesque opportunities.

For example, visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its many aquatic ecosystems.

Watch the tourist-favorite otters or the adorable penguins with their charming walks.

If you want to roam around, take a trip down Cannery Row.

It’s a row of modern structures filled with restaurants, souvenir stores, and hotels.

For a fun daytime activity with little ones, go whale watching at Monterey Bay.

They also provide guided tours, and there are many waterfront restaurants to go to for dinner.

Recommended Hotel: Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

33. Yountville

Yountville, CA (707) 944-0904 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Yountville is a city in Napa County, in the Wine Country of California.

If you want to go “extra” on your Sacramento vacations, Yountville is the destination to consider.

Most consider Yountville to be the most affluent of Napa’s viticulture districts.

It’s only about an hour away and has excellent places to stay, eat, and explore.

For starters, Yountville has the most stunning resorts for every mood.

Hotel Yountville is a breathtakingly magnificent structure constructed from river rocks.

If you get hungry, dine at the well-known French Laundry.

With its white quail and lobster galettes, it’s on almost every foodie’s bucket list.

To cap off a magical Yountville weekend, take a loved one on a hot air balloon ride.

Napa Valley Aloft offers this experience, and it’s also within walking distance of Hotel Yountville.

Several of its flights offer champagne, so passengers can sip it while floating among the clouds.

If you ask us, nothing’s more romantic than this—ideal for anniversary celebrations.

Recommended Hotel: Napa Valley Lodge

34. Mount Shasta

Mt. Shasta, CA (530) 926-4865 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Mount Shasta is a potentially active volcano at the southern end of the Cascade Range.

Looking for Sacramento weekend getaways that are out of the ordinary?

Mount Shasta is only three and a half hours away, and its attractions are beckoning.

It’s an outdoor playground for adults who want to play and enjoy the fresh, clean air.

The tiny communities beneath it provide a variety of cultural opportunities as well.

Visit the storied Mount Shasta Sisson Museum, for instance.

As one of the most underrated sights, there won’t be many people inside.

You can wander inside and discover Mount Shasta’s history.

There are also exhibit halls on lenticular clouds and Mount Shasta’s volcanoes.

Speaking of lenticular clouds, spot some of them throughout your trip.

There are no specific steps you need to take to see one.

It’s just an issue whether the conditions are favorable during your visit.

Keep an eye out for this unusual cloud formation caused by wind moving over the mountain.

They’ll appear as floating cloud disks in the sky above or near the mountain’s crest.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Tree House

35. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay, CA (650) 726-8380 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Half Moon Bay is a small city on the California coast, south of San Francisco.

Have you narrowed down your possibilities for the best weekend getaways from Sacramento?

If not, here’s a lovely seaside village less than two hours away.

Half Moon Bay is a peaceful, foggy city with beautiful coastline paths.

Even when it’s foggy, the views of the beaches are spectacular.

The downtown area is quaint and full of little stores, boutiques, and eateries.

If you want a cool overnight trip, consider the San Benito House.

It’s a fantastic, budget-friendly modern hotel with old-world charm.

For lunch, head down to Pillar Point Harbor and have lunch at Sam’s Chowder House.

Bring the kids and enjoy the spectacular ocean views from the café’s windows.

Recommended Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

Getaway Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Sacramento is a great base for exploring the state’s offerings.

That said, you’re in for some fun weekend getaways from the city, and I’m thrilled to share with you my favorites.

The Ritz-Carlton in Half Moon Bay beams with pure elegance. 

Imagine sipping a warm cup of tea by a roaring fire, listening to the ocean’s gentle whisper. 

It’s a place for romance and relaxation. 

But if it’s a wine country experience you’re after, Hotel Yountville is the go-to. 

Nestled in Napa Valley, it’s the epitome of luxurious countryside charm. 

Wine tasting here is an adventure in itself.

Now, if city vibes are your thing, the Kimpton Alton Hotel in San Francisco is a real gem. 

It’s sleek, trendy, and just steps away from iconic spots. 

Comparing these destinations? 

Go after Ritz-Carlton for tranquility, Yountville for rustic luxury, and Kimpton for urban excitement. 

There’s an option for your every mood and interest.

A golden state indeed!

How I Picked The Destinations 

I’ve handpicked these incredible destinations by experiencing each and every one of them firsthand.

Part of this was delving into some serious research, including talking to locals and fellow travelers. 

As a fellow Californian, I’ve got the inside scoop on these spots. 

Whether planning a getaway or just dreaming, these curated journeys are bound to leave you with unforgettable memories. 

Our Property Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Room Variety: I use this to rate the room options offered by every property. What room types are available? Can it accommodate different budgets, group sizes, and preferences? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the property’s room variety. 
• Comfort and Cleanliness: This measures the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. Does it have comfortable beds? Are the rooms spotless and dust-free? These are important factors I consider when rating comfort and cleanliness. 
• Location: This is used to evaluate how convenient and accessible the property is. How close is it to the attractions? Are there good public transportation options near the location? Is it easily accessible for families? These questions are important when I rate the location of every accommodation. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the property’s affordability. Are the room rates reasonable? Does the property have any additional fees? Does the property offer discounts or packages? I ask myself this in order to rate affordability. 
• Family-Friendliness: This evaluates the family-friendliness of each property. Does it offer babysitting services and children’s activities? Does it have connecting rooms for families? I use these questions to rate the family-friendliness of the property. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can you suggest a wine lover’s paradise near sacramento.

Napa Valley is your go-to spot for some fantastic wine near Sacramento. Just a short drive away, it offers picturesque vineyards, wine tastings, and culinary delights. It’s a fantastic choice for a relaxing and indulgent weekend. Hotel Yountville in nearby Yountville also features a charming vineyard for wine enthusiasts.

What Are Some Recommended Coastal Getaways Near Sacramento?

Monterey’s charming coastline, world-famous aquarium, and Cannery Row offer a perfect coastal retreat near Sacramento. It’s a great escape for ocean lovers and those seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration.

Are There Lesser-Known Gems For A Weekend Getaway From Sacramento?

Lake County is a hidden gem for a weekend getaway from Sacramento. With its charming small towns, vineyards, and Clear Lake’s recreational activities, it’s a quieter escape perfect for those looking to unwind.

Are There Historical Getaways Near Sacramento Worth Exploring?

Gold Country offers an enriching historical getaway near Sacramento. Explore old mining towns, visit museums, and learn about California’s Gold Rush era. It’s an engaging and educational weekend destination.

Parting Words

We’ve just explored the twists and turns of California’s hidden and not-so-hidden treasures.

Now, it’s safe to say the best weekend getaways from Sacramento are more than just escapes.

They’re pieces of a golden puzzle that makes living in this state so rewarding. 

And if I had to crown one spot as the top choice, it would be The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. 

It’s where luxury and comfort shake hands, offering a backdrop that’s nothing short of enchanting. 

Whether you’re an adventurer or in need of a serene retreat, California’s embrace has something for everyone. 

I’ve experienced them all, and trust me—they’re worth every mile.

We’re in Myanmar right now and it’s SO epic… click here to follow along on Instagram.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » North America » USA » 14 Most EPIC Sacramento Day Trips | 2024 Guide

14 Most EPIC Sacramento Day Trips | 2024 Guide

Being the capital of California, Sacramento is a city that offers so much. It’s home to some of California’s most impressive state buildings and historic landmarks. The Old Town Center is where you can quickly transport back to another era.

Although there is enough to do in the city to keep you busy for weeks, much of the best attractions in California lie within a day trip from Sacramento. I’m talking serene nature, coastal landscapes and mountains, as well as quant mining towns reminiscent of the California Gold Rush age.

Whether you’re looking to spend some time on the American River, or go exploring the vineyards of wine country, there’s always something different and unique to discover outside this sunny Californian city.

But if you’re not sure what day trips in Sacramento to take, then you’ve come to the right place. This guide has all the best Sacramento day tips to take a full day or half day.

Go start exploring!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Getting Around Sacramento, and Beyond

Before I dive into the best day trips from this capital city, let’s chat about using the city’s transport network. Although Sacramento has an international airport of its own (SMF), most international tourists arrive in San Francisco, and travel here by train.

Amtrak , America’s most significant national train service, connects Sacramento with the rest of the country. Trains depart from the Sacramento Valley Station regularly and are an exciting mode of transport to use for day trips, like those to Lake Tahoe and San Francisco.

Once in the city, Sacramento has a safe, efficient, and affordable public transport system running throughout the central downtown region and suburbs. The SacRT operates three Light Rail Lines, on which a one-way journey will cost you $2.75 or $7 for a full-day pass.

• Blue line – runs between north and south downtown
• Green Line – runs between the River District and downtown
• Gold Line – run from downtown to East Sacramento and Folsom

There are also buses available in the city, which cover the streets and areas that the light rail doesn’t service. You can also get buses from city to city, however, there are few direct buses to some of the best nature spots.

This is why if you’re planning a few day trips in Sacramento, the best way to get around is by car. The roads are well signposted and there is minimal traffic (outside peak hours). Like most old American cities, the entire city is designed around an easy-to-navigate grid format.

Although parking isn’t super expensive, I recommend finding accommodation with free on-site parking. This is especially beneficial if you stay in the city center (which I highly advise!). If you’re planning a Californian road trip , you’ll find plenty of campsites using the IOverlander app.

If you aren’t arriving in your own car, you can rent a car at the airport or in the city using RentalCar to help you search. 

Half-Day Trips in Sacramento

If you don’t have a full day to spare traveling around California , Sacramento is conveniently located nearby a bunch of local attractions that make it easy to take a half-day trip out of the city. 

Whether you prefer a day out in nature or a visit to a historic mining town, here is my pick of Sacramento’s best half-day trips:

Auburn is a beautiful town nestled at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, just 30 minutes drive from Sacramento. You could also get here using public transport in an hour and forty-five minutes.

While it is technically defined as part of the Sacramento metropolitan area, Auburn is its own city with a very different atmosphere and a great place for a half-day trip in Sacramento.

This quaint city was built around the California Gold Rush in the 1800s and is now a dedicated Historical Landmark. There are tons of buildings and landmarks around the city that offer a taste of the gold rush period. Time seems to stand still in this historic town.

If this interests you, visit the Gold Rush Museum, which shares the history of California’s golden era with the city of Auburn at its heart. Built-in 1851, Bernhard Museum is one of the city’s oldest remaining buildings and currently displays gold rush-era items, including wagons and winemaking tools.

Grab a bite to eat and spend the afternoon wandering around Ashford Park. This gorgeous green space is always dotted with people enjoying the sunshine or walking their dogs. Overlook Park is another magnificent park worth a visit.

Suggested trip: Old-Town Auburn Walking Tour and Scavenger Hunt

History, culture, and the outdoors come together in Folsom, a small city just a short distance from Sacramento. Located at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Folsom is 30 minutes from Sacramento by car and an hour by train. It’s the ideal entry point to the alpine mountain range.

Like Auburn, the city is best known for its gold rush history and recreational environment, hitting the jackpot for history and adventure-loving travelers. Best of all, it’s a pretty easy city to explore on your own time on a half-day trip from Sacramento.

Start your day with a visit to the Historic Downtown District, which wraps around the famous Sutter Street. Here, you can view classic storefronts, opera houses, and inns like they would have looked a few hundred years ago when they were built. 

Sutter Street is a great place to grab a bite to eat, which you can enjoy while admiring authentic architecture. If the western appeal grabs your attention, visit the Folsom History Museum to learn more about the town and its founding families. 

End your day with a stroll through the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, which has over 19 thousand acres of outdoor space to explore. In fact, why not follow the historic Johnny Cash Trail, which connects the historic center with Folsom Lake?

Suggested trip: Historic Folsom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

South Fork American River

For a bit of outdoor fun and adventure, South Fork is considered one of California’s best recreational resources. Best known for its family-friendly rapids, South Fork is a section of the American River that is great for kayakers and whitewater rafters. 

The 21-mile river run has different access points with shuttles connecting them, so you can pick and choose where to join depending on what type of adventure you’re after.

Besides straight-up adventure and adrenaline, the river also holds significant historical importance for the area. The South Fork American River played an essential role in the gold rush, with the town of Coloma along the river marking the first discovery of gold in the area. 

Naturally, this event led to the greatest movement of people in the Americas at the time, changing the course of the country’s history.

The Marshall Gold Discovery State Historical Park is a great place to explore the area by foot, pan for gold, and enjoy a relaxing picnic surrounded by nature. During your Sacramento day trip, pay the information center a visit for some interpretive exhibits and information on the famed gold discovery.

Suggested trip: Half-Day Whitewater Rafting trip on South Fork

Full-Day Trips in Sacramento

Sacramento is conveniently located at the intersection of some of California’s most exciting cities, picturesque lakes, and beautiful vineyards.

If you’re ready to take some full day trips in Sacramento, then you couldn’t have picked a better spot to start from.

San Francisco

A trip to Sacramento would not be complete without visiting the great city of San Francisco, a couple of hours west of the city. Take a two-hour Amtrak train or drive an hour and a half, and you’ll arrive in one of America’s most iconic cities.

San Francisco is such a big city, it could keep you entertained for weeks on end. Do some research and choose how you want to spend your day carefully, depending on what interests you most.

The main attractions of the city are naturally the most touristy. However, they are worth checking out, even if you must battle a few queues to do so. As your first point-of-call, head straight to the Golden Gate Bridge and take in the views of the magnificent architectural feat. 

I then recommend heading to the Ferry Building, a shopping area during the week turned farmers’ market on the weekend. Here, you can catch a ferry to the infamous Alcatraz Prison on an isolated island in the bay. 

If you have the time during your day trip from Sacramento, a stroll through Union Square and around Fisherman’s Wharf is a must. You will pass plenty of restaurants and coffee shops along the way, known for serving some of the best seafood in the states.

Suggested trip: San Francisco Big Bus: Hop-on Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

Truckee 

An hour and forty minutes drive from Sacramento lies a small town with an extensive history. It’s rated as one of the best places to live in California, and for a good reason. 

The town consists of a tiny downtown area, which is easy to walk around and explore on foot. Truckee has a uniquely eerie yet romantic atmosphere, perhaps because of its wild history.

The town is known for its Native American past, the Emigrant Trail, and the tragic journey of the Donner Party, who failed to complete their trek along the trail. If you want to learn more about this band of emigrants, a visit to the Truckee Donner Historical Society will answer all your questions.

Besides its gorgeous buildings and old-time atmosphere, the town is surrounded by the best nature that California has to offer. Choose from ski resorts in winter to crystal clear lakes in the summer.

The best way to get here on a day trip from Sacramento would be on the Amtrak train. The journey runs through some incredible mountain passes by Donner Lake and takes about two and a half hours. 

Try to book a seat on the California Zephyr and sit in the viewing compartment to learn a bit about the railroad. Not to mention: the incredible views.

Napa Valley 

It’s no secret – Napa Valley is California’s most well-known premier wine region, home to some of the world’s best wineries and beautiful vineyards. 

This dreamscape lies just over one hour’s drive from Sacramento and is the perfect destination for a day trip for couples, families, or a group of friends. 

This exquisite valley is dotted with lush wineries, boasts near-perfect year-round weather, and has activities for all types of travelers.

Winetasting is a great way to taste your way through the valley, soaking up incredible views and enjoying delicious food along the way. Can you believe the valley is home to over 400 wineries and tasting rooms?!

However, if you’re taking a day trip in Sacramento with young kids, there are plenty of activities that don’t include wine. Experience a thriving downtown scene in downtown Napa, which is undeniably the heart and soul of the region. 

This quaint town is packed with eateries, boutique shops, and galleries that could keep you occupied for days on end.

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, join a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the valley. There is no better way to see this gorgeous wine country than from above.

Suggested trip: 9 Hour Napa Valley Wine Tasting Tour

Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort, Lake Tahoe 

One of the main attractions of Sacramento (for me, at least) is that it’s ideally located between the Pacific Ocean and some of the best skiing mountains in California. Just a quick two-hour drive from the city, Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort is one of the top advanced mountains in North Lake Tahoe.

The resort lies in the famed Olympic Valley, which earned its name for hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics. Since then, the mountain has become somewhat of a mecca for the world’s best skiers and is recognized as California’s most iconic ski resort. 

While Palisades Tahoe offers more slopes for advanced mountain riders, beginners can visit the neighboring resort, Alpine Meadows, for a more casual environment. In fact, the co-owned resorts will soon be joined by the Peak-to-Peak gondola so that you can ski both in one day. 

Those who visit in summer will have just as much to get excited about, including incredible hiking and biking trails and golf resorts. 

This resort is also perfectly positioned just a 20-minute drive between Truckee and Tahoe City, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Tahoe. This makes it easy to combine your day trip in Sacramento with a visit to Lake Tahoe or Truckee.

Curious to learn more? You can find epic accommodations in South Lake Tahoe neighborhoods. You’re sure to have the best stay!

Emerald Bay State Park, Lake Tahoe 

Plastered across the screensavers of computers worldwide, Lake Tahoe is easily one of the most beautiful places in the world.

However, the lake is extensive, and it can be hard to find the best beaches and viewpoints without a bit of local knowledge.

Well, the most picturesque (albeit popular) spot along the lake shore is, without a doubt, Emerald Bay, a cove located at the south end of the lake. It will take just over two hours to get to this crown jewel of Lake Tahoe from Sacramento. 

The entire bay is a National Natural Landmark, featuring the spectacular Eagle Falls waterfalls, Fannette Island, and the iconic Vikingsholm castle. 

Follow the Rubicon Hiking Trail to access the best of Emerald Bays’ beaches. It will cost you $10 to enter the park – totally worth it. The crystal clear water at Secret Cove and Lester Beach gives the tropics a run for their money.

During the summer, sailing and motor boats can be seen docked off the shoreline. This time of year is popular for boating sports, kayaking, swimming, and canoeing. Surrounded by snow-capped alpine peaks and snow-dusted tree tops in winter, this is a gorgeous place to visit year-round. 

Suggested trip: South Lake Tahoe: Sightseeing Cruise on Emerald Bay

Coloma and Camino, El Dorado County

From adventurous white water rapid rafting to local farm stalls to world-class restaurants, El Dorado is one of the most beautiful spots for a day trip from Sacramento in Northern California.

If I had to describe this county in one word, it would be ‘wholesome’. It’s one of the most naturally beautiful and diverse regions to visit, spanning thousands of square miles across mountain ranges, rivers, and rustic mining towns. 

Considered a year-round vacation destination, El Dorado has something to offer every type of traveler. In fact, South Lake Tahoe is a part of this diverse county. So, for something a bit different, visit the mining towns of Coloma and Camino. 

With under 1000 permanent residents, Coloma is one of California’s hidden gems. Coloma is a top location for a thrilling outdoor whitewater rafting adventure. While you’re here, don’t skip out on a hike along the South Form American River Trail and the Cronan Ranch Trail System.

Once you’ve hiked yourself up an appetite, there is no shortage of high-quality restaurants in the area. In fact, El Dorado is one of the best places to get an authentic farm-to-table meal.

Located along the Pacific coastline just north of San Francisco, Bodega Bay is the perfect spot for a peaceful beach day trip just two hours away from Sacramento.

The bay is the historic home to a small fleet of fishing boats and is known for its friendly ambiance and exceptionally fresh seafood. It’s even worth taking a Sacramento day trip just for a seafood meal by the sea.  

However, with quirky shops, boutique art galleries, and miles’ worth of beachfront to explore, there is enough to keep you busy for a few days here. If a day in Bodega Bay isn’t enough, why not extend your trip and stay the night?

The bay is packed with hiking and cycling trails boasting incredible ocean views. Whatever route you take, there are plenty of picnic spots and viewpoints to catch your breath.

This area is also very well known for its seasonal whale-watching. So, if you visit between February and April, you might see a couple of grey whales en route from Mexico to Alaska.

There are a few popular university towns around Sacramento, including Davis and Stanford. However, I believe Berkeley is one of the best ones to visit if you only have one day to spare. 

It’s located between San Francisco and Sacramento, an hour and fifteen minutes by car and an hour and a half away by train.

Depending on what grabs your interest, I advise you plan your day trip from Sacramento before you arrive. If museums, culture, and history excite you, there are plenty of museums worth visiting in Berkeley. The Berkeley Art Museum and the Museum of Paleontology are my personal favorites.

Spend some time strolling around the beautiful university campuses and through some of Berkeley’s top gardens. The University of California Botanical Garden, Berkeley Rose Garden, and Tilden Regional Park are all worth a visit and are great places to catch a breath of fresh air.

The heart and soul of the city, Telegraph Avenue, is packed with trendy shops and restaurants, where you can enjoy a meal or do some retail therapy. The whole town embodies a youthful spirit, making it one of my favorite places to spend a day outside Sacramento.

Suggested trip: North Berkeley: 3-Hour Food Tour

The Sonoma Valley is the wonderfully relaxed sibling of the more popular Napa Valley. It’s best known for its low-key rustic vibes and incredible farm landscape. If you’re looking for a break from the city bustle and are hoping to reconnect with nature, you’ve come to the right place.

It’s just an hour and ten minutes drive from Sacramento, and a few miles inland of the Pacific Ocean. The incredible weather, fertile coastal soil, and abundant natural water make this land some of the most fruitful in the country – no wonder Sonoma is a top Sacramento day trip for lovers of farm-to-table cuisine. 

The first thing you will want to do is to take a relaxed approach to your visit. Slow down, enjoy the drive, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere. There are a bunch of rustic family-owned wineries where you can enjoy a wine tasting or a meal. 

Visiting a farmers market is one of the best ways to experience the authentic vibe of the county. Here, you can meet the farmers who cultivate the land firsthand and learn about the area’s agricultural history.

Suggested trip: Sonoma Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch

Nevada City

Contrary to popular belief, Nevada City is not, in fact, located in the state of Nevada. It’s a Californian town an hour north of Sacramento. Set in the Sierra Mountains, this charming town is home to some of California’s most beautiful outdoor destinations, including the Tahoe National Forest.

This incredible forest spans hundreds of thousands of acres in area and includes hundreds of crystal clear lakes, rivers, alpine mountains, and hidden valleys just waiting to be explored. 

Landscape photographers flock to the forest for the natural beauty, which transforms exquisitely as the seasons change.

While most visitors explore the dense forest by foot or bike, there is also a lot to do in the main city itself. With historic theatres, railroad museums, and incredible eateries, Nevada City is a top choice for a day trip in Sacramento. 

A trip to Nevada City wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, which features newspaper clippings, artifacts, and real trains from the area’s incredible railroad history. With a real train ride along one of the historic tracks, this museum is even popular with young kids.

Suggested trip: Nevada City Walking Tour and Scavenger hunt

Reno, NV 

Donned the Biggest Little City in the World , Reno is, in my opinion, one of the most unique cities to visit in the area. It’s located just across the Californian border in the state of Nevada. Just the two-hour drive from Sacramento alone is a bit of a mind-trip, with the scenery changing from a forest landscape to a desert in record time.

Like its bigger sister, Las Vegas, Reno is best known for its casinos and gambling culture. The Circus Circus Casino is one of the best to visit if you’re short on time. It’s a family-friendly resort that offers carnival-like entertainment to keep your kids occupied. 

The casinos here are tourist attractions worth checking out, but I REALLY don’t recommend spending all your time (and money) in one of these traps. Just try to bag a bit more backpacker money for your USA trip a few times and then head out.

Instead, enjoy a day at the Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center, which has an exciting museum packed with interactive exhibits about outer space. No matter how often you visit a planetarium dome, the experience still seems to be a novelty that will take your breath away.

The Nevada Museum of Art is another top museum worth stopping by. The museum emphasizes the importance of the environment, as told through the story of art.

Suggested trip: Downtown Reno Pedicab Tour

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Don’t Forget your Sacramento Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Final Thoughts on Day Trips From Sacramento

As the capital city of the state of California, Sacramento is packed with historical sites, gorgeous outdoor parks, and some of the best restaurants in the country. 

While you could spend weeks exploring this low-rise metropolis, there is just too much to see and do in Northern California to ignore.

The city is ideally located between the coast, lakes, rivers, farmlands, and a few major cities in Northern California, making it perfect for taking a day trip from Sacramento.

If you aren’t already visiting San Francisco on your vacation, I highly recommend visiting this iconic city. Alternatively, take a trip to Lake Tahoe if outdoor adventure is more up your alley. Whether you visit for boating in summer or skiing in winter, this area is a spectacular place to spend some time.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Art Patterson

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Daytrippen.com

Your Trip Starts Here

30 Road Trips From Sacramento – Weekend Getaways

by DayTrippen 1 Comment

• Odnoklassniki icon Odnoklassniki
• Facebook Messenger
• LiveJournal

Lodi Wine Country

Thirty-six miles: If you’re planning a Sacramento road trip and looking for a wine-themed destination, Lodi is the perfect choice. This charming town significantly contributes to California’s wine industry, producing almost 20% of the state’s grapes. Even if wine tasting isn’t your cup of tea, you’ll find plenty to see and do in Lodi’s historic downtown district.

Placerville California

Initially named Dry Diggins, Placerville is located 45 miles away. It earned the nickname “Hangtown” as it was one of the first places where outlaws were hanged for taking things that didn’t belong to them. Today, a dummy hangs from the second floor while a tree stump is hidden in the cellar of the Hangman’s Tree bar, a historic spot on Main Street that marks the site of many of the town’s hangings. The city boasts historical buildings, museums, and gold mine tours that recount its rich history.

Apple Hill Orchards

Apple Hill, located 50 miles from Sacramento, is a highly sought-after destination during the fall harvest season. It’s an excellent place for adults and kids and offers inexpensive family fun. Visitors unanimously agree that it’s a must-visit spot that should be included in their annual road trip list.

Sacramento River Delta

The Sacramento Delta, located about 44 miles from Sacramento, is an ideal destination for a road trip. There are countless activities to enjoy in the Delta area, ranging from historical sites to outdoor adventures. To explore the Delta’s most significant historical regions, take the following driving loop: begin in Rio Vista, head north, and drive in a large clockwise loop. This route will allow you to see all the major attractions while enjoying a scenic drive.

Nevada City California

Nevada City, rich in history, started during the gold rush and boasts several points of interest now on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a perfect destination to learn about history within 60 miles.

Empire Mine State Historic Park

This road trip from Sacramento covers sixty-two miles and takes you deep into the heart of California’s Gold Country. The Empire Mine State Historical Park is spread across 853 acres of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and is a state historical park. Visitors can explore and witness historic buildings that have been preserved in time.

Napa Valley Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train travels 36 miles on the Napa Valley Railroad route, taking a 3-hour round trip from Napa to St. Helena along Highway 29. The railroad was founded in 1864 by Samuel Brannan, an early California pioneer.

Sonoma Valley Road Trip

The Sonoma Valley, located eighty miles from Sacramento, is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway, where rich history blends with modern pleasures. The town of Sonoma, situated at the southern end of the 17-mile-long valley, serves as an excellent base for exploring the region.

Old Faithful Geyser of California

Old Faithful Geyser, located in the upper Napa Valley, is a popular attraction for both kids and adults. The geyser erupts every thirty minutes, shooting a stream of scalding steam up to 75 feet into the air. It’s an impressive sight that you shouldn’t miss if you’re visiting Napa Valley with kids.

California Academy of Sciences

This San Francisco attraction is perfect for a family road trip. Notable venues include the Steinhart Aquarium, Morrison Planetarium, Kimball Natural History Museum, and a four-story rainforest.

Jamestown 1897 State Historic Park

Jamestown, 1897 State Historic Park, located 93 miles from Sacramento, is a testimony of California’s rich history. This town was once a bustling hub during the California Gold Rush and has since been transformed into a California Historical Landmark. The main attraction of Jamestown is Railtown 1897, where you can experience an authentic ride on steam and diesel locomotives. Take a leisurely six-mile, 40-minute roundtrip ride through the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills and enjoy the scenic views.

Columbia State Historic Park

Columbia State Historic Park is a well-preserved town from the mid-19th century that appears frozen. It is trendy among children of all ages, who love to pan for gold, ride a 100-year-old stagecoach, and indulge in homemade sugar treats at the Columbia Candy Kitchen.

Donner Memorial State Park

Located about 98 miles from Sacramento, near the State Park visitor center, a trail leads to the Murphy family cabin site and Pioneer Monument of the Donner Party. The monument’s base, which is 22 feet high, represents the height of the snow during the harsh winter of 1846.

Safari West Santa Rosa

Safari West African Wildlife Tours offers a three-hour tour with an experienced guide. You will board a Safari truck and embark on a bumpy ride through the preserve. This experience will allow you to enjoy an African safari adventure without worrying about the danger of being charged by wild animals.

Mount Tamalpais

Mount Tam is a popular destination among outdoor enthusiasts in Northern California. Its diverse environment features redwood groves in deep canyons and sunny slopes. The many trails that wind through sweeping hillsides, covered with scrub, grasslands, and oak woodlands, offer stunning views of the Farallon Islands, the Marin County hills, San Francisco, and the bay. Visitors can even see the occasional snow-covered Sierra Nevada mountains on clear days.

Clear Lake State Park

Clear Lake State Park, located one hundred miles from Sacramento, is a well-known spot for people to indulge in outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and boating. If you’re not much of an outdoor person, you can still enjoy the Clear Lake area, which is home to around 30 wineries. You can visit their tasting rooms; some even offer tours of their facilities.

San Francisco Zoo

The San Francisco Zoo is divided into different regions, showcasing unique animals and habitats. One of the most popular exhibits is the world-renowned lemur forest, home to five endangered species of lemurs from Madagascar. Visitors can also explore the Australian exhibit, observing kangaroos and wallaroos up close. Another highlight of the zoo is the large breeding colony of Magellanic penguins.

Guerneville on the Russian River

Although the town is known for being a popular destination for the LGBTQ+ community, there are activities and sights that everyone can enjoy. You can hike through the breathtaking Armstrong Redwood State Reserve or take a kayak trip down the Russian River as it flows through the valley.

Tahoe City Lake Tahoe

Tahoe City, located 112 miles from Sacramento, is a great destination to escape throughout the year. With summer temperatures reaching up to 75 degrees, visitors can revel in the lake’s clear blue waters and hike through numerous trails. For those who crave a winter wonderland experience, Tahoe City provides access to some of the best ski resorts in the world.

Bodega Bay California

Bodega Bay, located 120 miles from Sacramento, offers endless miles of pristine beaches to explore, fresh seafood, and beautiful coastal scenery. It’s an ideal destination for a romantic weekend getaway or a family road trip. On the way, travelers can enjoy driving through rolling hills and tranquil family-run dairy farms before reaching a point where the ocean comes into view.

Grover Hot Springs Park

The park was established in 1959 and comprises 553 acres of land. It features a pool that was built in the 1950s and is filled with hot spring water. Visitors can dip in the pool and enjoy the warmth of the greenish-colored water, especially on cold winter days. The mineral deposits on the bottom of the pool create a beautiful refractory effect that adds to the overall experience.

Fort Ross State Park

The Fort Ross State Park was once a Russian settlement from the mid-1800s that served as a base for the northern Pacific. The park houses historic buildings and museums for visitors to explore. Picnic facilities and a campground are available for those who want to spend more time in the park. You can enjoy a picnic near the visitor center or head to Sandy Cove Beach to relax at the picnic tables.

Emerald Bay State Park

Emerald Bay State Park is a beautiful tourist destination about two hours from Sacramento. It is home to Vikingsholm, a 38-room mansion built in 1928. This area of Lake Tahoe is known for its breathtaking views and is a popular spot for photography. The bay was formed by the movement of glaciers, which carved the granite to create a one-mile-wide and three-mile-long body of water containing the only island in Lake Tahoe – Fannette Island. Emerald Bay State Park is also a National Natural Landmark, adding to its distinction and allure.

Santa Cruz California

Are you looking for a weekend getaway? Head over to Santa Cruz County, located 147 miles from Sacramento. The county offers plenty of attractions, starting with the Beach Boardwalk. This seaside amusement park is home to the Giant Dipper, one of the oldest roller coasters in the United States.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park

The park is situated on prime and picturesque real estate along the Sacramento River in Redding, California, covering over three hundred acres. The Sundial Bridge is the park’s main attraction and connects the north and south sides. It is a fully functional sundial.

Point Arena Lighthouse

The Point Arena Lighthouse provides a unique and unconventional experience for visitors. The lighthouse museum is a must-see attraction that showcases the rich history of the lighthouse. The museum’s centerpiece is the stunning Fresnel lens formerly used in the lighthouse. The lighthouse is approximately 130 miles north of San Francisco and 170 miles from Sacramento.

Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park, the newest national park in the United States, is 183 miles from Sacramento. The unique rock formations divide the park into two parts: the east end and the west entrance. These parts are connected by a trail system that provides access to the park’s numerous caves and peaks.

California Central Coast

California high sierra, california north coast.

Great information and sites to visit in California?!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Fun Things To Do

• 25 Free Things to Do In Southern California
• Southern California Bucket List
• California Natural Hot Springs
• California & Nevada Ghost Towns
• Unusual Things to Do in Southern California

Browse By Topic

• Southern California Whale Watching
• Southern California Historic Places
• Senior Friendly Day Trip Ideas
• Southern California Museums
• Southern California Beach Destinations

Browse By Interest

• Western States Day Trips
• Best Hiking Trails Southern California
• Los Angeles Kids Birthday Party Places
• California Zoos & Aquariiums
• California North Coast Day Trips
• Wineries & Wine Tasting

4 Incredible Northern California Day Trips You Can Take By Train

Jill is a freelance writer from a small Northern California town and lives in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you have an idea for an Only In Northern California story, email her at [email protected].

More by this Author

If you find yourself looking for “ day train trips from Sacramento ” on Google, you may be overwhelmed with the options. We’ve got so many fantastic choices, whether you’re looking for small-town charm or big-city vibes. How about a trip on a train out of the city into the countryside for a fun afternoon or evening? Luckily, there are several train excursions in Northern California that are sure to delight you. This region stays true to its locomotive steam engine roots, so get out there and take advantage of the uniquely amazing experience that these train rides offer!

Related Stories

The 12 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Northern California

The 7 Oddest Places You Can Possibly Go In Northern California

The 3-Hour Road Trip Around Redding's Waterfall Loop Is A Glorious Adventure In Northern California

What are you waiting for? Go experience the magic of a train ride in just one afternoon.

Learn about more train-related fun in Northern California !

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Northern California in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Northern California!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

More to Explore

Day trips near me in northern california.

What are some good day trips in Northern California ?

Some of the best day trips in Northern California include:

• Redwood State and National Parks
• Tram ride at the Squaw Valley Ski Resort
• North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve
• Little Backbone Creek near Shasta Lake

NoCal offers so many scenic day trips that will show you the very best our area has to offer. We've got history, natural beauty, and beautiful architecture. Our cypress and redwood trees are absolutely incredible, and like nothing you can see anywhere else.

What are some natural wonders in Northern California ?

Some of the most famous natural wonders in NorCal include:

• Mount Shasta
• Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes
• Half Dome in Yosemite National Park
• Burney Falls

Valleys, mountains, rivers, lakes, trees, we've got it all here! There's so much to show friends that hold the mistaken belief that Los Angeles is the best part of California. The redwood trees? They're among the most incredible natural wonders in the entire country. And if you haven't seen the Cypress Tunnel at Point Reyes, you're really missing out.

What are some fun things to do in Northern California ?

Well, there's a lot you can do for free that's more fun than things you might pay for in other areas! For instance, have you checked out the Sundial Bridge in Redding? You'll get an amazing view of Turtle Bay. The Point Reyes National Seashore is absolutely incomparable. And the Cornerstone Gardens in Sonoma are so uniquely Northern Californian!

Related Articles

• 15 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Northern California
• A Scenic, Air-Conditioned Train Ride On The Sacramento River Fox Belongs At The Top Of Your Summer Bucket List
• These 4 Charming Waterfront Towns In Northern California Are Perfect For A Daytrip
• 14 Things You Must Do Underneath The Summer Sun In Northern California
• Here Are 15 Unique Day Trips In Northern California That Are An Absolute Must-Do
• 12 Unforgettable Northern California Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year
• 4 Fantastic Factory Tours You Can Only Take In Northern California
• The Friendly Small Town In Northern California That’s Perfect For A Summer Day Trip

Explore Northern California

• Arts & Entertainment
• Farms & Wildlife
• Fun Adventures
• Shops & Boutiques
• Sights & Landmarks

Featured Addresses