Are you looking for fun places to visit near Sacramento? You’re in luck! There are many beautiful spots just a short drive away. These are some of the best places to visit within 2 hours of Sacramento. You can find great outdoor activities, charming towns, and lovely places to relax.
In this guide, I’ll share some of the top places to explore. So, get ready to hop in the car and enjoy a great day trip from Sacramento!
1. Lake Tahoe
Travel time from Sacramento: About 2 hours
Lake Tahoe is a stunning destination known for its clear blue water and beautiful mountains. It’s a great place to visit any time of the year. In the summer, you can enjoy swimming, hiking, and biking along scenic trails. Don’t miss the popular Emerald Bay State Park, where you can see amazing views and hike down to the water.
In the winter, Lake Tahoe becomes a ski paradise, with popular resorts like Heavenly and Northstar. You can also enjoy snowboarding and snowshoeing. Take a scenic drive around the lake for breathtaking views, and stop at charming towns like South Lake Tahoe for shopping and dining. Lake Tahoe is a fantastic weekend getaway from Sacramento, perfect for relaxing or having fun in nature.
2. Napa Valley
Travel time from Sacramento: About 1 hour
Napa Valley is famous for its beautiful vineyards and delicious wines. This area is perfect for wine lovers looking for a relaxing day trip. You can visit local wineries for tastings and tours. Some well-known spots include V. Sattui Winery and Domaine Carneros, where you can enjoy stunning views of the vineyards.
Besides wine, Napa Valley has great restaurants featuring farm-to-table cuisine. Try the Oxbow Public Market for a variety of food options, where you can sample local cheeses and fresh produce. The scenic drive through the valley is also worth it, especially when the grapevines change color in the fall. Napa Valley makes for an ideal destination for weekend trips from Sacramento.
3. Sonoma County
Travel time from Sacramento: About 1.5 hours
Sonoma County offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Napa Valley. You can explore charming towns like Healdsburg and Sebastopol, where you’ll find unique shops and art galleries. Visit local farms for fresh produce and pick-your-own fruit experiences, especially in summer.
Sonoma is also home to beautiful parks like Sonoma Coast State Park, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views and relax on the beach. The beaches in California near Sacramento are often crowded, but Sonoma’s coastline is quieter and offers a peaceful retreat. Wineries in Sonoma are less crowded, making it a great place for tastings. Don’t miss the chance to try some local cheese and bread while you’re there!
4. Sacramento Valley
Travel time from Sacramento: Less than 1 hour
If you want to stay close to home, the Sacramento Valley has plenty to offer. The Cosumnes River Preserve is a great spot for wildlife viewing, especially during bird migration seasons. Bring your binoculars for a chance to see egrets, herons, and other birds.
For a fun family outing, visit the Sacramento Zoo, where you can see a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and giraffes. The nearby Fairytale Town is perfect for kids, with play areas and storybook-themed attractions.
There are also plenty of parks and rivers in the area for picnicking or a nice walk, such as River Walk Park in West Sacramento. This is a perfect option for sacramento day trippers looking for a quick and fun escape.
5. Folsom Lake
Travel time from Sacramento: About 30 minutes
Folsom Lake is an excellent spot for outdoor activities, especially in the warmer months. You can go boating, fishing, or swimming in the lake. The Folsom Lake State Recreation Area offers many hiking and biking trails for all skill levels.
One popular trail is the Folsom Lake Loop Trail, which provides beautiful views of the water and surrounding landscape. Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the many beaches, or visit the Folsom Historic District to explore shops and restaurants. Folsom Lake is a great choice for weekend getaways from Sacramento, providing both relaxation and adventure.
6. Coloma
Travel time from Sacramento: About 1 hour
Coloma is rich in history and is known for its connection to the California Gold Rush. You can visit the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, where gold was first discovered in 1848. The park offers interesting exhibits and a chance to pan for gold in the river.
Explore the charming town, which has preserved many historic buildings. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the nearby trails or go rafting on the American River. Coloma is perfect for a fun day of history and adventure, making it one of the top places to visit within 2 hours of Sacramento.
7. Auburn
Travel time from Sacramento: About 30 minutes
Auburn is a historic town with beautiful architecture and friendly shops. The Old Town district is a must-see, featuring well-preserved buildings, art galleries, and unique boutiques. Visit the Placer County Historical Museum to learn more about the area’s Gold Rush history.
The nearby Auburn State Recreation Area offers great hiking and stunning views of the Sierra foothills. You can also enjoy picnicking by the river or exploring the many trails available. Auburn is another excellent choice for those looking for fun things to do in Sacramento while taking a quick trip to a nearby destination.
