There is no shortage of the best day trips from Sacramento when planning a fabulous Northern California vacation. You can easily spend several weeks exploring all of the amazing areas around Sacramento. From wine regions to smaller towns, there are fantastic options for everyone.
US Ghost Adventures is an awesome company that offers a variety of guided tours and haunted experiences across different cities in the United States. Visitors can learn the compelling history and stories of the paranormal and the city’s darker side. Make sure to check out the variety of tours offered in Sacramento here. They are very affordable too!
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Where to Stay in Sacramento
TripAdvisor is a great place to start your hotel search. Search for the best Sacramento hotels here!
The best area to stay in Sacramento is the Downtown area. This is walkable to many of the main sites. If you stay here and do not plan on taking any day trips, you will not need a car to get around. We stayed at the Hyatt House Sacramento/Midtown.
Other hotel options include the following.
- Sheraton Grand Sacramento
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade
- Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown-Arena
- The Citizen Hotel
Best Day Trips from Sacramento: Less than 1 hour
Clarksburg
Drive Time: 20 minutes
One of the easiest and best day trips from Sacramento is Clarksburg. Clarksburg is only 15 miles away or a 20-minute drive from Sacramento. To get here, you will need to drive as there are no public transportation options.
It is worth a day trip from Sacramento if you love going wine tasting or want to enjoy time outdoors. Many of the tasting rooms have outdoor patios perfect for a picnic. It is a great place to hang out with a group of friends or go on a date.
Bogle Winery is one of the best wineries to visit in Clarksburg. A tasting here costs $20/person for 6 wines. Best of all, there are over 20 wines for you to choose from when sampling. You can also opt to bring your own food and enjoy a picnic lunch on the patio.
Outside of Boegle, head to the Old Sugar Mill, a sugar mill converted to tasting rooms. Inside is over 10 wineries you can choose to have a tasting at. The vibes are very similar to Los Olivos, California.
Some of the wineries get busy on the weekends, so make sure to make a reservation beforehand. Also, plan on packing snacks as there are not a ton of food options close to the wineries.
Fairfield
Drive Time: 40 minutes
Fairfield, California, is a fun and unique day trip from Sacramento. It is located about 44 miles west of Sacramento and a perfect Sacramento to San Francisco road trip stop. The drive will take about 40 minutes, making it a very accessible day trip by car. There is a train you can take from the Sacramento Valley Station, but it is easier to drive.
While there is not a ton of things to do in Fairfield, there is the perfect amount of things to keep you busy for a day. The main attraction is the Jelly Belly Factory. Self-guided tours here are free and you even get to sample some of the jelly beans.
Another main attraction in Fairfield is the Western Railroad Museum. This museum showcases a ton of electric railway cars and you can even ride in one. The exhibits go over the history of railroads in the area.
Outside of those two things, visitors can stop at the Anheuser-Busch facility and visit the outlets for some great shopping deals. Plan to get to Fairfield as soon as the attractions open in order to beat the crowds. No matter what, you will have a fun time as Fairfield is one of the best day trips from Sacramento for families.
Apple Hill
By Hannah of Hannah on Horizon
Drive Time: 45 minutes
Nestled in the Sierra foothills 45 minutes east of Sacramento through the US-50 highway, a day trip to Apple Hill from California’s capital city is worth visiting.
Apple Hill’s history dates back to 1951, when a man named Floyd Bolster retired in the area and bought a ranch with 10 acres of apple trees. After he died, his son took over the ranch to continue his father’s legacy. Together with a few specialists in the local agricultural industry, Apple Hill was born and is one of Sacramento’s most popular attractions today.
Apple Hill is open all year round since they grow lavender, berries, peaches, and other produce. But fall is the busiest and most popular time of the year since it’s apple season.
With over 100 sites, High Hill Ranch is the largest and most popular farm in Apple Hill. In High Hill Ranch, you can go fishing or duck watching by the pond, buy a box of fresh delicious apple donuts, window shop at the crafts booths, go on a pony ride, or sip on some hard apple cider.
Outside of High Hill Ranch, Apple Hill is also home to an abundance of farms, wineries, and pumpkin patches. Be sure to visit Grandpa’s Cellars, another popular farm known for its cold brew coffee flights. Grandpa’s Cellars also has a bakery, gift shop, outdoor games like corn hole and a life-sized Connect Four, and seating to watch the golden leaves while sipping coffee.
Last but not least, Apple Hill has a few Christmas tree farms. When the holidays roll around, be sure to bring your family to chop down a fresh tree to take home and decorate! Apple Hill is really one of the best day trips from Sacramento.
Davis, California
By Tamar of World by Weekend
Drive Time: 20 minutes
The city of Davis, just 15 miles west of Sacramento, is an easy and one of the best day trips from Sacramento. Although predominantly a college town, Davis has plenty to offer day-trippers. This quirky town is full of interesting places to wander and explore.
There’s public art to discover and even imported red vintage double-decker buses, which will make you feel like you’re on a London bus tour.
Not to be missed is a stroll along the University of California campus. The arboretum meanders alongside Putah Creek and hosts tall redwoods and gardens of native California flora. Art lovers can visit the Manetti Shrem Museum of Art, which features contemporary works from diverse artists, many of whom are connected to the university.
On the edge of town, where the city connects to the university, is the small Central Park green space. Here, twice a week, on Wednesday afternoons and Saturday mornings, the town hosts a bustling farmer’s market. Vendors from across the Central Valley sell seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as honey, baked goods, and local crafts.
The farmer’s market attracts locals of all ages, from university students and professors to young professionals and their children. In the spring and summer, bands perform in the evening, giving the market a festival-like atmosphere.
Downtown Davis offers multiple blocks of shopping and eating opportunities. Woodstock’s Pizza on G and 3rd is a great place to grab a slice while watching a football game. The John Natsoulas Gallery and Cafe is a quirky spot to grab a cup of coffee and enjoy some intriguing sculptures.
To get to Davis from Sacramento, drive on 80 West and take the Richards Boulevard exit. You can also opt to take Amtrak between the two cities, which takes 15 minutes and drops you at the edge of downtown Davis.
Best Day Trips from Sacramento: 1 hour
Napa and Sonoma
Drive Time: 1 hour
Napa and Sonoma is one of California’s best wine regions and makes for one of the best day trips from Sacramento. It is only 60 miles from Sacramento which will take about an hour to drive. Visitors will need a car to get around.
It is worth a day trip from Sacramento for wine lovers as it offers a ton of well-known and delicious wines. No matter which wineries you visit, you will not go wrong.
Silverado is one of the best wineries to visit in Napa. The Disney family established it and makes some really delicious wines. Another amazing winery to visit is Robert Sinskey Vineyards. Here visitors will want to do the food and wine pairing, so plan to come here for lunch.
Outside of wine tasting, make sure to visit the Oxbow Public Market for some great food and shops. You will not want to miss Bouchon Bakery for baked goods and Girl and the Fig for lunch. If interested in more outdoor activities, visit the Jack London State Historic Park, the San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Rescue, or the Old Faithful Geyser of California.
If you are up for a little bit longer drive, head to Healdsburg. Once there, make sure to eat breakfast at Costeaux French Bakery and dinner at Valette.
Best Day Trips from Sacramento: 1-2 hours
San Francisco
Drive Time: 1.5 hours
San Francisco makes for one of the best day trips from Sacramento as it has a ton of things to do and it is very easy to get to. It lies 88 miles west of Sacramento and will take about 1.5 hours to drive there. There is a train you can take, but it is cheaper and quicker to drive. Once in San Francisco, you can easily get around by bus.
There are many reasons why San Francisco is worth a day trip. One of the biggest is that there is something to do for everyone and tons of family-friendly activities. Also, San Francisco has a ton of amazing places to eat.
For history lovers, make sure to visit the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park and Alcatraz Island. Outdoor lovers should spend time at the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which encompasses Marshall’s Beach and the Presidio.
Museum junkies should visit the Walt Disney Family Museum, the Cable Car Museum, the San Francisco MOMA, the DeYoung Museum, and the Legion of Honor. Other fun things to do include the Palace of Fine Arts, Lombard Street, and Ghirardelli Square.
Once you are hungry, grab food at China Live, Heist Restaurant, Fino, or the Boudin Bakery. If you are into Jazz, stop at Mr. Tipple’s Recording Studio to take in some live jazz.
Bodega Bay
By Kate of Kate Roams the World
Drive Time: 1 hour, 55 minutes
Bodega Bay is a beautiful, untouched coastal gem in Northern California’s Sonoma County. The drive is about 110 miles via I-80W and should take just under 2 hours if you get lucky with traffic!
Bodega Bay is definitely one of the best day trips from Sacramento if you are craving some time along the Pacific without the crowds. Plus, there are hiking and biking trails here, kayaking, whale watching opportunities, a state park, and wineries, all along this 55-mile stretch of coastline.
You can spot gray whales off the coast during the months of October- April during their migration from Alaska to Mexico and back. The best hiking trail here is Bodega Head which is 1.7 miles round trip with less than 200 feet of elevation gain. Enjoy incredible coastal views and wildflowers in the spring.
Enjoy fresh seafood at Spud Point Crab Company or at The Tides Wharf Company. Or relax at Sonoma Coast Vineyards to soak in the views while sipping on local wines. Another unique day trip activity offered in Bodega Bay is horseback riding. Chanslor Stables and Horse N Around Trail Rides offer horseback rides with stunning views.
You could also come to Bodega Bay and relax and enjoy the ocean. Doran Beach and Pinnacle Beach both make nice places to set down a blanket or chair and do some reading or meditation. And of course, if you’ve come to the California coast for the day, you have to stay for sunset. The sunsets here are simply breathtaking along this unspoiled and untamed shoreline.
Tri-Valley
By Jess of Travel + Tannins
Drive Time: 1.5 hours
The Tri-Valley region is within the San Francisco Bay Area, home to Pleasanton, Livermore, and Dublin. These towns are approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (92 miles) from Sacramento. Two routes can be taken to get there, either I-80 South to I-680 South, or I-5 South to I-205 West, depending on traffic.
This region of California is one of the best day trips from Sacramento for many reasons. There are many things to do for all groups, and the unique scenery of the Tri-valley is something everyone in California should see!
Because of the proximity of the Tri-Valley towns to each other, you can enjoy many aspects of this region in a single day. In Pleasanton, you can walk around the historic downtown or hike along the Pleasanton Ridge to see gorgeous views of the surrounding valley. In Livermore, you can go wine tasting at one of the most underrated wine regions in California and eat at incredible downtown restaurants such as Simply Fondue. In Dublin, you can golf at one of the many nearby golf courses.
I recommend visiting the Tri-Valley to avoid the traffic rushes on the major highways around work hours. For wine tasting, it is best to book appointments online in advance to be sure that you have secured your spot!
Sonora
by Pafoua of Her Wanderful World
Drive Time: 1 hour, 55 minutes
Laying just under 2 hours southeast of the capital city is the quaint mountain town of Sonora, one of the best day trips from Sacramento. With its small-town charm and historic buildings, Sonora is a great destination for a day trip.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the area, such as shopping at some of the local boutiques, visiting the historic downtown area, and taking a hike at the Dragoon Gulch Trail in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The Downtown Sonora Historic District is full of gorgeous 19th-century buildings, some of which are from the Gold Rush era. Head to the Thirsty Prospector–a bar that leads into an antique store with a bookstore underneath. You’ll find old mining shafts lined along the bookshelves.
Be sure to check out the Candy Vault, which actually has a vault filled with Willy Wonka chocolates, and grab a snack for your stroll. For a taste of nature, hike the 3-mile Dragoon Gulch Trail for beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
After, head to Columbia State Park and explore the gold mining old town by panning for gold, riding horse-drawn wagons, and getting a souvenir at the blacksmith! Sit down to a meal at Emberz, for wood-fired pizza or a delicious burger. If you want a quick snack, the bagel bin has great options, too!
To get to Sonora from Sacramento, take CA-99 south and get on CA-49 south, and follow directions towards Sonora. Once you arrive, enjoy the fresh air of Sonora and it will make for one of the best day trips from Sacramento.
Best Day Trips from Sacramento: 2 hours
San Jose, California
By Anastasia of Travel Realist
Drive Time: 2 hours
San Jose is one of the best day trips from Sacramento. It is about 120 miles southwest of the state capital. San Jose has a wealth of attractions that offer a blend of history, art, serenity, and mystery. The city is just a two-hour drive away.
You can drive or take public transport to reach San Jose. A car is usually the faster option. You can take I-80 and I-680 or I-5 and I-580 from Sacramento. A trip on public transport will take longer. The Capitol Corridor train will get you to San Jose in about 3 hours and $35+ each way.
There are plenty of things to explore in San Jose. History buffs can visit a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum. Art enthusiasts will appreciate contemporary exhibitions at the San Jose Museum of Art. Anyone looking for a serene retreat should head to the Japanese Friendship Garden.
Visit the famous Winchester Mystery House if you like architecture and mysteries. It is not your typical house museum. Sarah Winchester built this house to fit her medical condition and paranormal interests. The 160-room mansion has a labyrinth of hallways, several secret passages, and even a seance room.
You can only visit the Winchester House on a guided tour. The regular Mansion Tours run every 30 minutes. You will visit 110 rooms on this 65-minute tour. You could also choose to take one of the themed tours. The house is open daily from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m. on weekdays and till 7 p.m. on weekends.
Tahoe City
By Sherry of Digital Nomad and a Dog
Drive Time: 2 hours
Lake Tahoe is widely known as one of the most beautiful lakes in the United States. Tahoe City is nestled on the lake’s north shore, one of the best day trips from Sacramento.
The drive will only take you about two hours. Simply head east on I-80 until you get to Truckee. From there, it’s a short hop on Highway 89. You’ll feel you’ve entered a whole new world despite the short distance. The air is crisp and clean, the pace is laid back, and the views are spectacular.
Once you arrive, you can take a stroll through town and pop into the charming shops. Then have lunch at one of the fantastic restaurants with a view of the lake. You can also visit the public beach and go for a swim or rent a kayak.
For an amazing meal with the best views, drive a bit south on Highway 89 to Sunnyside Restaurant and Lodge. Sunnyside is a destination itself, with patio dining on the lake and a fun atmosphere. On cooler days you can enjoy the views from inside the dining room.
Tahoe City is a very dog-friendly town so feel free to bring your dog along for the day. Since it will likely be much cooler than in Sacramento, the nearby trails are perfect for hikes with your pup. The East Shore Trail is not only great for dogs, but it’s also wheelchair accessible and provides access to eleven different beach sites.
Whether you spend your day shopping, hiking, or simply sitting on the beach to enjoy the view with a picnic lunch, Tahoe City is always a great idea and one of the best day trips from Sacramento.
South Lake Tahoe
By Jess of Travel + Tannins
Drive Time: 2 hours
South Lake Tahoe is located on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, one of the major lakes in California. South Lake Tahoe is about 2 hours from Sacramento. Highway 50 is the only highway that connects to South Lake Tahoe. The total distance to get to South Lake Tahoe is 100 miles.
South Lake Tahoe is a gorgeous lake shore that features Emerald Bay, named after the sparkling turquoise water, surrounded by glorious rock formations. During your day trip here, I recommend hiking one of the many trails in the park, such as Vikingsholm Trail or Eagle Falls Vista Point, to get a better view of the scenery.
South Lake Tahoe is also located near many wineries along Highway 50 on the way here that I recommend visiting as well. These wineries are perfect for group outings, and many of them allow children to be there too.
Another activity that I highly recommend for a special evening is the Tahoe Tastings wine-tasting cruise. This experience is a romantic boat cruise around the emerald bay, with wine tastings from several of California’s most renowned wine regions.
Other activities include visiting the casinos along the Nevada border or eating at one of the many fantastic restaurants, such as Cold Water Brewery & Grill. South Lake Tahoe makes for one of the best day trips from Sacramento.
Mount Tamalpais State Park
By Sydney of A World in Reach
Drive Time: 2 hours
Located about 2 hours from Sacramento, Mount Tamalpais State Park is a perfect day trip choice. The state park, located in Marin County, is known for its breathtaking views. From the trail, you can see sweeping panoramas of the San Francisco Bay (and the city itself) as well as the Pacific Ocean and the Marin County hills.
Admission to the park is free, and there are several parking areas as well as pull-offs at lookout spots. Some parking areas have fees, but there are free lots as well.
The centerpiece of the park is Mount Tamalpais itself, often referred to as just “Mount Tam.” The mountain is one of the tallest in the area and there are several trails along the mountainside. Experienced hikers can take on the Mount Tamalpais Summit Loop all the way to the top. If you want an easier hike that still has outstanding views, the Verna Dunshee Loop is a great choice.
Mount Tamalpais is about 93 miles from San Francisco. The trip can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic, so plan to leave Sacramento early to beat the rush. Make sure to put the destination in your GPS to find the quickest route.
Cell service in the area might be limited, but there are signs once you exit Highway 1 at the Stinson Beach exit. It will make for one of the best day trips from Sacramento!
Russian River/Guerneville
By Kristy JJ and the Bug
Drive Time: 2 hours
Looking to escape the Sacramento summer heat? Visit the Russian River for an ideal easy day trip out of town. From stunning redwood forests to family-friendly beaches, delicious local cuisine, and even some amazing wineries, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region!
Though several quaint towns line the river, Guerneville is the largest of the Russian River towns and a good jumping-off point for the area. If you follow the most direct route along I-80, you can drive to Guerneville, 117 miles from Sacramento, in just under two hours.
Once you arrive, you can begin to unwind. Quaint and eclectic shops and restaurants line River Road. Order ahead and pick up a breakfast bag or bagged lunch from local favorite, Big Bottom Market. Then get ready to cool off.
The most obvious place to start is the river itself. Family-friendly beaches line the water. Johnson’s Beach and Monte Rio Beach are the largest and most popular. They rent equipment like kayaks, canoes, and inner tubes. Russian River beaches are more rocky than sandy, but you can still lounge and enjoy the scene. Bring your water shoes and enjoy a dip or a paddle in the cool river water.
When you’re ready to dry off, head back into town for a stroll through the Armstrong Redwoods. One of the best redwood forests in Northern California, a walk through the woods makes for a magical experience. Colonel Armstrong, a park highlight, is thought to be more than 1400 years old!
Whether you’re looking to relax on the riverbanks or explore parks and towns, you won’t be disappointed by what you find. Next time you want to cool off and relax, take a quick and easy day trip to The Russian River!
Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Sacramento
There are so many fun things to do in the Sacramento area. If you have more time, extend your trip to include a Central California road trip and some multi-day trips such as Yosemite National Park, Lassen Volcanic National Park, or Reno.
