Things To Do
State Capitol Park World Peace Rose Garden
Visit the iconic California State Capitol building, where you can tour the historic rooms and legislative chambers. The Capitol Park surrounding the building is also beautiful, perfect for a leisurely stroll. You get to explore a significant part of California's history and architecture, plus the park is lovely for a picnic or a walk.
Old Sacramento Waterfront
This historic district offers a fun blend of shopping, dining, and museums. You can stroll along the riverfront or explore the California State Railroad Museum. It’s like stepping back in time with wooden sidewalks and Gold Rush-era buildings. Early on in their relationship, Haley and Jake went on a date here and stumbled upon a funky, underground, gold rush themed mini golf course. If you have kids, this would be a great activity for you! Great for a mix of history, sightseeing, and good food. While there, take a relaxing riverboat cruise along the Sacramento River! Several operators offer sightseeing tours, dinner cruises, and sunset trips. The views of Sacramento from the river are lovely, and it’s a great way to unwind while enjoying a cocktail or a nice dinner.
Midtown District
Midtown Sacramento is a vibrant neighborhood full of art galleries, cool boutiques, restaurants, and a lovely farmers market. Bike or walk around and enjoy a laid-back day of shopping, dining, or checking out street murals and other public art installations. For breakfast, check out a Michaels family-favorite, Crepeville, located across the street from the church!
Crocker Art Museum
This museum features an impressive collection of European and American art, as well as contemporary works and rotating exhibits. For art lovers, this museum is a treasure trove. Plus, the building itself is gorgeous, and the museum hosts various events and activities.
Farm-to-Fork Dining
Sacramento is known as the "Farm-to-Fork Capital," offering excellent local dining options that feature fresh, seasonal ingredients. Foodies will love exploring the local restaurants, farmers' markets, and food festivals. Try everything from fresh produce to artisan cheeses and meats. Check out The Kitchen Restaurant, Ella Dining Room & Bar, Magpie Cafe, or The Waterway for fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. If you’re looking for brunch on Sunday morning, head to Bacon & Butter for farm fresh eggs and seasonal veggies cooked to perfection!
Make it a road trip!
If you're looking to turn your weekend into a longer getaway, you're in luck! Northern California offers plenty of options to extend your trip and explore new places. Below are a few ideas to help you turn a short weekend into an unforgettable extended adventure:
Lake Tahoe
If you are looking to make the most of your weekend, you can't get better than a trip up the mountain to Lake Tahoe! Haley’s personal favorite place in the world, Lake Tahoe in the summer is nothing short of magical. With its crystal-clear waters, towering pines, and snow-capped mountains, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Whether you’re hiking along scenic trails, kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake, or simply lounging on one of the area’s beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone. After a day of adventure, unwind in one of the charming lakeside villages, enjoying fresh cuisine and vibrant nightlife. At the end of your trip, you can fly out of Reno-Tahoe International Airport if you find it more convenient!
Yosemite National Park
One of Haley & Jake's favorite memories together is a summer camping trip to Yosemite. Visiting Yosemite National Park in July offers an incredible opportunity to experience the park’s iconic landscapes in full summer bloom, but it’s also a peak time for visitors, so planning ahead is key. The weather is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s in the valley to cooler conditions in the higher elevations, making it perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. At the end of your trip, you can fly out of Fresno Yosemite Airport if you find it more convenient!
San Francisco
Take a quick road trip to Vallejo, hop on the ferry, and take in the views as you cross the bay in to the city. SF in the summer is a vibrant blend of iconic landmarks, cool coastal breezes, and endless cultural experiences. The city comes alive with festivals, outdoor concerts, and food markets, all set against a stunning backdrop of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the rolling hills that define the landscape. While the fog might roll in, it only adds to the charm, keeping the temperatures mild and perfect for exploring. Whether you’re wandering through the colorful streets of Chinatown or enjoying fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, there’s always something exciting to do. From the quirky neighborhood of Haight-Ashbury to the art and history of the Mission District, San Francisco in the summer offers a dynamic mix of natural beauty and urban excitement. At the end of your trip, you can fly out of SFO if you find it more convenient!
Point Reyes & Muir Woods
If you’re looking to escape the Sacramento heat and take in the iconic Pacific coastline, head to Point Reyes! Located just north of San Francisco, Point Reyes National Seashore is a rugged coastal paradise, with dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, and panoramic ocean views. Explore the famous Point Reyes Lighthouse, hike the scenic Coastal Trail, or spot wildlife like elephant seals, tule elk, and migrating whales. The area is also rich in history, with historic ranches and shipwrecks to discover. Muir Woods National Monument is home to ancient coastal redwood trees, some over 1,000 years old. Walking through these towering giants feels like stepping into another world, where sunlight filters through the thick canopy above. The park offers a variety of trails, from easy loops to more challenging hikes, all winding through one of the most serene and awe-inspiring forests in California. At the end of your trip, you can fly out of SFO if you find it more convenient!
California Wine Country
The Sacramento area is close to several wine regions like Napa Valley, Amador County, and Lodi—a dream destination for wine lovers and travelers seeking picturesque landscapes. Napa Valley is famous for its iconic wineries and gourmet dining experiences. In the summer, visitors can tour sprawling estates, enjoy private tastings, or indulge in wine-pairing meals at Michelin-starred restaurants. Sonoma, with its more laid-back atmosphere, offers boutique wineries and charming small-town vibes, perfect for leisurely afternoons of wine tasting and shopping in historic plazas. Paso Robles, a bit further south, has gained fame for its unique wine varietals and relaxed charm. Summer here means sunshine, olive oil tastings, and exploring the smaller, boutique wineries scattered across the landscape.
Gold Country
Cruise down Highway 49, the scenic byway that runs through many of the historic towns of Gold Country, offering stunning views of the Sierra foothills, valleys, and rivers. It's an excellent route for a road trip, stopping at local attractions, shops, and wine tasting rooms along the way. Stop in at charming towns like Nevada City that offer a glimpse into California’s Gold Rush past, with well-preserved Victorian-era buildings, historic sites, and museums. Strolling along the streets, you’ll find quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Coloma is known as the site where gold was first discovered in 1848, making it a must-visit for history buffs. The Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park offers interactive exhibits and a look at how the discovery changed the course of history.
