Here's The Top 5 Places to Visit Near Sacramento

Nestled in the heart of California, Sacramento is not just the state's capital but also a springboard to a plethora of enchanting destinations perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or a food connoisseur, the region around Sacramento offers a diverse array of escapes. Here’s a curated list of the top 5 places to visit near Sacramento that promise to enrich your travel diary.

Lake Tahoe

Approximately a two-hour drive from Sacramento, Lake Tahoe is the jewel of the Sierra Nevada. Famous for its stunning blue waters and panoramic mountain vistas, it offers activities year-round. In the summer, visitors can indulge in hiking, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Come winter, the area transforms into a wonderland for skiers and snowboarders with world-renowned resorts like Squaw Valley and Heavenly. The drive itself is a visual treat with scenic views, especially as you approach the lake and the towering mountains unfold before you.

Napa Valley

Just an hour’s journey southwest of Sacramento, Napa Valley is a paradise for those who appreciate the finer things in life. This region, famous for its lush landscapes and fertile soils, is an agricultural haven where farm-to-table isn’t a trend, but a long-standing tradition. Visitors can partake in gourmet meals at world-class restaurants that feature locally sourced, organic ingredients. For a truly unique experience, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers picturesque journeys through the heart of the valley, showcasing the stunning scenery and the agricultural richness of the area without a focus on the vineyards' traditional products. Here, the confluence of art, architecture, and nature crafts an exquisite escape for all senses.

Does your business rank among the best in California?

Learn More

Recomended businesses

Show me California.com
Recommended Businesses near

Discover the best of California. Our recommended businesses are top-quality and are committed to their communities.

Real Estate Professionals

Auto

Home & Garden

Health & Fitness

more

BACK TO RESULTS

Categories

Travel & Accommodation

Restaurants & Cafes

Beauty Services

Event Services

Entertainment

Outdoor Recreation

Medical Professionals

Retail

Professional Services

Does your business rank among the best in California?

nominate a business

What does it mean to be a California.com Recommended Business?

Learn more about our selection criteria and vetting process.

Sutter Buttes

Dubbed the “Smallest Mountain Range in the World,” Sutter Buttes is an enigmatic geological formation just a 45-minute drive north of Sacramento. Though access to the buttes is restricted as they are on private land, guided tours can take you through this dramatic landscape of lava domes and volcanic spires. The guided hikes not only offer a chance to explore this geological wonder but also provide opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

Gold Country

East of Sacramento, the regions of El Dorado, Amador, and Calaveras counties, collectively known as Gold Country, are steeped in the rich history of the 1849 Gold Rush. Towns like Placerville, Sutter Creek, and Murphys are replete with old-world charm, featuring quaint main streets lined with antique shops, boutiques, and bistros. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma, where James W. Marshall first found gold at Sutter's Mill, sparking the Gold Rush.

Apple Hill

Come autumn, a visit to Apple Hill is a must. Located just over 30 minutes east of Sacramento, this area is a collection of over 50 family-owned farms offering a wide variety of fresh apples, berries, and other produce. During the fall season, Apple Hill is alive with harvest festivals, bake shops, and craft fairs. It’s a perfect spot for families to enjoy apple picking, homemade apple pies, and cider. It's also a lovely place for a scenic drive as the leaves change color, especially along the winding roads of the El Dorado County foothills.

Each of these destinations near Sacramento holds its unique charm and allure, offering delightful experiences for travelers. Whether you’re in search of outdoor adventure, a taste of California’s history, or simply a peaceful retreat in nature, you’re bound to find a perfect getaway spot within a short drive from the city.