Top Day Trips from Sacramento
Located roughly halfway between San Francisco and Lake Tahoe, Sacramento is the ideal launchpad for reaching some of California’s most popular destinations with ease. When you’re ready to venture outside California’s capital city, you can explore breathtaking national parks, charming gold mining towns, and lush valleys renowned for their vineyards.
1. San Francisco
Get to know the vibrant city of San Francisco, from mural-lined alleyways to clothing-optional beaches on former military bases. However, don’t be quick to dismiss San Francisco’s unconventional ideas like biotech and organic fine dining, which have become mainstream over the decades.
San Francisco’s iconic morning fog blurs the lines between land and ocean, reality and possibility. Attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz are breathtaking but often enjoyed from afar. Instead of traditional sightseeing, you may prefer to follow your bliss through Golden Gate Park, discover flamboyantly painted Victorian homes, and experience the art-filled streets of the Mission District.
How to get to San Francisco from Sacramento: Avoid the challenges of traffic and parking by hopping on the Capitol Corridor train, which connects Sacramento to Oakland, with transit options to San Francisco. The journey takes about two hours.
2. Lake Tahoe
Shimmering in shades of blue and green, Lake Tahoe is the second-deepest lake in the United States and one of the highest-elevation lakes in the country. Driving along the 72-mile shoreline is an unforgettable experience filled with stunning viewpoints and inviting trails. The north shore delights with tranquility, while the south shore buzzes with excitement from motels and casinos. In summer, activities such as swimming, boating, and hiking dominate, while winter transforms Lake Tahoe into a skiing paradise.
How to get to Lake Tahoe: Located along the California-Nevada state line, Lake Tahoe is a two-hour drive from Sacramento to Tahoe City, the commercial hub of the western shore.
3. Yosemite National Park
The breathtaking beauty of Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, draws millions of visitors every year. From the majestic waterfalls and granite cliffs of Yosemite Valley to the ancient giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove, the park is an extraordinary destination filled with awe-inspiring natural wonders.
How to get to Yosemite National Park: Although a long day trip from Sacramento, Yosemite Valley Visitor Center is accessible by a three-and-a-half-hour drive, approximately 165 miles away.
4. Bodega Bay
Bodega Bay, the picturesque setting of Hitchcock’s classic film “The Birds,” offers extraordinary beaches, tide pools, and whale-watching opportunities. The downtown area, which features a selection of restaurants and shops, serves as a great starting point to explore the scenic coves along the Sonoma Coast State Beach.
How to get to Bodega Bay: Bodega Bay is located about 110 miles to the west of Sacramento, with a driving time of just over two hours.
5. Lodi
Once known as the watermelon capital of the world, Lodi is now recognized for its exceptional wine production. The area’s diverse soil nurtures a variety of grapes, making it an excellent destination for budget-friendly wine enthusiasts. Lodi hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the popular Wine and Chocolate Weekend and ZinFest.
How to get to Lodi: Situated approximately 35 miles southeast of Sacramento, the drive to Lodi takes about 40 minutes.
6. Sausalito
Located by a picturesque harbor, Sausalito is renowned for its colorful houseboats and scenic views of San Francisco. Although it can be crowded with tourists, the town offers a charming atmosphere with delightful shops and restaurants, making it a beautiful stop along your journey.
How to get to Sausalito: Just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, Sausalito is about an hour and 45 minutes from Sacramento. Alternatively, ferrying from San Francisco provides a relaxing travel option.
7. Nevada City
Nevada City is a charming Gold Rush town that boasts a lively arts scene and an array of delightful shops. During summer, the streets are bustling, while winter transforms the town into a picturesque winter wonderland. Experience the rich culture of Northern California in this enchanting destination, which also serves as a gateway to the nearby Tahoe National Forest.
How to get to Nevada City: Located about 60 miles northeast of Sacramento, Nevada City can be reached in roughly an hour and 15 minutes by car.
8. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Home to a diverse ecosystem, Lassen Volcanic National Park features unique geological wonders like hot springs and fumaroles. The stark contrast between the volcanic landscape and lush conifer forests creates an exceptional environment for exploration. This park holds historical significance as a meeting point for various Native American tribes.
How to get to Lassen Volcanic National Park: The drive from Sacramento to the park headquarters takes around two hours and 45 minutes, covering approximately 170 miles.
9. Napa Valley
Napa Valley epitomizes the essence of Wine Country, with sprawling vineyards and world-class wineries. While renowned for its exquisite wine, Napa also offers hiking, spa experiences, and vibrant dining options. Explore charming small towns like St. Helena and Calistoga for a relaxed atmosphere.
How to get to Napa Valley: Napa is located about 60 miles from Sacramento, with a driving time of just over an hour.
10. Empire Mine State Historic Park
Empire Mine State Historic Park features well-preserved remnants of California’s gold mining history. Visitors can explore the extensive mine shafts, delve into the rich past of gold mining, and enjoy the scenic landscapes surrounding the park. This historical destination is perfect for those interested in the Gold Rush era.
How to get to Empire Mine State Historic Park: From Sacramento, the drive to the park is about 60 miles long and takes just over an hour.
