I’ve driven thousands of miles across the country. Yet some of my favorite experiences come not from distant destinations but from those quiet, often-overlooked gems just a short drive away. Sacramento, the capital of California, is surrounded by towns and natural wonders that can refresh the soul in just a day. Whether you’re craving charming small-town vibes, rolling hills dotted with vineyards, historical depth, or untouched wilderness, you’re in for a surprise.
In this piece, I’ll share my personal journey exploring five captivating destinations within an hour’s drive from Sacramento. I’ll take you through the scenic routes, my honest impressions, local flavors, and all the nitty-gritty: ticket costs, reservation tips, and where to book your next adventure. Buckle up!
Why Drive From Sacramento?
Before I dive into the towns and natural escapes, let me tell you why this region deserves your attention.
Sacramento is perfectly positioned for short road trips. With Highway 50, I-80, and scenic byways slicing through the Sierra foothills, agricultural plains, and wine country, it’s a gateway to multiple mini-worlds. Within an hour, I found a new pace of life, often with no crowds, lots of heart, and views that rival more famous spots.
I often use GetYourGuide, Viator, and AllTrails+ for booking tickets and guided tours. For lodging and flights, I rely heavily on Booking.com, Expedia, and Hopper for flight alerts. Restaurant-wise, I cross-reference Yelp, Resy, and OpenTable depending on where I go.
1. Nevada City – A Historic Gold Rush Gem
🗺 Location: ~60 minutes northeast via I-80 and CA-49
💰 Entry Cost: Free to explore the town; museum and park entry \$5–\$10
🎟 Recommended Platforms: Viator for guided walking tours, AllTrails+ for nearby hiking (Scotts Flat Lake, Hirschman Trail)
📌 Don’t Miss: Nevada Theatre, Empire Mine, downtown boutiques, historic inns
I rolled into Nevada City on a crisp spring morning, with golden light filtering through tall pines and Victorian rooftops glinting like they’d just been polished. As I stepped out of the car, the air carried a mix of fresh coffee, wildflowers, and history—this wasn’t just another town. It felt like I had traveled back in time without leaving the modern world.
Originally founded during the California Gold Rush in the 1850s, Nevada City has reinvented itself as a haven for artists, dreamers, and small-town entrepreneurs. The downtown area, especially Broad Street, is a beautifully preserved stretch of brick facades, wrought iron balconies, and quaint storefronts. Every corner invites exploration. I wandered through shops like Kitkitdizzi, an artfully curated boutique full of handmade goods, apothecary products, and local crafts.
Just ten minutes away is Empire Mine State Historic Park, a must-see for any history or geology buff. It’s one of the oldest and deepest gold mines in the state. The guided tour, which costs just \$7 per adult, is immersive and well worth booking in advance through the California State Parks site or via Viator. Walking through the mine’s restored buildings, you get a vivid sense of the tough lives of the miners who once worked these tunnels.
Back in town, I found the Curly Wolf Espresso House, housed in a building that once served as a saloon. Its dark wood interiors, antique lighting, and velvet furniture transported me to another era as I sipped a perfect cappuccino.
🌟 Travel Tip: Plan your trip around December’s Victorian Christmas Festival. Carolers in period costumes, horse-drawn carriages, and mulled wine make it a Hallmark-style holiday dream. Book early via Booking.com or Airbnb, as inns like the National Exchange Hotel fill quickly.
2. Apple Hill – Orchards, Wineries, and Fall Magic
🗺 Location: 45 minutes east via US-50 near Placerville
💰 Entry Cost: Free to drive around, wine tastings \$5–\$20
🎟 Recommended Platforms: GetYourGuide for seasonal farm tours, Yelp and OpenTable for winery reservations
📌 Don’t Miss: Boa Vista Orchards, High Hill Ranch, and Lava Cap Winery
Apple Hill isn’t a town—it’s a region—but it’s a must-drive loop of farm stands, bakeries, cider mills, and vineyards, especially in fall.
I’ve visited Apple Hill multiple times—each season tells a different story. In late September, the entire area transforms into a postcard of harvest color. Boa Vista Orchards is open year-round and has the best fresh-pressed cider. I paid \$12 for a big cider flight and a homemade pie slice.
At High Hill Ranch, there’s a charming fishing pond, hayrides, and handmade crafts. No entry fee, but bring cash for goodies. I always book wine tastings at Lava Cap Winery through OpenTable; the hilltop views are mesmerizing.
🌟 Travel Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds. Many farms close after October, so check AppleHill.com for seasonal hours.
3. Winters – Farm-to-Fork Heaven With Riverside Charm
🗺 Location: 40 minutes west via I-80 and CA-128
💰 Entry Cost: Free to explore, wine tastings and food vary
🎟 Recommended Platforms: Yelp for dining, Resy for fine dining at Preserve or Putah Creek Cafe
📌 Don’t Miss: Berryessa Gap Winery, Turkovich Family Wines, Winters Cheese Co.
I first found Winters when searching for a quiet spot to write. What I discovered was an incredibly vibrant little town with strong farm-to-fork roots and a community vibe that’s as nourishing as the food.
Start with a walk along Putah Creek, then head downtown for cheese tasting at Winters Cheese Co. For wine lovers, Berryessa Gap is a must—their old-world Spanish varietals are unique in the region. I spent a relaxed hour sipping in their outdoor patio with local almonds and olives on the side. Tastings are \$15–\$25 and can be booked via Tock or the winery’s official site.
For lunch or dinner, Preserve offers seasonal tasting menus that rival big-city fine dining. Reservations are essential, and prices range from \$35–\$60 per person.
🌟 Travel Tip: Combine Winters with a quick drive to Lake Berryessa for paddleboarding or sunset views—especially in summer.
4. Auburn – History, Hiking, and River Views
🗺 Location: ~35–45 minutes northeast via I-80
💰 Entry Cost: Old Town is free; state park day-use is ~\$10
🎟 Recommended Platforms: AllTrails for hiking maps, ReserveCalifornia for State Park passes
📌 Don’t Miss: Old Town Auburn, Confluence Trail, Placer County Courthouse
Auburn is often underestimated—but I always recommend it to Sacramento locals. It offers a bit of everything: rich Gold Rush heritage, stellar food, and some of the best hikes in the region.
Old Town Auburn feels like stepping back in time. There’s the classic Placer County Courthouse Museum (entry by donation), quirky antique stores, and cozy cafes. I had a memorable lunch at Edelweiss Restaurant—comfort food with riverside views.
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the American River Confluence Trail. It’s a moderate hike (5 miles out-and-back) with sweeping views of the canyon and cool breezes off the water. Parking at the trailhead is \$10; I recommend grabbing a day pass online via ReserveCalifornia.
🌟 Travel Tip: Bring water and sun protection—even in spring, it can get surprisingly warm on the trails.
5. Davis – College Town with a Culture Kick
🗺 Location: 25 minutes west via I-80
💰 Entry Cost: UC Davis Arboretum is free; museums \$5–\$10
🎟 Recommended Platforms: Viator for campus tours, OpenTable for dining
📌 Don’t Miss: UC Davis Arboretum, Davis Farmers Market, The Artery
At first glance, Davis might seem like just another college town. But the longer you stay, the more you realize how vibrant, artistic, and community-oriented it is.
I usually begin at the UC Davis Arboretum, a lush 100-acre oasis with themed gardens. It’s free, dog-friendly, and endlessly photogenic. On weekends, Davis comes alive with its Farmers Market—arguably one of the best in California. I found everything from Vietnamese iced coffee to fresh goat cheese and handspun yarn.
Don’t miss The Artery, a cooperative gallery featuring local artists. For food, Seasons and Bistro 33 are elegant yet relaxed. I make reservations via OpenTable, especially on event weekends.
🌟 Travel Tip: Rent a bike at B\&L Bike Shop and explore Davis like a local. It’s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S.
Why These Places Matter
These destinations aren’t just close to Sacramento—they’re deeply rooted in California’s heritage, shaped by immigrants, artists, farmers, and dreamers. I left each of these towns with more than just photos—I carried stories, flavors, and a renewed sense of place.
Travel doesn’t always mean jet-setting. Sometimes, the road you take in the morning brings you back home at night with a new perspective. These short road trips reminded me that some of the best parts of life—connection, wonder, beauty—are waiting just outside the city limits.
Travel Resources I Personally Use and Recommend
| Type | Platform | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🏨 Accommodation | Booking.com, Expedia, Airbnb | Best for comparing prices and last-minute deals |
| ✈️ Flights | Hopper, Google Flights | Hopper offers price prediction alerts |
| 🎟 Tours & Attractions | GetYourGuide, Viator, Tiqets | Great for guided experiences and mobile tickets |
| 🥘 Dining Reservations | OpenTable, Resy, Yelp | Resy is great for upscale restaurants |
| 🥾 Hiking & Outdoors | AllTrails+, ReserveCalifornia | ReserveCalifornia is essential for state parks |
Have a Free Day in Sacramento? Just Drive.
If you’re ever in Sacramento and unsure how to spend a free day, don’t hesitate—just pick a direction and drive. You might end up under oak trees sipping Chardonnay, on a dusty trail beside a river, or in a Victorian town square listening to street music. The journey is always worth it.
