Where to Go for the Weekend: 10 Easy Trips from Sacramento

If you live in Sacramento, you’re in luck — in less than three hours you can be on the snowy slopes of Tahoe, soaking in hot springs, sipping wine in the hills, exploring a charming old town, or walking by the foggy Pacific coast.

These quick weekend trips are like hitting the reset button. One or two days is all it takes to return refreshed, inspired, maybe with a sun-kissed glow or a new playlist from the road. These little escapes help you recharge, find balance, and reconnect with the world around you.

If you’ve been wanting a getaway but didn’t know where to go — this list is for you. We’ve put together 10 easy trips from Sacramento, no complicated planning needed. Whether you're craving silence and nature, an active hike, or just cider and a sunset — there’s something here for every mood.

Let’s go!

1. Lake Tahoe – A Weekend Classic

Lake Tahoe is one of Northern California’s most famous nature spots. In summer, you can relax on beaches, paddleboard, or hike. In winter, it's all about skiing and snowboarding. South Tahoe is more lively and developed, while North Tahoe is quieter and more secluded.

What to do:

• Hike Eagle Lake Trail
• Swim or chill at Sand Harbor Beach
• Have dinner with a view at Edgewood Tahoe

About 2 hours 15 minutes from Sacramento

2. Auburn State Recreation Area – Nature Just 40 Minutes Away

If you want nature without a long drive, Auburn is perfect. There are tons of hiking trails, running paths, and bike routes. It’s especially beautiful in spring and fall.

Tip: Bring a picnic and a blanket — there are great spots with river views.

About 40 minutes from Sacramento

3. Wilbur Hot Springs – Digital Detox in Nature

Wilbur Hot Springs is the place to truly unplug. There’s no Wi-Fi or cell signal, just peace, natural hot springs, yoga, and vegetarian meals. It’s an adult-only wellness retreat, perfect for a full mind and body reset.

Good to know: Book in advance. No kids, no phones.

Around 2.5 hours from Sacramento

4. Nevada City – Vintage Vibes and Tea Shops

This small Gold Rush town looks like it’s straight from the 1800s. Walk its old-fashioned streets, browse farmer’s markets, visit quirky shops, or join a yoga weekend.

What to do:

• Browse crystal shops and spice stores
• Sip organic tea at a local cafe
• Walk the scenic Deer Creek Trail

About 1 hour 20 minutes from Sacramento

5. Apple Hill – Farms, Apples, and Cozy Vibes

Famous in fall, but nice year-round, Apple Hill is great for a relaxed day with friends or family. Enjoy orchards, pumpkins, fresh pies, cider, and scenic farm views.

Tip: Visit Boa Vista Farm or Lava Cap Winery for a full Apple Hill experience.

Less than 1 hour from Sacramento

6. Napa Valley – Wine, Food, and Slow Living

Napa is more than just wine — it’s a lifestyle. Wine tastings, vineyard walks, spa treatments, and world-class food make it ideal for a romantic weekend or a getaway with friends.

What to try:

• Wine tasting at Domaine Carneros
• Lunch at Bottega in Yountville
• A stroll through Oxbow Public Market

About 1.5 hours from Sacramento

7. Harbin Hot Springs – Peace and Natural Healing

Early morning yoga, soaking in hot springs under the stars, and total quiet. Harbin is a place for deep rest and reflection. No phones, no noise — just you and nature.

Note: Adults only. Total digital silence. Book ahead.

Around 2.5 hours from Sacramento

8. Carmel-by-the-Sea – Art, Ocean, and Inspiration

Want to disappear to the coast? Carmel is a dreamy seaside town with storybook streets, art galleries, and one of California’s most beautiful beaches. It’s romantic, artistic, and perfect for slowing down.

What to see:

• Carmel Beach — white sand, dramatic sunsets
• 17-Mile Drive — a stunning coastal route
• Local art galleries and vintage bookshops

About 3 hours away — best with an overnight stay

9. Davis – Farmer’s Markets and Chill College Town Energy

Just 20 minutes from Sacramento, Davis is small but full of charm. It’s great for a slow weekend day: markets, coffee, bikes, and organic food.

Ideas:

• Have breakfast at Temple Coffee
• Visit Davis Farmers Market
• Bike the peaceful Greenbelt Trails

About 20 minutes from Sacramento

10. San Francisco – A Quick Urban Escape

If you’re craving city energy, San Francisco is close enough for a quick reset. Walk the waterfront, check out Mission District cafes, or take photos on Lombard Street — it’s an easy way to shake things up.

Route suggestions:

• Stroll through Marina District
• Coffee and pastry at Tartine
• Watch the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset

About 2 hours from Sacramento

Final Thought

Living in Sacramento means you’re never far from a new adventure. Just one or two hours, and you’re in a completely different place, mood, and mindset. You don’t need a big plan or big budget.

All you need is to tell yourself: “I’m going.”