See It All In 3 Days!

Rancho Cordova is the ideal basecamp for exploration of northern California’s history, culture, and recreation, with easy access to Gold Country, Sierra Foothills Wine Country, the State Capital, and the Sacramento Valley region.

Day 1 – California Gold Country and Wine Country

Start in Rancho Cordova. Travel to the historic Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, where fortunes were made during the California’s Gold Rush. Travel along aptly-named Highway 49 to historic Placerville to explore the historic downtown, lined with art galleries, antique shops and restaurants. After lunch, continue down Highway 49 to the Sierra foothills Shenandoah Valley, where world-class wine tasting is offered in Amador County.

Day 2 – Capitol Exploration

Travel from Rancho Cordova to Old Sacramento. Explore the California State Railroad Museum, where train exhibits include beautifully restored engines and railcars, several which offer walk-through tours.

Afterwards, head across the street to explore Old Sacramento, and have lunch in one of the many restaurants, including riverfront establishments. Following a hearty meal, hop aboard the Hornblower Cruises boat for a narrated tour of the Sacramento River.

Once off the boat, head to the Crocker Art Museum to view the best collection of California art to be found anywhere.

Another option is to tour the California State Capital.

Day 3 – Waterways

Head to Lake Natoma and the Sacramento State Aquatic Center, which offers miles of flatwater famous for rowing, but also ideal for stand up kayaking, paddleboarding (SUP), sailing, and canoeing.

For lunch head to the Koreana International Marketplace, which features cuisine from around the globe. Choose from Russian-Ukrainian, Iranian, Mexican, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese.

After lunch, head to Folsom State Prison Museum - yes, the one made famous by Johnny Cash – for a tour.

To say cheers to the northern California tour, head to the American River Brewing Company for a sampling of the award-winning craft brews created by this establishment.