Stay and Play in Folsom, California: A Hidden Gem with Small-Town Charm

Stay and Play in Folsom, California: A Hidden Gem with Small-Town Charm

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and head to a town that’s small in size but big on charm. Folsom, California, boasts an incredible blend of rich history and vibrant culture, all within a region full of natural beauty. Whether you stay for a weekend or an extended trip, the memories you make in Folsom will have you coming back for more. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and places to stay, these are the can’t-miss experiences that Folsom is known for.

SCENIC BEAUTY AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

An urban playground for all ages, Folsom is blessed with breathtaking natural landscapes that invite exploration and outdoor activities. The city’s crown jewel is Folsom Lake, a sparkling reservoir surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque trails. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. The nearby American River Bike Trail offers a beautiful backdrop for a morning bike ride, as well as thrilling whitewater rafting opportunities for the more adventurous. The Lake Natoma trail, just off the American River, is perfect for hikers who like a good view— locals say it’s especially beautiful in the fall, blanketed with fallen leaves.

Prefer to spend your time on the green instead of in it? You’re in luck: Folsom is home to several award-winning courses envisioned by top designers like Robert Trent Jones, Jr., and Kyle Phillips.

HISTORIC TREASURES AND CULTURAL DELIGHTS

Folsom is full of rich heritage and countless opportunities to indulge in the region’s storied history. History buffs will love the iconic Folsom Powerhouse, a shining example of early innovation that has been preserved for over a century—not to mention the enormous General Electric transformers, which can conduct 800 to 11,000 volts of electricity!

The Historic Folsom District takes visitors back in time with its well-preserved buildings, charming shops, and delightful restaurants. Embark on a walking tour through the city and immerse yourself in the inspiring stories of innovation. If you’re traveling with young ones, don’t miss a trip to Pioneer Village, where kids can try their hand at gold panning and a working blacksmith forge! It’s an adventure through time that they won’t soon forget.

Historic Folsom also comes with its own opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The 6.5-mile Folsom Rail Trail follows the path of the historic Sacramento Northern Railway, and the famous Johnny Cash Trail is known for its beautiful bridges inspired by the local architecture.

VIBRANT ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT SCENE

There’s always something happening in Folsom! Catch a daytime matinee at the Sutter Street Theatre, where productions Aladdin Jr. and Cinderella for a family outing. Over at the Harris Center for the Arts, find a rich assortment of performances and exhibits, from awe-inspiring dance performances to can’t-miss musicals and concerts.

Nightlife is an art form here—whether you prefer a low-key date night at one of Folsom’s premier movie theaters (adults only after 5 p.m.) or live music paired with a cold drink, there’s no shortage of fun in Folsom. Even a walk around the city yields endless sights to see—Natoma Station and Broadstone are both filled with murals and accessible public art. Locals say that the best of arts and nightlife can be found in Historic Folsom, where you can admire art while sipping on a cool beverage or cozy up at the Twilight Concert Series, a free community event on Thursday nights all summer long. If your night includes a visit to the PowerHouse Pub, Hacienda, or the Folsom Hotel, chances are, it’ll be one for the books.

CULINARY EXPERIENCES AND WINERIES

After a day of exploring all that Folsom has to offer, you’ll be charmed by the mouthwatering delights that await you in the city’s restaurants. From farm-to-fork restaurants serving locally sourced ingredients to international delights that take you on a flavorful adventure, the range of culinary experiences is sure to please even the pickiest of palates.

Beer enthusiasts will love Folsom’s array of breweries that take inspiration from the land’s natural beauty—these local pints are brewed with love. From Pilsners to Porters, Folsom is known for good food and even better sips.

Wine lovers, rejoice: Folsom is surrounded by acclaimed wineries offering wine tastings and tours, allowing visitors to savor the region’s finest vintages. Take advantage of the Foothill Wine Pass, just a short drive from Folsom, to enjoy custom tours of the region’s most mouthwatering glasses.

Pack your bags and escape to Folsom for a weekend of unforgettable experiences, creating lasting memories in this remarkable city. Book your unforgettable adventure today at visitfolsom.com