Key Takeaways:
- Vacaville, California is a vibrant city offering a diverse mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and local events perfect for every season.
- Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, Vacaville has a wealth of activities to explore year-round.
- Plan your trip to Vacaville to experience the charm of small-town California with an abundance of things to do throughout the year.
Table of Contents:
- Hike the Vacaville Hills
- Explore the Vacaville Museum
- Spend the Day at Lagoon Valley Park
- Visit the Nut Tree Airport
- Check Out the Vacaville Premium Outlets
- Attend the Vacaville Fiesta Days
- Discover the Jelly Belly Factory Tour
- Relax at the Andrews Park
- Take a Stroll Through Downtown Vacaville
- Visit the Napa-Solano Wine Country
Vacaville, California, located in the heart of Solano County, offers an exciting blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture. Just a short drive from the Bay Area and Napa Valley, this charming city has become a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and history buffs alike. Whether you’re hiking through scenic hills, shopping at premium outlets, or indulging in local flavors, Vacaville provides something for everyone. With year-round activities and an inviting atmosphere, Vacaville promises a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Here are 10 things you can enjoy in Vacaville no matter the season.
1. Hike the Vacaville Hills
The Vacaville Hills are a perfect destination for outdoor lovers looking to enjoy scenic hikes and beautiful vistas. These hills offer a network of well-maintained trails, providing options for both beginner and experienced hikers. As you hike through the hills, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Vacaville, the surrounding valleys, and the distant mountain ranges. The terrain varies from gentle slopes to steeper inclines, offering a good mix of challenge and reward.
The Vacaville Hills are also home to various wildlife, making it a great location for birdwatching and nature photography. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature walk or an invigorating hike, the Vacaville Hills offer an excellent escape into the natural beauty of the area. It’s a great place to enjoy outdoor exercise and take in the views year-round.
2. Explore the Vacaville Museum
The Vacaville Museum is a wonderful stop for history enthusiasts and anyone curious about the local heritage of this vibrant city. The museum showcases exhibits focused on the history of Vacaville, from its early Native American inhabitants to its growth as a central hub in the region. Visitors can explore collections of photographs, artifacts, and documents that illustrate the city’s rich history and development over time. The museum also offers rotating exhibits, ensuring there’s always something new to discover with each visit.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Vacaville Museum hosts special events and educational programs, including lectures and workshops. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the museum offers an engaging way to connect with Vacaville’s past. It’s an essential stop for anyone looking to learn more about the area’s history and cultural evolution.
3. Spend the Day at Lagoon Valley Park
Lagoon Valley Park is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy a day in nature. The park features a beautiful lagoon, picnic areas, and multiple trails, making it a great spot for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll by the water or having a picnic with family, Lagoon Valley Park provides a peaceful and scenic environment to relax and unwind. The park is also home to a variety of birds, making it a prime location for birdwatching.
The park offers plenty of open space, perfect for recreational activities such as frisbee, kite flying, and playing with pets. With its picturesque views and serene setting, Lagoon Valley Park is a wonderful place to spend a few hours or an entire day. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat, Lagoon Valley Park has something to offer year-round.
4. Visit the Nut Tree Airport
The Nut Tree Airport is a hidden gem in Vacaville, offering visitors a unique experience with its historic charm and aviation-related activities. This small, general aviation airport has been serving the region since the 1940s and has evolved into a hub for aviation enthusiasts. You can explore the airport’s vintage aircraft, learn about its history, and even take an introductory flight to experience the beauty of the region from above. The airport also hosts aviation-related events and airshows, attracting aviation fans and families looking for a fun day out.
In addition to its aviation attractions, the Nut Tree Airport is home to a small but delightful collection of shops and restaurants, providing visitors with a great spot to grab a bite while watching the planes take off and land. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or just curious to learn more, a visit to the Nut Tree Airport offers an exciting and educational experience for all ages.
5. Check Out the Vacaville Premium Outlets
For shoppers, the Vacaville Premium Outlets offer a great selection of designer brands at discounted prices. This outdoor mall features over 80 stores, including well-known brands like Nike, Coach, and Michael Kors. Whether you’re looking for clothing, accessories, or home goods, the outlets provide a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy a day of shopping while finding great deals on high-quality products.
In addition to shopping, the Vacaville Premium Outlets offer several dining options, making it easy to take a break and enjoy a meal between shopping sessions. The open-air design of the mall adds to the relaxed atmosphere, allowing shoppers to enjoy the beautiful California weather while they browse. Whether you’re hunting for a bargain or simply looking for a fun day out, the Vacaville Premium Outlets is the perfect place to spend time shopping year-round.
6. Attend the Vacaville Fiesta Days
Vacaville Fiesta Days is an annual celebration that brings the community together with a mix of fun, culture, and local traditions. This lively event features a parade, live music, delicious food vendors, and carnival rides, making it an exciting weekend for people of all ages. Fiesta Days celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Vacaville and its residents, offering a unique experience that highlights the city’s vibrant community spirit. Whether you’re enjoying the parade or dancing to live tunes, there’s something for everyone at this fun-filled festival.
The event is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying the festivities with friends and family. With activities like face painting, games, and food trucks, Fiesta Days is a highlight of the year in Vacaville, drawing both locals and visitors alike. If you’re in town during this time, attending Fiesta Days is a must-do activity for a memorable experience.
7. Discover the Jelly Belly Factory Tour
A visit to the Jelly Belly Factory in Vacaville is an experience that both kids and adults will love. The factory tour offers an inside look at how the famous Jelly Belly jelly beans are made, with the chance to see the production process up close. The tour is fun, educational, and interactive, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the candy-making process. Plus, the tour ends with a stop at the Jelly Belly store, where you can sample a variety of flavors and purchase your favorite treats.
In addition to the factory tour, Jelly Belly offers special events throughout the year, including seasonal promotions and candy-themed activities. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Jelly Belly or new to the brand, the tour provides an enjoyable and sweet experience that’s perfect for families, friends, and candy lovers alike. It’s a unique and fun way to spend a day in Vacaville.
8. Relax at the Andrews Park
Andrews Park is a lovely spot in the heart of Vacaville, perfect for a peaceful retreat or a family outing. The park features well-maintained walking paths, open fields, and playgrounds, making it a great destination for a relaxing day outdoors. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic, walking your dog, or letting the kids play, Andrews Park offers a comfortable and scenic environment for everyone to enjoy. The park is also home to beautiful trees, providing shade and a tranquil atmosphere for visitors.
Throughout the year, Andrews Park hosts various community events, including outdoor movie nights and local performances, making it a lively and social gathering spot. Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind or participate in a community event, Andrews Park offers a perfect balance of relaxation and entertainment. It’s an ideal destination for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy some outdoor time in Vacaville.
9. Take a Stroll Through Downtown Vacaville
Downtown Vacaville is a charming area filled with boutiques, local shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The downtown area is a wonderful place to explore on foot, with tree-lined streets and a mix of historic and modern architecture. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, vintage finds, or just want to enjoy a coffee at a local café, Downtown Vacaville offers a variety of experiences. The welcoming atmosphere and community vibe make it a great spot to spend a few hours browsing, shopping, or simply enjoying the sights.
Downtown Vacaville also hosts seasonal events, including art walks, farmers markets, and festivals, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere throughout the year. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely afternoon or participating in one of the many events, Downtown Vacaville offers a true taste of local culture and charm. It’s the perfect destination to explore the heart of Vacaville while supporting local businesses.
10. Visit the Napa-Solano Wine Country
Vacaville is ideally located near the Napa-Solano Wine Country, a region known for its world-class vineyards and wineries. Visitors can take day trips to tour local wineries, taste premium wines, and enjoy the picturesque vineyards that stretch across the rolling hills. The region offers a mix of boutique wineries and well-known names, making it easy to find a winery that suits your taste. Many wineries offer guided tours, tastings, and special events, providing an immersive wine country experience.
In addition to wine tasting, the Napa-Solano Wine Country offers a wealth of scenic views, making it a great destination for photography and relaxation. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking to enjoy a relaxing day in beautiful surroundings, Napa-Solano Wine Country provides a peaceful and enjoyable retreat. It’s a perfect spot to explore just outside of Vacaville for those interested in wine, nature, and stunning vistas.
What to do if you have kids?
Vacaville is a great city for families, offering a wide variety of activities that kids will love. Andrews Park provides playgrounds and plenty of open space for running and playing, while the Jelly Belly Factory Tour is a sweet treat for children to learn about candy-making. Lagoon Valley Park is another great option for outdoor fun, with hiking trails, fishing, and picnic areas where families can spend the day together. Whether you’re visiting a park, taking a factory tour, or attending a local event, Vacaville offers plenty of activities for kids to stay entertained and active.
Where can I find free events in Vacaville, California, taking place this weekend?
Looking for free events in Vacaville this weekend? Use our tool, Planmyweekend.ai, to discover the best free activities and events happening around the city. Whether you’re interested in outdoor festivals, live performances, or family-friendly activities, Planmyweekend.ai makes it easy to find something fun and free to do. Stay updated on the latest events in Vacaville and plan an exciting weekend without spending a dime.
Final Thoughts
Vacaville, California, is a city with something for everyone, from outdoor adventures and historical attractions to shopping, dining, and wine country exploration. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or planning a longer stay, Vacaville offers year-round activities and a welcoming atmosphere that will make your trip memorable. With its combination of nature, culture, and local charm, Vacaville is the perfect destination to unwind, explore, and enjoy the best of Northern California. Plan your visit today to discover all the exciting things Vacaville has to offer!
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai