Yolo County Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Yolo County with this comprehensive tour guide, including destinations for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, food and drink scenes, and more.


Introduction to Yolo County

Yolo County, located in the Sacramento Valley in California, has become a popular destination for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. The county is known for its diverse cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and delicious culinary scene.

List of Places to Visit in Yolo County

Whether you’re interested in exploring the county’s history, taking in some beautiful scenery, or trying out local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Yolo County. Here are the top destinations to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • California Agriculture and Food Museum: Discover California agriculture’s rich history, from farm machines to farm-to-fork displays.
  • Hattie Weber Museum: Get a glimpse into Yolo County’s pioneer past at this charming museum.
  • Pence Gallery: This gallery is home to contemporary art exhibits, workshops and gift shop.

Natural Attractions of Yolo County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cache Creek Nature Preserve: Explore over 1350 acres of stunning natural landscape, home to a variety of wildlife.
  • Putah Creek: This waterway offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, hiking & biking trails, and picnicking.
  • Lake Berryessa: This man-made lake provides the perfect location for water sports, boating, and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes in Yolo County

Yolo County has numerous trails and routes with varying difficulty levels for hikers and bikers. Here are a few options to explore:

  • Lake Solano Park: With scenic trails and picnic areas, this park provides a perfect spot to soak up the sun while enjoying the outdoors.
  • Cache Creek Ridge Trail: This 28-mile trail takes you through breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views of the county.
  • Davis Bike Loop Trail: This easy 12-mile loop trail is perfect for novice bikers and offers beautiful views of the area.

Best Things to Do in Yolo County: Activities and Tours

From wine tasting to ghost tours, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained in Yolo County. Here are some of the best:

  • Yolo Brewfest: Sample some of California’s best beers while enjoying live music and local food at the annual Yolo Brewfest.
  • Old Sacramento Ghost Tours: Explore the haunted history of Old Sacramento while on a ghost tour. A fascinating and unique way to experience the city’s past.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit the wine-makers of Yolo County for some unique and flavorful wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yolo County

If you’re planning on visiting Yolo County for an extended period, here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Destination
1 City of Davis
2 Cache Creek Nature Preserve
3 Woodland
4 Putah Creek
5 Sacramento via Amtrak
6 Lake Berryessa
7 Capay Valley

Food and Drink Scene of Yolo County

Yolo County is known for its delicious cuisine and flourishing farm-to-table culture. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sacramento Sourdough: A classic sourdough bread that’s been a staple in the area for over 100 years.
  • Bouchon Selectionnare Cheese: This cheese is made from cow’s milk, and its unique flavor comes from aging it in underground caves.
  • California Olive Oil: Yolo County is home to some of California’s best olive oil. Rich, smooth, and unforgettable.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Yolo County offers numerous delicious and diverse locally crafted beers. Check out Yolo Brewing Company or Blue Note Brewing.
  • Wine: The county is a part of California’s “wine country”. While here, take a wine tour to sample the many great wines and refreshing views.

Where to Stay in Yolo County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Yolo County offers numerous staying options from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses:

  • The Westin Sacramento: Located in Sacramento, this hotel offers a luxury experience within easy reach of Yolo County.
  • Camp Davis: Situated on campus, this hostel is perfect for budget-minded travelers.
  • The Inn at Park Winters: This cozy guesthouse located in the heart of Winters is perfect for those wanting a local stay.

What to Buy in Yolo County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Yolo County offers numerous unique souvenirs. Here are some of the best items to bring home with you:

  • Almonds: California is the largest almond producer in the world, and Yolo County offers the most delicious variety of them all. Buy them plain or coated in chocolate.
  • Herman Wadsworth: One of the region’s most influential artists, Herman Wadsworth, produced remarkable works of art that define Yolo County’s historical significance.
  • Olive Oil: Yolo County produces high-quality olive oil and offers its own unique brand

Local Culture and Customs of Yolo County

Yolo County’s culture is a blend of Native American heritage, Spanish colonial influence, and European settled communities. The area’s peculiarity is demonstrated in its art, farmer traditions, and seasonal celebrations.

Best Time to Visit Yolo County

The best time to visit Yolo County is between April and October when the weather is warm and dry. However, visiting in October can be especially rewarding because of all the harvest and food festivals, and the coming of fall color.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yolo County

When visiting Yolo County, it’s important to respect local customs and culture. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Pack for the outdoors: With numerous outdoors activities on offer, including hiking, biking, and watersports, make sure to pack proper outdoor gear.
  • Try local cuisine: Yolo County offers a unique blend of farm-to-table cuisine. Don’t miss out on the chance to try some of the best.
  • Be respectful: Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Keep the county clean and dispose of trash appropriately.
  • Ignore trail signs: Stay on designated trails to protect wildlife and natural habitats.

Safety and Health

Yolo County is generally quite safe. However, it’s always important to take precautions when visiting a new destination.

Safety in Yolo County

  • Keep valuables safe and out of sight.
  • Always lock your doors at night.
  • Stick to well-lit and well-traveled areas.

Health in Yolo County

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Wear sunscreen when outdoors to prevent sunburn.
  • Pack a first aid kit just in case.

Getting to Yolo County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Yolo County is easily accessible by car and public transportation. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Yolo County

  • Sacramento International Airport

Bus Stations Near Yolo County

  • Greyhound Bus Station

Other Options

  • Amtrak train service from Sacramento

How to Get Around in Yolo County

Yolo County provides public transportation by bus, as well as bike trails around the metro area.

Where to Go Next from Yolo County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for even more adventure, here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring:

  • San Francisco: Head west to find this renowned city full of culture, arts, and cuisine.
  • Lake Tahoe: For opportunities in skiing, hiking, and water sports take a trip to Lake Tahoe, located in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
  • Napa Valley: For more wine and outdoorsy experiences, visit Napa Valley and surrounding areas.

Conclusion

Yolo County is a unique area in California with plenty to offer for those who venture off the beaten path. With its rich history, cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of a destination.



    Davis
    West Sacramento
    Winters
    Woodland