Woodland Travel Guide

Visit the charming city of Woodland located in Sacramento Valley, California. Discover its rich history, natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food, and more with this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Woodland

Woodland is a charming city located in Sacramento Valley, California, United States of America. It is named after the trees found in the area, including oak and walnut. The city is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and friendly locals, making it a great destination for tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Woodland

Here is a list of must-visit places in Woodland that highlight its culture, history, and natural beauty:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Yolo County Historical Museum: This museum features artifacts and exhibits that celebrate the history of Yolo County. Visitors can see a blacksmith shop, a post office, a schoolhouse, and more.

  • Woodland Opera House: Built in the late 1800s, this historic opera house hosts musicals, plays, and concerts throughout the year. Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture and catch a show while in town.

  • California Agricultural Museum: This unique museum showcases the history of agriculture in California. Visitors can see vintage tractors, farming equipment, and interactive exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Woodland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cache Creek Wildlife Area: This wildlife area is home to over 200 species of birds, as well as deer, coyotes, and other animals. Visitors can hike, bike, or go horseback riding on the trails or take a scenic drive.

  • Woodland-Davis Bike Trail: This 12-mile trail is perfect for biking, running, or walking and offers beautiful views of the countryside and the city.

  • Woodland Regional Park: This park offers a playground, picnic areas, sports fields, and a nature trail. Visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Woodland

In addition to the Woodland-Davis Bike Trail, there are several other great routes for biking and hiking in Woodland:

  • Cache Creek Ridge Trail: This 23-mile trail offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including valleys and mountain ranges.

  • Yolo Causeway Bike Path: This 6-mile trail runs along the causeway and provides great views of the Sacramento River and surrounding wildlife.

  • Putah Creek Nature Trail: This 2-mile trail follows the Putah Creek and offers beautiful views of the nearby countryside.

Best Things to Do in Woodland: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries such as Blue Note Brewing Company and Reiff’s Antique Gas Station Museum for delicious wines and stunning views of the countryside.

  • Old-Fashioned Downtown: Explore the historic downtown area of Woodland and check out its quaint shops and restaurants.

  • Agricultural Tours: Take a tour of local farms and orchards to learn about the region’s agricultural history and sample some fresh produce.

Week-Long Itinerary for Woodland

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Woodland:

Day Activities
1 Visit the Yolo County Historical Museum, shop at the local farmers’ market, and catch a show at Woodland Opera House.
2 Explore the Cache Creek Ridge Trail and have a picnic at the scenic overlook.
3 Take a wine tasting tour of local wineries and enjoy the stunning views of the countryside.
4 Visit the California Agricultural Museum and learn about the history of agriculture in the region.
5 Go on an agricultural tour of local farms and orchards, and sample some fresh produce.
6 Spend the day at Woodland Regional Park, relaxing and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
7 Cycle along the Woodland-Davis Bike Trail and have dinner at a local restaurant in the downtown area.

Food and Drink Scene of Woodland

Woodland offers a range of tasty and unique dishes and beverages that visitors should try during their stay.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tri-Tip Sandwich: A delicious sandwich made with grilled tri-tip and served on a soft roll.

  • Burgers and Fries: Local restaurants such as Mojo’s make amazing burgers with fresh beef and crispy fries.

  • California Sushi Rolls: Try this West Coast version of sushi, which includes avocado and other unique ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Visit local wineries such as Blue Note Brewing Company and Reiff’s Antique Gas Station Museum for delicious wines.

  • Beer: Woodland has a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries such as Father Paddy’s and Blue Note Brewing Company offering a variety of beers.

Where to Stay in Woodland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Woodland offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Woodland:

  • Best Western Shadow Inn: This family-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast.

  • Motel 6 Woodland: A budget-friendly option for travelers on a budget, this motel offers clean and comfortable rooms.

  • Blue Gum Motel: This cozy motel is located downtown and boasts easy access to local shops and restaurants.

What to Buy in Woodland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can bring a piece of Woodland home with them by purchasing the following local products:

  • Fresh Produce: Visit local farms and orchards to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables.

  • Wine: Buy bottles of delicious local wine to take home and enjoy.

  • Crafts: Shop for unique handmade crafts at local markets and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Woodland

Woodland is known for its agricultural traditions and farming history. Visitors should respect the local culture and customs by learning about the region’s agriculture and treating local farmers and food producers with respect.

Best Time to Visit Woodland

The best time to visit Woodland is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the scenery is beautiful. Summers can be hot, whereas winters can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Woodland

Do:

  • Do visit local farmers’ markets and support local agriculture.

  • Do dress appropriately for the weather and outdoor activities.

  • Do try local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural areas.

  • Don’t disrespect local farmers and food producers.

  • Don’t forget to tip servers at restaurants.

Safety and Health

Safety in Woodland

Woodland is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take the usual precautions such as locking cars and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in Woodland

Visitors should drink plenty of water and protect themselves from the sun and heat in the summer months.

Getting to Woodland: Transportation Options, and Logistics

Airports Near Woodland

The nearest major airport is Sacramento International Airport, which is located approximately 10 miles southeast of Woodland.

Bus Stations Near Woodland

Greyhound operates a station in nearby Davis, which is approximately 8 miles from Woodland.

Other Options

Alternatively, visitors can drive to Woodland or take a taxi or rideshare service.

How to Get Around in Woodland

Visitors can easily get around Woodland by car, bicycle, or on foot. Rental cars and bicycles are available, as well as rideshare services.

Where to Go Next from Woodland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Woodland can explore nearby destinations such as:

  • Sacramento: The state capital is located approximately 20 miles southeast of Woodland and is home to many museums, parks, and attractions.

  • Napa Valley: This world-renowned wine region is approximately 60 miles northwest of Woodland and offers beautiful scenery and delicious wines.

  • Lake Tahoe: Visitors can head to this stunningly beautiful lake, located approximately 90 miles northeast of Woodland, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and boating.

Conclusion

Woodland is a charming city located in Sacramento Valley, California, that boasts a rich history, natural beauty, and friendly locals. Visitors can explore museums and historical places, hike and bike scenic trails, sample delicious local cuisine, and relax in comfortable accommodations. Plan a trip to Woodland today and discover the best of California.