Looking for the perfect Northern California girls getaway?
Folsom, California offers a unique mix of outdoor adventure and wine country charm. Known as the Paddling Capital of the West, Folsom is home to scenic waterways like Lake Natoma and Folsom Lake, paired with easy access to El Dorado wine country. This 3-day itinerary blends kayaking, wine tasting, shopping, and dining into one unforgettable weekend.
Day 1: Paddle, Sip & Stroll
Morning Adventure
Start your getaway on the water at Black Miners Bar State Park on Lake Natoma. Rent a paddleboard, kayak, or tandem kayak and explore one of the most scenic and calm waterways in Northern California. The narrow, river-like setting, shaded shoreline, and wildlife create a peaceful and memorable paddling experience.
Lunch
Head to Gather & Toast in the Historic Folsom District for a light and fun midday break. Known for crepes and bubbly, this champagne bar and café is the perfect spot to relax after a morning on the water.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Historic Folsom District. This charming, walkable area is filled with local boutiques, specialty shops, and Gold Rush-era character.
Enjoy wine tasting in Folsom along Sutter Street at local favorites like Crystal Basin Cellars, Merlo Family Wines, or The Vine. For a more interactive experience, try blending your own wine at Willamette Wineworks.
Dinner
Stay in the district and walk to dinner along Sutter Street. Fiori Italian Pizzeria offers a modern take on Italian favorites, while Sutter Street Steakhouse is known for prime cuts and fresh seafood. With so many great options nearby, it’s easy to find the perfect spot for your group.
Sweet Treat
End the evening with dessert at Snooks Chocolate Factory or Ben & Jerry’s.
Overnight
Stay at one of Folsom’s welcoming hotels and rest up for another day of adventure.
Day 2: Ride, Explore & Dine
Breakfast
Start your morning at Karen’s Bakery, a local favorite known for fresh pastries, breakfast classics, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Morning Adventure
Rent e-bikes from Practical Cycle and cruise along the American River Parkway, a scenic trail that stretches approximately 32 miles between Folsom and Sacramento.
From there, you can:
- Ride the Johnny Cash Trail
- Visit the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary
- Cross Folsom Crossing and explore both sides of the river
- Head toward Beals Point or the Folsom Lake shoreline
These waterfront routes offer a perfect mix of movement, scenery, and flexibility for all experience levels.
Prefer more time on the water? Head to Beals Point Recreation Area or Granite Bay Main Beach at Folsom Lake. Enjoy sandy beaches, swimming areas, and plenty of space to relax.
Dinner
Unwind with dinner at Crawdads on the Lake. With waterfront views, live music, and a lively but relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to end the day.
Day 3: Wine Country Escape
Morning
Start your day with a scenic drive into El Dorado wine country, located less than 30 minutes from Folsom. Home to nearly 70 boutique, family-owned wineries, this region offers a relaxed and authentic tasting experience surrounded by rolling hills and vineyard views.
Ease into the day with your first stop at Boeger Winery, the region’s first winery and a great introduction to El Dorado wines. Continue to Delfino Farms for Rhône varietals and countryside views, or visit Lava Cap Winery for award-winning wines grown in volcanic soils.
For a more immersive experience, stop by Starfield Vineyards, where you can sip and stroll through 67 acres of vineyards, gardens, and nature trails filled with seasonal blooms.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at Myka Estates, known for its inviting outdoor deck and thoughtfully paired menu. Prefer something more casual? Pick up a picnic from Blue Barn Provisions and enjoy it at your favorite winery.
Evening
Head back to Folsom and spend your final evening at Palladio, an open-air lifestyle center perfect for shopping, dining, and a memorable night out.
Browse a mix of national brands and local favorites, then settle in for dinner at one of the many restaurants offering everything from casual bites to elevated dining. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively patio, craft cocktails, or a relaxed meal under the lights, Palladio is the perfect place to toast to a weekend well spent.
Plan Your Folsom Getaway
From peaceful mornings on the water to evenings spent wine tasting and dining under the lights, Folsom offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer stay, this Folsom girls getaway itinerary helps you make the most of every moment.