Things To Do
in Folsom
Folsom, United States sits just east of Sacramento along the American River, known for its preserved Old Town and scenic lake views. The city blends historic charm with modern outdoor recreation, making it a family-friendly base for year-round exploration. Visitors can stroll the historic streets, enjoy lake activities at Lake Natoma, and sample diverse Northern California cuisine.
With safe neighborhoods and convenient access to Sacramento, Folsom offers a relaxed yet active travel experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll down Sutter Street, where you can explore charming boutiques and antique shops. Grab a coffee at a local café and enjoy the atmosphere as you watch the town wake up. Don't forget to visit the Folsom History Museum to learn about the area’s gold rush history.
After lunch, head to the Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park, where you can explore the intriguing history of hydroelectric power. Walk along the American River, taking in the scenic views and perhaps spotting some local wildlife. Consider renting a bike or kayak to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
For dinner, choose one of the downtown restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, from Italian to Mexican. After your meal, stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the sunset, reflecting on the day’s adventures. End your evening with a visit to a local pub for live music or a cozy atmosphere.
Begin your day at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, where you can hike along the scenic trails that wind through the park. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the water, savoring the peaceful surroundings. As the sun rises higher, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful views of the lake and the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Spend your afternoon enjoying water activities such as swimming, paddleboarding, or sailing on the lake. With several beaches to choose from, you can find a spot to relax or engage in some fun water sports. As you unwind, keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that inhabits the area.
Wrap up your day with a barbecue at one of the designated picnic areas in Folsom Lake. As the sun sets, gather around with friends and family, sharing stories and enjoying the crisp evening air. If you're up for it, take a leisurely walk along the shore to soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚗Taxi or rideshare (short trip) | $3-6 |
| 🏨One-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Sacramento with access to major attractions
- Strong outdoor recreation around Folsom Lake
- Historic Old Town with family-friendly activities
- Safe, suburban atmosphere
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Some attractions require driving
- Seasonal crowds around lake and events
- Weather can be hot in summer
Places to Visit in Folsom
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful storefronts and historic architecture along Sutter Street, perfect for street photography.
Waterfront views with the dam, spillways, and surrounding hills, great for sunset shots.
Industrial heritage on the American River with brick buildings and river scenes.
Lush riparian scenes along the trail with bridges and seasonal greenery.
Food in Folsom
Folsom Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty burrito with carne asada, French fries, cheese, and pico de gallo, common at casual taquerias.
Must-Try!
Braised meat tucked into tortillas with consommé for dipping, popular at taquerias and food trucks.
Seasonal, locally sourced salmon over rice with vegetables and a bright sauce reflecting Northern California cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in the Historic District offering local produce, prepared foods, and crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in line and wait your turn; Californians value efficiency and politeness.
Greet with a simple hello; small talk is common but not expected in quick transactions.
Safety
Tipping in Folsom
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping 15-20% at restaurants and bars is standard; round up for small services.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is fine; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with plenty of outdoor lake activities; hydrate, sun-protect, and plan water breaks.
Mild and rainy days are possible; pack a light rain jacket and enjoy indoor museum options.
Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers; great for hiking and outdoor markets.
Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and colorful foliage around the lake and trails.
Folsom at Night
Hiking in Folsom
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Shaded riverine trail near Folsom with bridges and wildlife, suitable for all levels.
A network of trails around the lake offering scenic water views and open spaces.
Airports
How to reach Folsom by plane.
Major regional airport about 25-30 minutes from Folsom with domestic flights and some international connections.
Alternative airport about 1.5-2 hours west, useful for cross-state connections.
A longer option about 2-2.5 hours drive, helpful for international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of family households and good schools; many family-friendly attractions.
A significant portion of residents commute to Sacramento for work.
Active retiree community with local clubs and recreation options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Community leagues, pick-up games and school sports are common in local gyms and parks.
Local leagues and school teams; many parks have fields and seasonal tournaments.
Road cycling and trail riding around Lake Natoma and the American River Parkway.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Folsom.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie plates, salads, and rotating seasonal dishes; ask chefs to adapt ingredients.