Things To Do
in Woodland
Woodland is a small city in Yolo County, California, located just northwest of Sacramento. It preserves a historic downtown with brick storefronts, shaded sidewalks, and a friendly, small-town atmosphere. The surrounding farmland and local markets make it easy to sample farm-to-table cuisine and seasonal produce.
Its convenient location makes Woodland a great base for day trips to vineyards, rivers, and nature reserves in Northern California.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a charming café in downtown Woodland, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and locally roasted coffee. After breakfast, stroll through the Historic District, admiring the beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and charming storefronts. Be sure to visit the Yolo County Historical Museum to learn about the area's rich past.
Head to the Woodland Opera House for a guided tour, where you can appreciate the artistic heritage of this historic venue. After the tour, grab lunch at a nearby eatery that offers farm-to-table options, showcasing local produce. Spend the afternoon wandering through the local shops and boutiques, discovering unique crafts and artisanal goods.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant that features seasonal dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. After dinner, catch a live performance or a movie at the Woodland Opera House, immersing yourself in the local arts scene. Wind down the evening with a leisurely walk along Main Street, enjoying the twinkling lights and vibrant community spirit.
Begin your day with a visit to the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, a prime spot for birdwatching and nature walks. Bring along binoculars and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, including migratory birds. Enjoy a peaceful morning hike along the trails, surrounded by the beauty of wetlands and open fields.
After your nature exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas in the wildlife refuge, taking in the serene surroundings. Spend the afternoon exploring the interpretive center to gain insights into local ecosystems and wildlife conservation efforts. Consider renting a bike to cover more ground and see additional trails along the bypass.
As evening approaches, return to Woodland and treat yourself to dinner at a local diner known for its comfort food and friendly service. After your meal, take a brief stroll through the nearby park, enjoying the sounds of nature as the day winds down. Cap off the night with a visit to a local brewery, sampling craft beers made from local ingredients.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or latte | $3-6 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-5 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $120-180 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable downtown with historic character
- Access to diverse outdoor experiences within minutes
- Small-town nightlife may be limited on weekdays
- Distances to larger city amenities require a short drive
Places to Visit in Woodland
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic brick sidewalks and storefronts glow at golden hour, making charming street photography.
Colorful plant displays, water features, and long perspectives ideal for composition.
Wide river views and birds provide dramatic sunset silhouettes.
Food in Woodland
Woodland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty burrito featuring meat, beans, rice, salsa, and veggies; a staple influenced by broader Northern California flavors.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted beef on crusty bread with onions, peppers, and sauce; a nod to California barbecue traditions.
Warm fruit cobbler featuring peaches, berries, or stone fruit from local orchards.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and local crafts.
Rural stand selling seasonal fruits, vegetables, and homemade treats from nearby farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and eye contact are appreciated; say please and thank you; queue patiently in lines.
Keep voices at a considerate level in public spaces; respect personal space in crowds.
Tipping culture applies to service workers; tipping is expected in restaurants and bars.
Smoke-free policies are common in restaurants, shops, and parks.
Safety
Tipping in Woodland
Ensure a smooth experience
15-20% tipping in restaurants is standard; cash tips are appreciated for smaller establishments; some places may add a service charge for large parties.
Cash, credit/debit cards, and contactless payments (Apple/Google Pay) are widely accepted; ATMs are available throughout Woodland.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with wildflowers and farmers market abundance; best for outdoor tours.
Hot days; carry water, seek shade, plan morning or evening activities.
Comfortable weather and harvest events; vineyard and orchard visits are popular.
Cool, wet days more common; layering advised and rain gear handy.
Woodland at Night
Hiking in Woodland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling hills, oak woodlands, and vineyard views within a short drive from Woodland.
Flat, easy trails through wetlands, ideal for birdwatching and relaxed walks.
Tree-lined paths and water features offering scenic, easy-to-moderate hikes just to the south.
Airports
How to reach Woodland by plane.
Primary regional hub with numerous domestic and international connections; about a short drive from Woodland depending on traffic.
Major international hub offering extensive global connections; farther away but accessible by car or rail via Bay Area routes.
Convenient Bay Area gateway for short trips; smaller than SFO but well-connected to Northern California.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of residents are families with children; suburban feel and strong community programs.
Proximity to UC Davis and the Sacramento region attracts students and commuters.
A steady presence in quiet neighborhoods with community centers and healthcare access.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common recreational sport in schools and community leagues; accessible year-round.
Popular among youth and adult leagues; outdoor fields are plentiful in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Woodland.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Woodland, many restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for salads, veggie bowls, veggie burgers, and cheese-forward dishes; ask about sauces.
Choose thoughtfully labeled vegan options; request dairy-free and egg-free preparations; many places can adapt dishes.
Most menus include gluten-free options; inform staff about cross-contact; opt for grilled proteins, salads, and naturally gluten-free sides.