Hi there friend! I’m SO excited for summer time with the kids–the laid back schedule, the sunshine, and allll the outside playtime. As a mama of three that are ages 6 and under, I totally understand the challenge of finding kid friendly day trips that don’t require an all-day commitment. Luckily, the Sacramento area is full of great spots that are perfect for a few hours of fun and exploration with littles. Here are some of our family’s favorite quick getaway destinations that have become our go-to summer outings. (Also enjoy these photos from a sweet family maternity session!)

1. Anchored Eats – Granite Bay Main Beach

Located right on the shores of Granite Bay, Anchored Eats is a delightful food shack that offers delicious bites with a view. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick lunch or snack while the kids enjoy the sandy beach and splash in the shallow waters. The casual, beachy atmosphere is super fun and accessible to parking (arrive in the morning over the summertime, parking fills up!) They also have RENTALS! So you can rent an umbrella or even large floating water trampoline for so much fun for the kids. My boys saw these trampoline rentals during our last trip and have been begging us to go back to rent one! We’ll likely do that sometime this summer. 🙂 

2. Sacramento Zoo – Sacramento, CA

A visit to the Sacramento Zoo is always a hit with our little ones. The Sac Zoo is super friendly for little kids!! It’s also fairly small so it is just the right size for a morning or afternoon visit. It has a carousel, playground, snack shop, train, and feed the giraffe activity that’s my kids favorite. Plus, it’s easy to navigate with strollers, and there are plenty of shady spots to take a break and have a snack. I’d recommend going in the morning during summer time because the animals tend to sleep through the afternoon heat and they’re more active in the morning! 

3. Promontory Park Splash Pad – El Dorado Hills, CA

When the summer heat kicks in, the Promontory Park Splash Pad is a lifesaver for our family. This interactive water play area is ideal for big kids and toddlers to cool off and have fun. The park also has a playground with shade. It’s a great spot to let the kids burn off some energy. 

4. Harris Family Farm – Pollock Pines, CA

For a taste of farm life, Harris Family Farm in Pollock Pines is a really charming farm. In the apple hill area, one of the few farms that is open during the summer months! You can pick your own berries or flowers. The farm is picturesque and peaceful, our family has loved picking blackberries up there!! 

5. Boeger Winery – Placerville, CA

While a winery might not seem like an obvious choice for a family outing, Boeger Winery in Placerville is wonderfully family-friendly. The winery has beautiful grounds where kids can run around, and parents can enjoy a wine tasting. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for a leisurely afternoon. Bring a picnic or order little picnicky things while you’re there for the kids to snack on, and enjoy the scenic views while the kids play.

These nearby destinations have become favorites for our family’s summer adventures.  I hope you find these spots as delightful as we do! Can you think of another place we should check out locally this summer? Reply to this email and let me know if you have a suggestion!

I have limited summer availability. If you’d like to book a summer session you can contact me HERE!