As a mom of three little ones (currently ages 3–8), I’m always on the lookout for family friendly things to do in Sacramento — especially in the winter when kids have lots of energy and the weather can be unpredictable. Some of these spots are places my own kids have enjoyed, and others come highly recommended by fellow moms I trust. Whether you want something active, educational, or cozy for a rainy day, these are some of the best family-friendly winter activities around the Sacramento area.

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Fairy Tale Town (Outdoor Play + Imagination)

Address: 3901 Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822
Website: https://fairytaletown.org/

Why It’s a Great Winter Activity

Fairy Tale Town is one of the most iconic family friendly things to do in Sacramento! And winter is actually such a nice time to go. The cooler air, lighter crowds, and plenty of space to roam make it perfect for younger kids. All the play structures are based on classic nursery rhymes and stories, which gives the whole place a magical, nostalgic feel.

If you want an outdoor activity that isn’t weather-dependent (as long as you’re dressed warm), this one is a winner.

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Nimbus Fish Hatchery (Seasonal, Educational & Free!)

Address: 2001 Nimbus Rd, Gold River, CA 95670
Website: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Hatcheries/Nimbus

A Unique Winter Outing for Kids

The Nimbus Fish Hatchery is especially fun during winter because it’s salmon migration season from November through early February. My oldest (8 years old) recently went here on a school field trip and absolutely loved seeing the salmon jump in the fish ladder! It’s a memorable family friendly things to do in Sacramento for elementary-aged kids.

You can explore the visitor center, walk along the river, learn about the salmon cycle, and even feed the trout. The experience is very hands-on, educational, and completely free! Which makes the hatchery an easy winter outing to add to your list.

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Little Kingdom Indoor Play (Pretend Play Heaven for Toddlers & Preschoolers)

Address: 220 Blue Ravine Rd Suite 200, Folsom, CA 95630
Website: https://littlekingdomplayroom.com/

Perfect for Rainy Day Playdates

If you have toddlers or preschoolers, Little Kingdom in Folsom is such a great option. It’s a beautifully designed pretend-play space! There are little shops, costumes, playhouses, and imaginative setups that keep little ones entertained for a long time. I’ve brought my kids here multiple times, and it’s always a hit. For days when you’re searching online for family friendly things to do in Sacramento but want to stay warm and cozy, this is the perfect indoor pick. It’s calm, clean, thoughtfully set up, and ideal for winter playdates.

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SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity (MOSAC)

Address: 400 Jibboom St, Sacramento, CA 95811
Website: https://visitmosac.org/

A Must-Visit for Curious Kids

MOSAC is one of the most engaging indoor museums in the region! It has hands-on exhibits that teach kids about weather, space, energy, ecosystems, engineering, and more. It’s interactive, colorful, and full of things to touch, push, climb, and explore — perfect for a winter day.

For families wanting educational family friendly things to do in Sacramento, this is one of the best options. The planetarium is a standout experience, and the museum truly appeals to a wide range of ages.

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Make This Winter a Season of Memory-Making

Winter is such a sweet season for slowing down and finding simple moments of connection. You can do this whether you’re exploring somewhere new or enjoying an indoor play spot while staying dry. These family friendly things to do in Sacramento offer fun ways to get out of the house and create memories — even on the coldest or rainiest days.

And if this season has you thinking about updating your family photos, I’d love to help capture your family exactly as you are right now.

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Ready to Plan Your Winter Family Session?

If these family friendly things to do in Sacramento inspired you, here are two great places to start:

• Learn about the Family Portrait Experience
  https://kelseykrallphotography.com/family-experience
  
• Contact Me to Start Planning Your Session
  https://kelseykrallphotography.com/contact
  

Winter may be chilly, but it’s full of beautiful, meaningful moments worth remembering. I’d love to capture your family in this season of life.