A Fun-Filled 5-Day Adventure in Elk Grove

Discover the natural charm of Elk Grove.

22 April 2023

Elk Grove, a city situated in California, United States is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. The city offers a variety of outdoor activities like hiking in the Elk Grove Regional Park and jogging in the Laguna Creek Trail. One can also explore the rich history of the city at the Elk Grove Historical Museum.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Local Flavor

  • Check into the Holiday Inn Express Elk Grove, a cozy and convenient option with free breakfast and a pool
  • Grab a bite at the locally-owned Boardwalk Grill, where the burgers are juicy and the fries are crispy
  • Head to Old Town Plaza Park for live music and a farmers market, where you'll find fresh produce, snacks and artisanal creations
  • Take a stroll through the Elk Grove Historical Society's museum, where you'll discover fascinating info on the town's roots
  • Top off the night with a cold brew at Tilted Mash Brewing, a friendly spot with creative beer options and games to enjoy
Day 2

Nature and Wildlife

  • Rise and shine for a hearty breakfast at Chick-fil-A, known for their buttery biscuits and famous chicken sandwiches
  • Drive to the Laguna Creek Trail for a serene morning walk amongst towering trees, babbling streams and chirping birds
  • Snap some photos of the majestic Franklin Creek Falls, a natural wonder with a cascading waterfall that's ideal for picnics
  • Stop by the Sacramento Zoo to marvel at exotic animals like giraffes, lions and monkeys, and participate in exciting shows and activities
  • End the day with dinner at the highly-rated Mikuni Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar, which offers sushi rolls, tempura and other Japanese classics
Day 3

History and Culture

  • Try some authentic Mexican goodness at Taqueria Garibaldi, a casual joint with delicious tacos, burritos and aguas frescas
  • Visit the Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park to learn about California's gold rush era and explore the impressive hydraulic mining complex
  • Tour the quaint town of Locke, founded by Chinese immigrants and home to charming buildings, eateries and shops
  • Check out the Elk Grove Fine Arts Center, a lovely space that showcases local art, hosts events and classes, and sells unique gifts
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with dessert from Pinkberry, a frozen yogurt place where you can customize your toppings and flavors
Day 4

Shopping and Entertainment

  • Indulge in fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon and other breakfast delights at Denny's, a classic American diner with great value
  • Head to the Elk Grove Shopping Center, a sprawling mall with over 50 stores ranging from clothing and electronics to beauty and specialty items
  • Catch a movie at the Regal Cinemas, a state-of-the-art theater with recliner seats and a wide selection of films
  • Bowl some strikes at Strikes Unlimited, a family-friendly bowling alley that also offers laser tag, arcade games and tasty eats
  • Treat yourself to a fabulous dinner at Boucanes Smokehouse and Grill, a BBQ restaurant with tender meats, zesty sauces and savory sides
Day 5

Adventure and Thrills

  • Grab a quick bite at Dunkin' Donuts, a beloved spot for coffee, breakfast sandwiches and of course, doughnuts
  • Drive to the Sacramento River for a thrilling rafting excursion by Adventure Connection, where you'll paddle through rapids, marvel at nature and bond with your team
  • Hike up Elk Grove's Cosumnes River Preserve for breathtaking views of the river, wetlands and wildlife, including rare birds and deer
  • Test your skills at iFLY indoor skydiving, a fun and safe experience that lets you float in a wind tunnel like a pro
  • Celebrate your last night with dinner and drinks at the Elk Grove Sports Bar and Grill, a lively hangout with sports on TV, live music and friendly staff

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Elk Grove by plane is to fly into Sacramento International Airport (SMF) and then take a taxi or rental car to Elk Grove, which is approximately a 30-minute drive.

Car

The best way to get to Elk Grove by car is to drive on either Highway 99 or Interstate 5, depending on your starting location, and then take the Laguna Boulevard exit into Elk Grove.

Train

As there is no train station in Elk Grove, the best way to get there by train is to take an Amtrak train to Sacramento and then take a taxi or rental car to Elk Grove, which is approximately a 25-minute drive.

Boat

As Elk Grove is not located on any significant waterways, there is no way to get there by boat.

Bus

The best way to get to Elk Grove by bus is to take a Greyhound bus to Sacramento and then take a connecting bus or taxi to Elk Grove.

More travel plans

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Elk Grove is a charming city in northern California, perfect for a family-friendly trip. With its beautiful parks and recreational areas, families can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. The city also offers exciting attractions like the Elk Grove Regional Park, which features a lake for fishing and boating, as well as playgrounds and splash pads for kids to have a blast.

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Elk Grove, located in California, is an affordable destination for budget-conscious travelers. Visitors can experience the city's hiking and biking trails, parks, and annual events without spending a fortune. Local restaurants offer delicious cuisine at reasonable prices, making Elk Grove an excellent option for those looking to explore the West Coast on a limited budget.

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