The Best Things To Do In Yolo County This Spring
The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and flowers are blooming — it’s spring in Yolo County! After a long winter, it’s about time we all get outdoors to take in the fresh air and scenery. Spring is one of the best times to visit Yolo County, with its rolling green countryside and blossoming orchards. If you’re in the market for a spring jaunt, consider a trip to Yolo County. Following are the best things to do in Yolo County this spring.
Go Blossom Spotting
Spring in Yolo County means one thing: almond blossoms! From mid-February to March, the Yolo countryside is blanketed in the soft pink-white blossoms, known as “Yolo County snow.” You can take a self-guided driving tour past the orchards, making stops along the way. But it’s not just almond blossoms that light up the Yolo countryside this time of year. Many other nut and fruit trees also spring to life, not to mention wildflowers galore.
Take a Hike
Spring is a great time to dust off those hiking boots and head outdoors. Though trails can still be a bit slick, the cool weather beats the heat that arrives later in the year. Experienced hikers can find several trails in Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve and Cache Creek Regional Park. Those looking for a mellow stroll can do so along the Putah Creek Trail or U.C. Davis Arboretum Trail.
Stroll a Farmer’s Market
Early-season crops start making an appearance in Yolo County in spring A trip to the farmers’ market means you can bring home all types of fresh fruits and veggies, including asparagus, artichokes, peas and strawberries. One of the best farmers’ markets to visit is the Davis Farmers’ Market, held Saturdays from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. In addition to fresh produce, you’ll also find local wine, honey, nuts, baked goods, eggs, flowers and handmade artisan crafts.
Dine Al Fresco
When the skies clear and the temperatures rise, there’s no better way to enjoy the weather than by dining outdoors. Many restaurants in Yolo County have lovely outdoor patios where you can enjoy a meal or a glass of wine. Some spots to consider are Putah Creek Café in Winters, which has a charming patio right in the center of town, or Osteria Fasulo in Davis, which has a large, leafy courtyard. Franquette in West Sacramento has sidewalk dining akin to the sidewalk cafés found in France. Of course, there are plenty of craft breweries and local wineries where you can sip outdoors as well.
Have a Picnic
Dining al fresco takes on an entirely new meaning when it’s done picnic-style! Yolo County picnic spots run the gamut, from community parks to wineries. Putah Creek has numerous access points with plenty of picnic tables to choose from; you can pack your own lunch or pick up sandwiches or salads to go at Steady Eddy’s in Winters on the way. Another good bet is Central Park in Davis. If you’re there on a Saturday, you can pick up food from one of the many vendors at the Davis Farmers’ Market or grab a meal from one of the nearby restaurants in Davis. Many wineries in Yolo County also allow you to bring your own picnic on certain days, including Great Bear Vineyards, Matchbook Wines and Miner’s Leap Winery.
Go on a Bike Ride
Yolo County’s idyllic landscape makes it an ideal place to explore on two wheels! There are numerous bike routes to check out, most of which follow paved, mellow roads with little elevation. Besides the scenic countryside, the city of Davis is a good bet for a bike ride. In fact, Davis is considered one of the most bike-friendly cities in the entire nation! You can take the 12-mile Davis Bike Loop through town or check out the self-guided Davis Historic Pedestrian and Bike Tour.
Pick a Bouquet
Come spring, Yolo County is dotted with colorful flowers. You can even treat yourself to a bouquet to take home. Park Winters offers a Pick Your Own Bouquet experience, allowing you to stroll the fields of zinnias, poppies, sweet peas and more and cut whatever tickles your fancy. Another option is lavender picking at Capay Valley Lavender. You-pick season kicks off Mother’s Day weekend and lasts through the spring and summer. You can cut your own bouquet, stroll the fields and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Join a Tour
Yolo County is proud of its agricultural heritage. For a behind-the-scenes look at the farms and food producers in the area, check out the offerings of Yolo365 Tours. They offer wine, beer and spirits tours as well as curated itineraries that include tours of local farms. SacTown Bites also offers food tours of Yolo County, including Taste of the Delta, which hits several Clarksburg wineries; and Capay Valley Farm Tour, which visits Capay Valley Lavender, Taber Ranch Vineyards and Séka Hills Olive Mill.
Yolo County makes for a great getaway any time of year, but especially in spring when the countryside comes alive. It’s a great place to get outside, especially after a long winter. If you’re looking to make a weekend of it, be sure to check out Yolo County lodging specials, with offers on hotels throughout the region.
-Published March 2023