There’s no shortage of great fall destinations across Northern California, from the mountains to the coast. But in between is a hidden gem that often gets overlooked: Yolo County. Just outside of Sacramento, Yolo County features boutique wineries, world-class restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities, making it the ideal choice for fall getaways.
The first step in planning a fall getaway is finding the perfect place to stay. Luckily, lodging in Yolo County runs the gamut, from well-designed boutique hotels to historic inns and everything in between. There are plenty of options to choose from, and best of all, many offer fall lodging specials.
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Yolo County Wineries
Yolo County is an undiscovered gem in the wine world, and there’s no better time to enjoy all it has to offer than in the fall. The area is dotted with friendly, family-run wineries and charming tasting rooms. Some to consider include Matchbook Wine Company in Zamora, which produces estate-grown red blends and white varietals. The large outdoor seating area overlooks the turning leaves of the vineyards below and the coastal range in the distance. In fact, many vineyards in Yolo County have great views!
In Davis, Great Bear Vineyards is a small-batch winery known for cabernet sauvignon and rosé. In addition to wine tasting, they also host wine-centric experiences such as chocolate pairings, cheese parings, and winemaking. If downtown Winters is your destination, two great tasting rooms to visit include Turkovich Family Wines, which has comfy seating on its charming outdoor patio and Berryessa Gap Vineyards, which has special events such as global dinners and live music. Best of all, you can visit multiple wineries with a discounted rate via the Yolo County Tasting Pass.
Craft Breweries in Yolo County
Wine not your thing? No worries. Yolo County has its share of craft breweries and tap rooms as well. Head to Davis to check out Dunloe Brewing, which has a large, kid- and dog-friendly outdoor beer garden. Up in Winters, Hooby’s Brewing is a low-key spot with a full kitchen, live music, and weekly cornhole tournaments. In Clarksburg, Husick’s Taphouse pours local brews and serves hearty barbecue fare. They also host special events including live music, comedy, and weekly trivia.
Yolo County is also home to one of the few craft distilleries in the greater Sacramento area. Patio 29 Spirits Company in Winters produces hand-crafted gin, vodka, rum, and whiskey. They also host special events such as tours, tastings, and blending sessions. Another unique experience is a visit to The HIVE Tasting Room and Kitchen, which offers mead flights, honey tasting, and tours of the facilities and gardens.
Things to Do in Yolo County
Fall in Yolo County means crisp air, turning leaves, and fewer crowds, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities. One way to enjoy Yolo County’s autumn splendor is to take a garden tour or farm tour at Park Winters. The tours take guests through the expansive property to wander the manicured gardens and seasonal flowers. You can even pick your own bouquet.
Golf is another popular fall pastime in Yolo County. One scenic course to play is Yocha Dehe Golf Club in Brooks. Surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, the course has immaculate greens and a practice area. Another spot to try is Wildhorse Golf Club in Davis, a public course framed by Covell Creek.
Another unique experience in Yolo County is the River Fox Train. Though best known for the family-friendly pumpkin train in October, they also have rides for grown-ups. The Old Vine Express takes riders through the Yolo countryside while they sip local wine. The Beer Train pours craft brews and features lively music. If you’re feeling daring, pedal your way down the tracks on a railbike and take in the country scenery.
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Where to Eat in Yolo County
After all that activity, you’ve probably worked up an appetite. Luckily, Yolo County restaurants turn out gourmet dishes with many of the ingredients sourced from local farms and ranches. Some top picks include Savory Café in Woodland, which dishes up seasonally inspired breakfast and lunch plates; Commons Farm Kitchen in Guinda, a local favorite with hearty barbecue and sandwiches; and The Mustard Seed in Davis, a fine-dining spot with refined choices such as pan-seared duck breast and mustard-crusted rack of lamb. Another good bet is Carboni’s Ristorante in Hotel Winters, which serves elevated pizza and house-made pasta on its alluring rooftop patio.
Yolo County has everything you’re looking for in a fall getaway: scenic outdoor activities, a vibrant wine and beer scene, and renowned restaurants. Plus, it has numerous hotels waiting to welcome you. Check out lodging specials in Yolo County and book your trip today!
