Looking for lakeside beauty, gold rush history, and outdoor adventures? Head to Folsom! Located just outside Sacramento, Folsom is known for its historic charm, scenic trails, and recreational access to lakes and rivers. Whether you're biking along the American River, shopping in the historic district, or visiting the famous prison museum, Folsom is a fun and diverse California getaway.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Folsom is from April through June and September through November. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor recreation and sightseeing. Summers are hot but perfect for boating and lake days, while mild winters make it a year-round destination.
How to Get There
- By Car: Folsom is located along U.S. Route 50, about 30 minutes east of Sacramento and 2 hours from Lake Tahoe or San Francisco.
- By Air: Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is about 45 minutes away and offers domestic and international flights.
- By Light Rail: Sacramento RT Light Rail connects downtown Sacramento to Folsom via the Gold Line.
Where to Stay
- Lake Natoma Inn – Convenient and comfortable inn located in Historic Folsom, close to dining, trails, and the river.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Folsom – Family-friendly hotel with modern rooms, indoor pool, and free breakfast near shopping centers.
- Larkspur Landing Folsom – All-suite hotel with kitchens and cozy amenities, great for longer stays or business travel.
Top Attractions
⮕ Catch a Show or Performance at the Harris Center
© Harris Center
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What is the Harris Center for the Arts?
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The Harris Center
for the Arts is an 80,000 square foot regional arts center that provides visitors the opportunity to experience and celebrate works of art across several mediums.
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When did the Harris Center open?
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The center opened in 2011 and is popular among the community for invoking the creative process through an array of programs suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds.
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How many visitors and events does the Harris Center host?
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The center attracts over 150,000 patrons and hosts over 400 public events every year.
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What types of events take place at the Harris Center?
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Concerts, musicals, and conversations fill their event calendar, providing a wide range of performances and discussions.
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Which artists and organizations perform at the Harris Center?
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The center features performances from groups such as Kahulanui, the Folsom Lake Community Concert Association, Music Beyond Borders, and more.
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What is the contact information for the Harris Center?
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10 College Parkway, Folsom, CA 95630, Phone: 916-608-6888
⮕ Meet Rescued Animals at the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary
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What is the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary?
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How is the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary different from a traditional zoo?
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Unlike a traditional zoo, animals at the sanctuary are not bred, sold, or traded. They only take in animals that can’t be released into the wild.
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What kinds of animals live at the zoo sanctuary?
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Most of the residents are native to North America. Some that you’ll come across include mountain lions, sheep, bears, bobcats, tigers, wolves, eagles, and much more.
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Are there any additional facilities at the zoo sanctuary?
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Yes, the zoo sanctuary includes a gift shop where visitors can buy clothes, toys, and plush animals.
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There is also the Beastro café, where guests can stop for snacks and drinks.
Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary, 403 Stafford St, Folsom, CA 95630, Phone: 916-351-3527
⮕ Kayak or Paddleboard the Serene Waters of Lake Natoma
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What is Lake Natoma?
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Housed within the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area,
Lake Natoma
spans nearly 500 acres and is a popular destination for several family-friendly activities.
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What water activities can visitors enjoy at Lake Natoma?
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Locals and visitors head to the lake during the warmer months for swimming, kayaking, rowing, canoeing, water skiing, fishing, and boating.
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Are there any championship events held at Lake Natoma?
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Yes, the lake hosts several championship events throughout the year, including the West Coast College Rowing Championships.
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What is the historic Negro Bar?
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While visiting, guests can explore the historic Negro Bar, located by the lake on what was once the site of a gold rush-era African-American mining camp.
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What other activities are available around Lake Natoma?
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Visitors can also enjoy biking, hiking, picnicking, and horseback riding in the surrounding area.
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What is the contact information for Lake Natoma?
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7755 Folsom-Auburn Rd, Folsom, CA 95630, Phone: 916-988-0205
⮕ Hike, Bike, or Swim at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
© Courtesy of Andy - Fotolia.com
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What is the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area?
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Managed by the California Department of Parks & Recreation, the
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
is a popular outdoor oasis located on the foothills of the Sierra Nevada.
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How large is the park, and when was it established?
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The park spans nearly 20,000 acres and was established in 1956 following the creation of Folsom Dam.
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What activities can visitors enjoy at the park?
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Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, biking, horseback riding, water skiing, boating, and camping.
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How many trails are available in the park?
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The park features 95 miles of trails, including a paved bicycle trail that loops around Lake Natoma.
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Is fishing allowed at Folsom Lake?
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Yes, the waters are home to an abundance of yellow perch, bass, trout, and catfish, making it a wonderful location for fishing.
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What is the contact information for Folsom Lake State Recreation Area?
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7755 Folsom-Auburn Rd, Folsom, CA 95630, Phone: 916-988-0205
⮕ Step Into the Past at Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park
© Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park
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What is Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park?
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Who built the Folsom Powerhouse and when?
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The power house was built in 1895 by architect H. T. Knight and the Sacramento Electric Power & Light Company.
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What historical designations does the Folsom Powerhouse have?
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It is recognized as a California Historical Landmark, a U.S. National Historic Landmark, and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
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What can visitors see at Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park?
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Visitors can experience an exciting part of Sacramento’s history through the preserved structure, which still looks much like it did in 1895.
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Massive General Electric transformers, which are still housed there today, offer a glimpse into the power station’s original operation.
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What is the contact information for Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park?
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9980 Greenback Ln, Folsom, CA 95630
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Learn Local History at the Folsom Historical Museum
© Folsom Historical Museum
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What is the Folsom Historical Museum?
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The
Folsom Historical Museum
, operated by the Folsom Historical Society, is located in the area’s historic downtown and preserves the history of Folsom’s settlement and development.
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What can visitors see at the Folsom Historical Museum?
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The museum houses a collection of treasures and artifacts that chronicle the history of Folsom, with a focus on the Gold Rush era.
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What aspects of Folsom’s history are highlighted?
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Exhibits display the lives of Folsom’s native people, the discovery of gold, the formation of mining camps, and the contributions of ethnic groups to the area.
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Does the museum host events?
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Yes, several events are held throughout the year, including Antique Evaluation Day, 100 Years of Fashion Accessories, and more.
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What is the contact information for the Folsom Historical Museum?
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823 Sutter Street, Folsom, CA 95630, Phone: 916-985-2707
⮕ Relax by the Shoreline at Beal's Point
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What is Beal’s Point?
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Beal’s Point
is a scenic location beside Folsom Lake’s sandy beach area, Granite Bay. It is a great place to spend the day outdoors and take in the surrounding views.
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What amenities are available at Beal’s Point?
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The area features large grassy and shaded areas, making it ideal for family picnics and other outdoor activities.
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Amenities such as barbecue pits are available for visitors to use.
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Is there a popular biking trail at Beal’s Point?
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Yes, a popular pastime is bicycling on the 32-mile long American River Trail, which starts at Beal’s Point and follows the scenic river to Old Sacramento.
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Can visitors camp at Beal’s Point?
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Yes, Beal’s Point is one of only two locations on Folsom Lake that allow for overnight camping, making it a popular spot for campers during the summer months.
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What is the contact information for Beal’s Point?
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Folsom Lake State Recreation Area: 7755 Folsom-Auburn Rd, Folsom, CA 95630, Phone: 916-988-0205
⮕ Shop for Deals at Folsom Premium Outlets
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What is Folsom Premium Outlets?
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Folsom Premium Outlets
is an outdoor shopping mall that is home to over eighty stores specializing in apparel, footwear, jewelry, and more.
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What makes Folsom Premium Outlets a good shopping destination?
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It’s a great place to get some shopping done, buy souvenirs to take back with you, and have a fun time with friends and family.
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What stores can be found at Folsom Premium Outlets?
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Some of the well-known stores at the outlet mall include Under Armour, Banana Republic, Michael Kors, Gap, and Sketchers.
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Can visitors find good deals at the outlets?
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Yes, shoppers can find great deals on branded items as they stroll through the mall.
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Are there dining options at Folsom Premium Outlets?
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Yes, visitors can take a break and enjoy a snack or meal at cafes and restaurants such as Kristen’s Coffee Corner, tcby, Taco Bell, and DJ’s Grill & Deli.
Folsom Premium Outlets, 13000 Folsom Boulevard, Folsom, CA 95630, Phone: 916-985-0313
⮕ Make a Splash at the Folsom Aquatic Center
© Courtesy of Tropical studio - Fotolia.com
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What is the Folsom Aquatic Center?
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Open during the area’s warmer months, the
Folsom Aquatic Center
is a fun and safe destination where residents and visitors go to cool down and beat the heat.
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Who can visit the Folsom Aquatic Center?
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The center is open to residents and visitors of Folsom and is designed to be safe and fun for all ages.
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What attractions are available for young children?
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The center features a water playground for little ones, complete with play structures such as water cannons, water sprayers, and tumble buckets.
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What other water attractions are available?
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The aquatic center includes water slides, diving boards, and a lap pool.
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Visitors of all ages can climb three stories to slide down the 165-foot spiral water slide, which ends with a splash in the pool.
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Are there areas to relax at the center?
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Yes, visitors can relax on the shaded grassy lawns and in designated picnic areas surrounding the pool.
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Is the Folsom Aquatic Center safe?
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Yes, the facility is watched over by professional, licensed lifeguards to ensure visitor safety.
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What is the contact information for the Folsom Aquatic Center?
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1300 Riley St, Folsom, CA 95630, Phone: 916-355-8318
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Historic Folsom District – Walk cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and Gold Rush-era buildings.
- American River Bike Trail – Also known as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, this scenic, paved path runs all the way to Sacramento.
Where to Eat
- Sutter Street Steakhouse – Upscale steakhouse in Historic Folsom serving fine cuts, seafood, and wine in a rustic-chic setting.
- Karen’s Bakery Café – Local favorite for breakfast, brunch, and artisan pastries with outdoor seating near the river trail.
- Skipolini’s Pizza – Family-friendly spot known for hearty pizzas, pasta, and a fun, casual atmosphere.
If you are interested in local events:
- Folsom Pro Rodeo (July) – A beloved Fourth of July tradition with bronco riding, fireworks, and patriotic celebrations.
- Folsom Live (September) – Outdoor music festival in the Historic District featuring bands, food trucks, and entertainment.
- Historic Folsom Holiday Events (December) – Enjoy tree lightings, carriage rides, and festive window displays throughout downtown.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–90 Minutes of Folsom, California:
- Apple Hill (45 min) – Explore orchards, wineries, and seasonal baked goods in this fall favorite near Placerville.
- Downtown Sacramento (30–40 min) – Visit the California State Capitol, Old Sacramento, and museums along the riverfront.
- El Dorado Hills (20 min) – Upscale community with wineries, shopping, and access to the Sierra Foothills.
- Amador County Wineries (1 hour) – Explore tasting rooms and rolling vineyards in the Shenandoah Valley wine region.
- Coloma Gold Discovery Park (50 min) – Walk historic grounds where gold was first discovered in 1848, with living history and river access.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Why is Folsom a great destination for visitors?
- Folsom is the perfect place to experience California’s quintessential year-round lifestyle, offering a mix of outdoor activities, cultural events, shopping, and dining.
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What historical significance does Folsom have?
- The city’s history is filled with Gold Rush-era greatness, connections to Johnny Cash, and a strong dedication to preserving nature and the arts.
Map:
Plan Your Trip