Need a charming small-town getaway with history and farmland beauty? Head to Woodland! Stroll historic streets, visit fascinating museums, savor fresh farm-to-table cuisine, and explore Yolo County’s scenic countryside. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, Woodland offers relaxed California charm.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Woodland is in spring (March–May) and fall (September–November). Pleasant weather, blooming fields, and lively events make these seasons perfect for exploring the town and surrounding farmland.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Woodland is about 20 minutes northwest of Sacramento via I-5 and Highway 113.
- By Air: Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is just a 15-minute drive, offering flights from major U.S. cities.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Capitol Corridor route stops nearby in Davis, with easy access to Woodland by car or rideshare.
Where to Stay
- Hampton Inn & Suites Woodland-Sacramento Area – Comfortable hotel with modern amenities, pool, and free breakfast.
- Hotel Woodland – Historic 1920s hotel offering boutique accommodations right in downtown Woodland.
- Best Western Shadow Inn – Convenient and affordable lodging with an outdoor pool and easy highway access.
Best Things to Do
⮕ Watch a show at the Woodland Opera House Theatre
© Woodland Opera House Theatre
The Woodland Opera House Theatre originally opened in 1885 but was tragically burned down, along with much of downtown Woodland in 1892. It was then rebuilt with some of the remaining foundations and bricks on the very same site in 1896. It quickly became a popular gathering place for Woodland’s elite, having had over 300 touring companies grace its stage. The opera house shut down again in 1913 with the encroachment of motion pictures but was restored to its former glory in 1981. Today, visitors can see a number of shows and other events in the historic theatre. If you happen to be there for an extended period of time, take part in one of the many classes and educational programs, each of which is focused on a different course of study.
340 2nd Street, Woodland, CA 95695, Phone: 530-666-9617
⮕ See tractors and artifacts at the California Agriculture Museum
© California Agriculture Museum
Home to hundreds of California agricultural artifacts and unique antique tractors, the California Agriculture Museum is a fun place to spend the day with your family. You are more than welcome to go on a self-guided or docent-led tour through the rows and rows of exhibits. You’ll be able to see and learn a lot during your visit there; some of the features include early barns and livestock, a bus collection from the 1920s and 1930s, a look into how California agriculture fed the world in the 1800s, a blacksmith shop, and a behind-the-scenes look into how to make moonshine.
1962 Hays Lane, Woodland, CA 95776, Phone: 530-666-9700
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Experience a giant inflatable obstacle course at Velocity Island Park
© Velocity Island Park
Velocity Island Park is an oasis of adventure and one of the highest-rated water parks in northern California. You can partake in a number of thrilling, impressive activities in a safe and enjoyable environment no matter your age or skill level. Some of these fun things are their floating obstacle course, stand-up paddle boarding, wakeboarding, and beach volleyball. The park also offers amenities and features such as a private beach, a bar, lakeside dining, and private event hosting. You can choose your adventure and go as far as you’d like in the super friendly environment at Velocity Island Park.
755 North East Street, Woodland, CA 95776, Phone: 530-723-6885
⮕ Marvel at beautiful roses at the Woodland Public Library and Rose Garden
© France/stock.adobe.com
The Woodland Public Library and Rose Garden is the oldest and one of the last functioning Carnegie-funded libraries in the state of California. The library is a contributing property to the U.S. Historic District and is recognized on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. The library began in 1874 through a number of book donations made by the community and really took off when it received a $10,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie in 1903. Today, visitors are invited to explore the historic property and garden or take part in one of their many programs and events.
250 1st Avenue, Woodland, CA 95695
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Learn about local history at the Yolo County Historical Museum
© Yolo County Historical Museum
The Yolo County Historical Museum preserves and protects the historical culture and heritage of Yolo County. The displays tell the story of the community, it’s buildings, people, and events which shaped it into the place it is today. The museum has been open to the public for over twenty-five years and is housed in the iconic Gibson Home - the only historic home in Yolo County that is open to the public. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum is a wonderful place to explore with the entire family. The professionals at the museum are more than happy to share their expertise with you during a scheduled, docent-led tour.
512 Gibson Road, Woodland, CA 95695, Phone: 530-666-1045
⮕ Learn all about biking at The Bike Garage
© The Bike Garage
The Bike Garage is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2011 to educate people about cycling. They focus on encouraging people of all ages to ride their bikes while reducing car trips and increasing exercise. The Bike Garage is operated by volunteers who can teach you how to ride a bike, help you purchase a new or used bike that is right for you, or pair you with a volunteer mechanic that can repair your bike if necessary. The garage also takes part in several community events like leadership bike rides, free bike clinics, and after school and summer camp programs.
Hays Street & 1st Street, Woodland, CA 95695, Phone: 530-753-1125
⮕ See cat art in Dead Cat Alley
© Dead Cat Alley
Dead Cat Alley is one of Woodland’s most unique places. As you walk through the neighborhood, you’ll find at least thirteen cats hanging around at the top of the surrounding buildings. This was a part of the Woodland Art Center’s Nine Lives Project and is the work of local artist Gary Dinnen. The walk is less than a quarter-mile long and will take you through the orange tabby cat near Chinatown and other local businesses and establishments. Going on an adventure to spot all of the cats can be a really fun and unique thing to do while also giving you an opportunity to meet the people and visit the places that really give Woodland its charm.
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Stroll Downtown Woodland – Browse charming shops, admire preserved 19th-century architecture, and enjoy outdoor cafés.
- Walk the Woodland Regional Park Preserve – Hike scenic trails through restored wetlands and native grasslands.
- Tour local farms and farmers markets – Experience fresh produce, flower fields, and agritourism adventures in Yolo County.
Where to Eat
- Kitchen428 Restaurant – Farm-to-table cuisine served in a charming historic building with a lively bar scene.
- Savoury Café – Cozy spot specializing in fresh, locally sourced breakfast and lunch options.
- Ludy’s Main Street BBQ – Beloved by locals for slow-smoked meats, hearty sides, and welcoming service.
If you are interested in local events:
- California Honey Festival (May) – Celebrate bees, honey, and pollinators with tastings, live music, and family fun downtown.
- Stroll Through History (September) – Take guided walking tours of Woodland’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks.
- Woodland Tomato Festival (August) – Enjoy food tastings, chef demos, and family activities celebrating the region’s rich tomato-growing heritage.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes to 1 Hour of Woodland, California:
- Davis (10–15 min) – Visit UC Davis Arboretum, bike friendly streets, and vibrant farmers markets.
- Sacramento (20–25 min) – Explore Old Sacramento, the State Capitol, and farm-to-fork dining scenes.
- Winters (25–30 min) – Enjoy wine tasting, olive oil tours, and charming small-town shopping.
- Cache Creek Casino Resort (30–40 min) – Try your luck at gaming or enjoy spa treatments and golf.
- Clarksburg Wine Country (30–40 min) – Taste award-winning wines along the Delta’s picturesque backroads.
- Putah Creek Wildlife Area (30 min) – Fish, hike, or birdwatch in serene natural surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Question: Where is Woodland located?
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Answer: Surrounded by fields and farms, the vibrant and diverse community of Woodland can be found in Northern California.
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Question: What makes Woodland unique?
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Answer: Filled with its very own take on charm and beauty, Woodland offers a variety of attractions exclusive to the community.
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Question: What attractions can visitors explore in Woodland?
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Answer: Visitors can spend their weekend getaway exploring attractions such as Reiffs Gas Station Museum, the Woodland Opera House Theatre, and the Woodland Museum of Biblical Archaeology.
Plan Your Trip