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Family Friendly Adventure in California's Gold Country

Viewed by 128 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Sacramento

Sacramento, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Grange Restaurant

Start your day with a delicious farm-to-table breakfast at The Grange, renowned for its fresh ingredients and family-friendly setting.
Located in the downtown area, easy walk from most hotels.
USD20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

California State Railroad Museum

Discover the fascinating history of railroads in California with interactive exhibits and magnificent trains which the kids will love.
Located a short 10-minute walk from breakfast.
USD12, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Firestone Public House

Enjoy a casual lunch at Firestone Public House featuring burgers, pizzas, and an outdoor patio.
Just a 10-minute walk from the museum.
USD40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Sacramento Zoo

Spend the afternoon exploring the wildlife at Sacramento Zoo, home to over 500 animals and various exhibits.
Drive 15 minutes from the restaurant to the zoo.
USD15, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Fairytale Town

Next, let the kids unleash their imagination at Fairytale Town, a whimsical park featuring storybook sets and animals.
Located adjacent to the zoo.
USD12, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory

Cap off your day with a family-friendly Italian dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory where kids can enjoy classic dishes.
Drive 10 minutes from Fairytale Town.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historic Nevada City

Nevada City, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Nevada City Cafe

Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast filled with local favorites at Nevada City Cafe to kick off your day.
Drive 1 hour from Sacramento to Nevada City.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Nevada City History Museum

Visit the Nevada City History Museum to learn about Gold Rush history through engaging exhibits.
Located within walking distance from breakfast.
USD5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Stroll through Downtown Nevada City

Wander through the charming streets of Downtown Nevada City, filled with unique shops and local art galleries.
Strolling distance from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Mystic Cafe

Grab a hearty lunch at The Mystic Cafe with its welcoming environment and diverse menu options for all tastes.
Walk back to the main street for lunch.
USD45, 1 hour

2:00PM

Join a Gold Panning Tour

Partake in a fun gold panning activity where the whole family can try their hand at finding real gold.
Located a short drive from the restaurant.
USD60, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum

Explore this delightful museum with its preserved equipment and train rides available on select weekends.
Just a 10-minute drive from the gold panning site.
USD10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bar of America

Finish the day with a family-friendly dinner at The Bar of America featuring a diverse menu and atmosphere.
Return to downtown for dinner.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Grass Valley

Grass Valley, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hungry Bear Restaurant

Start your morning with a filling breakfast at this local favorite known for its hearty portions.
Drive 30 minutes from Nevada City to Grass Valley.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Empire Mine State Historic Park

Unearth the past by visiting Empire Mine State Historic Park, exploring gold mine relics and beautiful grounds.
Just a 10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sierra Mountain Coffee

Enjoy a laid-back lunch at Sierra Mountain Coffee with delicious sandwiches and kid-friendly options.
A quick 5-minute drive from the park.
USD40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit The Grass Valley Museum

Learn about the lively history of Grass Valley at The Grass Valley Museum filled with exhibits that engage both kids and adults.
Walk 10 minutes from the lunch spot.
USD5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Outdoor Fun at The Nevada County Fairgrounds

Spend the afternoon at the Fairgrounds where the kids can indulge in various outdoor activities and playground fun.
5-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Olive Grove Restaurant

Savor delicious Italian cuisine with family-friendly menu and ambiance to wind down your day.
A 10-minute drive from the Fairgrounds.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Gold Discovery at Coloma

Coloma, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Coloma Cafe

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Coloma Cafe, popular for its hearty portions and welcoming vibe.
Drive 30 minutes from Grass Valley to Coloma.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

Discover where the California Gold Rush began at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park with engaging trails.
A 5-minute drive from breakfast.
USD10, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Gold Miner’s Restaurant and Saloon

Head to The Gold Miner’s Restaurant and Saloon for a family-focused meal with kid-approved choices.
Attraction on-site.
USD50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Fun at Coloma River

Spend the afternoon near the Coloma River where families can swim, splash, or enjoy a nature walk.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Gold Panning at Coloma Resort

Try your hand at gold panning again with kits provided and see who can find the most gold.
A quick drive or walk within the park.
USD20, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Coloma Club

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at the Coloma Club, with their casual atmosphere and varied menu perfect for families.
10-minute drive from the gold panning location.
USD55, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Lake Tahoe Fun

Lake Tahoe, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Red Hut Cafe

Delight in classic American breakfast at The Red Hut Cafe with its cheerful vibe and extensive menu suitable for everyone.
Drive 2 hours from Coloma to Lake Tahoe.
USD35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Lake Tahoe Beaches

Spend a day at Lake Tahoe where families can enjoy the pristine beaches and water activities like paddle boarding.
Accessible beaches nearby.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Tahoe Cheesecake Company

Indulge in a delightful lunch featuring fresh salads and sandwiches at Tahoe Cheesecake Company.
Short drive from the beach.
USD40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Scenic Views at Emerald Bay State Park

Experience nature’s beauty with hiking trails and panoramic views of Emerald Bay, perfect for family pictures.
Drive 30 minutes from lunch.
USD10, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Kings Beach

Spend a few hours relaxing at Kings Beach, enjoying swimming or playing games in the sand.
Drive 15 minutes to Kings Beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Log Cabin Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy family dinner at The Log Cabin Restaurant with home-style meals that everyone will enjoy.
15-minute drive from Kings Beach.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Return to Sacramento

Sacramento, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Good Day Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Good Day Cafe, a local treasure known for its fresh coffee and great atmosphere.
Drive 2 hours back to Sacramento.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit California State Capitol Museum

Explore the California State Capitol Museum with its magnificent architecture and intriguing history, great for all ages.
Located downtown, easy drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Enjoy the Discovery Park

Bring the family to Discovery Park for some outdoor fun along the river and picnic areas.
A quick 15-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Porch

Feast on a delightful lunch at The Porch, known for warm service and Southern-inspired menu items.
Drive back to downtown for lunch.
USD50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Sutter's Fort State Historic Park

Further delve into history by visiting Sutter's Fort, a pioneer-era fort that offers engaging tours.
Located a short 10-minute drive from The Porch.
USD5, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ten 22

Wind down your day with a stylish dinner at Ten 22, serving seasonal cuisine with a family-friendly environment.
Continuing in downtown Sacramento.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Final Day in San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Treat yourself to a delicious breakfast at Mama's, famous for its fresh ingredients and delightful offerings.
Drive 90 minutes from Sacramento to San Francisco.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Golden Gate Park

Spend your morning exploring Golden Gate Park, where kids can enjoy playgrounds, gardens, and perhaps even a picnic.
10-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Park Chalet

Savor a meal at Park Chalet with incredible views of the ocean and relaxed atmosphere.
Located adjacent to Golden Gate Park.
USD55, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit California Academy of Sciences

Head to the California Academy of Sciences for an unforgettable experience featuring an aquarium, planetarium, and more!
5-minute drive from lunch.
USD40, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll across Golden Gate Bridge

Take an iconic walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, capturing family photos with stunning views.
Drive to the bridge entrance.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Fog Harbor Fish House

Conclude your adventure with dinner at Fog Harbor Fish House, celebrated for its seafood and family-friendly options.
Drive to Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD75, 1.5 hours
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