Spring Bucket List: 20 Things to Do in Sacramento Before Summer Hits

Spring in Sacramento is magic. The days get longer, the air smells sweeter, and the energy around town shifts from cozy to let’s get outside. And while it’s tempting to blink and suddenly it’s 100 degrees, this list is here to help you savor every spring moment before summer hits full force.

Here are 20 ways to enjoy Sacramento this season — whether you’re planning a solo reset, a date with your favorite people, or just looking for something fun to do on a random Tuesday.

1. Walk to Your Favorite Coffee Shop

Spring mornings were made for grabbing an iced latte and sitting in the sun. Try Milka Coffee Roasters, Seasons Coffee, or Temple Coffee Roasters — then stay awhile.

2. Visit the UC Davis Arboretum

Everything is blooming right now — this is your sign to pack a snack, take your time, and walk the loop.

3. Pick Strawberries at a Local Farm

Head to Granny May’s Strawberry Farm in Granite Bay and get your hands on the freshest spring berries. It’s wholesome, fun, and you’ll leave with a full basket and a full heart.

4. Bike Along the American River Trail

No destination needed — just cruise along the water and soak in the fresh air. Trail map here.

5. Go to Second Saturday

Support local artists, explore galleries, and maybe grab a bite from a food truck or nearby patio. Here’s the monthly guide.

6. Try a New-to-You Park + Picnic

We’re talking McKinley Park, Land Park, or Sutter’s Landing for lowkey spring hangouts.

7. Go Wine Tasting in Clarksburg or Amador

Try Julietta Winery in Clarksburg or Scott Harvey Wines in Sutter Creek — it’s peaceful, charming, and so spring.

8. Thrift a Spring Outfit & Actually Wear It

Check out Freestyle Clothing Exchange, Crossroads Trading, or Article Consignment Boutique for a one-of-a-kind spring fit.

9. Hike Hidden Falls or Cronan Ranch

Mild temps + wildflowers = peak hiking season. Hidden Falls and Cronan Ranch are both easy drives from Sac and great for beginners too.

10. Grab Brunch on the Patio at Orphan or Milka

Orphan Breakfast House in East Sac is a local fave (go early) and bring cash!

11. Take a Day Trip to Winters, Auburn, or Placerville

Each small town has something different to offer — Winters for wine and food, Auburn for hiking and art, Placerville for historic charm.

12. Make a Flower Bouquet from the Midtown Farmers Market

Stop by the Midtown Farmers Market and build your own bouquet — instant mood boost.

13. Try a Slushy from Midtown Spirits

Cool off with a seasonal slushy from Midtown Spirits — they always have something refreshing and fun on the menu.

14. Read a Book Outside

Pick your favorite shady spot and bring a good story. Land Park and the McKinley Rose Garden are my go-tos.

15. Host a Picnic Potluck

Call your friends, assign snacks, and meet at the local park or wherever you can lay down a blanket and hang.

16. Try a New Spring Menu Item at a Local Favorite

Check out Canon, Fixins, or Magpie Cafe for their seasonal specials.

17. Hit a Local Maker Market or Flea

Follow Sacramento Antique Faire or World’s Worst Expo for upcoming dates!

18. Take Yourself on a Solo Date

Try a museum like Crocker Art, a cafe crawl, or just wander a bookstore. Spring is perfect for soaking up your own company.

19. Get a Snow Cone from Osaka-Ya

This Sacramento classic never misses. Osaka-Ya is old-school charm with a cherry on top — literally.

20. Watch the Sunset from the West Sac Riverwalk

Catch a sunset over the Tower Bridge? Say less. Head to Old Sacramento to experience the ultimate golden hour.

Let Spring Do Its Thing

This list isn’t about checking every box — it’s about slowing down and soaking up the season. Whether you knock out one or all twenty, I hope this inspires you to make the most of this beautiful in-between time before summer officially arrives.

Tag me @maddyjedmunds if you get out there — I’d love to see what’s on your spring bucket list too!