There’s no better way to get into the cozy fall spirit than by taking the train to pumpkin patches, festivals, hikes, Halloween celebrations, and more! From leaf peeping weekend getaways to the Sierras to day trips around the Bay Area, Capitol Corridor can get you there without the stress of traffic and parking. Share the experience with a loved one by taking advantage of our Buy One, Get One FREE promotion this fall.
Photo Courtesy of Boa Vista
Weekend Trips (Bus connection from Sacramento)
South Lake Tahoe– Spend a weekend in South Lake Tahoe! Heavenly Village is the perfect place to explore without a car and enjoy all the fall activities. Watch the leaves change by hiking along the trails, camp, or kayak on the crystal clear lake. Lake Link is a FREE, on-demand shuttle which takes you to South Shore beaches, trails, entertainment, and nightlife.
Placerville– Located right next to Apple Hill, Placerville is home to over 50 family-owned farms that grow apples, berries, and more! Take a short rideshare from Downtown Placerville to Boa Vista Orchards (pet-friendly), Pine-O-Mine Ranch, or Smokey Ridge Ranch & Winery and pick up fresh seasonal produce, pumpkins, baked goods, wine/cider, hayrides, and other fall festivities.
Truckee– Downtown Truckee offers charming, walkable streets filled with historic buildings, local boutiques, and artisan shops, perfect for enjoying the crisp autumn air and exploring the vibrant fall foliage in the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking at Donner Memorial State Park, or relaxing by Donner Lake. Take advantage of TART Connect, a free rideshare program that operates in the Truckee-North Lake Tahoe region.
Auburn– Downtown Auburn makes a perfect fall weekend day trip with its Gold Rush charm, colorful autumn scenery, and lively small-town vibe. Stroll through historic Old Town with its 19th-century buildings, museums, and local breweries. The season brings fresh air and golden leaves, perfect for hiking trails at the Auburn State Recreation Area.
Napa– From Martinez station, you can transfer to a bus connection to Downtown Napa. For a romantic experience, enjoy a gondola ride along the Napa River or hop on the Napa Valley Wine Train through the vineyards, where passengers can savor a gourmet meal while surrounded by breathtaking views of the valley. The Oxbow Public Market has a diverse selection of artisanal foods, fresh produce, and seasonal treats from local vendors. Wander through Downtown Napa to discover many wine tasting rooms and boutique shops, all within easy walking distance in the heart of the city.
Photo Courtesy of Sandy Steinman (UC Berkeley Botanical Garden)
Day Trips
Sacramento– Sacramento is the perfect place to start your fall adventures in Northern California. The tree-lined streets turn brilliant shades of orange and gold, especially in places like Capitol Park. You can explore Old Sacramento’s Gold Rush-era waterfront and visit the California State Railroad Museum. Enjoy the city’s thriving farm-to-fork food scene with seasonal dishes and craft brews in Downtown and Mid-town. Plus, Sacramento often hosts fall festivals, farmers’ markets, and cultural events this time of year.
Davis– Experience “Gilmore Girl Autumn” right in the heart of Davis, with a blend of a lively college-town vibe with beautiful autumn scenery and plenty of things to do. The UC Davis Arboretum transforms into a stunning display of fall colors along the waterway, perfect for strolling or biking. Downtown offers farm-to-table restaurants, coffee shops, and craft breweries, sourcing ingredients from local farms. Get into the fall spirit and attend an Aggie football game between now and November 22th.
Berkeley, Emeryville/SF, Oakland- A fall day trip to Berkeley, Emeryville/San Francisco, or Oakland offers a vibrant mix of cultural events, outdoor adventures, and seasonal fun. You can enjoy the Harvest Festival, cheer on Cal football games, or experience the colorful Día de los Muertos celebrations in Oakland and San Francisco. Nature lovers can take a quick rideshare to the UC Berkeley Botanical Garden for autumn scenery, while families will love the Piedmont Avenue Pumpkin Patch. You don’t want to miss San Francisco’s Fleet Week/ Italian Heritage Parade this fall!
Fremont– Coyote Hills Regional Park offers miles of trails with sweeping views of wetlands and rolling hills, ideal for hiking or biking in the crisp autumn air. Nearby, the Ardenwood Historic Farm lets visitors step back in time to a 19th-century working farm, with harvest-themed events and fresh produce stands. For a unique experience, the Niles Canyon Railway features vintage train rides through picturesque canyon landscapes, adding a touch of nostalgia to a fall getaway.
San Jose– Stroll through the Municipal Rose Garden, where thousands of vibrant blooms create a stunning backdrop, or find tranquility at the Japanese Friendship Garden with its koi ponds and serene landscaping. For a dose of mystery and architecture, explore the legendary Winchester Mystery House with its quirky design and fascinating history. To round out the day, take a short rideshare to ABC Tree Farms & Pick of the Patch Pumpkins for picking seasonal decorations and enjoying family-friendly fall activities.
As the season changes, fall offers the perfect opportunity to explore, unwind, and make lasting memories right here in our community. Whether you’re taking in the fall foliage, enjoying seasonal events, or discovering local trails and hidden gems, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate autumn close to home.
