Things To Do in Folsom CA

Around Folsom | Local Attractions | Tours and Museums | Special Events

The American River town...

The American River Parkway's Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail and separate equestrian trail offer hikers, cyclists and horseback riders prime opportunities for outdoor recreation, nature viewing and relaxation. The 23-mile Parkway runs from Hazel Avenue and the Nimbus Fish Hatchery, west to the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers - from the historic Gold Rush and Maidu Indian sites through lush riparian and oak woodlands. The parkway also offers opportunities for nearby golf, guided natural and historic tours, archery, game fields and more. Picnickers and large groups can congregate at several park sites; many picnic areas are available for advanced reservations.

As the American River Parkway's popularity and natural diversity would indicate, there is an endless range of activities awaiting you. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck and their lures along the parkway. Canoeists, kayakers and rafters can dip their paddles into the chilly and sometimes challenging water of the river, while recreational boaters can launch at Discovery Park, making discoveries of their own along the winding banks.

Located just off Highway 50, the Lake Natoma Inn serves as your gateway to the Mother Lode and Sierra Nevada scenic areas. Originally a gold mining town and the site of the first passenger rail system west of the Rockies, the city of Folsom is steeped in a rich and colorful history. Old Town Folsom is a short walking distance from the Lake Natoma Inn. A stroll down historic Sutter Street will take you back in time to the Gold Rush days. Folsom also has miles of preserved wetlands and creeks, bordered by developed trails and rolling hills, with an abundance of beautiful views.

Local Attractions

Historic Old Town Folsom: A stroll down Sutter Street will take you back to Gold Rush days. You'll discover antique and specialty stores, restaurants and nightspots, landmarks and museums. 985-7452

Lake Natoma: This scenic small lake is downstream from Folsom Lake on the American River. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at the CSUS Aquatic Center. There are also many locations for swimming, picnicking and sunbathing.

American River Bike Trail: From Folsom Lake to Discovery Park, along the American River, the bike trail offers over 30 miles of cycling in the most picturesque setting. Bicycle rentals, sales and supplies are available from the Cycles Plus, just across the hotel parking lot.

Folsom Zoo: This unique zoo provides a home to some very special animals. All are non-releasable. While some were raised as "pets" and then rejected, others were orphaned or injured in the wild. 916 985-7347

Shopping: The Folsom Premium Outlets feature more than 80 factory outlets with the finest name-brand merchandise at discount prices. There is also a wide variety of shopping opportunities in Central Folsom, Historic Old Town Folsom and the Lakes Specialty Center.

Bridges: Folsom's 3 bridges are located within walking distance of the hotel. The new bridge, the Lake Natoma Crossing, offers views of the American River, Lake Natoma and Historic Folsom. Nearby are the Rainbow Bridge, built in 1918 and the reconstructed Truss Bridge. The Truss Bridge is open to bicycles and pedestrians and offers access to many bike and walking trails.

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Tours and Museums

Folsom History Museum: A wealth of treasures from the Gold Country's past. 823 Sutter St, Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 985-2702

Folsom Prison Museum: The prison was opened in 1880, California's second correctional facility. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 985-2561

Geikkekan Sake: Tour the brewery, Japanese Gardens and Koi Pond. Self-guided tours Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 985-3111

Historic Folsom Powerhouse: Hailed as "the greatest operative electrical plant on the American continent" in 1898. It is the only 19th century powerhouse in the country open to the public. Call for group tours. 989-3924

Nimbus Fish Hatchery: Open year-round for fish rearing and educational activities. Fish spawning demonstrations provided during the salmon and steelhead runs. 358-2900

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Special Events

Folsom Rodeo: For 4 days over the 4th of July holiday, the country's best compete at barrel racing, bull and bronco riding and calf roping, with mutton busting for the kids. Each night ends with a special fireworks show. 985-2698

Taste of Folsom: Each October, great food, microbrews and wine, and live entertainment. Located between the hotel and Historic Folsom. 985-2698

Antique Market: Antique show and sale, 3rd Sunday in April. 985-7452

Peddler's Fair:Antique show and sale, 3rd Sunday in September. 985-7452

Spring Craft Show: Crafts, Food and Entertainment. 1st Sunday in May. 985-7452.

Christmas Craft Show: Old-fashioned holiday favorite. 1st Sunday in December. 985-7452

Folsom Renaissance Fair: The 3rd week of October, the Saint Matthew's Guild of Historical Performers transform Folsom City Park into the quaint city of Newcastle,

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Things To Do in Folsom CA

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The American River town...

Local Attractions

Tours and Museums

Special Events