Placerville

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Placerville's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Nature Retreat
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing hike at the beautiful El Dorado National Forest. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

afternoon
:

Head to downtown Placerville for a leisurely lunch at a local café. After that, visit the historic Gold Bug Park and explore its old gold mine.

evening
:

Wind down your day with a cozy dinner at a family-owned restaurant. Take a stroll through the charming streets of Placerville to soak in the evening ambiance.

day 2
Wine Tasting Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to a local vineyard for a delightful wine tasting experience. Learn about the winemaking process and enjoy the scenic views of the vineyards.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a winery restaurant and savor farm-to-table dishes paired with excellent local wines. Explore more wineries in the area for additional tastings.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a classy restaurant in town with a selection of local wines. Relax in a nearby park and watch the sunset over the hills.

day 3
History and Heritage
morning
:

Start your day at the El Dorado County Historical Museum to discover the rich history of the area. Participate in guided tours to learn about Placerville's Gold Rush past.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a historical tavern to experience the old-world charm. Spend the afternoon walking through the historic downtown district, admiring its architecture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local eatery with a vintage vibe. Consider catching a live performance at a nearby theater to immerse yourself in local culture.

day 4
Outdoor Adventure Day
morning
:

Wake up early and rent bikes to explore the scenic trails around Placerville. Experience the thrill of biking while soaking in beautiful nature.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a picnic spot, enjoying packed sandwiches. Continue your adventure with more biking or try horseback riding at a nearby ranch.

evening
:

Return to town for a casual dinner at a popular burger joint. Share stories from the day's adventures with friends or family.

day 5
Art and Culture Exploration
morning
:

Visit local art galleries and studios to appreciate the creative works of regional artists. Spend time meeting some artists and learning about their techniques.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a café known for its artistic atmosphere. In the afternoon, participate in a pottery or painting class offered by a local studio.

evening
:

Attend an art show or gallery opening for a vibrant cultural experience. Conclude your day with dinner at a trendy bistro with artistic décor.

day 6
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Begin with a family breakfast at a local diner, where everyone can choose their favorites. Visit the local playgrounds or parks for some outdoor fun.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch at one of the scenic parks. Take the kids to the nearby zoo or petting farm for an interactive experience.

evening
:

Enjoy a family dinner at a casual restaurant with a kids’ menu. Plan a movie night at home or in town for some cozy family bonding.

day 7
Scenic Driving Tour
morning
:

Set off for a scenic drive through the Sierra foothills, taking in the natural beauty along the way. Stop at viewpoints for photos and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a quaint roadside café with local specialties. Continue your scenic journey, possibly visiting historical landmarks and parks.

evening
:

Return to Placerville for an evening meal at a local steakhouse. Reflect on the beautiful sites you've seen during your drive.

day 8
Night Sky Stargazing
morning
:

Start early with breakfast at a local bakery to fuel your day. Spend the morning hiking at a nearby dark sky location to scout spots for stargazing later.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a café and read up on constellations and astronomy. Spend the afternoon visiting local shops to pick up any necessary supplies for your evening adventure.

evening
:

Settle down at a chosen stargazing spot and witness the beauty of the night sky. Pack a late-night snack to nibble on as you enjoy your astronomical experience.

day 9
Hiking and Local Cuisine
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery. Spend the morning hiking at the nearby Desolation Wilderness, immersing yourself in nature.

afternoon
:

Have a packed lunch outdoors surrounded by nature. Post-hike, explore independent shops in Placerville, searching for unique items.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy restaurant that offers a diverse menu featuring local ingredients. Enjoy dessert at a local ice cream shop to end the day sweetly.

day 10
Annual Festival Fun
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a popular diner while planning your day around the local festival. Attend the festival's parade and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch from food vendors at the festival, sampling local delicacies. Participate in festival activities such as crafts, games, and live music.

evening
:

As the festival winds down, enjoy the closing performance or fireworks display. Grab a late-night snack from a food stall before heading home.

Discover Placerville

Read more in our Placerville 2024 Travel Guide.

Placerville Travel Guide