Some of the best things to do in Elk Grove usually include wine! However, if that doesn’t suit your personal tastes, don’t worry, there are plenty of other options in this cool Californian city.
Sitting just south of Sacramento, California’s state capital, Elk Grove has long been a popular pit-stop for those on their way to explore the popular San Francisco Bay Area. What was once a lonely hotel housing weary travelers has now grown into a thriving historical district, known for its fantastic outdoor spaces, variety of family-friendly activities, and weekly farmer’s markets.
Whether you’re up for an indoor surfing lesson with the kids or a cheap and cheerful picnic at Elk Grove Park, here’s how to spend your time in this environmentally conscious city.
11 Things To Do In Elk Grove During The Day
Days in Elk Grove can be spent wandering through the city’s many outdoor spaces, sampling local produce from one of the city’s markets, or taking some much-needed ‘me-time’ during a spa afternoon. Come rain or shine, here’s some inspiration for your next trip to Elk Grove.
1. Local Farmer’s Market
Every Saturday from June to October, Elk Grove plays host to a fantastic farmer’s market. Local farmers gather from across Sacramento County to sell everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to freshly baked bread, honey, spices, and meats.
Not only are the Elk Grove Farmers’ Markets a great way of getting yourself some of the best fresh produce in the area, but you’ll also have the chance to give something back to the local community and farmers. Link
Need to know
- 8245 Laguna Blvd, Elk Grove, CA 95758, United States
- Open every Saturday 7:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
- Suitable for children.
- No pets allowed.
- Ticket prices: Free entry.
2. The Center at District56
This new indoor outdoor activity space is a forward-thinking oasis with an accessible park space nested in the heart of Elk Grove.
The facilities include a network of hiking and running trails, seating and picnic tables an outdoor fitness court that connects to an aquatic center. It’s the perfect place to meet up with friends whether it’s for relaxing or playing sports on the ground’s multiuse meadow.
With second-to-none facilities for disabled people and a beautiful large pond to top of its beauty, this visionary man-made park is inclusive to people of all ages, abilities, solo visitors, and also large groups.
Need to know
- 8230 Civic Center Dr Suite #100, Elk Grove, CA 95757, United States
- Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm.
- Suitable for children.
- No pets allowed.
- Swimming prices: $4 for children aged 2 to 4, $8 for those over 5. Season passes are $80-90.
3. Healthy Sole Reflexology
After a day of exploring all these things to do in Elk Grove, a little relaxation and pampering may be in order. At Elk Grove’s Healthy Sole Reflexology, you can wind down with a huge selection of massages, muscle therapies, and all other types of reflexology.
With scented candles, ambient lighting, and soothing sounds, it won’t take long until you’re feeling completely relaxed at Healthy Sole Reflexology.
Need to know
- 9332 Elk Grove Blvd #120, Elk Grove, CA 95624, United States
- Open Monday to Sunday, 10 am to 10 pm.
- Not suitable for children.
- No pets allowed.
- Ticket prices start from $25
4. Rain Garden Plaza
Elk Grove’s Rain Garden Plaza is the first comprehensive rain garden in the State of California and makes for a fascinating outing during the day. The rain garden is designed to collect rain, which is then used to water the city’s plants during California’s famous drought periods.
Wander along the Rain Garden’s many pathways, littered with artistic sculptures and an impressive array of tropical plants. All in all, the Rain Garden Plaza is one of the most relaxing and idyllic things to do in Elk Grove.
Need to know
- 9385 Laguna Springs Dr, Elk Grove, CA 95758, United States
- Open 24 hours.
- Suitable for children.
- Pets allowed.
- Ticket prices: Free entry.
5. Elk Grove Creek Trail
One of the best things to do in Elk Grove, which is both free and rewarding is walking the Elk Grove Creek Trail. Elk Grove Creek is a small rivulet that flows through the center of Elk Grove and provides a little touch of nature to your city break.
The Elk Grove Creek Trail is mainly flat and is easily tackled by those of all fitness levels. Alongside the waterway, you’ll also get the chance to catch sight of a few animals, including turtles and a wide variety of native birds.
Need to know
- 9800 Elk Grove Florin Rd, Elk Grove, CA 95624, United States
- Open 24 hours.
- Suitable for children.
- Pets allowed.
- Ticket prices: Free entry.
6. First Saturday Art Reception
Elk Grove’s Fine Art Center is a festival on the first Saturday of every month which showcases the regional talent of fine artists who display their favorite personal art content. The festival also features youth art, and stage performances and there is delicious food to be had cooked by local Elk Grovers and of course some of that local wine!
If you share a love and curiosity for the arts and appreciate the feeling of being around a community-focused event then you should definitely pencil in this monthly festival to your Elk Grove itinerary as one of the most creative things to do in Elk Grove.
Need to know
- 9683 Elk Grove Florin Rd, Elk Grove, CA 95624, United States
- First Saturday of the month, 4 to 7pm.
- Children should be accompanied by an adult.
- Service animals only.
- Ticket prices: FREE
7. McConnell Estates Winery
Dating back to the 1860s, the McConnell Estate Winery has become of the most well-respected wineries in the region, and, unsurprisingly one of the most popular things to do in Elk Grove.
Most visitors make a bee-line for the tasting room, where you can try one, or several of, the estate’s wines. Producing 15 different types of grape, opt for a classic Chardonnay or try something a little less known like the Vermentino.
Need to know
- 10686 W Stockton Blvd, Elk Grove, CA 95757, United States
- Open Thursday to Sunday 11 am – 5 pm.
- Not suitable for children.
- No pets allowed.
- Ticket prices: Free entry.
8. Laguna Creek Trail
Laguna Creek Trail is the second trail on our list, but one that shouldn’t be overlooked. Winding from the southeast of the city, the trail takes in the banks of Laguna Creek. Passing by marshland dotted with vegetation and endless grasslands, the Laguna Creek Trail is a relaxing pathway in which to walk, cycle, or even trail run.
Along the Laguna Creek Trail, you will also see a wide range of wildlife that lives surprisingly close to the city. Keep an eye out for animals such as black-tailed jackrabbits, pocket gophers, and Swainson’s hawks.
Need to know
- Elk Grove, CA 95624
- Open 24 hours.
- Suitable for children.
- Pets must be leashed.
- Ticket prices: Free entry.
9. The Red Door Antiques Vintage and More
One of the most famous locations in Elk Grove is the Red Door Antiques Vintage, found in the city’s Old Town. After many years of trading, Red Door Antiques Vintage has gathered a reputation for being one of the best antique shops in all of central California. The wide range of unique items you can find here make this one of the most intriguing things to do in Elk Grove, California.
Spending an hour perusing the items on sale here is a great way to get in touch with the local feel of Elk Grove and maybe secure yourself a memento of your trip here.
Need to know
- 9056 Elk Grove Blvd, Elk Grove, CA 95624, United States
- Open 11 am – 5 pm.
- Suitable for children.
- No pets allowed
- Ticket prices: Free entry.
10. Stone Lake Wildlife Refuge
A little south of Elk Grove is Stone Lake Wildlife Refuge – an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get back in touch with the state’s natural surroundings.
The Wildlife Refuge surrounds the shores of Stone Lake which is home to many different species of animals. Taking a leisurely stroll around the lake gives you the best chance of spotting any of these native critters.
Common sights include American Avocets, Mallards, Tree Swallows, Swainson’s Hawks, Great Blue Herons, and even Coyotes.
Need to know
- 2484 Lambert Rd, Elk Grove, CA 95757, United States
- Open from dawn to dusk, depending on the season.
- Suitable for children.
- No pets allowed.
- Ticket prices: Free Entry.
11. Read To a Dog
This one’s for families and quite easily the most wholesome of things to do in Elk Grove. The Sacramento Public Library welcomes you to boost your child’s reading ability through offering 15 minutes slots to read a book of their choice to the resident furry friends.
The on-site dogs are fully trained therapy animals that lap up the attention, the bonding session between man’s best friend and the kids while enhancing their interpretation of the written word is a win-win on all accounts.
Need to know
- 10055 Franklin High Road, Elk Grove, CA 95757
- Open from dawn to dusk, depending on the season.
- Design for children.
- No pets allowed.
- Ticket prices: FREE
7 Things To Do In Elk Grove During The Night
Small, but mighty, Elk Grove offers plenty of night-time activities, beyond a cheeky cocktail in a bar. Here are some of the more interesting things to do in Elk Grove once the sun sets.
1. Exit Strategy Games
Exit Strategy Games is leading the way in escape rooms in California and makes for an entertaining and fun evening. There are two rooms to choose from, the Torture Chamber and Conspiracy Theory.
Despite their dreaded names, exiting the rooms is done by solving a series of puzzles, tests, and riddles. Working as a team, you will answer these puzzles and earn yourself a clue towards escaping the room.
Need to know
- 9833 Kent St, Elk Grove, CA 95624, United States
- Open on Friday 6 pm – 9:30 pm and on Saturday 12:30 pm – 10:30 pm.
- Suitable for children.
- No pets allowed.
- Ticket prices: $35
2. Cali Glo Indoor Entertainment
Cali Glo Indoor Entertainment is a terrific option if you’re looking for lively indoor evening entertainment. You can choose between a variety of different things to do in Elk Grove, many of which are sure to bring out your competitive side.
Cali Glo Indoor Entertainment is home to a huge miniature golf course, testing your abilities to get around several holes and watching out for all the miniature intrusions. Alongside the mini-golf, you’ll also find a laser tag arena, where you can battle it out in a real-life first-person shooter competition.
Need to know
- 3443 Laguna Blvd St 130, Elk Grove, CA 95758, United States
- Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 12 – 7 pm.
- Suitable for children.
- No pets allowed.
- Ticket prices: $20
3. Elk Grove Regional Park
Sitting just south of the city, Elk Grove Regional Park has become a popular haunt for locals heading out on a sunset stroll.
With luscious lawns, winding trails, and a water feature, walking through the park as the sun disappears behind the horizon gives you time to reflect on your time here. With a clear view along the horizon, the park is a great location to watch that blazing Californian sunset – a perfect way to end the day.
Need to know
- 9950 Elk Grove Florin Rd, Elk Grove, CA 95624, United States
- Open: 6 am – 9 pm.
- Suitable for children.
- Pets must be leashed.
- Free entry.
4. Emerald Lakes Golf Course
Located in the south of the city, Emerald Lakes Golf Course is a perfect place for a few rounds of golf or to simply spend a few hours on the driving range. This golf course is one of the most stunning in the area and is centered around a three-century-old oak tree.
Along with the famous local oak tree, the course has three shimmering lakes that add both a sense of beauty and a challenge for golfers. Whether you are new to the game or a veteran golfer, Emerald Lakes Golf Course is a welcoming course and one that can be blissfully enjoyed in the Californian sun.
Need to know
- 10651 E Stockton Blvd, Elk Grove, CA 95624, United States
- Open Monday to Sunday, 6:30 am – 8:30 pm.
- Suitable for children.
- No pets allowed.
- Ticket prices: $16
5. The Alley
If you want to get your competitive edge on, then Elk Grove’s The Alley is the place to be. This top-of-the-range bowling alley is the ideal spot for a few games of bowling with friends or family.
With an ultra-modern scoring board, music system, and arcade center, The Alley is considered of the top bowling alleys in the entire area. After completing a game or two, the center also provides a selection of dining options, perfectly placed for a post-game snack.
Need to know
- 3443 Laguna Blvd #150, Elk Grove, CA 95758, United States
- Open Monday to Saturday 12 pm – 12 am
- Suitable for children.
- No pets allowed.
- Ticket prices: starting from $38.
6. Monthly Food Truck Round-up
Every first Wednesday Old Town Elk Grove rounds up a tasty range of gourmet food trucks boasting some of the best local grub in town this is by far one of the tastiest stops to make when looking for things to do in Elk Grove.
As well as the diverse menu of food, attendees can enjoy live music and vendors that sell cookware and jewelry. With the constant smell of Mexican, Middle Eastern, Asian and local cooking in the air, the only trouble you’ll have at this event is which one to choose.
Need to know
- Old Town Plaza, 9645 Railroad Street, Elk Grove, CA 95624 United States
- First Wednesday of every month, 5pm – 8pm.
- Children welcome.
- Pets allowed, leashed.
- Ticket prices: FREE
7. Rockin’ Jump
Those who are looking for somewhere to take the children can do no better than heading to Rockin’ Jump. Rockin’ Jump is a state-of-the-art trampoline park filled with an array of trampolines and other bouncy activities, perfect for both kids and kids at heart.
Once you’ve got your rhythm, you can then head to the dodgeball arena. This combines trampolining with a game of dodgeball – the perfect mix. Other activities include the slam dunk zone; here you can launch from your trampoline and slam dunk like a pro.
Need to know
- 3132 Dwight Rd #900, Elk Grove, CA 95758, United States
- Open Monday to Sunday, 3 pm to 10 pm..
- Suitable for children.
- No pets allowed.
- Ticket prices: Start from $18.
Final Thoughts on Elk Grove
With so many varied options to choose from, a weekend in Elk Grove is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Even more, with the average day-time activity costing $25, and night-time activities coming in at around $30 (based on one adult) it can be an affordable getaway for everyone.
Whether you’re hoping to get some quality time with the other half, wander in solitary, or are in search of a family getaway with plenty of activities for children, you’ll find more than enough things to do in Elk Grove to fill your time!
