Get Ready for Summer! Our Favorite Low-Cost Day Trips from Sacramento
Summer is here, and if you’re like us, you're on the lookout for fun, low-cost day trips around Sacramento that keep the kids entertained without draining your wallet. We've compiled a list of our favorite go-to spots that are perfect for young families. Each destination offers a full day of fun—and many cost less than a single fast food meal per person!
1. Fairytale Town – Sacramento
Admission:
Adults and children (ages 2–64): $10
Children under 2: Free
Check Fairytale Town prices and hours
Why Kids Will Love It:
This whimsical park brings nursery rhymes and fairy tales to life. Kids can slide down the Old Woman’s Shoe, climb aboard pirate ships, or explore Cinderella’s carriage. The petting zoo and musical garden are always a hit. With plenty of shade and picnic spots, this is a magical place for imaginative play.
2. California State Railroad Museum – Old Sacramento
Admission:
Adults: $12
Children (ages 6–17): $6
Ages 5 and under: Free
Visit the museum website
Why Kids Will Love It:
Massive locomotives, walk-through train cars, and hands-on exhibits bring California’s rail history to life. Kids can ring bells, explore vintage rail cars, and climb into the cab of a real engine. The adjoining Old Sacramento district is perfect for an ice cream cone and riverfront stroll afterward.
3. Sacramento Zoo – Land Park
Admission:
Adults - Varies depending on date (ages 12+). For July 2025, I’ve seen prices from about $16-28 with Tuesdays typically being cheaper days.
Children (ages 2–11) - Same as above, ranging from $12-$21
Under 2: Free
Visit the zoo site for pricing and tickets
Why It’s Worth It:
While not exactly cheap, the zoo is a great bang for your buck. You can spend hours exploring over 500 animals including giraffes, lions, and red pandas. Plus, it’s smaller and more walkable than larger zoos—perfect for little legs. Check out our detailed blog post on why we love this zoo for young kids.
4. Funderland Amusement Park – Land Park
Admission:
Adult (Ages 18-59): $17
Child (34” tall and up): $24
Includes admission and unlimited rides!
View ride and ticket info here
Why Kids Will Love It:
Funderland is designed for younger kids, with mini roller coasters, flying elephants, and gentle train rides. It's not overwhelming or overly crowded, making it a great starter amusement park for toddlers and preschoolers.
5. UC Davis Raptor Center – Davis
Admission:
Free (donations appreciated)
Learn more here
Why Kids Will Love It:
This small but powerful wildlife center is home to rescued eagles, owls, hawks, and falcons. You can walk the outdoor trail and see these majestic birds up close. It's educational, peaceful, and completely free. Pair it with a picnic at the UC Davis Arboretum nearby.
6. Jelly Belly Factory – Fairfield
Admission:
Adults: $8
Children (ages 3-17): $4
Plan your visit
Why Kids Will Love It:
Who wouldn’t love watching jelly beans being made? From the video stations to the glass windows into the real factory floor, kids are fascinated. You’ll get free samples, and there’s a giant candy store at the end (tip: set a budget before you enter!).
7. Skatetown Ice Arena – Roseville
Admission:
General: $15
Skate Rental: $4
Children under 4: Free with paid adult
Visit the Skatetown website
Why Kids Will Love It:
Indoor ice skating in summer? Yes, please! Skatetown offers beginner-friendly public skating with free skate aids for kids and a cozy café for warming up. Special lighting and music events add to the fun. A perfect way to cool off and burn energy indoors.
Tips and Tricks for Family Day Trips
Pack the Night Before: Have snacks, water bottles, extra clothes, and your stroller or carrier ready to go.
Leave Before or After Traffic: Aim to be on the road by 8:00 AM or wait until 10:00 AM to avoid rush hour. Coming back? Consider an early dinner before heading home.
Bring Lunch and Water: Most of these places allow outside food. Packing a lunch can save a lot and give kids something familiar to eat.
Keep a Day Trip Bag in the Car: Sunscreen, hats, wet wipes, and a spare set of clothes can make all the difference in a minor meltdown moment.
Buy Tickets Online if Possible: Save time and sometimes a few dollars.
Summer memories don’t have to cost a fortune. These low-cost adventures around Sacramento offer enriching, active, and joyful experiences for your family. Which spot will you hit first?
Let us know by tagging us in your adventures!
