16 Amazing Things To Do In Folsom!
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Background
You might have heard of Folsom and its prison from a song? Johnny Cash sang about Folsom prison and the blues back in 1955. His extremely famous performance years later, in 1968, in front of inmates provided Johnny Cash with a hit song but made the Folsom State Prison synonymous with the city.
The city's history begins about a hundred years earlier with the '49er Gold Rush and the railroad. Joseph Folsom purchased land and began to plan the town and named it at that time, "Granite City." With the finding of gold in the area, gold miners seeking their fortune came to the area in droves to get rich. Joseph Folsom lobbied to get the railway to connect the city with Sacramento (west of the town). A railroad line opened up in 1856, joining the town with Sacramento. Joseph Folsom's died at the age of 38, and in his memory, the city was renamed Folsom in his honor.
Today
Folsom is a thriving, beautiful city with a population of 72,000. The city offers so many choices of activities that it's hard to list them all! If you are an outdoor or nature lover, this is a must-see stop for you. Folsom is unparalleled as a family-friendly city with parks and things to do for a kid of every age. Enjoy great restaurants and breweries? Guess what, there are excellent places here to try. Enjoy a bit of history combined with shopping? We have plenty of that as well.
Let's get started!
If You Are Feeling Like Doing Something Quirky
One of the United States' first maximum-security prisons and California's second-oldest prison (after San Quentin), the Folsom State Prison, opened in 1880. Step into history and look inside into what life was like to live and work in the jail by visiting the Folsom Prison Museum. The museum is a unique activity that showcases exhibitions on the prison's history and includes Johnny Cash memorabilia. There is also a gift shop with items for sale made by inmates.
For The Outdoor Enthusiast
The real must-see gem of this city is Folsom Lake! The lake offers beautiful panoramic views of the foothills of the Sierra-Nevada and is a nature lovers paradise. The lake and shoreline offer miles of trails to explore wildlife, hiking, biking, running, camping, fishing, picnicking, horseback riding, water-skiing, and boating. Access to parking at the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is open year-round at multiple locations.
Want More Trails To Explore?
Folsom boasts an exceptional recreational trail system with over 95 scenic trail miles of paved trails for cyclists and pedestrians. A notable section is the 32-mile American River Bike Trail, which runs from Folsom to Sacramento (California's state capital). Access to the path is free and located throughout Folsom.
A scenic lake with beautiful water, trees, trails, and Delta breeze make Lake Natoma a perfect spot to experience. Kayaker and paddle boarders love it here to appreciate the quiet beauty of the trees and shoreline. Last time I went kayaking here, I was fortunate to see a majestic bald eagle and its nest!
Family Fun
I am a hardcore animal lover and am proud that the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary does not breed, sell, or trade the animals. The zoo's goal of taking in animals that cannot be released into the wild and putting the animal's welfare first make this a truly unique family outing.
Right next door to the zoo is the amazing Folsom City Lions Park. The park has two play areas, one for the little ones and one for bigger kids. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy listening to the sounds of the animals next door at the sanctuary.
Have a train lover in your family? The Folsom Valley Railway has been in operation since 1970 and provides smiles to train lovers and kids of all ages. It is the only 12-gauge railroad left in the United States and runs on a ¾ mile of track.
Ann’s Angle
Locals know that at the park and zoo area there are free roaming chickens and peacocks. Watch the kids enjoy checking out them out in this amazing setting. Great fun for the kids!
Shopping
Palladio is a great place to enjoy shopping and dining in an outdoor setting. Here you can enjoy Barnes and Noble, Nordstrom Rack, and other boutique shops. When you are tired of shopping, there are two movie theaters to rest a bit and get some entertainment. Grab a bite to eat at the Chicago Fire, Iron Horse Tavern, or one of the many other dining options.
Folsom Premium Outlets offers 80 stores in an outdoor shopping environment. Find designer and name brand outlets such as Michael Kors, Gap, Under Armour, Nike, and many more.
Old Town Atmosphere
Historic Sutter Street is a reflection of the city's history that dates back to the Gold Rush. The architecture helps transport you to time from long ago when stagecoaches and horses were the primary forms of transportation. Meander through the unique shops, galleries, and tasting rooms. On Sutter Street, make time to visit the Folsom History Museum and Pioneer Village. The museum showcases a collection of artifacts of the history of Folsom and the surrounding area. The Pioneer Village is an outdoor interpretive area that provides a glimpse into gold panning, blacksmithing, and agriculture exhibits.
If you love chocolate-and, let's face it, who doesn't-a must-go-to is a visit to Snook's Chocolate Factory! Snook's is a local staple that has been here since 1963, making delicious gourmet chocolates for generations of chocoholics to enjoy.
Hungry And Thirsty?
Folsom is home to fantastic local eateries. Here are a few ideas when you are in town:
Bacchus House Wine Bar & Bistro is the place for you if you are looking for a dining option that showcases organic and local ingredients,
Visconti's is a family-run local favorite authentic Italian restaurant that is an excellent choice.
Red Bus Brewing Company is a fantastic stop for a pint and a pizza. Check out their ever-changing list of beers on tap, and pizzas made on site.
Next time you are in California, stop in Folsom to see what's it all about!
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