Plan Your Spring Break in Yolo Countryside
A family-friendly escape filled with wildflowers, farm visits, and small-town charm
Spring is one of the most beautiful times to explore Yolo Countryside. The hills are green, wildflowers bloom along the backroads, and farms and small towns begin to buzz with the energy of the new season. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a few relaxed days exploring Northern California, Yolo Countryside offers a refreshing mix of nature, food, and family-friendly experiences.
From hot air balloons over the valley to garden tours and outdoor brunch, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your spring break adventure.
Day 1: Arrive in Winters & Explore the Countryside
Start your trip in the charming town of Winters, the gateway to Western Yolo Countryside and Capay Valley. The walkable downtown is filled with local shops, cafés, and restaurants where you can settle into the relaxed pace of the region.
If you’re visiting during YOLOFEST, you’ll find a weekend celebration of everything that makes Yolo County special—local food, wine, farms, art, and community. The event is a great way for families to explore local makers and discover experiences throughout the county.
Another highlight is Spring Open in Winters, where downtown businesses welcome visitors with special events, tastings, and shopping throughout the weekend.
Spend the afternoon exploring the countryside just outside town. The winding roads leading toward Capay Valley are some of the most scenic drives in Northern California during spring, with wildflowers dotting the hillsides and farms beginning to come alive for the season.
Day 2: Brunch, Flowers & Farm Visits
Begin the day with brunch at Park Winters Flower Farm, where guests can enjoy seasonal dishes in the open-air pavilion surrounded by gardens and countryside views.
After brunch, take time to explore the property:
Pick Your Own Bouquet from the flower farm fields
Join a garden tour to learn about the seasonal blooms
Visit the charming Cottage Shop, filled with dried flowers, home goods, and locally made pantry items
It’s a relaxing and beautiful experience that both adults and kids enjoy.
Later in the afternoon, head deeper into Capay Valley to visit Capay Valley Lavender. In spring, the farm offers a peaceful setting to stroll through the property, enjoy views of the valley, and experience one of the region’s most picturesque agricultural destinations.
Day 3: Outdoor Adventures
Spring weather in Yolo Countryside is perfect for outdoor activities.
For a truly memorable experience, consider a sunrise flight with Yolo Ballooning Adventures. Floating quietly over the valley in a hot air balloon gives you a breathtaking view of the farmland, orchards, and rolling hills that make this region so special.
Families who enjoy golf can spend the afternoon at the stunning Yocha Dehe Golf Club, one of Northern California’s most scenic courses located near Capay Valley. Even if you’re not golfing, the area offers beautiful views and a peaceful setting.
Another option is to drive toward Lake Solano for lakeside views and fresh air. The surrounding hills are especially vibrant in spring.
Kid-Friendly Wineries
One of the best things about Yolo Countryside is how welcoming many wineries are for families. Several tasting rooms offer spacious outdoor areas where kids can move around while adults enjoy local wines.
Many wineries feature:
Outdoor patios and picnic areas
Lawn games and open space
Relaxed, family-friendly environments
It’s a great way to experience the region’s wine country without the crowds often found in larger destinations.
Make the Most of Spring
To truly experience everything Yolo Countryside has to offer, consider staying overnight and turning your visit into a relaxing getaway. With charming small-town hotels, countryside inns, and welcoming farm stays, there are plenty of local places to stay that make it easy to slow down and enjoy the region.
Staying locally allows you to wake up to peaceful farmland views, explore more of the valley at your own pace, and experience the beauty of the countryside from sunrise to sunset. Spend your mornings sipping coffee in town, your afternoons exploring farms and wineries, and your evenings enjoying dinner under the open sky.
Whether you’re planning a spring break trip with the family or a countryside escape for a few days, Yolo Countryside offers the perfect place to relax, explore, and reconnect with nature.