11 Things To Do In Winters – A Great California Adventure Awaits!
Located in Northern California, a short drive from Sacramento and the Bay Area is the charming city of Winters. This hidden gem offers plenty of things to do. With a blend of history, outdoor activities, and a flourishing food scene, the city will leave you wanting more.
But what makes Winters such a great destination? It’s simple – the small city offers a big mix of activities. Founded in 1875, the city retains a rural vibe and preserves historic architecture today. Winters has it all whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie looking for your next culinary adventure.
Our post includes some of the best things to do in Winters. Before you visit, check out the
Downtown Winters Map and Guide. You’ll find a listing of entertainment, restaurants, tasting rooms, shopping, events, and more.
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The Best Things To Do in Winters California
Winters offers a variety of activities, satisfying tourists from outdoor lovers to foodies. Here are some top activities to try while visiting this charming city.
1. Explore Downtown Winters
What a warm and welcoming small downtown we found. We started by strolling the downtown streets. While spanning just a few blocks, we were impressed with the area’s historic architecture.
It’s an ideal place for a self-guided walking tour. You’ll be awed by the quaint shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms. The charming Main Street is perfect for taking pictures and enjoying a leisurely afternoon.
2. Learn About the City at the Winters Museum
Downtown on Russell Street is the Winters Museum, commemorating the rich history of Winters, California.
The Historical Society of Winters manages the museum, offering free admission to anyone. Their mission is to preserve and share the city’s past, present, and future.
The museum hosts permanent, rotating exhibits featuring historical artifacts dating back hundreds of years. The Winters Museum exhibits many historical items, from photographs to documents and memorabilia.
You’ll look inside into old-town Winters and discover how it has influenced Sacramento Valley.
3. Visit Bondolio Olive Oil Farm
“Karen and Malcolm Bond are gracious and informative hosts. You see firsthand the strict attention to detail that is required to produce flavorsome EVOO — selection of complementary blend of Sicilian trees that are precisely pruned, immaculate facilities, expedited harvest to milling time, and quality control that approves only superior product for bottling.”
(Joe C – A TripAdvisor Reviewer)
Located just minutes from downtown, the family-owned Bondolio Olive Oil Farm offers visitors an authentic and unforgettable experience.
The 45-acre farm boasts over 1,500 olive trees, making it one of California’s largest olive oil producers. Visitors can take guided tours of the farm, learn about the production process of olive oil, and even taste different varieties of their award-winning olive oils.
Bondolio Olive Oil Farm takes pride in producing certified organic estate-blend oil. Their mill utilizes a chemical-free extraction process, ensuring the purity of oil. The Sicilian estate blend, made from Nocellara, Biancolilla, and Cerasuola olives, offers a unique and elegant flavor profile. While this taste is commonly found in Southern Italy and Sicily, it is a rarity among oils produced in California.
So why do people love visiting Bondolio Olive Oil Farm?
- A Taste of Authenticity: The farm offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to see firsthand the process behind producing high-quality olive oil. From walking among the olive groves to tasting freshly pressed oils, visitors can truly appreciate the authenticity of this family-owned farm.
- Learn About Sustainable Farming: Bondolio is committed to sustainable farming practices besides producing top-quality olive oil. Visitors can learn about their efforts to conserve water and maintain the health of the land while enjoying a one-of-a-kind farm experience.
- Award-Winning Olive Oil: Bondolio’s dedication to producing exceptional olive oil has not gone unnoticed. Their oils have won numerous awards, including Best in Show at the California Olive Oil Council Competition. Visitors can taste and purchase these award-winning oils while visiting the farm.
Address: 9352 Campbell Road, Winters, CA 95694
Telephone: 916-715-9007
Website: https://www.bondolio.com/
4. Turkovich Family Wines
Wine enthusiasts have several choices in Winters. One of your wine stops can be at Turkovich Family Wines. This award-winning winery is a local favorite, known for its high-quality wines and stunning vineyard views.
Here’s why you should add Turkovich Family Wines to your list of things to do in Winters:
- Wine Tasting and Tours: Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and guided tours of the property and learn about the winemaking process from start to finish.
- Turkovich Family Wines, with its favorable vineyard conditions, produces vibrant fruits that lend their bright and flavorful characteristics to their wines. The stars of their show are the Rhone varieties – Syrah and Viognier. In addition, the Spanish Tempranillo and California’s very own Petite Sirah are also notable contributors to their diverse range of wines.
- Dog-Friendly Environment: Turkovich Family Wines welcomes furry friends, making it a perfect spot for dog lovers to relax and enjoy wine while their four-legged companions roam freely on the property.
Tasting Room Address: 304 Railroad Ave, Winters, CA 95694
Visit the Tasting Room: Open daily for wine tasting and retail
Winery Address: 30471 Buckeye Road, Winters, CA 95694 – Visits to the winery are by reservation only
Website: https://www.turkovichwines.com/
5. Berryessa Gap Vineyards
“Berryessa was a wonderful surprise. The property has the unique element of having both a microbrewery and a wine-tasting room side-by-side on site. Their focused approach to only growing what their property will yield for high quality provides some varieties that were new to me, so it was very educational and enjoyable!”
(Fen_10 – a TripAdvisor reviewer)
Wine lovers will enjoy a visit to Berryessa Gap Vineyards. Located in the heart of downtown, this small winery offers visitors a taste of California wine with stunning views.
Here are three reasons why people enjoy visiting Berryessa Gap Vineyards:
- Award-winning Wines: The winery produces various wines, including their signature Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay. These wines have won numerous awards, including Best in Class at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
- Scenic Setting: Situated in a picturesque setting surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Berryessa Gap Vineyards offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxing wine-tasting experience. Visitors can enjoy their wines on the patio or stroll through the vineyard.
- Live Music Events: The winery hosts live music events throughout the year, allowing visitors to sip on their favorite wines while enjoying local talent. Live music is available nearly every Friday evening in their Downtown Tasting Room. Check their website for upcoming events and plan your visit accordingly.
Estate Winery Address: 27260 CA-128 | Winters, CA 95694
Tasting Room Address: 15 Main St, Winters, CA 95694
Check website for days and hours
Website: https://www.berryessagap.com/
6. Berryessa Brewing Company
“We had a great time here—an outdoor venue with excellent music and very good beers. Beautiful setting. Highly recommended.”
(Mcdocs – A TripAdvisor Reviewer)
If you prefer beer over wine, head to Berryessa Brewing Company. It”s a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts. This family-owned brewery offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere and a wide selection of hand-crafted beers that satisfy any palate.
With indoor and scenic outdoor seating, food trucks, live music, and great company, it’s the perfect place to enjoy excellent fresh beer. They offer full pints, half pints, and sample trays, including unique cask-conditioned and barrel-aged beers exclusively available in the taproom. You can take home a 64 oz—growler of any of the rotating taps.
Here are three reasons why people enjoy visiting this place:
- Quality Craft Beer: Berryessa Brewing Company takes pride in brewing high-quality craft beers using locally sourced ingredients. Their beers cater to all tastes, from light and refreshing to bold and full-bodied.
- Friendly Atmosphere: The brewery’s cozy taproom offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to hang out with friends or meet new people. Visitors can also enjoy their beers on the outdoor patio, which often features live music and food trucks.
- Brewery Tours: Want to learn more about how their delicious craft beer is made? Berryessa Brewing Company offers guided brewery tours where visitors can see the process of brewing their award-winning beers. Arrange a tour ahead of time by emailing info@berryessabrewingco.com
Address: 27260 CA-128, Winters, CA 95694
Phone: 530-795-3526
Website: https://berryessabrewingco.com/
7. Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve
“If you love to hike/explore and are in the Sacramento area, this is a must-see! You walk ON mountain ridges with Lake Berryessa to the left and lush hillsides to the right. It’s an amazing view! The 5-mile loop took us 5 hours (including our breaks and lunch). It was strenuous but not impossible, and we were all so glad we did it!”
(lilicedt – A TripAdvisor Reviewer)
A visit to Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve is a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This 5,000-acre reserve, located just outside of Winters, offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding hills and canyons and an opportunity to see a diverse array of wildlife and plant species.
So what makes people enjoy visiting Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve? Here are three reasons:
- Hiking Trails: The reserve boasts 5 miles of hiking trails that wind through different ecosystems, including grasslands, oak woodlands, and chaparral. These trails offer picturesque views and opportunities to spot various birds and animals.
- Biodiversity: Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve is home to many plant and animal species, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can see wildflowers in bloom, listen to bird songs, and even catch a glimpse of the elusive mountain lion or bobcat.
- Education and Research: The reserve also serves as a research site for the University of California Natural Reserve System, making it an excellent place to learn about various ecological processes and conservation efforts. Visitors can better understand the importance of preserving our natural habitats while enjoying the beauty of Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve.
Address: 27001 County Road 31, Winters, CA 95694
Website: https://naturalreserves.ucdavis.edu/stebbins-cold-canyon
8. Music Lovers – Stop at Arc Guitars
ARC Guitars is a must-visit for music lovers and guitar enthusiasts. This unique shop specializes in one-to-one instruction in the art, science, and craft of constructing high-quality, hand-crafted guitars.
The shop offers custom-made guitars. From choosing the wood to designing the shape and sound, you can be a part of every step of the guitar-making process. Each guitar at ARC Guitars is uniquely handcrafted and designed, making them true works of art.
As our sons work in the guitar industry, we stopped at ARC Guitars – a small luthier shop on Railroad Avenue.
Whether you’re an avid musician or appreciate the beauty of guitars, you’ll be impressed by the quality and craftsmanship of these instruments.
Address: 909 Main Street Suite B, Winters, CA 95694
Website: https://www.arc-guitars.com/
9. Visit Winters Putah Creek Nature Park
Nestled in the picturesque city of Winters, California, lies the Putah Creek Nature Park. This 30-acre park offers a peaceful escape from city life and allows visitors to explore nature at its finest.
What makes this park worthwhile to explore? Here are a few reasons:
- Tranquil Setting: The park features beautiful walking trails that wind through oak woodlands and wetlands and along the banks of Putah Creek. This peaceful setting is perfect for birdwatching or simply taking a stroll.
- Picnic Areas: With tables and benches scattered throughout the park, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic lunch or an afternoon snack. Enjoy your meal while taking in the picturesque views of the park.
- Wildlife Viewing: Putah Creek Nature Park is home to various wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles. Keep your eyes peeled, and you may glimpse an osprey hunting for fish or a river otter swimming in the creek.
Address: Railroad Avenue, Winters, CA 95694
Website: https://www.yolocounty.org/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/79/2621
Anthonysthwd, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
10. Relax at Rotary Park
Just minutes from Downtown Winters is the beautiful Rotary Park. This park offers scenic picnic areas with tables and lots of grass for kids to play on. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Winters.
The park is open daily from 6 AM until 10 PM, making it a great place to start or end your day. And if you are visiting on a Thursday evening in July, please stop by for their free outdoor concerts at the Rotary Park Gazebo. Local and visiting musicians play a variety of musical styles, providing the perfect soundtrack for a summer evening.
In addition to its picturesque picnic areas, Rotary Park has public bathrooms for visitors. So pack a picnic, grab your loved ones, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon at Rotary Park.
11. Shop for an Airstream at A to Z Motors
The iconic Airstream trailers can be found at local A to Z Motors for those intrigued or into the RV lifestyle. This Winters-based business specializes in selling used Airstreams – and you’ll find just about everything here, from vintage Bambi models to more recent Flying Clouds, International Signatures, and everything in between.
This family-owned dealership has served customers since 1971 and is known for its exceptional customer service.
A to Z Motors was the main reason for our visit to Winters. If you are considering buying an Airstream, we have the highest regard for the experience you’ll get at A to Z Motors through owner Vince Cardinale. His staff is first-rate, and you’ll drive away with a well-prepared Airstream if you are in the market for a used model.
At A to Z Motors, you can browse through various new and used Airstream models and find parts and services for your current trailer. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect Airstream to fit your needs and budget.
Address: 15 Main St., Winters, CA 95694
Website: https://www.atozmotors.com/
Where to Eat in Winters
Regarding food, Winters California has a diverse and vibrant scene that caters to all tastes. Here are a few top spots to consider during your visit.
We enjoyed the small-town, all-locals feel. There were no chain restaurants here. No Starbucks that we saw. There were plenty of old and historic buildings. Just a whole bunch of locally owned businesses – and just the way we like to experience unique places like this. Another bonus – the city felt safe.
Putah Creek Cafe
For a taste of local and seasonal cuisine, head to Putah Creek Cafe in downtown Winters. It’s the top-rated restaurant in Winters per TripAdvisor.
This charming cafe offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with outdoor seating options, perfect for enjoying the California sunshine. Popular dishes include seasonal salads, creative sandwiches, and specialty entrees.
During our visit, we opted for soup and salads. Seeing a Guinness French Onion Soup on the menu, that choice was a slam dunk. Then, a wedge salad (sans bacon) for me and a Caesar Salad for Julie. Glass or wine would accompany our dinner. At the end of our meal, we were intrigued by the pie selection, and we shared a mixed berry pie. The pie was a bit on the dry side, so while we weren’t thrilled with the dessert offering, we enjoyed the dinner and the ambiance of the Putah Creek Café.
Unusually, we also stopped here for lunch the next day. During traveling, we typically opt for as many different experiences as possible. Still, on Saturday afternoon, this seemed the best choice. We had veggie omelets with a tasty filling of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and artichoke hearts. A constant refill on our coffees was much appreciated, as was not having to ask for hot sauce (3 choices were brought to the table without our asking).
FYI – Guy Fieri even featured this restaurant on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.
Address: 1 Main St., Winters, CA 95694
Website: https://putahcreekcafe.com/
Buckhorn Steakhouse
To taste traditional American fare, visit Buckhorn Steakhouse, which has been serving mouthwatering steaks and seafood since 1936. Located in downtown Winters, this iconic restaurant offers a classic old-west ambiance with its wooden interior and saloon-style bar.
Some of the most popular dishes at Buckhorn Steakhouse include their signature steaks cooked to perfection, fresh seafood, and hearty burgers.
Address: 2 Main St, Winters, CA 95694
Website: https://www.buckhornsteakhouse.com/
La Cocina Mexicana Restaurant
If you’re craving authentic Mexican cuisine, look at La Cocina Mexicana Restaurant in nearby Dixon. This family-owned establishment has been serving up traditional dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients since 1994.
Popular dishes include Chili Relleno, Carnitas, and Enchiladas Suizas.
Address: 105 E. Dorset Dr., Dixon, CA
Where is Winters, California?
Winters is a small city located in Yolo County, California. It is in the central part of Northern California’s Sacramento Valley, about 20 miles west-northwest of the state capital in Sacramento. Winters lies at an elevation of 151 feet above sea level and covers an area of 2.9 square miles.
The city was initially established as a midway point between Sacramento and the Suisun City Ferry, and its location along busy transportation routes contributed to its early development. Today, Winters is known for its picturesque downtown area, agricultural surroundings, and community events.
Where to Stay in Winters
You’ll find an excellent selection of lodging spanning hotels, bed & breakfast locations, and rentals in and around Winters, California. A few of our recommendations are listed below.
Abbey House Inn
Rated 10 of 10 on Expedia!
On your visit to Winters, CA, you may look for a cozy and comfortable place to stay. Look no further than the Abbey House Inn! This historic Victorian home was built in 1905 and has been lovingly restored and updated, offering guests a charming and unique experience. And it’s where we stayed during our visit to Winters.
Each well-appointed bedroom includes a private bath; some even have jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces for relaxation. The Inn also boasts a spacious dining area, a parlor with a fireplace, a wrap-around porch, and patios for entertaining.
We booked a one-night stay for our overnighter in Winters at the Abbey House Inn. One room was available, so we had the Bernhardt Suite with a double bed. There was no proprietor on site, but the emailed instructions we received before our visit were clear and helpful.
Inside is an inviting sitting area downstairs with an excellent selection of books.
The kitchen is well equipped with some options for help-yourself breakfast and snacks. Our room was clean, quaint, and had a lovely charm. Though the ceiling in the bathroom was angled, and yes, I saw that, I still must have smacked my head in it (lightly) more than a couple of times.
We helped ourselves with hard-boiled eggs, English muffins, coffee, and biscotti for breakfast. Nobody else was downstairs when we had breakfast, so ours was an excellent quiet time.
We enjoyed looking at the photos of the property downstairs that depicted its restoration from the former state of the building. The property is within easy walking distance to the little downtown – literally, one block walk, and you are there.
A nice, clean, and well-priced lodging option in a delightful California small city. It is highly recommended.
Check Rates and Availability for Abbey House Inn
Fairfield Inn & Suites Sacramento Winters
Rated 9 of 10 on Expedia
Another excellent accommodation option in Winters, CA, is the Fairfield Inn & Suites Sacramento Winters.
This hotel offers comfortable and modern rooms with plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi access. They also have a fitness center, outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast to make your stay enjoyable. The location is convenient to both downtown Winters and the surrounding wine country, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the area.
Check Rates and Availability for Fairfield Inn Winters
Hotel Winters
Rated 9 of 10 on Expedia
For a truly luxurious stay in Winters, look no further than Hotel Winters. This boutique hotel offers beautifully designed rooms with modern amenities and elegant touches. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant and bar and a rooftop pool and lounge area for guests to relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Located in downtown Winters, it is the perfect base for exploring all the city offers.
Check Rates & Availability at Hotel Winters
Park Winters – Bed and Breakfast
Rated 4.9 of 5 on Google
For a taste of farm life, head just outside of Winters to Park Winters B&B. This charming bed and breakfast is set in an 1865 farmhouse and is still active today. Guests can tour the flower farm, visit the gardens, and even say hello to the resident chickens at the Chicken Palace. Park Winters also hosts popular weddings on their picturesque property. For a unique and peaceful stay in Winters, book a room at Park Winters B&B.
Check Rates & Availability at Park Winters B&B
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Winters, California, is named after Theodore Winters, a landholder who played a significant role in establishing the town in 1875. When the railroad crossed into Yolo County, Winters quickly became a bustling agricultural and commercial hub, with three trains arriving daily by 1876.
If you want to save some bucks on your trip to Winters, California, consider visiting between December and February. This period typically offers the lowest hotel prices. On the other hand, hotel rates tend to peak from June to August. Plan accordingly to make the most of your budget-friendly travel experience.
Winters, California – Know Before You Go
✈️ Closest Airport: Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
⏰ Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (GMT-8)
Conclusion
Winters is a particular part of California’s history and has become an idealized destination for a relaxed weekend getaway. With its quaint atmosphere, remarkable architecture, local dining and shopping options, and notable outdoor activities like the picturesque Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument and Putah Creek Trail, you won’t be disappointed in your stay.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or a family vacation in one of the most stunning parts of California – book your stay in Winters now for an unforgettable experience!
Thanks for reading. We hope to see you at the places where we go.
Julie & Art
#winters
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