Summer Guide 2015 Daytrips & Getaways picks

West Sac is the best Sac

West Sacramento daytrip

On the map visiting West Sacramento might not look like much of a “daytrip,” but lately this town makes us feel like we’re going places. Last year’s TBD Fest made for a great, if temporary, introduction to this Yolo County city’s charms and if you plan it right, a venture over the Sacramento River can feel like you’re entering another state of mind altogether. Hit up breweries such as Bike Dog Brewing Co. (2534 Industrial Boulevard), Jackrabbit Brewing Co. (1315 Terminal Street) or Yolo Brewing Co. (1520 Terminal Street) and then enjoy a stroll through the lovely River Walk Park. With its views of the Sacramento skyline, it offers a reminder that sometimes the perfect getaway just takes a few steps. www.cityofwestsacramento.org. R.L.

Sleep the skyway

Treehouse Airbnb in Petaluma

Real question: Why wouldn’t you want to spend a night in a treehouse? Talk about a romantic getaway that simultaneously makes you nostalgic for childhood. The house in question is a popular listing on Airbnb, and it accommodates two adults in a rustic, wooden abode dangling 30 feet above ground in a eucalyptus tree. Don’t worry, there is a staircase, and once you climb up, a lovely living room, loft bed and balcony. Then you’re in Petaluma. Go taste cheese or something. Starting at $175 a night; www.airbnb.com/rooms/1546306. J.B.

Get your gentle day rage on

Berryessa Brewing Co.

Weekend day-drinking is awesome, but you’ve got to do it right—toss back too many high-octane brews and that day rage turns into a slumber. Berryessa Brewing Co. offers up a tasty solution via its sundry session beers—low alcohol versions of some of the brewery’s favorite beers. All the flavor without the nap-inducing ABV. Even better, Berryessa often hosts live music on the weekend and there’s usually a food truck around, too. And if the day gets too hot? The nearby Putah Creek makes for the perfect icy quick dip. All the makings for a lovely afternoon getaway. 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays, noon to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; 27260 Highway 128 in Winters; www.berryessabrewingco.com. R.L.

Putting the YOLO! back in Yolo County

Woodland day trip

Listen, obviously that’s not what the kids have in mind when they scream that dimwitted slogan about only living once—but it should be. Woodland, located just north of Sacramento makes for a fun afternoon. There are great, cheap taco trucks aplenty and numerous thrift stores. The downtown is also darling: old-school buildings, including a vintage-era pharmacy, plus antique and clothing shops. The city is also home to some of the best in both high and low culture. For plays and other live performances check out the Woodland Opera House (340 Second Street). Too fancy? Saunter over to the nearby Stag (506 Main Street), a popular dive bar that offers nothing but the best in cheap beer and bikini babe posters. www.cityofwoodland.org. R.L.

A new paddle path

Cosumnes River Preserve

If you’re into kayaking, you’ve probably already tackled the American River and the Sacramento State Aquatic Center. And they’re great places to kayak. But isn’t it about time to try a different spot? Paddling in the Cosumnes River Preserve offers great views of sandhill cranes, riparian forest and wetlands full of wildlife. There are even free guided tours for beginners. Cosumnes River Preserve, 13501 Franklin Boulevard in Galt; www.cosumnes.org. J.M.

Be well at Bidwell

Chico daytrip

Sometimes you have to get away to get away, and a great getaway spot to get away to is the not-so-far-away Bidwell Park, by way of Chico. If you’re into fishing, hiking, biking, disc golfing, taking your dog to new places for it to pick up ticks, secret watering holes, tree swings, stargazing or any other outdoor sort of activity that doesn’t involve fire, Bidwell Park can meet your needs without needing a weekend’s worth of days to get there. Try the One Mile Recreation Area if you’re interested in swimming and playgrounds for the kids, and Upper Bidwell Park if you’re more for getting lost among rolling hills and hidden streams. (Might not be a bad idea to check out the Chico News & Review while you’re in the area, hint, hint.) www.chico.ca.us/general_services_department/park_division/bidwell_park.asp. A.S.

Brews cruise

Beer-tasting road-trip

Everyone already goes to the Napa and Sonoma area and the Sierra foothills for daytrips and weekends full of wine tasting. So why not just head to breweries instead of wineries? The Roseville, Rocklin and Auburn areas have Goathouse Brewing Co., Boneshaker Brewery and Monk’s Cellar; and the Napa and Sonoma area has Heretic Brewing Co., Napa Smith Brewery and Bear Republic Brewing Co. www.goathousebrewing.com, www.boneshakerbrew.com, www.monkscellar.com, www.hereticbrewing.com, www.napasmithbrewery.com, www.bearrepublic.com. J.M.