Fairfield, California: 10 Best Things to Do Nearby
10 Fun Things to Do Near Fairfield, California
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| From Jelly Belly nostalgia to Suisun Valley wine and sunset waterfront strolls, Fairfield makes an easy Northern California getaway with a little of everything. |
If you're looking for fun things to do near Fairfield, California, you're in a great spot. Fairfield, in Solano County, sits between San Francisco and Sacramento, which makes it a handy home base for day trips, family outings, and foodie stops.
One of the things I like about this area is how easy it is to mix a relaxing afternoon with a little adventure. You can sip local wine, hike by the water, visit a jelly bean factory, and then catch a sunset all in the same day. Not bad, right?
Below are 10 great places to check out near Fairfield, CA. Some are right in town, while others are a short drive away in the surrounding area.
1. Tour the Jelly Belly Factory in Fairfield, California
This is one of the most well-known attractions in Fairfield, and for good reason. The Jelly Belly factory is colorful, fun, and great for both kids and adults. If you've ever wondered how those tiny beans get their shiny coating, this is the place to find out.
The self-guided tour lets you look down on the factory floor and learn how the candy is made. And yes, the sample bags at the end are a nice bonus.
- Great for families
- Fun photo spots in the gift shop
- Easy stop if you're passing through Fairfield
2. Sip Your Way Through Suisun Valley
If you enjoy wine without the heavy crowds of Napa, Suisun Valley is a smart pick. It feels a bit like finding a hidden path when everyone else is stuck on the main road. The valley is just a short drive from Fairfield and has a relaxed, welcoming feel.
You’ll find local wineries, tasting rooms, and often live music on weekends. Some spots also have olive oil tastings or outdoor picnic areas. I always think places like this are best when you leave room to slow down and linger a little.
Looking for a laid-back wine country experience near Fairfield, California? This is it.
3. Spend Time Outdoors at Rockville Hills Regional Park
Need fresh air? Head to Rockville Hills Regional Park. This is a great place for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying open space. The trails vary in length and difficulty, so you can go for a short walk or a more challenging outing.
The rolling hills and oak trees make it feel peaceful, especially in the early morning. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and keep your camera handy. In spring, the green hills can look like a postcard.
- Good for hiking and biking
- Nice views of the surrounding hills
- A solid outdoor stop near Fairfield, CA
4. Visit the Travis Air Force Base Aviation Museum
For history lovers, the Travis Air Force Base Aviation Museum is worth a stop. You’ll see aircraft displays, military exhibits, and stories that help bring aviation history to life.
Even if you're not a huge military history buff, it’s still interesting to stand near these massive planes and think about where they’ve been. It’s a bit like looking at giant pieces of a living history book.
This is one of the more unique things to do in Fairfield, California, especially if you want something educational and different.
5. Explore Downtown Suisun City and the Waterfront
Just a few minutes from Fairfield, Suisun City offers a charming waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and a marina. It’s a nice place to take a slow walk, grab lunch, or sit by the water and unwind.
If you like smaller downtown areas that feel local and easygoing, this one is a pleasant surprise. On some days, you may catch community events, farmers markets, or live entertainment nearby.
Sometimes the best travel moments are the simple ones, like an iced drink by the harbor and nowhere you need to rush off to.
6. See the Animals at the Western Railway Museum
Okay, not animals, but this place is still a lot of fun. The Western Railway Museum, located in Solano County, is a great outing for train fans and families. The highlight for many visitors is riding a historic electric train through open countryside.
It’s a hands-on experience that feels more memorable than just looking at exhibits behind glass. If you have kids with you, this can easily become one of their favorite stops near Fairfield.
- Historic rail cars and exhibits
- Scenic train rides
- Family-friendly and different from the usual attractions
7. Take a Day Trip to Lagoon Valley Park in Vacaville
A short drive from Fairfield, Lagoon Valley Park in Vacaville is a nice choice for hiking, fishing, picnics, and easy outdoor time. There’s a lake, open grassy space, and trails with lovely views.
If you're traveling with family or just want a low-key afternoon, this spot works well. Pack snacks, bring a folding chair, and enjoy a simple California day outdoors.
Sometimes a place doesn’t need to be flashy to be good. It just needs room to breathe, and this park has that.
8. Shop and Grab a Bite at Vacaville Premium Outlets
If your perfect day includes a little retail therapy, Vacaville Premium Outlets is another easy trip from Fairfield, California. You’ll find a wide range of name-brand stores, plus places to stop for coffee or a quick meal.
This is a good option when the weather is mild and you want something casual. It’s also handy if you need to break up a road trip with shopping and food.
And let’s be honest, finding a good deal while traveling always feels like a bonus win.
9. Enjoy Waterfront Views at Benicia State Recreation Area
If you don’t mind a short drive, Benicia State Recreation Area offers trails, marsh views, birdwatching, and calm shoreline scenery. It’s a peaceful place to go walking, especially if you enjoy being near the water.
The area has a quieter feel than some bigger parks, which makes it nice for visitors who want a break from busy tourist spots. Bring binoculars if you’re into birds, or just take a slow walk and enjoy the breeze.
Looking for relaxing outdoor activities near Fairfield, CA? This one deserves a spot on your list.
10. Catch the Bloom at Morningsun Herb Farm
For something a little different, visit Morningsun Herb Farm near Vacaville. This lovely garden space is known for herbs, flowers, rare plants, and a peaceful country setting. It’s especially nice in spring and early summer.
If you enjoy gardening or simply like beautiful places, this stop can feel like a hidden gem. Walking through it is a bit like flipping through the pages of a colorful garden magazine, only better because you're actually there.
It’s quiet, charming, and a nice change of pace from busier attractions.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do Near Fairfield, California
There are plenty of fun things to do near Fairfield, California, whether you want wine tasting, family attractions, hiking, shopping, or scenic waterfront views. Fairfield in Solano County makes a great starting point because so many interesting spots are within an easy drive.
If I were planning a weekend here, I’d probably mix a Jelly Belly tour with a winery visit and finish with a sunset walk by the water. That kind of mix is what makes this area special.
Have you visited Fairfield, CA or any of these nearby places? Share this post with your travel buddy and drop a comment with your favorite stop. I’d love to hear what you’d add to the list.
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