Blake Walsh

25 Best Things to Do in Fairfield, CA

  • Published 2022/11/13

Fairfield is a heavenly city with picturesque rolling hills, grasslands, sprawling marsh, diverse wildlife, serene lakes, beautiful creeks, fascinating museums, numerous farmlands, exciting amusement parks, and incredible vineyards.

Fairfield allows you to experience nature while living in the city.

It provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and camping.

The region is a well-known wine destination that attracts myriads of wine enthusiasts.

Don’t miss out on the wine tasting and vineyard touring experience while vacationing here.

Fairfield is the ideal holiday destination to get away from your daily routine, enjoy an adventure, or simply relax.

Here’s an all-in-one list of the best things to do in Fairfield, California:

Tour the Jelly Belly Candy Company

Jelly Belly Candy Company

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This jelly bean company is one of Fairfield’s prime attractions.

Here, you can enjoy the free factory tours learn about the fascinating candy-making process.

This experience has been rated one of the Top 10 tours in the nation by USA Today subscribers.

Exterior of the Jelly Belly Candy Company building

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The factory produces more than a hundred varieties of candy, and you can try out free samples of jelly beans and other treats while touring the place.

Gorge mouth-watering jelly bean-shaped burgers and pizzas at the Jelly Belly Café.

You can taste delicious wine and in-house chocolates at Jelly Belly Chocolate & Wine Experience.

Check out the interactive exhibits and exciting games, and browse art at the gallery located on the premises.

Name sign of Jelly Belly Candy Company

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Go Hiking at Rockville Hills Regional Park

Rockville Hills Regional Park

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Encompassing over 633 acres, this park features sprawling grasslands, beautiful rolling hills, and diverse wildlife.

You’ll also find nature trails, caves, rock formations, a serene lake, a pond, scenic overlooks, and dense forests.

Ducks swimming on the waters of Rockville Hills Regional Park

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Enjoy the enchanting panoramic views of the city from the top of the hills, hike and explore the wilderness, try your hand at fishing in the lake, and relish a lovely picnic against the spectacular backdrops.

You can spot deer, foxes, bobcats, waterfowls, and diverse birds here.

The park is also famous for mountain biking, and rental bikes are available onsite.

A pond pass sign at Rockville Hills Regional Park

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Explore Military History at American Armory Museum

This museum commemorates the sacrifices made by the US military soldiers during the World Wars, Korean War, and Vietnam War.

Their collection features over 60 military vehicles and war memorabilia over a century old.

The army vehicles include rare tanks, jeeps, Harley Davidsons, a Mack truck, and more.

Other exhibits feature uniforms, weapons, American flags, and photographs.

Tour the museum and learn about the fascinating war history.

Ride a Go-Karting at Scandia Family Fun Center

This popular amusement park features miniature golf, go-karts, bumper boats, laser tag, a playground, batting cages, an arcade, and great restaurants.

Grab your friends and spend a fun-filled and exciting day here.

It has multiple mini-golf courses with picturesque water features and a grand Scandinavian castle.

Team up with your friends and enjoy a thrilling game of laser tag.

You can try out over 200 games at the park’s arcade.

Have fun on the bumper boats and experience racing on go-karts.

It’s a great place to take a break and have some fun.

Beat the Heat at Allan Witt Park

You’ll be surprised to find out how much you can do at this vast public park.

It encompasses a sports center, aquatics complex, a skate park, baseball fields, playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, picnic areas, grills, and softball fields.

Beat the heat at the aquatic complex featuring a lazy river, water playground, zero-depth pool, splash pad, multiple swimming pools, enormous water slides, and more.

Play a game of tennis or basketball, make some delicious burgers on the grills, and enjoy a lovely picnic here.

This is an ideal place to relax and spend quality time with your friends and family.

Check Out Historic Aircrafts at Travis Air Force Base Heritage Center

Travis Air Force Base Heritage Center

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This renowned aerospace museum highlights the history of this air force base and features a multitude of vintage US army aircrafts that date back to previous centuries.

You can view historic missiles, aircraft equipment and components, military uniforms, coin collections, photographs, and more.

An aircraft on display at Travis Air Force Base Heritage Center

Alan Wilson from Stilton, Peterborough, Cambs, UK, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Second World War exhibit includes Flying Tigers, Douglas C-47 Skytrain, Piper L-4 Grasshopper, CG-4 Combat Glider, and a replica bomb.

The Cold War exhibit highlights the history of the Candy Bomber, the Korean Conflict, Ben Airlift, and more.

The museum also features exhibits focusing on space exploration, humanitarian missions, and modern flights.

A US Air Force aircraft at Travis Air Force Base Heritage Center

Alan Wilson from Stilton, Peterborough, Cambs, UK, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Shop Fresh at Larry’s Produce

When in Fairfield, a trip to Larry’s Produce is a must.

The well-known farm stand is the latest in the entire county and dates back to 1986.

It’s owned by a local fourth-generation farmer and his family.

Take your pick of a vast array of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, including pumpkins, apples, aubergines, bananas, peaches, strawberries, grapes, bell pepper, and plenty more.

Other popular farm stands in this city include Saechao Family Farm, Erickson Ranch Produce, and Robledo Produce.

Take in Panoramic Views at Lynch Canyon

Lynch Canyon is one of Solano County’s most popular tourist attractions.

It features beautiful rolling hills, sprawling greenery, a serene reservoir, diverse flora and fauna, riparian forests, hiking trails, and more.

The enchanting Lynch Creek meanders through the picturesque landscapes of the park.

It is home to deer, waterfowls, foxes, raptors, hawks, frogs, and bobcats.

Enjoy an invigorating hike on the nature trails and feast your eyes on panoramic views of San Pablo Bay and Carquinez Strait from the hilltops.

Tour the IL Fiorello Olive Oil Company

IL Fiorello Olive Oil Company is known for its fine-quality olive oil.

They also have a wide variety of delicious wines.

The company offers tours of the olive mills, group cooking lessons, olive oil and wine tastings, and demonstrations by chefs.

Their dining experiences are not to be missed, either.

Tour the mill and relish a delicious meal in their outdoor patio while enjoying vistas of thousands of olive trees and the picturesque valley.

Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at Fairfield Extreme Sports

At Fairfield Extreme Sports, paintball is just the tip of their proverbial iceberg.

Their famous Paintball/Airsoft Facility has attracted players from all over the Bay Area since 2013.

They have three rec fields designed to offer the best paintball experience in Solano County.

They also offer a safe and exciting airsoft experience on land with two-speed ball fields.

At Fairfield Extreme Sports, there’s something for everyone to enjoy—from getting your adrenaline pumping to simply chilling out with friends!

Admire the Architecture of Old Solano Courthouse

Old Solano Courthouse is a famous landmark in Fairfield.

It’s one of the city’s oldest structures.

In 1911, E.C. Hemmings drew up plans for the courthouse.

The Central Solano County Heritage Commission included this two-story, 29,900-square-foot courthouse in its inventory of Lasting Heritage structures.

Its inclusion is due to being an exceptional example of Beaux Arts design. An equally historic structure, the Hall of Justice, sits not far from the Old Solano Courthouse.

After a devastating fire, this structure underwent repurposing from its original use as a high school and now houses the local judicial system.

Restaurants close to the courthouse are worth visiting if you’re in the mood for the hearty southern fare.

Take Snaps with the Sculptures at Glashoff Sculpture Ranch

Repurposed materials (mainly metals) are the focus at Glashoff Sculpture Ranch, home to some awe-inspiring sculptures.

You may find stunning works at this ranch, conveniently accessible from the rural Suisun Valley.

Phillip Glashoff, a renowned metal sculptor, owns the ranch.

He thinks visitors would enjoy seeing his work scattered around the rustic beauty of the valley as they drive the wine country “circle.”

You’ll be amazed at the Glashoffs’ skill at constructing sculptures from discarded materials.

However, visits are by appointment only, so if you’d want to stop by, you’ll need to contact the location before stopping by.

Catch a Tournament at Paradise Valley Golf Course

Located midway between the two California capitals, the Paradise Valley Golf Course is convenient for golfers from either city.

It’s simple to get an idea of how challenging or relaxing this golf course is from any of the central metropolitan regions in Sacramento or the Bay Area.

It is the most excellent bargain golf course in the North Bay Area.

It has been named “the number one golf course in Solano County,” among other accolades.

The game’s incredible design makes it fun to play, hard, and a pleasure to the eyes.

These features, together with the course’s flowing waterways and oak-lined fairways, make it a favorite among golfers.

Throughout the year, the Paradise Valley Golf Course has several tournaments and other events that you may either participate in or watch from the sidelines.

Have a Retail Therapy at Solano Town Center

View of Solano Town Center

Ixfd64, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Shop, dine, and have a good time with the gang at Fairfield’s Solano Town Center.

Solano Town Center, formerly known as Solano Mall and Westfield Solano, is Solano County’s biggest enclosed shopping center.

Ownership of the property lies with Starwood Retail Properties.

If you’re looking for anything specific, this Fairfield shop has it.

Solano Town Center has approximately 150 stores and eateries, including the famous department stores JCPenney and Macy’s and the electronics and appliance retailers Best Buy and Sears.

It also features a 16-screen IMAX theater and an Edwards Fairfield Stadium cinema.

Sample Local Beer and Cocktails at Heretic Brewery and Distillery

Though the vast commercial brewery in Fairfield receives more attention, the smaller breweries, like Heretic Brewery, typically win over locals’ hearts.

Beer connoisseurs flock to the Heretic Brewery and Distillery.

The tasting area has 24 taps of beers, cocktails, and other drinks made from scratch.

Its beer varies from blondes to pale ales to stouts and porters.

If you want to know the brewing process, you can take part in free brewery tours a few times a week.

To find out when the next one is, book ahead of time.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Go on a Train Ride at Western Railway Museum

Exterior of Western Railway Museum

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This renowned museum houses more than 50 historic railroad cars and trams.

Some of these cars are fully functional.

Tour the museum and check out the fascinating exhibits.

Many train enthusiasts flock to this place to enjoy scenic rides on vintage trains and streetcars.

Old vehicle at Western Railway Museum

David Wilson from Oak Park, Illinois, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The site also features original railway tracks of the Sacramento Northern Railway.

Relish a delicious meal on the picnic grounds while watching the trains.

This is an ideal spot to enjoy a relaxing day and spend quality time with your friends and family.

The rides here include a 50-minute train journey and a 15-minute streetcar ride.

Two people looking at the trains at Western Railway Museum

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Witness Wildlife at Benicia State Recreation Area

Trail in Benicia State Recreation Area

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Located 20 miles from Fairfield, this popular tourist site features picturesque marshlands, enchanting hills, sprawling greenery, beaches, diverse wildlife, nature trails, and the Carquinez Strait.

Feast your eyes to the gorgeous views of the magnificent Carquinez Bridge and verdant marsh, enjoy an invigorating hike on the trails, appreciate nature’s astounding beauty, and end your day with a nice picnic.

The site is very popular among anglers, cyclists, and roller skaters.

You can also spot coyotes, river otters, and beavers here.

Moreover, the park is home to many birds, including various endangered species, such as California clapper rails, black rails, Suisun song sparrows, salt marsh common yellow throat, great blue heron, and numerous waterfowls.

The site is also an ideal place for fishing.

There are several campsites here that facilitate developed camping.

Primitive camping, however, is not allowed in the park.

Visitors can camp here at night to explore the wilderness and stargaze.

Watch a Race at Sonoma Raceway

Sonoma Raceway

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This world-class motorsport facility hosts numerous premier racing events: the NASCAR Cup Series, IndyCar Series, AFM motorcycle racing, SCCA racing, and NHRA Mello Yello drag racing series.

It is one of the busiest racing venues, with events organized almost every day of the year.

In addition to being a motorsport complex, it hosts diverse events, such as festivals, trade shows, marathons, corporate events, and more.

Fast racecars along Sonoma Raceway

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The site also features campgrounds and offers captivating views of vineyards.

Get tickets to a race and enjoy an exhilarating experience here.

The raceway is roughly a 30-minutes drive from Fairfield.

A colorful racecar along Sonoma Raceway

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Go on a Rollercoaster Ride at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

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Located 14 miles from Fairfield, this popular amusement park features numerous thrilling rides, exotic animal encounters, entertaining live shows, and great restaurants.

The park is home to alligators, lions, tigers, stingrays, penguins, giraffes, dolphins, butterflies, cougars, sea lions, seals, snakes, otters, walrus, and plenty more.

You can get close to many of these animals to pet and feed them.

Explore the underwater walk-through tunnel exhibit to watch countless diverse sharks, fishes, and stingrays.

Colorful name sign of Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

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The awe-inspiring dolphin show is one of the top attractions of this park.

The exhilarating rides here include free falls, water rides, roller coasters, bumper cars, miniature train rides, carousels, yo-yo rides, pendulum rides, and others.

Play with African penguins and get close to dolphins at the Ocean Discovery exhibit.

Watch a majestic Bengal tiger swim and play in the waters.

This incredible amusement park is bound to give you an unparalleled experience.

People riding a rollercoaster at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

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Appreciate Nature’s Beauty at Rush Ranch Open Space

Rush Ranch Open Space

AlessandraRC / Shutterstock.com

This picturesque site attracts many hikers, tourists, biologists, and photographers.

It is a nature lover’s paradise featuring sprawling grasslands and marsh.

Home to 230 species of birds and numerous diverse animals, it is an ideal place for birding and wildlife viewing.

Explore the region’s wilderness by hiking the verdant trails, tour the historical buildings of the ranch, get close to the majestic horses, and appreciate nature’s breathtaking beauty.

The brackish tidal marsh habitat supports various endangered and threatened species of flora and fauna, such as the California clapper rail, Suisun ornate shrew, American white pelican, Suisun song sparrow, and several others.

Feast your eyes to the views of the brilliantly colored wildflowers spread throughout the captivating landscapes of the ranch.

Try Wine Tasting at Vezer Family Vineyard’s Mankas Gardens

Have a wonderful time tasting delicious wines at the renowned Vezer Family Vineyard’s Mankas Gardens.

Located in Suisun Valley, this place is famous for its award-winning wines.

Sip on your drink while enjoying the spectacular views of the valley and the picturesque gardens.

Myriads of wine aficionados flock here to try the Vezer family’s Petite Sirah.

Suisun Valley is a premier wine destination and attracts wine enthusiasts from across the globe.

Experience Art in a Whole New Way at Suisun Harbor Theater

Suisun Harbor Theater provides family-friendly activities and theater performances in a creative environment.

They hold various events such as plays, musicals, comedy shows, and concerts.

The goal of the Creative Arts Collective Group behind the theater is to help make extraordinary theatrical works more accessible to everyone.

Suisin Harbor Theater is also available for rent; you’re welcome to use their space for private events like baby showers, birthday parties, and small weddings.

The theater’s ultimate mission is to ensure people develop connections as they use their talents in ways that touch others’ lives for the better.

Final Thoughts

Fairfield offers you a one-of-a-kind experience by immersing you in nature’s wonders.

This historical place brims with impressive landmarks that will surely make your trip unforgettable.

Fairfield offers tourists the best experience, providing you with fun outdoor activities that take place in areas with breathtaking views.

Consider visiting this serene city during your upcoming trip, and make sure to visit these places while you’re at it!

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