Option A: Folsom + Rancho Cordova
Morning in Historic Folsom for an easy candy crawl and plaza photos → lunch on Sutter Street → quick rest → early evening ride or light scare nearby if your kids are up for it → home by 8.
Why it works: compact sidewalks, easy parking, and lots of food options within steps.
Option B: Roseville + Rocklin
Start with a town-square event or library costume hour → swing by a neighborhood pumpkin patch for photos → dinner at a patio spot where costumes are welcome → finish with a low-key craft or movie at home.
Why it works: stroller-friendly, predictable timelines, early wrap.
Option C: Davis + Woodland
Late-afternoon downtown Davis parade or trick-or-treat → cocoa and a cookie → hop to a nearby farm market or community trunk-or-treat if energy remains.
Why it works: walkable blocks, great snacks, and gentle pacing for younger kids.
Parent playbook
- Book timed tickets early when required.
- Pack layers and a backup bandana or cape for quick costume swaps.
- Keep Halloween “wins” short and sweet: 90 minutes on site is plenty for littles.
Before you lock plans, open Sacramento Top 10 and scan their curated family list for that weekend. They surface the good stuff early and add last-minute gems you won’t find by scrolling socials.