We picked two fun day trips to do with family in a single weekend; APEX inside the Red Hawk Casino and The Flower Farm.
A fun-for-the-whole-family, quick, day trip is the somewhat recently opened APEX Entertainment at Red Hawk in Placerville. This very impressive 85,000-square-foot amusement complex features an 18-lane ultramodern bowling alley with a separate large private VIP bowling area, indoor multi-level go-karting, golf simulators, virtual reality gaming, a large sports bar with multiple TVs to watch all the sports games, and the APEX Grill to grab snacks and lunch.
You can purchase tickets for single activities or group together your activities for a special package price. From date nights to family get-togethers to birthday parties, including a custom birthday cake, there are packages to fit whatever activity you are looking for. The venue is grand and well-appointed with upscale decor and designer touches. The karting area has floor-to-ceiling windows letting guests see into the two-story track offering a light show of neon lights that rim the whole track and change colors from red to blue. There are plenty of photo-ops in the space but the tri-level winner's podium is a great spot to show off the winners of the race. RedHawkCasino.com
Great for a date, a place to stay, or to bring the whole family, visit The Flower Farm, a charming and picturesque destination located in Granite Bay. This family-owned flower farm has been a beloved local attraction for over 30 years, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience with many things to do in this one location.
Spread across several acres of lush greenery, the Flower Farm is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can stroll through the fields marveling at the vibrant colors and intoxicating scents of the seasonal flora and fauna, take a yoga class in the big red barn, a gardening class, or an art class outside, You can visit the Silkies (chickens), enjoy lunch in the cafe, grab a glass of wine at Casque, or attend an event like the pumpkin patch or pet costume contest.
The Flower Farm features a charming garden and gift shop where visitors can browse through a wide selection of potted plants, gardening tools, and gift accessories. The cafe and bakery offers freshly brewed coffee, homemade pastries, and delicious sandwiches, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The wine bar inside the Casque Wine tasting room was crafted from a fallen walnut tree found on the property. Flower Farm guests can enjoy their wine and a Café lunch while sitting by the pond outside the tasting room surrounded by the beauty of nature.
The Flower Farm is not just a place to visit, but a venue for special events and celebrations. From weddings and birthdays to corporate gatherings, the farm offers a picturesque backdrop for any occasion and if you're looking for a lovely staycation or a unique place to house visiting family, the Flower Farm Inn and Cottages are darling and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
Overall, the Flower Farm is a hidden gem that offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're a flower enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful day with friends and family, the Flower Farm is a must-visit destination that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. FlowerFarmInn.com
Both the Flower Farm and APEX are highly recommended spots to visit with a friend or with a large group while each offers a completely different atmosphere and experience. If you're wondering what to do when family comes up to visit for a few days, I suggest checking both places out to share the enjoyment and variety of activities our region has to offer.
