Find Your Selfie: Photo-Worthy Spots in Rancho Cordova

Scroll through our list below and check out some of our favorite photo spots in Rancho Cordova and the surrounding region.

Nestled along the scenic American River, Rancho Cordova offers the conveniences of modern city life with a rural flair. This confluence of aesthetics creates a unique opportunity for eager shutterbugs looking to capture Instagram-worthy moments.

Scroll through our list below and check out some of our favorite photo spots in Rancho Cordova and the surrounding region.

Where do you love snapping selfies in Rancho Cordova? Show us your creativity and be sure to tag @VisitRanchoCordova and #VisitRanchoCordova in your posts. We love seeing and sharing photos from our community.

1. American River Parkway

Rancho Cordova is home to six miles of the picturesque American River Parkway. Whether lazily floating on the water or exploring trails off the beaten path, you’ll find plenty to photograph. Capture an explosive sunrise over the riparian woodland, sit and wait for that perfect wildlife moment, or try your hand at action photography and capture the zipping bicyclists and hustling runners along the parkway. Other nearby venues perfect for outdoor photography include Hagan Community Park, Ancil Hoffman Park and the Effie Yeaw Nature Center.

And if you’re seeking the perfect backdrop, the Fair Oaks Bridge is a go-to spot for capturing majestic moments.

2. The Barrel District and the Sierra Foothills

Vibes are aplenty in Rancho Cordova’s Barrel District, a collection of five breweries, two distilleries a meadery, and a wine-tasting room. From the Roaring Twenties mood of the J.J. Pfister Distillery to the dark and twisty vibes of Burning Barrel Brewing Co., the Barrel District features an eclectic array of establishments with varying atmospheres. Colorful brews and spirits, unique cans, and neon-lit signs are sure to attract the lens.

If you’re looking for a more bucolic aesthetic, hit Highway 50 and head to our partner wineries and vineyards in the Sierra Foothills.

3. Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area

Get the adrenaline pumping with a trip to the Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA). Home to the Hangtown Motorcross Classic (scheduled for June 3, 2023), Prairie City SVRA is a great place for action sports photographers (both professional and amateur). Capture riders catching big air, offroad vehicles traversing uneven ground and ATVs kicking up dirt. The experience will get your blood pumping.

4. Mills Station Arts & Culture Center

Unleash your inner artist at the Mills Station Arts & Culture Center (MACC). Exhibits constantly rotate at the MACC, ensuring that you’ll always find new photo-worthy canvases, sculptures and other artistic creations. Get inspired and share your favorite artwork.

5. Soil Born Farms Urban Agriculture & Education Project

Dip your hands into agriculture at Soil Born Farms Urban Agriculture & Education Project, a 55-acre ranch with a working organic farm, a restored riparian habitat, a native plant nursery, a certified kitchen, an amphitheater and much more. The farm hosts bird and nature walks, regenerative agriculture farm tours and yoga classes. Photo moments are aplenty at Soil Born.

Check out the venue’s event calendar to learn more about upcoming classes and potential photo opportunities.

6. Apple Hill

Feel like a day trip? If you’re all wine-d out but still seek bucolic vistas, hit the road and follow Highway 50 to the scenic and flavorful Apple Hill, nestled in the Sierra Nevada Foothills. Appreciators of fall foliage will find their perfect photo moment among the orchards and farms. The Apple Hill Growers Association consists of nearly 30 farms that are ripe for exploration. Strike a pose in the apple orchards or take a mouth-watering photo of your favorite baked good.

7. Lake Natoma

Rent a kayak at the Sacramento State Aquatic Center and take to the waters of Lake Natoma for some good ol’ rest and relaxation. Surrounded by an 11.5-mile loop trail, Lake Natoma is a charming place to spend the day. Hidden alcoves and inlets abound, ensuring that you’ll discover something new with each visit.

8. Bonus: California Capital Airshow at Mather Airport

While the California Capital Airshow is seasonal, it takes place annually, giving you ample time to prep your camera and sharpen your shutter finger for high-speed subjects. Attracting more than 100,000 people, the airshow features boggling aerial acrobatics as well as on-the-ground planes. See if you can capture the massive wingspan of the U-2 or the quick speed of the F-22 Raptor and the P-38 Lightning.

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