Welcome to Folsom
Fall in love with the wistful and nostalgic beauty of this distinctive town, which beats with the heart of the Old West.
Two dazzling bridges connect the arbored land of Folsom together over the American River, its meandering flow emerging from Folsom Lake before pooling as Lake Natoma and traveling south to Sacramento.
Though Folsom wasn’t incorporated until 1956, the city boasts one of the most charming historic downtowns in all of Sacramento County. Folsom’s rich history of gold prospectors and settlers of all backgrounds left behind its enchanting, Old West architecture that evokes an unequivocal nostalgia along the main street. Today, the historic buildings house gourmet candy and ice cream shops, specialty retailers, and independent diners that contribute to a quirky, modern feel that blends with the city’s history.
Homes are excellently priced in Folsom, and residents get more amenities for lower costs than other Bay Areas. Despite its long history, much of the residential real estate in Folsom is relatively modern and consists of homes built during and after the 1980s. Single-family homes in the styles of two-story traditionals and spacious ranches are common, as are prestigious gated communities.
What to Love
- Shopping at Palladio Mall
- 30 minutes from Downtown Sacramento
- Tons of outdoor recreational opportunities
Local Lifestyle
Folsom’s position adjacent to Folsom Lake, bordered by the Sierra Nevada Mountains to its southeast, gives the town an athletic personality. Outdoor recreation and training are incredibly popular in Folsom, including activities like jogging, biking, marathons, and watersports.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
One of Folsom’s top attractions is its premier open-air shopping center, Palladio. With clean stone buildings and a rustic-chic design, Palladio is a catch-all stop for beauty and lifestyle services, dining, and browsing major brands like White House Black Market, Sephora, and Whole Foods. It also has luxury theaters that invite visitors to sit back and unwind while they watch the latest releases on the big screen.
Connoisseurs of exceptional food will adore the heavenly spread of great restaurants in Folsom, starting with the ever-unique Friends with Benedicts Mimosa House. Specializing in all things breakfast and brunch, this buzzy weekend hotspot delights with its colorful, Insta-worthy décor.
Fat’s Restaurant caters to the sophisticated palate with its Asian fusion cuisine — a blend of modern innovations and traditional techniques. Spring-green plants populate the outdoor patio, opening up the aesthetic into an airy garden vibe. Perfectly seared steaks, delicious seafood, and upscale New American fare keep the customers coming at Land Ocean Restaurant, conveniently located across from Broadstone Plaza.
Things to Do
Folsom is all about finding your own brand of joy, whether that’s through the simple act of taking a leisurely stroll through the Downtown Historic District or visiting the landmark Folsom Dam. Families have a particularly large scope of activities to choose from, due in part to the presence of facilities like the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary, which educates the public on wildlife and rehabilitates animals in need.
Other family outings might be spent at the Folsom Aquatic Center, an impressive public swimming facility decked out with slides, lap lanes, and play areas. The town also frequently comes together for community events, and the California International Marathon in particular draws a huge crowd to the town. As the number one qualifier for the Boston Marathon, this challenging race starts at the top of Folsom Dam and takes runners all the way to Downtown Sacramento.
Schools
Folsom is home to a number of excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
- Folsom Lake College, 9-12, highly rated public high school rated among the top 100 in the state
- Vista De Lago High School, 9-12, highly rated public high school
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