Red Bluff Day Trip: Olives, River Views & One-on-One Adventures
- Amy Coleman
- Dec 9
- 4 min read
A quirky, chill day trip just 2 hours north of Sacramento with food, photo ops, and river breezes.
Sometimes you just need to hop in the car, blast your favorite playlist, and take off on a one-tank escape from the everyday. Red Bluff, California is a laid-back small town that offers up just enough fun, flavor, and funky stops to make it the perfect day trip from Sacramento. If you’re into olives, riverside strolls, antiques, thrift finds, and scenic snacks—you’re going to love this one.
The best memories are made when you say “yes” to something small like this!
We spent the day exploring quirky roadside spots, discovering some hidden gems (including a surprise ice cream stop!), and just soaking up that small-town vibe. Here's how our day unfolded — plus some tips if you want to copy the route.
Bonus: This was one on one time with my kiddo… in the car for a few hours with zero distractions. We sang loud. We talked deep. We made goofy stops. And we ended up having the best time. He’s still talking about it — and now the other two kids are begging for their own turn.
Our One-Day Red Bluff Itinerary (from Sacramento)
Red Bluff is just under 2 hours from Sacramento, making it a perfect option for a quick day trip that feels like a full adventure. It all started when I scored some crazy cheap Christmas trees on BidRL (yup, that auction site!) — and instead of just running up and back, I turned it into a full one-on-one connection day with Jaxon.
Here’s what we did:
☕ Coffee + Treats to Start the Day
Our first stop: Starbucks for some fuel and sweet treats. (No pics — we inhaled everything before I remembered. Typical.)
🫒 Quick Stop at The Olive Pit (Corning, CA)
You have to stop here on your way to or from Red Bluff. It’s a roadside classic: local olives, fun gifts, free samples, and clean restrooms.
Pro Tip: There’s a Grocery Outlet right next door — and yes, we popped in. It’s a fun stop if you like finding surprise bargains on snacks and drinks before heading further north.
📦 Falling Prices (Red Bluff)
This is a treasure hunt-style store where everything gets cheaper as the week goes on. If you love a good deal and don’t mind a little digging, it’s worth a pop-in.
🛍️ Downtown Red Bluff: Thrift Shops + Murals
Downtown Red Bluff is charming, walkable, and full of photo-worthy spots. We hit up several thrift stores, checked out murals, and wandered without a plan — the best kind of exploring.
Bonus Tip: Have the co-pilot get involved with finding fun places to check out. When we were done at one place, Jaxon would Google to find the next thrift shop or place he wanted to go check out.
🍔 Lunch at M&M Ranch House
We stumbled across this spot — and wow, did it deliver. Huge portions, friendly service, and juicy burgers that hit the spot after all that walking.
🌊 Quick River View Stop
We found a little spot just off the road to stretch our legs and catch a peaceful river view. Nothing fancy — but beautiful and grounding.
🍦 Ice Cream at La Michoacana Plus
We weren’t planning to stop again… but then we saw the mural and the words Ice Cream and we had to stop! La Michoacana Plus, tucked right near the river and boat launch area, totally pulled us in. It’s colorful, fun, and packed with authentic Mexican ice cream, mangonadas, and more. Total vibe.
🍞 Final Stop: Granzella’s in Williams
We couldn’t head home without stopping at Granzella’s Deli — a roadside institution. Jaxon loaded up on fresh bread and snacks (his love language, I swear). This place is a must-do if you’re heading down I-5.
We made it home before dinner. Zero stress, full hearts (and stomachs), and tons of great photos. It was the perfect adventure day!
💛 Why a Red Bluff Day Trip (or Any Quick Adventure) Matters
This trip cost almost nothing — but the value? Priceless.
Two hours in the car together. No distractions. Just talking, singing, snacking, laughing. That kind of connection doesn’t happen on a schedule — it happens when you make time.
And it doesn’t take much:
A short road trip (under 2 hours)
A reason to go (even something random, or just because!)
A fun travel buddy (kiddo, partner, friend, or solo!)
A few quirky stops and photo ops
Time to explore, be curious, and just be present
Jaxon is already planning our next one. And the other two kids? Definitely jealous.
How to Plan Your Own 1-Day Road Trip
Want to create your own day of memories? Here's how:
1. Pick a Destination Within 2 Hours
Think small towns, state parks, quirky attractions, or even auction pickups! If it’s within a 90–120 minute drive, it’s perfect.
2. Search for Fun Stops Along the Way
Use Google Maps, social media, or even ask AI (like me!) to help map out:
Photo ops
Snack stops
Coffee shops
Thrift stores, antique malls, roadside stands
Add in a pit stop or two — like the Olive Pit 😄 — and it breaks up the drive while making the day feel full.
3. Keep It Light and Flexible
Don’t overschedule. Leave room to explore something unexpected — that’s where the magic happens.
💡Need Help Planning a Road Trip?
With technology these days, you can ask AI & Chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude, Google Gemini, etc. to help plan a route, add fun detours, find nearby eats, or build out a day that fits your vibe. It makes life 1,000% easier than the old days with the Thomas Map Guide. If you get the reference, you feel my pain. LOL
Bottom Line
Whether it’s solo time, one-on-one with a kiddo, or a spontaneous friend day — these micro adventures fuel connection, curiosity, and joy. ❤️
🌟 Stay tuned for more in our Day Trips from Sacramento series!
Wander boldly, travel kindly, and collect stories worth sharing.
🧭 Want more ideas for quick escapes like this one?
Thinking about a quick trip to South Lake Tahoe? Check out my review on The Hot Spot. A super fun activity while in South Lake Tahoe.
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