Sutter's Mill, Sutter's Fort, and Sacramento

On your way out of town, make a stop at Mandy's. It is hearty breakfast fare — think French toast and hearty skillet scrambles — and there is only one choice of coffee, fresh-brewed. It's just the sort of streamlined decision-making you needed, right?

Many of the features here are similar to the ones at Columbia State Historic Park. You can pan for gold and see an old schoolhouse, for example, but you're here to see the spot where gold was first discovered, leading to a great migration west. Visit the sawmill replica and a few of the buildings. James Marshall's cabin is neat and there is a Chinese store exhibit that looks at the story of Chinese immigrants of the time.

Have lunch at Sourdough & Co, an eatery located in El Dorado Hills, CA. With their sandwiches and salads, you'll savor every bite. The professional and friendly staff ensures your order is delivered promptly and accurately. As a newly opened establishment, they welcome you with open arms to their neighborhood. Situated conveniently near Sophia Parkway Trailhead and Smog King, you'll find ample free parking and a clean, inviting atmosphere.

Located in downtown Sacramento, the park is a former fort turned living history museum. The rooms are dedicated to the artisans and craftspeople who made saddles, repaired wagons, kept the fort's guns in working order as well as working kitchen with beehive oven. You can grab a guide at the entrance but there are ample plaques which tell the story of the fort and its place in history. There is no parking lot for Sutter's Fort but street parking is plentiful.

At the State Capitol, a stunning rose garden is just a part of the expansive grounds larded with monuments and more California history. But pausing to smell the flowers is literally the point of this place. Do so. Then read a few of the inspirational messages of peace and remind yourself that forts have their place in American history but peace is a beautiful thing.

There are two Paragary's in Sacramento; you are looking for the one known as "Midtown." It's not only got the sweetest patio in town, it is regularly recognized for its culinary excellence by the James Beard Foundation. Make a reservation for the garden and when you arrive, order a Lavender Lemon Drop; its purple hue and herbaceous flavors are perfectly suited to the scene. A beet and satsuma mandarin salad is enlivened with pistachios and citrus vinaigrette while a hand-cut rosemary pappardelle pops with artichoke and pancetta. It's California cuisine that nicely completes a trip to better understand California history.