Vacaville, California

Vacaville’s history dates back to the early 1800s when the region was inhabited by the Patwin Native American tribe. Later on, the land was settled as part of Rancho Los Putos, a Mexican land grant awarded to Manuel Cabeza Vaca in 1843. This is where the city got its name.

By the mid-1800s, Vacaville became a key agricultural hub due to its fertile soil and mild climate, which made it ideal for growing fruits, nuts, and vegetables. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped further establish Vacaville as a center for farming and trade, connecting it to larger markets across California and beyond.

As the city grew, it evolved from a farming town into a thriving suburban community, especially with the expansion of Travis Air Force Base nearby. Today, Vacaville remains a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with a strong focus on agriculture, retail, and biotechnology.

You can learn more about the city’s history, by visiting the beautiful Vacaville Museum, which highlights local heritage and cultural exhibits.

Vacaville is situated in the heart of Solano County, covering over 29 square miles of rolling hills, open spaces, and residential neighborhoods. The city sits along Interstate 80, making it a convenient stop between Sacramento, San Francisco, and Napa Valley.

Vacaville has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures often reach the 90s°F (32-37°C), while winter temperatures typically range from 40-60°F (4-16°C). With more than 260 sunny days per year, Vacaville is a great place for outdoor activities year-round.

Vacaville offers a variety of outdoor activities, shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or considering making it your home, here are some of the best attractions and activities in the city:

Shopping and Dining

Vacaville is a shopping hub for the region, offering a mix of outlet stores, boutique shops, and local restaurants.

• Vacaville Premium Outlets – A top shopping destination with over 120 designer and name-brand stores. 
• Nut Tree Plaza – A historic family-friendly shopping center featuring restaurants, boutique stores, and a vintage carousel.
• Downtown Vacaville – Offers a selection of locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, and small businesses, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Vacaville is known for its community-driven events and seasonal celebrations, bringing residents and visitors together throughout the year.

• Vacaville Fiesta Days – A weeklong festival in May featuring parades, carnival rides, live music, and historical reenactments.
• Fourth of July Fireworks at Andrews Park – A spectacular Independence Day celebration with food vendors, live entertainment, and a fireworks display.
• Vacaville Farmers Market – Running from spring to fall, this market offers fresh produce, artisan goods, and live music every Saturday.
• Merriment on Main – A holiday festival in December, featuring a tree lighting ceremony, Santa visits, and festive performances.

For more upcoming events, visit the City of Vacaville’s official events calendar.

Vacaville is experiencing steady growth and development, with ongoing projects focused on economic expansion, sustainability, and community enhancement. The city is investing in infrastructure improvements, green energy initiatives, and new commercial developments, making it an even more attractive place to live, work, and visit.

As Vacaville continues to modernize while preserving its rich history and small-town charm, residents can expect new job opportunities, enhanced public spaces, and expanded retail and dining options. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, Vacaville’s future is bright and full of possibilities.

For more information about moving to Vacaville, check out Niche’s Guide to Vacaville.