Fun Local Events and Places Mom will love!

Time to celebrate, Mom! Bring her to brunch, take her wine tasting, or enjoy a local farmers market. Amtrak San Joaquins is here to get you where you want to go while being part of the fun. Relax, enjoy spacious seating, free Wifi, and a smooth ride. Stay overnight in Sacramento, enjoy wine tasting in Napa, relax at the Wine and Roses Spa in Lodi, wine tasting at Calivirgin or a film event at the Bob Hope Theatre in Stockton, and finally, stop and shop at the Santa Monica Third Street Promenade with our Thruway Bus Route 1c. Now you can save big when traveling with the whole family! Save 50% on kids' tickets by purchasing one adult fare. Please visit our promotions page to learn more about the new and improved Kids' discount.

sacramento

Mother's Day Weekend Unity & Harmony Music Festival

RiverWalk Park, West Sacramento, CA | Saturday, May 13 and 14, 2023 | 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM PDT

The Mother's Day Festival Weekend is one of the best ways to honor Mom. Beginning with the Voices of Soul on Saturday, May 13, and the grand finale on Sunday, May 14, starring the platinum recording sensation Keith Washington. Take in the soulful crooning of Keith Washington while enjoying a fabulous Sunday Mother's Day brunch. The gorgeous River Walk Park on the Sacramento River is the perfect way to honor our mothers. General admission for this event starts at $30, with VIP tickets starting at $40. For more information about this event or to purchase a 2-day pass, please visit the Unity & Harmony event page. Riders traveling into Sacramento can save 10% when booking with Hyatt Regency Sacramento. For more information, visit our Stay at the Hyatt page.

Directions: Amtrak San Joaquins riders arriving at the Sacramento Valley Station can take a 14-minute walk to River Walk Park. Head west toward I St Bridge, take a slight left onto I St Bridge, turn left toward 1st St, take the stairs, and finally, take a slight left onto 1st Street. The destination will be on your left. Riders can save 10% when booking with Hyatt Regency Sacramento. Visit our Stay at the Hyatt page to learn more about the discount.

Gunther’s Ice Cream

2801 Franklin Blvd. Sacramento, CA | Open Daily from 11:00 AM PDT - 9:00 PM PDT

Take mom out for a sweet treat! A Sacramento staple since the 1940’s, Gunther’s Ice Cream has been serving delicious ice cream made with quality ingredients and using a signature, slow-churn process to produce creamery-quality concoctions. With over 40 flavors of ice cream, Fruit Freezes, sandwiches, and novelty frozen treats, Gunther’s has become a destination for quality eats and a one-of-a-kind Sacramento and Californian experience.

Directions: Amtrak Riders arriving at the Sacramento Valley Station can take a quick 13-minute Lyft or Uber to Gunther’s Ice Cream off Franklin Boulevard.

LODI

Mother's Day Music with Chicken & Dumpling

Harmony Wynelands Winery, 9291 E Harney Ln, Lodi, CA | Sunday, May 14, 2:00 PM PDT – 4:00  PM PDT

Spend the holiday in Lodi’s wine country with a free performance from local artistChicken & Dumpling. No reservations are required for this event. Charcuterie boards and beer will be available for purchase, or you can pack a picnic. For more information about the winery, visit Harmony Wynelands.

Directions: Amtrak San Joaquins riders who arrive at the Lodi Station can take a 14-minute Lyft or Uber to the Harmony Wynelands.

Mother's Day Brunch

Wine and Roses, 2505 W Turner Rd, Lodi, CA | Sunday, May 14, 10:00 AM PDT - 1:45 PM PDT

Enjoy a brunch buffet at Wine and Roses winery. Only the highest quality seasonal ingredients will be used to make the classic breakfast items, salads, and desserts. Children are welcome to join. Indoor and outdoor seating in the Spring Gardens Ballroom is available. The deadline to place a reservation is 3 pm Friday, May 12. Adults are $97.43, children ages 6-11 years are $27.06, and children five years and under are free. Beverage costs are included.. To make a reservation visit the Mother's Day Brunch event page.

Directions: Amtrak San Joaquins riders who arrive at the Lodi Station can take an 8-minute Lyft or Uber to Wine and Roses.

World of Wonders Science Museum

2 N Sacramento St, Lodi, CA| Open Thursday-Monday from 10:00 AM PDT - 5:00 PM PDT

The WOW Science Museum offers hands-on, science-based exhibits and programs for all ages. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Children under two years are free. Child (Age 2-17) $7 Adults (18+) $9 To learn more, visit their website.

Directions: Amtrak San Joaquins riders arriving at the Lodi Station: After exiting the Amtrak location, head right (north) on North Sacramento St, then cross West Pine St. World of Wonders Science Museum will be on the right side. The entrance to the museum is a set of double doors just past the WOW Science Store.

Micke Grove Zoo

11793 North Micke Grove Rd, Lodi, CA, 95240 | Open Wednesday - Sunday, 10:00 AM PDT - 4:30 PM PDT

Enjoy a family outing with wildlife. The five-acre Micke Grove zoo hosts amphibians, mammals, birds, reptiles, and invertebrates. The facility emphasizes uniqueness and quality over size and quantity, concentrating on the animal ambassadors' welfare. Admission is $5 for those ages 14 and older, $3 for children ages 3 - 13, and free for children two years and under. The zoo is also available to boy and girl scout troops, field trips, events, and parties. To learn about the zoo’s offerings, visit their website.

Directions: Amtrak San Joaquins riders arriving at the Lodi Station can take a 9-minute Lyft or Uber to Mike Grove Zoo.

MERCED

Comedy Jam: 25th Anniversary

Merced Theatre, 301 W Main St, Merced, CA | Friday, May 12, 2023, at 8:00 PM PDT

Tickle mom’s funny bone by taking her for a laugh at the 25th Anniversary Comedy Jam. Butch Escobar at Art Kamangar Center will host the show. Comedians Dustin Ybarra, Chris Riggins, and Kabir Singh will be performing. Doors open at 7 pm. General tickets are $30. Click the link to buy tickets

Directions: Riders arriving from the Merced Station can take a 10-minute walk to the theater. Head southeast towards West 24th Street, then turn left onto West 24th Street. Turn right onto Martin Luther King Jr Way, then turn right onto West Main Street. The theater will be on the right.

Kids Discovery Station

350 W Yosemite Ave, Merced, CA, 95348 | Open Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM PDT - 5:00 PM PDT

This Mother’s Day give mom has the opportunity to sleep in! This is the perfect chance for dad to take the kids to experience Merced’s Kids Discovery Station is an interactive space for children to play and learn. There are 12 exhibits for children to experience different occupations in the medical field, first responders, and agriculture and explore their imagination. The Discovery Station is available for birthdays, special events, and field trips. Admission is $7 per adult and child. Visit the website link to learn more.

Directions: Amtrak San Joaquins riders arriving from the Merced Station can take an 8-minute Lyft or Uber to the Kids Discovery Station.

Applegate Park Zoo

1045 W 25th St, Merced, CA | Open Thursday - Sunday 10:00 AM PDT - 4:00 PM PDT

The zoo is located at Applegate Park. The population consists of about 75 Native California mammals, birds, and reptiles. Most of these animals come from wildlife rescue centers, meaning they can no longer survive in their typical habitat. The zoo provides them with care and protection and, in turn, gives visitors a glimpse into the wonders of nature. Admissions is free for children under 5, $2 for ages 5-15, and $3 for ages 16-61. Visit their website to learn more about the zoo and park.

Directions: Amtrak San Joaquins riders arriving at the Merced Station can take a 15-minute walk to Applegate Park Zoo. Head northwest towards K Street, turn right onto K Street, and take a left onto West 25th Street; the zoo will be on your right. If you prefer driving, you can take a 4-minute Lyft or Uber to Applegate Park Zoo.

FRESNO

Mother’s Day Brunch at Engelmann Cellars

3275 North Rolinda Ave, Fresno, CA 93723 | Sunday, May 14, 2023 | 11:00 AM PDT - 2:00 PM PDT

Enjoy a relaxing day with Mom at this beautiful countryside vineyard! This event features a seven-station brunch buffet by Thumbs Up Catering, a live musical performance by Gypsy Moon, a petite vendor market with gifts for Mom, and lots of yummy wine, mimosas, beer, and frosé from Engelmann Cellars! The ticket price includes access to brunch and one complimentary mimosa at check-in. Get yours here!

Directions: Amtrak San Joaquins riders arriving at the Fresno Station can take a 20-minute Lyft or Uber to the winery.

Mother’s Day Wine & Wheel at Good Dirt

Good Dirt Pottery Studio, 3009 W Bullard Ave. Fresno, CA 93711 | Sunday, May 14, 2023 | 3:00 PM PT - 5:00 PM PDT | This event is 21+ only

It’s a Mother’s Day experience she won’t forget! While enjoying an exquisite glass of wine, she’ll learn the basic techniques of wheel throwing, with an introduction to the process of centering, shaping cylinders, and creating small bowls, cups, and vases. The afternoon begins with a demo, followed by careful instruction with your ceramic instructor. The ticket includes all the clay and tools you’ll need! Get tickets here.

Directions: Amtrak San Joaquins riders arriving from the Fresno Station can take a 20-minute car ride to the Pottery studio using a rideshare service or take the FAX bus from Tulare & O St. to Bullard & Marks and walk across the street to the destination.

BAKERSFIELD

Mother’s Day Tea with the Junior League of Bakersfield

Junior League of Bakersfield, 1928 19th Street, Bakersfield, CA 93303 | Saturday, May 15, 2023 | 10:00 AM PDT - 1:00 PM PDT

The Junior League of Bakersfield is gearing up to host their annual Mother’s Day Tea, promising a memorable event for all attendees. Guests can indulge in a sumptuous brunch featuring salads, sandwiches, sides, and an assortment of traditional tea treats, accompanied by a selection of tea, wine, and mimosas. From engaging activities for children to captivating entertainment for everyone, this event offers something for the whole family. Professional photographers will also be present to capture beautiful portraits for the whole family. Tickets are available for $90 per adult, with special pricing of $45 for youth under 21 years old, and children aged two and under can join for free. The proceeds from this event will support the Junior League’s non-profit projects, which aim to benefit local women and children. Visit the website to reserve your tickets! https://www.jlbakersfield.org/mothersdaytea

Directions: Arrive at Amtrak Bakersfield Truxtun Station and take a short 5-minute rideshare via the rideshare app of your choosing to arrive at the Junior League of Bakersfield.

Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch

Elements Venue & Banquet Centre, 3401 Chester Ave #Ste. H, Bakersfield, CA 93301 | Sunday, May 14, 2023 | 9:00 AM PDT - 3:00 PM PDT

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a champagne brunch! With two meal sessions featuring family-style seating and live entertainment, guests can choose between the morning session with The Lounge Guy from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM or the afternoon session with Mariachi oro Y Plata from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Indulge in a delectable spread, including hot American and Mexican entrees, a waffle and omelet bar, a rotating carving station, a taco station, and more, all accompanied by soft drinks and champagne. Don’t forget to capture a unique family portrait with their large Mother’s Day picture frame! For tickets and information, visit the website here.

Directions: Arrive at Amtrak Bakersfield Truxtun Station and take a short 7-minute ride via the rideshare app of your choosing to arrive at Elements Venue & Banquet Center.

LOS ANGELES

Mom Stomp Presents: A Mother’s Day Show at the Elysian Theater

Elysian Theater, 1944 Riverside Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90039 | Sunday, May 14, 2023 |at 7:00 PM PDT(Doors at 6:30 PM PDT)

It’s a night of celebration and gaggery for all things mother! Annie Donley and Jo Scott are spending their Mother's Day exactly how they want—with people paying to see them pop off LIVE! Moms: you don't have to be one to love two. Featuring Special Guest Moms: Mo Welch and Christine Tawfik. Mom Stomp is a weekly podcast hosted by fellow moms, comedians, and friends, Annie Donley and Jo Scott. They don’t have any of the answers but wow-ee they’ve got opinions on anything at all *especially anything related to the Holy-Millennial-Trinity (Beyonce, Britney and Rihanna). Purchase tickets to the show here!

Directions: From Union Station, walk down Alameda St. to the bus stop on Main St. & Cesar Chavez. Then take the Metro bus Route 96 (orange line) to Riverside & Stadium. Cross the road at Riverside toward Newell St. The theater will be on your right.

Mother’s Day Pop-Up at Descanso Gardens

Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011 | Sunday, May 14, 2023 | 10:30 AM PDT

This Mother’s Day, spoil your mom with specialty drinks and a mouthwatering Peach Cobbler French toast at The Kitchen at Descanso. From 10:30 AM onwards, enjoy refreshing peach bellinis, zesty palomas, classic mimosas, bubbly champagne, or a satisfying bloody mary. Quench your thirst with a selection of orange juice or guava lemonade while savoring their delectable brunch options. Indulge in this limited-time menu, subject to change and available while supplies last, to create a memorable Mother’s Day experience for your beloved mom! For more information, visit the website here.

Directions: Arrive at Amtrak Union Station and take a 20-minute rideshare via the rideshare app of your choosing to arrive at Descanso Gardens.

BAY AREA

Mother’s Day on the Bay

2 Broadway, Oakland CA, 94607 | Sunday, May 14, 2023 | 3:00 PM PDT - 5:00 PM PDT

Treat your mother to a breathtaking cruise and celebration on the San Francisco Bay. Starting from Oakland’s iconic Jack London Square, join a cruise under the beautiful Bay Bridge and take in stunning views of the iconic SF skyline, SF Giants Stadium, Coit Tower, Ghirardelli Square, and more. But that's not all - "Come party with DJ Baldy as he celebrates by spinning all your favorite hits. And don't forget to quench your thirst at one of our two fully stocked bars!" So grab your loved ones and prepare for a day of dancing, romance, and endless waterfront views. This is one Mother's Day celebration you won't want to miss! Find out more and book your tickets here!

Directions: Arrive at Jack London Square Station and walk 7 minutes along Water St. to arrive at 2 Broadway, where your cruise awaits.

Make-up and Sip Mother's Day Event

11267 San Pablo Avenue El Cerrito, CA 94530 | Sunday, May 14 · 11:30 AM PDT - 3:30 PM PDT

Enjoy brunch, champagne, and mimosas this Mother's Day while learning the latest makeup tips and gifts to help elevate your makeup routine. Treat your mom to a pampering day hosted by Sass N Class Salon. Get your tickets here!

Directions: From Richmond Amtrak Station, take BART 15 minutes to El Cerrito or use a rideshare of your choice to take an 8-minute ride to Sass N' Class Salon of Beauty on 11267 San Pablo Avenue.

Charles M Schulz Museum - Free Admission for Moms!

Charles M. Schulz Museum 2301 Hardies Lane Santa Rosa | Sun May 14, 2023, 10:00 AM PDT - 5:00 PM PDT

Is your mom a fan of Snoopy and Charlie Brown? The Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa offers free all-day admissions for Moms this Mother’s Day! Enjoy fun and whimsical exhibitions and activities featuring beloved Peanuts characters. Explore vintage comic art and learn about the fascinating stories behind Shultz and his famous creations. Find out more here!

Directions: Take the Amtrak Thruway bus to stop at 917 Edwards Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95401. From there, walk 16 minutes via Range Ave. or take a 3-minute rideshare with Lyft or Uber the Charles M Schulz Museum.

recent blog posts

Rider Alert: Riders Utilizing Trains 718 & 711

Amtrak's San Joaquin Service will be adjusted service to train 718 and 711.

Service Alert: Oakland Marathon Impacts Access to Station

San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) will conduct trackwork between Richmond and El Cerrito Del Norte stations on Saturday and Sunday, March 16 and 17, impacting service to those stations.

Service Alert: Trackwork Impact Service at Richmond, CA Station