Science on I-80

We make the drive from the Bay Area to Sacramento almost monthly, so we look for milestones to mark the progress of our trip, as well as share some science information.

(I-80) Oakland Port

Even when it's not running, the cranes look pretty cool. You can even chat about import and export and what things may be on the ships. 

Bridges (Carquinez or Benicia)

Bridges are always fun and great educational opportunities. 

http://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/civil/bridge6.htm

(I-80) Vallejo - roller coasters at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

(680) Martinez Refineries - cooling tower and tall chimneys

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cooling_tower

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gas_flare

Scandia fun center - mini golf (after 680-80 connection);  ok, not science, but a fun break. 

Windmills - there are a couple big ones near the Jelly Belly factory/Budweiser

http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/wind-power.htm

Fairfield - Jelly Belly factory (who does not love to see how things are made, especially candy?)

http://www.jellybelly.com/california-factory-tours

Vacaville - Nut Tree

This used to be a favorite stop when I was a kid. It has changed a lot, but still has a carousel and mini playground, as well as plenty of food and shops. Our favorite is Amici's pizza. 

Fruit orchards

We like to play the "what kind of tree is that?" Game. Most of the time I make up the answers, but they don't know that. Plus there might be fruit stands open. 

Dinosaur skeleton? - I swear I saw one on the East side, just before Davis. At night it was lit with lights. Mystery...

UC Davis

https://www.ucdavis.edu/museums-collections

Grain elevator

Perfect segue to talk about where our food comes from. 

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grain_elevator

Watch birds along Vic Fazio Yolo Wildlife Area

https://localwiki.org/davis/Vic_Fazio_Yolo_Wildlife_Area

Downtown - tower bridge

Depending on the time of day and weather, it looks like a different color. 

California Train Museum

This is a good half day stop in Old Sacramento for all ages. Big trains, little trains and even toy trains. A must for any train enthusiast. 

http://www.csrmf.org

Other resources

https://localwiki.org/davis/Good_Places_to_Take_Kids