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Fun Things to do in Sacramento
California
city guide
Nestled in the heart of California, Sacramento is a vibrant city that has evolved into a top travel destination in its own right, rivaling the likes of Los Angeles and San Francisco. Its rich history as the state's capital is evident in its impressive architecture and landmarks, but Sacramento's appeal extends far beyond its political significance. The city's revitalized districts, such as the hip Midtown and bustling Downtown areas, offer a blend of historic charm and modern amenities.
Art enthusiasts will be delighted by Sacramento's growing art scene, with numerous galleries and public art installations showcasing the talents of local and international artists. The Crocker Art Museum, one of the oldest art museums in the West, is a must-visit for art lovers.
Foodies will revel in Sacramento's diverse culinary landscape, with a plethora of restaurants serving up everything from farm-to-fork cuisine to international flavors. The city's bar scene is equally impressive, with craft cocktail bars and breweries dotting the streets, offering a taste of the local libations.
For those looking to explore the great outdoors, Sacramento's proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains and the picturesque Sacramento River provides ample opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and water sports. The city's parks and green spaces, including the expansive Capitol Park, offer a tranquil escape from the urban hustle.
To stay updated on the latest events, attractions, and hidden gems in Sacramento, be sure to follow these social media accounts:
- Instagram: @visitsacramento
- Facebook: Visit Sacramento
- Twitter: @Sacramento365
For a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Sacramento, check out publications like Sacramento Magazine and Sacramento News & Review, which regularly feature articles and recommendations on local activities, events, and dining experiences.
Whether you're a history buff, art aficionado, food lover, or outdoor enthusiast, Sacramento promises a memorable and enriching travel experience for visitors of all interests.
Best time to go
The best time to visit Sacramento is from April to June or September through November. Sacramento sees most of its festivals in May and June, but the California State Fair doesn't come to town until July when California's Central Valley usually experiences extreme heat.
Fun city facts and activities
- As Californias capital, Sacramento earned its status as a place of importance (ranking up there with Los Angeles and San Francisco) a long time ago. But now, with quirky revitalized districts, a growing art community, stunning hotels and a bona fide restaurant and bar scene, the city has come into its own as a true travel destination. Surrounded by some of the states most productive agricultural regions, Sacramento is officially a must-visitso here are the best things to do in Sacramento right now.
Neighborhoods to explore
- East Sacramento
Land Park
Midtown
Meadowview
Tahoe Park
Old Sacramento
Restaurants
Food Specialties
- You can't get more farm-to-fork than dining at the best restraurants in Sacramento. Much of the countrys produce comes from Central California, and Sacramento is the regions crowning city. Stop by a Sacrameto farmers market and you'll likely see chefs in white coats shopping the nation's freshest produce, which then gets transformed into a wide variety of ethnic cuisines once the chefs are back in the kitchen. So if you're looking for things to do in Sacramento, don't forget about the vibrant restaurant scene. From Mexican to Vietnamese, our favorite restaurants in Sacramento offer fresh and funky food you won't soon forget.
Sacramento Offbeat activities
Free or cheap things to do
1. Take a tour of the historic Delta King riverboat.
2. Spend the day exploring the Sacramento State Japanese Garden.
3. Visit the California Automobile Museum.
4. Take a stroll through Old Sacramento.
5. Visit the Sacramento Zoo.
6. Visit the Sutter's Fort State Historic Park.
7. Learn about the area's history at the California State Railroad Museum.
8. Explore the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.
9. Visit the Crocker Art Museum.
10. Go on a kayaking tour on the American River.
Fun things to do in with kids
Free or cheap things to do
1. Enchambered
The adventure and thrill of being locked up in an escape room and working on the clues to finally escape is a challenge you cant miss.
2. SeaQuest
Have a family-friendly vacation in this petting zoo where you can feed animals!
3. Urban Air Sacramento
One of the greatest, family-friendly indoor amusement parks in the region, this award-winning adventure park provides several thrilling and adventurous attractions.
4. The Boulder Field
A kid-friendly rock climbing and fitness gym, try from one of the 10,000 SF it has to offer.
5. Monster Mini Golf
This is a state-of-the-art, indoor, climate-controlled mini-gold that is fun for all ages from 5 and older.
6. Preston Castle
The historic Preston Castle in Ione, to the east of Elk Grove, is an 1890 castle where you can tour and peep into history.
7. Rockin Jump Roseville!
If exercise is fun for you, then dont miss the Ultimate Indoor Trampoline Park!
8. Rebounderz Sacramento
Spend the day in Sacramento with kids exploring interconnected trampoline beds, a 4-lane air pit, 4-lane basketball slam and much more.
9. Lake Natoma
Rent canoes, kayaks or hydro bikes and spend a leisurely day with the family in the pristine waters of Lake Natoma.
10. Sacramento National Wildlife Complex
Visit this picturesque wildlife complex to spend some time understanding the animals and their behavior.
City data and FAQ
Is Sacramento worth visiting?
The California State Capitol is the seat of the California state government, located in Sacramento, the state capital of California. The building houses the chambers of the California State Legislature, made up of the Assembly and the Senate, along with the office of the governor of California. California State Railroad Museum; Cal Expo - California Exposition Center; Sacramento and American Rivers; Tower Records - the FIRST Tower Records was in Sacramento - Mega Record Store/Posters/Videos; Old Sacramento; The Crocker Art Gallery; William Land Park.
Christopher Richards Lives in Sacramento, CA.
It all depends on what you want to do. Sacramento is a very interesting city with out laying cities around it.
Kurtinia Abbott Lives in Sacramento, CA
Are two days enough to visit Sacramento?
23 days ; yes. California State Capitol; California State Railroad Museum; Crocker Art Gallery - PreCOVID - Jazz Concerts and Wine and Cheese sampling and tasting; Rivers - Sacramento and American Rivers; California Exposition - CalExpo - Home to the California State Fair; Old Sacramento - a taste of the Old West; Delta King River Boat - brother ship to the Delta Queen; Old Governors Mansion - last occupied by Ronald Reagan; Leland Stanford Mansion - Founder of Stanford University; Land Park area - awesome Victorian style mansions; Golden One Center - Home of the Sacramento Kings basketball team.
Christopher Richards Lives in Sacramento, CA
Do you need a car to visit Sacramento?
Yes. If just visiting the Capitol or Old Sacramento; you may not need a car.
Christopher Ricjards - Lives in Sacramento, CA (1963 Present)
Yes unless you are only going to visit one small area say Old Sacramento and downtown. Or you are good with public transportation. Everything is pretty much spread out.
Susan Foust Lives in Sacramento (1973 Present)
Landmarks in the city
1. California State Capitol - The California State Capitol is a neoclassical building that serves as the seat of the California government. Visitors can take guided tours of the building and learn about the state's history and government.
2. Old Sacramento - Old Sacramento is a historic district along the Sacramento River that features well-preserved buildings from the city's Gold Rush era. It is home to museums, shops, restaurants, and the popular Sacramento History Museum.
3. Crocker Art Museum - Established in 1885, the Crocker Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the Western United States. It houses a diverse collection of art, including works by California artists and European masters.
4. Sutter's Fort State Historic Park - Sutter's Fort is a reconstructed historic fort that was originally built by John Sutter in the 1840s. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about California's early history and the Gold Rush.
5. California State Railroad Museum - The California State Railroad Museum is one of the most popular railroad museums in the country. It features restored locomotives and rail cars, exhibits on the history of railroads in California, and a working turntable.
6. Tower Bridge - The Tower Bridge is an iconic vertical-lift bridge that spans the Sacramento River, connecting West Sacramento to downtown Sacramento. Visitors can walk or drive across the bridge and enjoy views of the river and city skyline.
7. Sacramento Zoo - The Sacramento Zoo is home to over 500 animals representing more than 120 species. Visitors can see animals from around the world, including giraffes, lions, and red pandas, and enjoy educational programs and events.
8. Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament - The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament is a stunning Roman Catholic cathedral located in downtown Sacramento. It features beautiful architecture, stained glass windows, and ornate decorations.
9. Raging Waters Sacramento - Raging Waters Sacramento is a popular water park located in Cal Expo. It features water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and other attractions for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
10. American River Parkway - The American River Parkway is a scenic 23-mile stretch of parkland along the American River, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and relax in nature just minutes from downtown Sacramento.