bigtravelbuzzSacramento is the capital city of California and offers a range of attractions for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do and see in Sacramento:
Visit the State Capitol: The State Capitol building is a must-visit attraction in Sacramento. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the building and the state’s political system.
Explore Old Sacramento: Old Sacramento is a historic district with well-preserved buildings from the Gold Rush era. Walk along the cobblestone streets and check out the unique shops and restaurants.
Discover the Crocker Art Museum: The Crocker Art Museum has an extensive collection of California art, as well as works from around the world. Don’t miss the museum’s beautiful courtyard garden.
Take a river cruise: Sacramento sits on the Sacramento River, and taking a river cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. You can take a scenic cruise or a dinner cruise.
Visit Sutter’s Fort: Sutter’s Fort is a historic landmark that was originally a trading post and is now a museum. Learn about the state’s early history and see the reconstructed fort buildings.
See the California State Railroad Museum: The California State Railroad Museum is a must-visit attraction for train enthusiasts. See historic locomotives and railcars and learn about the history of the railroad in California.
Enjoy outdoor activities: Sacramento has many outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking and biking trails, golf courses, and parks.
These are just a few of the many things to do and see in Sacramento. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor activities, Sacramento has something for everyone.
Places to Visit in Sacramento
Here are some of the top places to visit in Sacramento:
California State Capitol Museum: The California State Capitol Museum is a must-visit attraction in Sacramento. Take a tour to learn about the history of the building and the state’s political system.
Old Sacramento State Historic Park: Old Sacramento is a historic district with well-preserved buildings from the Gold Rush era. Walk along the cobblestone streets and check out the unique shops and restaurants.
Crocker Art Museum: The Crocker Art Museum has an extensive collection of California art, as well as works from around the world. Don’t miss the museum’s beautiful courtyard garden.
Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park: Sutter’s Fort is a historic landmark that was originally a trading post and is now a museum. Learn about the state’s early history and see the reconstructed fort buildings.
California State Railroad Museum: The California State Railroad Museum is a must-visit attraction for train enthusiasts. See historic locomotives and railcars and learn about the history of the railroad in California.
Sacramento Zoo: The Sacramento Zoo is home to over 500 animals from around the world. Highlights include the reptile house, the big cats exhibit, and the African savannah.
American River Parkway: The American River Parkway is a 23-mile park that runs along the American River. It’s a popular spot for hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking.
Tower Bridge: The Tower Bridge is an iconic landmark in Sacramento. Walk across the bridge to get great views of the Sacramento River and the city skyline.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Sacramento. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor activities, Sacramento has something for everyone.
Best Time To Visit Sacramento
The best time to visit Sacramento is during the spring and fall months, from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s. The city also experiences fewer crowds and lower hotel rates during these times.
Summer, from June to August, can be very hot in Sacramento, with temperatures frequently reaching the 90s and 100s. However, summer is also a great time to enjoy outdoor activities, such as river rafting and hiking. If you’re planning to visit in the summer, be sure to stay hydrated and take precautions against the heat.
Winter, from December to February, can be rainy and cold in Sacramento, with temperatures in the 40s and 50s. However, winter can also be a great time to visit if you’re interested in winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains.
How to get around in Sacramento
There are several ways to get around in Sacramento:
Car: If you have a car, getting around Sacramento is relatively easy. The city has several major highways and roads, including Interstate 5, Interstate 80, and US Route 50. Parking is generally available at most destinations, although it can be limited in the downtown area.
Public transportation: Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) operates buses and light rail trains throughout the city and surrounding areas. The light rail system has three lines and serves many popular destinations, including the Sacramento International Airport. Fares are reasonable, and there are options for day passes and multi-day passes.
Biking and walking: Sacramento has an extensive network of bike paths and sidewalks, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. There are several bike rental services in the city, including Jump Bikes and Lime, which offer app-based rentals.
Ridesharing: Uber and Lyft operate in Sacramento and can be a convenient way to get around if you don’t have a car.
Taxis: Taxis are available in Sacramento, although they can be expensive compared to other transportation options.
Overall, public transportation and biking/walking are good options for getting around Sacramento, especially in the downtown area where parking can be limited.
Where to eat in Sacramento
Sacramento has a vibrant food scene, with many great dining options to choose from. Here are some recommendations for where to eat in Sacramento:
The Kitchen: This restaurant offers a unique dining experience where guests sit at a large counter and watch as the chefs prepare a multi-course meal right in front of them. The menu changes regularly, but always features locally sourced ingredients.
Mulvaney’s B&L: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a seasonal menu with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with a focus on simple, well-prepared food.
Ella Dining Room and Bar: Located in downtown Sacramento, Ella offers contemporary American cuisine in a sophisticated setting. The menu features dishes made with local and sustainable ingredients, and the wine list is extensive.
Tower Cafe: This eclectic cafe offers a diverse menu with dishes inspired by cuisines from around the world. The atmosphere is lively and colorful, with a large outdoor patio that’s perfect for brunch or lunch.
Obo Italian Table and Bar: This Italian restaurant is known for its homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza. The menu also features classic Italian dishes with a modern twist, as well as a selection of wine and cocktails.
Fish Face Poke Bar: This casual eatery specializes in poke bowls made with fresh, sustainable seafood. The menu also features sushi rolls, bao buns, and other Asian-inspired dishes.
The Rind: This cheese-centric restaurant offers a menu of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and wine. The menu also features creative dishes made with cheese, like grilled cheese sandwiches and mac and cheese.
These are just a few of the many great dining options in Sacramento. Whether you’re looking for upscale fine dining or casual street food, Sacramento has something for everyone.
Famous street stalls in Sacramento
Sacramento is home to several popular food trucks and street food vendors. Here are some famous street stalls in Sacramento:
Chando’s Tacos – Known for their delicious tacos, this food truck is a local favorite. They offer a variety of tacos, including asada, al pastor, and carnitas.
Drewski’s Hot Rod Kitchen – This food truck offers a unique twist on classic American cuisine. They are known for their gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, including the “Hemi,” which features mac and cheese, bacon, and caramelized onions.
Kado’s Asian Grill – This food truck serves up delicious Asian cuisine, including teriyaki chicken, Korean beef, and spring rolls.
La Esperanza Bakery – This bakery offers a variety of Mexican pastries, including pan dulce, conchas, and churros. They also offer tamales and other traditional Mexican dishes.
Wandering Boba – This food truck serves up a variety of bubble tea drinks, as well as Taiwanese-style street food, including popcorn chicken and rice bowls.
Smokin’ Ewe BBQ – This food truck is known for their delicious barbecue, including pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. They also offer sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw.
Hefty Gyro – This food truck serves up delicious Mediterranean cuisine, including gyros, falafel, and hummus.
Panchos Tacos – This food truck offers a variety of tacos, including carne asada, al pastor, and lengua. They also offer other Mexican dishes, like tortas and burritos.
Where to stay in Sacramento
Luxury accommodation
There are several luxury accommodation options in Sacramento. Some of the top ones are:
The Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection: This historic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Sacramento and offers luxurious rooms and suites with high-end amenities.
The Westin Sacramento: This riverside hotel features spacious rooms, a full-service spa, and a fine-dining restaurant serving local cuisine.
Hyatt Regency Sacramento: This upscale hotel is located in the city center and features a rooftop pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and a full-service spa.
Kimpton Sawyer Hotel: This chic hotel is located next to the Golden 1 Center and features stylish rooms and suites with city views, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine.
Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel: This modern hotel is located in the city center and features spacious rooms, a 24-hour fitness center, and a full-service spa.
All of these hotels offer excellent service, luxurious amenities, and convenient access to the city’s top attractions.
Where to stay in Sacramento
Budget accommodation
If you’re looking for budget accommodation in Sacramento, there are several options available:
HI Sacramento Hostel: This hostel is located in the historic district of Sacramento and offers affordable dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms. Prices start at around $30 per night.
Motel 6 Sacramento Downtown: This budget motel offers basic accommodations with amenities like free Wi-Fi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Prices start at around $60 per night.
Super 8 by Wyndham Sacramento: This motel offers clean and comfortable rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, and an outdoor pool. Prices start at around $70 per night.
Vagabond Inn Executive Sacramento Old Town: This budget hotel is located in the heart of Sacramento and offers comfortable rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, and a fitness center. Prices start at around $80 per night.
Days Inn by Wyndham Sacramento Downtown: This budget hotel is located in the heart of downtown Sacramento and offers comfortable rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, and an outdoor pool. Prices start at around $90 per night.
Travel Tips Sacramento
If you’re planning to visit Sacramento, here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your trip:
Visit the California State Capitol: The State Capitol is one of the most popular attractions in Sacramento, and it’s free to visit. Take a tour of the building to learn about the history of California and see the beautiful architecture.
Explore Old Sacramento: Old Sacramento is a historic district with cobblestone streets, unique shops, and restaurants. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon, and it’s also home to the Sacramento History Museum.
Check out the local food scene: Sacramento is known for its farm-to-fork cuisine, and there are plenty of great restaurants to try. Be sure to try the local specialties, like the famous Sutter’s Fort chili or the Tower Cafe’s banana nut pancakes.
Take a bike ride along the American River Parkway: The American River Parkway is a 23-mile trail that runs along the American River, and it’s a great place to bike or hike. You can also rent a kayak or raft and float down the river.
Visit the Crocker Art Museum: The Crocker Art Museum is the oldest public art museum in the Western United States and has an impressive collection of California art. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon and is free on the third Sunday of every month.
Attend a Sacramento Kings game: If you’re a basketball fan, catch a Sacramento Kings game at the Golden 1 Center. The arena is one of the most high-tech in the world, and the Kings are a fun team to watch.
Take a day trip to Lake Tahoe: Lake Tahoe is only a two-hour drive from Sacramento, and it’s a beautiful place to spend a day. You can hike, swim, or just enjoy the stunning scenery.