Sacramento Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, dine, stay, and explore in Sacramento with our detailed travel guide. Plan your trip today.


Introduction to Sacramento

Sacramento, the capital of California, is a vibrant city with plenty of things to see and do. It has a rich cultural history and is also home to scenic natural beauty. Whether you’re here for adventure, history, or entertainment, Sacramento offers something for everyone. A perfect blend of a cosmopolitan city and a charming small town, Sacramento is one of the best destinations to visit in California.

List of Places to Visit in Sacramento

There are plenty of places to visit in Sacramento, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • California State Capitol Museum: The California State Capitol Museum is a must-visit attraction in Sacramento. It is home to the California State Legislature and is also a museum showcasing California’s rich history.
  • Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park: This park is a living history museum that tells the story of John Sutter’s settlement of Sacramento during the Gold Rush.
  • Old Sacramento State Historic Park: Explore the Old Sacramento State Historic Park to experience the old-world charm of Sacramento. The park has beautifully restored buildings dating back to the 1800s.

Natural Attractions of Sacramento: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • American River Parkway: With 23 miles of bike trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots, the American River Parkway offers visitors the chance to enjoy the great outdoors.
  • Discovery Park: This park is located at the confluence of the American and Sacramento rivers and offers stunning views of the river and the Tower Bridge.
  • Folsom Lake State Recreation Area: Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is a popular destination for boating, swimming, and hiking, with miles of trails to explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sacramento

The Sacramento area is famous for its bike-friendly routes. It is home to the American River Bike Trail, more commonly known as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail. It is a 32-mile-long trail that runs from Discovery Park in Old Sacramento to Folsom Lake. The trail is popular among hikers, bikers, and joggers and offers stunning views of the American River.

Best Things to Do in Sacramento: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Sacramento, including:

  • Take a tour of the California State Capitol: Take a free tour of the California State Capitol and learn about the state’s history and government.
  • Visit the Crocker Art Museum: The Crocker Art Museum is the oldest continuously operating museum in the West. It features exhibitions of European, Asian, and American art.
  • Explore the Sacramento Zoo: The Sacramento Zoo is home to more than 500 animals, including rare and endangered species.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sacramento

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Sacramento:

Day Activity
1 Visit the California State Capitol and explore Old Sacramento
2 Take a bike ride on the American River Parkway and visit the Crocker Art Museum
3 Go on a wine tour in nearby Napa Valley or the Sierra Foothills
4 Take a tour of the Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park and explore Midtown Sacramento
5 Visit the Sacramento Zoo and take a boat tour of the Delta
6 Take a day trip to Lake Tahoe or Yosemite National Park
7 Relax and enjoy some shopping at the local farmers market or the Old Sacramento District

Food and Drink Scene of Sacramento

Sacramento provides an unparalleled dining experience, featuring various cuisines and delicacies from around the world.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Farm-to-fork cuisine: Sacramento is known for farm-to-fork cuisine, where food is procured fresh from local farms and served straight on the table. A few recommended restaurants to enjoy farm-to-fork cuisine are The Kitchen, Grange, and Mulvaney’s B&L.
  • Crab Louie: A regional specialty, Crab Louie is a salad consisting of crab meat, hardboiled eggs, lettuce, and tomato.
  • Pancakes: The Original Pancake House, located in Sacramento, is famous for its Dutch pancakes.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Sacramento offers the unparalleled opportunity to explore world-renowned wineries, thanks to its proximity to Napa Valley and the Sierra Foothills.
  • Beer: Sacramento is home to numerous breweries, including Track 7 Brewing Co., New Helvetia Brewing Company, and Device Brewing Company.

Where to Stay in Sacramento: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sacramento is home to various accommodation options that cater to all budgets. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hyatt Regency Sacramento: Located downtown near the State Capitol, this hotel offers excellent amenities and a great location.
  • HI Sacramento Hostel: Centrally located in downtown, this hostel offers budget-friendly accommodation with a shared kitchen and lounge.
  • Amber House Bed & Breakfast: This bed and breakfast is located in the tranquil Boulevard Park area and is an excellent choice for those seeking a comfortable stay with personalized attention.

What to Buy in Sacramento: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Farm-fresh produce: Pick up some farm-fresh produce from the local farmers’ markets in Sacramento. The Sunday Farmers Market under the freeway is a popular spot.
  • Craft beer: Sacramento is known for its craft beer scene, and picking up some local brews makes for a great souvenir.
  • Gold Rush memorabilia: Sacramento played a significant role in the California Gold Rush, and you can pick up souvenirs related to it, such as gold pans, mining gear, and other historic memorabilia, at Old Sacramento’s souvenir shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Sacramento

Sacramento has a rich cultural heritage, and its people are proud of it. The city has a vibrant public art scene, with several murals, sculptures, and installations located throughout the city. Sacramento is also famous for its farm-to-fork cuisine, and residents enjoy fresh produce from nearby farms.

Best Time to Visit Sacramento

Sacramento’s climate is moderate throughout the year, but the best times to visit are in the spring and fall months when it’s cooler and less crowded. The winter season attracts visitors for its holiday festivities, while the summer is popular for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sacramento

Do:

  • Experience farm-to-fork cuisine.
  • Explore the American River Bike Trail.
  • Visit the Sacramento Zoo.

Don’t:

  • Overlook the museums and historical landmarks.
  • Forget to check out the craft beer scene.
  • Miss out on the stunning natural beauty of Sacramento.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sacramento

Sacramento is a safe city for the most part, but like any large urban area, it is not without crime. Visitors are advised to stay alert and aware of their surroundings when in crowded or unfamiliar areas. It is also important to lock car doors and avoid leaving valuable belongings in plain sight.

Health in Sacramento

Sacramento has several reputable hospitals and healthcare facilities, including UC Davis Medical Center and Mercy General Hospital.

Getting to Sacramento: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sacramento

Sacramento International Airport is the primary airport serving the city, and it is located approximately 10 miles northwest of downtown.

Bus Stations Near Sacramento

Greyhound and Amtrak both have stations located in downtown Sacramento.

Other Options

Sacramento is well-connected to California’s major cities via highways. Visitors might also consider renting a car, taking a ride-share service, or using the Sacramento Regional Transit District buses and light rail service to get around.

How to Get Around in Sacramento

Sacramento is a pedestrian-friendly city, and its downtown area is easily walkable. Biking is also popular in the city, and there are plenty of bike lanes and trails to explore. Visitors can also use the Sacramento Regional Transit District buses and light rail service to get around.

Where to Go Next from Sacramento: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • San Francisco: Located 90 miles west of Sacramento, San Francisco is one of California’s most popular tourist destinations. The city has a rich cultural history and features several iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
  • Lake Tahoe: Located approximately 100 miles east of Sacramento, Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Napa Valley: Located approximately 60 miles west of Sacramento, Napa Valley is world-famous for its wine and vineyards.

Conclusion

Sacramento is a beautiful and diverse city that offers plenty of opportunities to explore its history, culture, and natural beauty. With numerous attractions, things to do, and dining options, it’s a prime destination for both adventure seekers and those seeking leisure and relaxation. Plan your trip today, and experience all that Sacramento has to offer.

Sacramento skyline from the Sacramento River Sacramento skyline from the Sacramento River Sacramento Regional Transit light rail Sacramento Regional Transit light rail The California State Capitol building The California State Capitol building The B.F. Hastings building, once the western end of the Pony Express The B.F. Hastings building, once the western end of the Pony Express The Citizen Hotel The Citizen Hotel