Welcome to Sacramento, California’s capital and a must-visit travel destination! Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or outdoor adventurer, Sacramento has something for everyone. The city is rich in history and culture, with numerous museums, historic sites, and art galleries, as well as beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
In this article, we’ll highlight the top places to visit in Sacramento, from the charming Old Sacramento State Historic Park to the family-friendly Sacramento Zoo. Read on to discover all the fun and exciting activities that await you in California’s capital!
Key Takeaways
- Sacramento is the capital of California and a must-visit travel destination.
- The city offers a rich history and culture, with numerous museums, historic sites, and art galleries.
- Sacramento also boasts beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, perfect for outdoor adventures.
- Some of the must-see attractions in Sacramento include the Old Sacramento State Historic Park, the California State Capitol Museum, the Crocker Art Museum, the American River Parkway, the California State Railroad Museum, the Sacramento Zoo, the Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile Museum.
Explore the Historic Old Sacramento State Historic Park
If you’re interested in history and architecture, Old Sacramento State Historic Park is a must-visit attraction. This preserved historic district features charming mid-19th century buildings and a waterfront location that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Within the park, you’ll find various museums, shops, and restaurants to explore. Some of the most popular attractions in Old Sacramento include the California State Railroad Museum and the Delta King riverboat, which is now a hotel and restaurant.
California State Railroad Museum
The California State Railroad Museum is a must-see for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The museum features an extensive collection of historic locomotives and railcars, including one that belonged to former President Theodore Roosevelt. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to learn about the importance of rail transportation in California’s development.
Delta King Riverboat
The Delta King riverboat is a unique attraction that’s worth a visit. Once a working paddlewheel steamboat, it’s now docked permanently on the Sacramento River and serves as a hotel and restaurant. Visitors can explore the boat’s history and enjoy a meal with a view of the river.
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to take a scenic walk, Old Sacramento State Historic Park is a must-visit destination in Sacramento.
Experience the California State Capitol Museum
The California State Capitol Museum is located in the heart of Sacramento and is a must-visit destination for those interested in politics and history. The museum is housed in the stunning State Capitol building, which was designed in the neoclassical style and completed in 1874.
Visitors to the museum can explore the beautiful architecture of the building while learning about the political history of California. The museum’s exhibits feature a range of historical artifacts and interactive displays that showcase the state’s rich political heritage.
Highlights
One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the restored Governor’s office, which offers a glimpse into the daily life of California’s governors. Visitors can also view historic documents and artifacts, such as the original California Constitution, campaign memorabilia, and legislative proceedings.
The museum’s outdoor grounds are also worth exploring, with a beautiful garden and various sculptures and monuments that honor California’s history. Guided tours of the museum and the surrounding grounds are available, providing additional insights into the state’s political history and the Capitol building’s significance.
Visit the Crocker Art Museum
For art lovers, no trip to Sacramento is complete without a visit to the Crocker Art Museum. Located in downtown Sacramento, the museum boasts an extensive collection of artwork from different periods. Established in 1885, the Crocker Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the West, and its mission is to promote art appreciation and education in the community.
The museum’s permanent collection includes works by European masters like Monet, Degas, and Van Gogh, along with American artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Wayne Thiebaud. The museum also has a significant collection of Asian art, including Chinese porcelain and Japanese woodblock prints.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Crocker Art Museum hosts a variety of rotating exhibits throughout the year. Recent exhibits have showcased contemporary artists from around the world, as well as exhibits focused on California art history and culture.
The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events for all ages, including lectures, workshops, and classes. Visitors can also enjoy the museum’s cafe and gift shop, which features unique gifts, books, and artwork.
Whether you’re a lifelong art enthusiast or simply looking for a way to spend an afternoon, the Crocker Art Museum is a must-visit attraction in Sacramento.
Discover the Natural Beauty of the American River Parkway
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the American River Parkway is the perfect spot for some outdoor fun. This scenic area spans 23 miles along the American River, offering visitors a chance to enjoy nature and take part in a variety of activities.
One of the most popular activities is hiking along the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, a 32-mile trail that winds its way through the parkway. The trail offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding wilderness, making it a great option for nature lovers. If you’re not up for a long hike, there are plenty of shorter trails to explore as well.
For those who prefer biking, the parkway offers more than 30 miles of paved bike trails, with additional unpaved trails for mountain bikers. You can rent a bike at several locations along the parkway, making it easy to get out and explore.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, pack a picnic and head to one of the parkway’s many picnic areas. The riverfront location makes for a picturesque setting, and there are plenty of spots to spread out and enjoy a meal.
Another popular attraction in the parkway is Discovery Park, a 302-acre site that features a beach on the river, fishing spots, and boat launches. You can rent kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards at the park, or simply enjoy a day of swimming and sunbathing.
Explore the California State Railroad Museum
If you’re a fan of trains and locomotives, you won’t want to miss the California State Railroad Museum! Located in the heart of Sacramento, this museum showcases the rich history of rail transportation in California. The museum’s collection includes historic locomotives, railcars, and other artifacts that will take you back in time to when trains dominated the transportation scene.
The California State Railroad Museum is a great place to learn about the importance of the railroad industry in California’s development. You’ll find interactive exhibits that allow you to experience what it was like to work on a railroad in different eras. There are also plenty of educational displays that showcase the different types of trains and locomotives used over the years and how they contributed to the growth of the state.
What to Expect at the Museum
When you arrive at the California State Railroad Museum, you’ll be greeted by a fantastic collection of trains and railcars. The museum’s exhibits include some of the most unique and historic railroad equipment in the state. You’ll see steam locomotives, diesel locomotives, and electric locomotives up close. There are also railcars that were used for transportation, dining, and sleeping, as well as cabooses and maintenance-of-way equipment.
One of the most impressive exhibits at the museum is the Big Boy locomotive. This massive steam locomotive is one of the largest ever built and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the museum. You’ll also get to see vintage railcars that were used by U.S. presidents and other dignitaries back in the day.
The California State Railroad Museum offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages. You can take a guided tour of the museum, watch a film about rail transportation, or participate in hands-on activities that bring the history of trains to life. There’s even a full-sized replica of a railroad station where you can learn about the different jobs involved in keeping a railroad running.
Plan Your Visit
The California State Railroad Museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Admission costs vary based on age and membership status. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the museum entrance.
When planning your visit to the California State Railroad Museum, be sure to set aside enough time to see all the exhibits. You’ll want to spend at least a few hours here to fully appreciate the history and significance of the railroad industry in California. If you’re traveling with children, they’ll love the interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
Overall, the California State Railroad Museum is an excellent destination for anyone interested in the history and cultural significance of rail transportation. It’s a must-see attraction when visiting Sacramento and is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for trains and locomotives!
Enjoy Family Fun at the Sacramento Zoo
If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, you won’t want to miss the Sacramento Zoo. Located in William Land Park, this popular attraction is home to more than 500 animals from all over the world.
Visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring the different exhibits, such as the African savannah, the reptile house, and the big cats exhibit. Kids will love getting up close to the animals and learning about their habitats and behaviors.
The zoo offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as the giraffe encounters where you can feed these gentle giants and the educational shows at the Kampala Cafe stage. The zoo also hosts special events throughout the year, such as Boo at the Zoo during Halloween and holiday-themed events during the winter season.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Sacramento Zoo is a must-visit destination for families looking for a fun and educational experience.
Experience the Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park
One of Sacramento’s most fascinating attractions is the Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park. This park preserves a historic fort that played a significant role in California’s history during the Gold Rush era. Visitors can explore the fort’s walls, which have stood since the 1840s, and imagine what life was like for the pioneers who built and lived within them.
Inside the fort, guests can interact with costumed docents who offer insight into daily life at the fort. Interactive exhibits, living history demonstrations, and guided tours are also available, providing visitors with a glimpse into the state’s pioneer era.
Visit the California Automobile Museum
The California Automobile Museum is a must-see attraction for any auto enthusiast visiting Sacramento. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of automobiles and features a vast collection of vintage cars, classic vehicles, and interactive displays.
The museum’s collection includes over 150 vehicles, ranging from early models to modern cars. Visitors can see a 1911 National Speedway Roadster, a 1955 Cadillac Fleetwood, and a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro, among many others. The museum also showcases unique vehicles, such as a 1922 Studebaker fire engine and a 1947 Divco milk truck.
The California Automobile Museum offers interactive experiences and exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the history of the automobile industry and explore the evolution of cars over time. The museum has a replica 1920s gas station and an exhibit on alternative fuel vehicles, showcasing the latest technologies driving the industry forward.
Auto enthusiasts will appreciate the museum’s efforts to make learning about cars engaging and fun. The museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including car shows, cruise-ins, and other activities that showcase the impressive collection of vehicles on display.
Whether you’re a car aficionado or just interested in the history of automobiles, the California Automobile Museum is a must-visit attraction in Sacramento.
Conclusion
Sacramento is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the preserved historic district of Old Sacramento State Historic Park to the California State Capitol Museum, visitors can experience California’s rich political past. The California State Railroad Museum and the Crocker Art Museum offer an insight into transportation and art history, while the American River Parkway provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities. For families, the Sacramento Zoo is a must-visit attraction. Auto enthusiasts will enjoy the California Automobile Museum, while history buffs will appreciate Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park. Whatever your interests, Sacramento has something for you. Plan your next visit and explore this vibrant city!
FAQ
Q: What are the top places to visit in Sacramento?
A: Sacramento offers a variety of must-see attractions and fun activities for visitors. Some of the top places to visit include the Historic Old Sacramento State Historic Park, the California State Capitol Museum, the Crocker Art Museum, the American River Parkway, the California State Railroad Museum, the Sacramento Zoo, the Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile Museum.
Q: What is the Historic Old Sacramento State Historic Park?
A: The Historic Old Sacramento State Historic Park is a preserved historic district in Sacramento. It features charming architecture, a waterfront location, and various museums and shops. Popular attractions within the park include the California State Railroad Museum and the Delta King riverboat.
Q: What is the California State Capitol Museum?
A: The California State Capitol Museum is located in the heart of Sacramento and showcases the state capitol building. It offers exhibits with historical artifacts and interactive displays that delve into California’s political history.
Q: What is the Crocker Art Museum?
A: The Crocker Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the West and houses an extensive collection of art from different periods. Its mission is to promote art appreciation, and it often features notable exhibits and permanent collections.
Q: What is the American River Parkway?
A: The American River Parkway is a scenic area along the American River, where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Popular spots along the parkway include the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail and Discovery Park.
Q: What is the California State Railroad Museum?
A: The California State Railroad Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of railroads in California. It features a collection of historic locomotives and railcars, as well as interactive exhibits that educate visitors on the importance of rail transportation.
Q: What can I expect at the Sacramento Zoo?
A: The Sacramento Zoo is a family-friendly attraction that houses a diverse collection of animals from around the world. Visitors can enjoy unique exhibits, interactive experiences, and special events.
Q: What is Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park?
A: Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park preserves a historic fort that played a significant role in California’s history. It offers interactive exhibits, living history demonstrations, and guided tours that provide insights into the state’s pioneer era.
Q: What can I see at the California Automobile Museum?
A: The California Automobile Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of automobiles. It features a collection of vintage cars, classic vehicles, and interactive displays that would appeal to auto enthusiasts. The museum also holds special exhibits and events.
Q: Why should I visit Sacramento?
A: Sacramento offers a rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic sites, appreciating art, enjoying outdoor activities, or having family fun, Sacramento has something for everyone. Come and experience all that this California capital has to offer!
