Sacramento Travel Guide: Explore California’s Capital

Discover Sacramento, the vibrant capital of California, where history meets modern charm. Explore its Gold Rush past, indulge in farm-to-fork cuisine, and experience a bustling arts and culture scene. Sacramento offers a diverse range of attractions, from historic Old Sacramento to the trendy Midtown district. Plan your Sacramento vacation today!

• Sacramento, California, USA

Planning Your Trip to Sacramento

Essential Information

Location

• Sacramento, California, USA

Time Zone

• GMT -8 (Pacific Standard Time)

Language

• English

Currency

• United States Dollar (USD)

Sacramento Weather & Climate Snapshot

Sacramento enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Knowing what to expect weather-wise will help you pack and plan accordingly.

• Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, occasional rain. Average temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F.
• Summer (June-August): Hot and dry with temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Little to no rainfall. Be sure to stay hydrated!
• Fall (September-November): Warm days and cool nights. Average temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F. Pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
• Winter (December-February): Mild and wet with occasional fog. Average temperatures range from 40°F to 50°F.

Sacramento: City Overview

Sacramento, the capital of California, seamlessly blends its rich history with modern innovation. Nestled at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers, it boasts a diverse cultural landscape and a thriving culinary scene. The city’s Old Sacramento Waterfront transports visitors back to the Gold Rush era with preserved buildings and cobblestone streets. Meanwhile, downtown Sacramento pulses with contemporary energy, offering a growing number of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Beyond its historical and cultural attractions, Sacramento is known as America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, celebrating the region’s agricultural bounty through innovative cuisine. Sacramento provides a welcoming atmosphere and an array of activities, from exploring museums and art galleries to strolling along the riverfront or enjoying outdoor recreation in nearby parks. Looking for Sacramento attractions? You’ve come to the right place!

Best Time to Visit Sacramento

Deciding when to visit Sacramento depends on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown:

• Spring (March-May): Pros: Pleasant weather, blooming flowers, fewer crowds. Cons: Occasional rain.
• Fall (September-November): Pros: Warm days, cool nights, harvest season, fewer crowds. Cons: Occasional heat waves.

How to Get to Sacramento & Visa Requirements

Planning your journey to Sacramento is easy!

Flights

Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is the main airport serving the region. Book your flights in advance for the best deals.

Trains

Amtrak provides train service to Sacramento Valley Station, a convenient option for traveling within California and beyond.

Visa Details

Check visa requirements based on your nationality with the U.S. Department of State well in advance of your trip.

Airport Transfers

Taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft), and public transportation are available for airport transfers.

Sacramento’s Unique Charm

Fun/Historical Fact or Story

Sacramento was once the western terminus of the Pony Express, a legendary mail delivery service that operated in the mid-19th century. Imagine the excitement!

Famous Personalities from Sacramento

• Joan Didion (Writer)
• Sam Elliott (Actor)
• Colin Hanks (Actor)

Top 10 Sacramento Attractions: Sightseeing & Activities

Don’t miss these must-see Sacramento sights!

• California State Capitol Museum

  Description: Explore California’s political history and admire the stunning architecture of the State Capitol. A free and educational experience!

  • Address: 1315 10th St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Old Sacramento Waterfront

  Description: Step back in time at this historic district with cobblestone streets, museums, and shops. Perfect for a family outing.

  • Address: 1014 2nd St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• California State Railroad Museum

  Description: Discover the history of trains in California and see beautifully restored locomotives. All aboard!

  • Address: 125 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Crocker Art Museum

  Description: Admire a diverse collection of art spanning various periods and cultures. A cultural gem.

  • Address: 216 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park

  Description: Experience the life of early settlers at this reconstructed 19th-century fort. History comes alive!

  • Address: 2701 L St, Sacramento, CA 95816
• Sacramento Zoo

  Description: See a variety of animals from around the world at this family-friendly zoo. A fun day for everyone!

  • Address: 3930 W Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822
• American River Parkway

  Description: Enjoy outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and kayaking along the scenic American River. Get active in nature!

  • Address: Access points vary along the river.
• Fairytale Town

  Description: Bring the kids to this park with storybook-themed exhibits and attractions. A magical experience for little ones!

  • Address: 3901 Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822
• California Automobile Museum

  Description: Explore the history of automobiles with a collection of classic and vintage cars. For car enthusiasts!

  • Address: 2200 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95818
• Tower Bridge

  Description: A Sacramento icon, this art deco bridge offers great views of the city. A must-see landmark!

  • Address: Tower Bridge, Sacramento, CA 95814

Sacramento Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

Discover the local side of Sacramento!

• McKinley Park Rose Garden

  Description: Stroll through a beautiful rose garden with a variety of colors and fragrances. A romantic escape.

  • Address: 601 Alhambra Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95816
• The Art Foundry

  Description: A co-op art gallery and working foundry. See local artists in action and purchase unique pieces. Support local art!

  • Address: 1518 Del Paso Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815
• Underground Tours

  Description: Discover Sacramento’s hidden history beneath the streets with a guided tour. A unique and fascinating experience.

  • Address: Tours depart from Old Sacramento.

Sacramento Local Festivals & Events: Celebrate with the City

Check out these exciting annual events!

• California State Fair (July): Food, rides, and entertainment for the whole family.
• Aftershock Festival (October): A hard rock and metal music festival.
• Farm-to-Fork Festival (September): Celebrate Sacramento’s culinary scene.

Sacramento Day Trips & Nearby Attractions: Explore Beyond the City

Extend your Sacramento adventure!

• Lake Tahoe (2 hours): Stunning scenery and outdoor recreation.
• Napa Valley (1.5 hours): World-class wine tasting.
• San Francisco (1.5 hours): Iconic landmarks and vibrant culture.

Sacramento Photography Spots & Insta-Worthy Places: Capture the Memories

Get your camera ready!

• Tower Bridge: An iconic landmark.
• Old Sacramento Waterfront: Historic charm.
• California State Capitol: Impressive architecture.
• Murals in Midtown Sacramento: Colorful street art.

Where to Stay in Sacramento & Getting Around

Recommended Length of Stay

3-4 days is ideal for exploring Sacramento’s highlights.

Top Sacramento Hotels

Budget-Friendly Hotels

• Hostel Sacramento
  • Address: 1015 9th St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Motel 6 Sacramento Central
  • Address: 2223 Arden Way, Sacramento, CA 95825
• Arden Star Hotel
  • Address: 1618 Arden Way, Sacramento, CA 95815

Mid-Range Hotels

• The Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection
  • Address: 926 J St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Kimpton Sawyer Hotel
  • Address: 500 J St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Hyatt Regency Sacramento
  • Address: 1209 L St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade
  • Address: 100 Capitol Mall, Sacramento, CA 95814

Luxury Hotels

• The Fort Sutter Hotel Sacramento, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
  • Address: 1308 28th St, Sacramento, CA 95816

Getting Around Sacramento: Transportation Options

• Public Transport: Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) operates buses and light rail.
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are readily available.
• Bikes: Sacramento has a bike-friendly infrastructure with rental options. Enjoy a scenic ride!
• Walking: Downtown and Old Sacramento are easily walkable.

Preparing for Your Sacramento Experience

What to Pack for Sacramento

• Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of exploring!
• Sunscreen and hat (especially in summer): Protect yourself from the California sun.
• Layers of clothing (for varying temperatures): Be prepared for changing weather.
• Umbrella or raincoat (during winter): Just in case!

Useful Apps for Your Sacramento Trip

• SacRT Mobile Tickets (Transportation): For easy public transport.
• Yelp (Restaurants and local businesses): Find the best spots nearby.
• Google Maps (Navigation): Get around with ease.

Sacramento Local, Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Avoid leaving valuables visible in your car.
• Respect local culture and customs.
• Be mindful of water conservation, especially during droughts.

Sacramento Food, Fun & Finds: Taste, Experience, and Discover

Top Sacramento Restaurants

• The Kitchen Restaurant

  Description: Award-winning fine dining experience with a focus on farm-to-fork cuisine. A culinary delight!

  • Address: 2225 Hurley Way #101, Sacramento, CA 95825
• Grange Restaurant & Bar

  Description: Upscale American cuisine in a stylish setting. Perfect for a special occasion.

  • Address: 926 J St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Frank Fat’s

  Description: Historic Chinese restaurant known for its family recipes. A Sacramento institution!

  • Address: 806 L St, Sacramento, CA 95814

Must-Try Dishes in Sacramento

• Farm-to-Fork Cuisine: Dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. A Sacramento specialty!
• Tri-Tip: A California barbecue staple.
• California Rolls: Sushi with avocado, crab, and cucumber.

Sacramento Nightlife & Entertainment

• LowBrau Bierhall

  Description: Popular beer garden with craft beers and sausages. A fun and lively atmosphere!

  • Address: 1050 20th St, Sacramento, CA 95811
• Ace of Spades

  Description: Live music venue hosting a variety of acts. Rock on!

  • Address: 1417 R St, Sacramento, CA 95811

What to Buy in Sacramento (Souvenirs & Markets)

• Old Sacramento Shops: Souvenirs, candy, and historical items.
• Midtown Farmers Market: Local produce, crafts, and food vendors (seasonal). Support local farmers!
• Evangeline’s: A quirky and unique gift shop in Old Sacramento.
  • Address: 113 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814