Top 10 Things to Do in Sacramento

Sacramento, the capital of California, is a vibrant and diverse city that offers plenty of fun things to do for visitors of all ages. Whether you are looking for family-friendly attractions, cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or nightlife entertainment, you will find it here. Here are some of the best activities in Sacramento that you can enjoy on your next trip.

California State Railroad Museum

What is it?
A museum that showcases the history and impact of railroads in California and the West. You can see restored locomotives, passenger cars, exhibits, and even ride a train along the Sacramento River.

Why should you go?
If you are a fan of trains, history, or both, you should definitely visit the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento. This museum is one of the largest and most popular in the state, with over 500,000 visitors annually. You will be amazed by the collection of 21 restored locomotives and cars, some dating back to 1862, that showcases the role of the "iron horse" in connecting California to the rest of the nation.

You can also learn about the stories of the people who built, operated, and traveled by rail through engaging exhibits and knowledgeable docents4. And if you want to experience the thrill of riding a train yourself, you can hop on the excursion train that runs along the Sacramento River. The California State Railroad Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone who loves trains or wants to learn more about California's rich railroad history.

Old Sacramento Waterfront

What is it?
A 28-acre historic district and a National Historic Landmark that preserves the city's Gold Rush era. You can explore the cobblestone streets, shops, restaurants, museums, and entertainment venues.

Why should you go?
If you want to experience the charm and history of Sacramento, you should visit the Old Sacramento Waterfront. You can stroll along the wooden sidewalks, ride a horse-drawn carriage, or hop on a riverboat cruise. Or visit world-renowned museums, such as the California State Railroad Museum and the Sacramento History Museum, where you can learn about the fascinating stories of California's past.

And, if you are looking for some fun and entertainment, you can enjoy the shopping, dining, and nightlife options that the Old Sacramento Waterfront has to offer. There is something for everyone at the district, so don't miss this opportunity to discover the historic heart of Sacramento!

Crocker Art Museum

What is it?
The oldest public art museum in the West. It houses a collection of European, American, Asian, African, and Oceanic art. You can also enjoy special exhibitions, programs, and events.

Why should you go?
Perfect for art lovers, the Crocker Art Museum is the oldest art museum west of the Mississippi River. You can admire paintings, drawings, and ceramics from different periods and styles and learn about the history and context of each piece. You can also explore the museum's architecture, which combines the original Victorian mansion of the Crocker family with the modern Teal Pavilion that opened in 2010.

California State Capitol Museum

What is it?
A museum located in the state capitol building, where you can learn about the history and workings of California's government and see the chambers of the legislature and the governor's office.

Why should you go?
One of the most impressive and educational attractions in Sacramento is the California State Capitol Museum. This museum is located in and around the California State Capitol, which has been the home of the California State Legislature since 1869.

Explore the history and workings of California's government through exhibits, artifacts, and guided tours. You can also admire the architecture and art of the Capitol building, which features a neoclassical dome, a rotunda, and a collection of portraits of California governors. And if you want to enjoy some fresh air and nature, you can visit Capitol Park, which has 40 acres of gardens, monuments, and memorials.

Sacramento Zoo

What is it?
Opened in 1927 with only 40 animals, the zoo is now home to over 400 animals from around the world, including lions, giraffes, flamingos, red pandas, and reptiles.

Why should you go?
A visit to the Sacramento Zoo is one of the most fun and family-friendly activities in Sacramento. Learn about the animals and their habitats through exhibits, signs, and keeper chats, and enjoy special events, attractions, and programs that the zoo offers throughout the year, such as Dinosaur Safari, Twilight Safari Gala, and Summer Camps2. The Sacramento Zoo is a non-profit organization that is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and it strives to inspire appreciation, respect, and conservation of wildlife and nature.

Fairytale Town

What is it?
A family-friendly and non-profit park that features play sets based on fairy tales and nursery rhymes. The attraction is dedicated to promoting the imagination, creativity, and education of children.

Why should you go?
For a magical and whimsical adventure in Sacramento, you should visit Fairytale Town. Explore 26 play sets based on nursery rhymes and fairy tales like Jack and Jill's Hill, Cinderella's Coach, and King Arthur's Castle. You can also meet friendly farm animals, such as cows, sheep, and chickens. And, if you want to enjoy some special events and programs, you can check out the calendar for activities like Midsummer Night's Dream, Tales & Ales, and Winter Wonderland.

Sutter's Fort State Historic Park

What is it?
A reconstruction of the original fort built by John Sutter in 1839. You can see the living quarters, workshops, cannons, and artifacts of the early settlers and pioneers.

Why should you go?
Another unique attraction in Sacramento is the Sutter's Fort State Historic Park. This park is located in Midtown Sacramento, and it preserves the legacy of John Sutter, a Swiss immigrant who founded the first European settlement in California's Central Valley in 1839. You can explore the reconstructed fort, which was the center of Sutter's agricultural and trade empire, and see how people lived and worked in the 1840s. You can also join tours and programs that tell the stories of Sutter, his workers, his guests, and his role in the Gold Rush and the Mexican-American War.

American River Parkway

What is it?
A 32-mile stretch of greenbelt along the American River that consists of many small parks and boat launching points. You can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, rafting, and wildlife watching.

Why should you go?
To experience the beauty and diversity of the American River. There are plenty of outdoor activities, such as biking, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. You can also explore the history and culture of the region, such as the Gold Rush, the Transcontinental Railroad, and the Native American heritage.

The parkway is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and you can buy a park pass online or at any of the park entrances. The area is also supported by the American River Parkway Foundation, a non-profit organization that leads and inspires the community to conserve and nurture the parkway as a unique and accessible resource.

Sacramento History Museum

What is it?
This museum is dedicated to the history of Sacramento from its founding to the present day. You can see exhibits on the Gold Rush, agriculture, transportation, and culture.

Why should you go?
For a fascinating and educational journey into Sacramento's past, make sure to visit the Sacramento History Museum. This museum is located in Old Sacramento, a historic district that preserves the legacy of the Gold Rush and the Transcontinental Railroad. You can explore exhibits and collections that showcase the history and culture of Sacramento from prehistoric times to the present. You can also join tours and programs that bring history to life, such as the Underground Tour, the Gold Fever! Game, and the Paranormal Investigation.

Tower Bridge

What is it?
A vertical lift bridge that crosses the Sacramento River, connecting West Sacramento and Sacramento. Built in 1935, it is now a historic landmark of the city.

Why should you go?
To explore the city's architectural symbol. The Tower Bridge has a distinctive Art Deco style, with steel towers that conceal the counterweights and mechanisms that lift the central span. The bridge was originally painted silver, but it has changed colors several times over the years until it settled on its current golden hue in 20023. The bridge is also a National Register of Historic Places site, and it offers a beautiful view of the river and the city skyline. Don't miss this opportunity to see and cross the Tower Bridge.

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