Sacramento is about 90 miles from San Francisco and is the capital of California, making it a great place to visit. From historic museums to world-class institutions, Sacramento boasts numerous epic attractions and top activities to enrich your city tour.
Now, from the perspective of being “across the ocean,” you might not come to Sacramento alone. But don’t be mistaken—this doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting… far from it!
Therefore, to help you make the most of your time in this city, I want to share some amazing attractions you shouldn’t miss. This way, you can focus on exploring and save time on all the planning.
Old Sacramento State Historic Park
If you’re interested in history, this place is for you!
Old Sacramento State Historic Park is a historic area with plenty of Gold Rush-era buildings that you can’t miss. Here, time seems to stand still, especially when visiting the Eagle Theatre, the BF Hastings Building, and the Big Four Building.
You see, long ago, this area was known as the western terminus for the Pony Express and the Transcontinental Railroad. While you don’t need to hunt for gold to visit nowadays, it’s very close to the I Street Bridge and definitely worth a look.
Once you arrive, be sure to explore the little eateries, shops, and the century-old River City Saloon.
California State Railroad Museum
Speaking of the city’s iconic attractions, the California State Railroad Museum is undoubtedly at the top. You don’t need to be a train enthusiast to enjoy this site; it’s full of history you simply can’t miss.
Located in Old Sacramento, it spans over 200,000 square feet, making it one of the largest railroad museums in the world.
As you wander through the spacious rooms, you’ll see a host of restored steam trains and railroad coaches, which are genuine pieces of history. They are completely authentic, even though they are centuries old.
Along the way, you’ll learn more about railroad history and how railroads influenced California. It’s quite epic.
Crocker Art Museum
The Crocker Art Museum houses a wide range of Californian art from the 1860s to the present and is one of Sacramento’s best attractions. Well, if you love art, at least.
It not only has thousands of works to admire but also holds the largest and most impressive international ceramics collection in the United States.
If that’s not your interest, you can head to the American photography exhibitions and European painting exhibits. They are incredible.
Oh, and if you visit in the summer, be sure to check out what’s happening in the courtyard. Often, a series of events take place, from movie nights to concerts.
Leland Stanford Mansion
The Stanford Mansion is a massive building covering 19,000 square feet that you shouldn’t miss. With 17-foot-high ceilings and the most ornate woodwork, it’s undoubtedly one of the best activities when visiting Sacramento.
Filled with period pieces, lavish decor, and Victorian architecture, it’s a must-visit place.
Most of the time, the mansion is open to guests, but if the building is used for state events, these tours might be canceled.
Oh, remember, you can only take photos outside; photography is not allowed inside the Stanford Mansion.
If you enjoy fast-paced activities, head to Raging Waters, Sacramento’s largest water park. There are plenty of rides, and I can almost guarantee you’ll scream on some of them.
California State Capitol
The California State Capitol, located in downtown Sacramento, is another must-visit attraction for those interested in California’s history.
Not only is it iconic, but it also houses the chambers of the California State Legislature and serves as an active government building for the city.
Once you arrive, you can join a guided tour of the museum. Be sure to check out the rotunda on the first floor—it’s truly breathtaking.
The California State Capitol Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Saturday from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM (excluding holidays). Tours are free, but it’s recommended to book in advance (check for any changes beforehand).
That said, if you’re looking to explore beyond the downtown area, you can head to the Old Sugar Mill. Originally established in 1934 as a beet sugar refinery, it has since transformed into a delightful winery and tasting venue, featuring a variety of Northern California wines.
Downtown Sacramento
Midtown, located on the eastern side of downtown Sacramento, is one of the busiest and most convenient areas to explore.
Here, you’ll find a plethora of shops, art galleries, theaters, festivals, and dining spots; it’s a place where you could easily spend an entire weekend.
Craving a sweet treat? Head to Rick’s Dessert Diner. They make the best cakes in town. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, head straight to Temple Coffee Roasters; their coffee is exceptional.
If you’re visiting on a Saturday morning, be sure to check out the Midtown Farmers Market. They offer a wide array of food trucks, organic produce, and baked goods for you to enjoy.
Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park
Another gem in the downtown area is Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, one of the oldest (partially restored) forts in the United States.
Long ago, this fort played a crucial role in agriculture, trade, and European settlement in the Central Valley. However, when one of the employees discovered gold within the property’s perimeter, the fort was quickly abandoned. This discovery is said to have helped usher in the Gold Rush era!
After a thorough restoration, the fort joined the list of prominent sites in the National Historic Landmark registry, making it an incredible and unmissable spot.
If you’re lucky, you might even visit during one of the demonstration days when local volunteers dress in period costumes and reenact certain aspects of the past.
Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament
The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament is located downtown, near the California State Capitol Museum.
Not only is it one of Sacramento’s oldest churches, but its exterior is also stunning. This century-old cathedral is awe-inspiring and definitely worth a look while you’re strolling around downtown.
Don’t forget to step inside and check out the interior of the dome. Standing 34 meters high, it is one of the cathedral’s most iconic features.
American River
Long ago, the American River was one of the most important rivers around Sacramento, playing a vital role during the 1848 Gold Rush as a key component of mining activities.
Today, the river is a hotspot for various outdoor activities, such as rafting with the American River Raft Rentals. Head near the Sunrise Recreation Area—you can’t miss it.
Additionally, running alongside the river is the American River Parkway, a paved trail that is part of the Sacramento Area Parks system.
This trail, stretching 32 miles between Discovery Park in Old Sacramento and Beal’s Point, is perfect for cycling.
Situated between Lake Tahoe and San Francisco, California’s capital city is ideally located if you’re planning a trip to Northern California. It’s also nestled amidst several wine counties. Lodi, Amador, and El Dorado counties are renowned for producing delicious Zinfandel and Barbera wines.
