Someone once said that half the fun is getting there. In Sacramento, you can save 100% of the fun for after arrival because getting here is the easiest part. We want you to start enjoying Sacramento’s sights, accommodations, and experiences as soon as possible. There are several quick and convenient ways to get here. Just choose one.
You can fly directly to Sacramento from 29 cities across the United States and Mexico, including New York, Washington DC, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Denver, Houston, Dallas, and Guadalajara.
Planning ahead is crucial when booking flights to Sacramento. Consider seasonal demand and price fluctuations to get the best deals. Whether you prefer traveling under clear skies or avoiding crowds, timing is key.
By Plane:
Flying into Sacramento International Airport allows travelers to enjoy a more intimate airport experience compared to San Francisco International Airport and Oakland International Airport. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is smaller than Oakland or San Francisco, making navigation easier. The redesigned terminals at the airport include a skybridge passenger tram system and concourses. Airlines like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest Airlines offer numerous direct flight options. There are many rental car companies, and shuttle buses for rental cars operate approximately every ten minutes, transporting visitors to the rental car terminals within the airport.
Sacramento International Airport was recently ranked fourth in North America for customer service by the Airports Council International (ACI). It serves as a gateway to Northern California and beyond, offering 11 airlines and 130 daily nonstop flights to major West Coast cities as well as destinations such as Maui, Honolulu, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Phoenix, New York, Washington DC, Atlanta, Las Vegas, and Guadalajara. In 2012, Sacramento International Airport served 8.9 million passengers. The airport is located just 10 minutes from hotels and attractions in downtown Sacramento.
Both terminals feature extensive permanent public art collections, including works by local, regional, and national artists. Brian Goggin’s giant suitcase sculpture “Samson” is located at the baggage claim area of Terminal A, a popular photo spot. In Terminal B, a 56-foot-long red rabbit “Leap,” designed by Lawrence Argent, hangs from the ceiling. The rabbit is diving into a giant granite suitcase on the baggage claim floor.
Sacramento International Airport Parking Guide:
Are you planning a trip and need to park at Sacramento International Airport (SMF)? Look no further, as this user-friendly guide will help you understand all the parking options available at the airport to ensure your journey starts smoothly. Whether you’re seeking convenience, affordability, or a combination of both, SMF offers a range of parking solutions to meet your needs.
Sacramento International Airport offers different parking options to accommodate all travelers’ needs. SMF has two terminals – Terminal A and Terminal B – each with parking facilities nearby.
Hourly Parking:
Hourly rate parking lots are located directly in front of each terminal, perfect for those quickly in and out of the airport or picking up passengers. It’s the most convenient option for short-term stays, but it may be more expensive for longer stays. Keep in mind, if you only need to wait for arriving passengers, the airport offers a free cell phone waiting lot where you can park until your party is ready for pick-up.
Daily Parking:
If you plan to park for several hours or more, daily rate parking lots are a more economical choice. These parking lots are just steps away from the terminals, with lower parking fees for longer durations.
Economy Parking:
For budget-conscious travelers, economy parking offers the most affordable rates. While farther from the terminals, free shuttle buses operate every 10-15 minutes, running around the clock, to quickly and comfortably transport you to the airport.
Sacramento International Airport’s parking services are straightforward and convenient, offering a variety of options to meet different needs and budgets. By planning ahead and choosing the appropriate parking facility, you’ll be able to start your trip stress-free, knowing your vehicle is safely parked and waiting for your return.
By Train:
Traveling to Sacramento by train offers a unique and scenic experience through Northern California’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re starting your journey from Northern California or Sacramento is a pivotal stop, Amtrak provides seamless connectivity to major destinations like the Bay Area and the Central Valley. The train journey itself is renowned for its convenience and the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views along the way.
Sacramento’s historic train station, situated downtown, adds to the charm of traveling by rail. Located just steps away from hotels, shops, and the vibrant attractions of Old Sacramento and downtown Sacramento, the station provides easy access for travelers to immerse themselves in the city’s rich culture and history.
By Car:
Sacramento stands out as one of the most accessible cities in California for travelers arriving by car. Whether you’re driving from the Bay Area, the scenic coastal routes, the vast Central Valley, or the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains, navigating to Sacramento is straightforward and offers diverse routes to suit different preferences.
Compared to other major cities in California, Sacramento boasts significantly less traffic congestion, making for smoother and more relaxed driving experiences. In addition, downtown Sacramento provides ample and affordable parking options for visitors, ensuring convenient access to the city’s attractions, dining, and entertainment venues.
Whether you choose the scenic route by train or the flexibility of traveling by car, arriving in Sacramento sets the stage for an enjoyable and memorable exploration of Northern California’s capital city.
