Choose from 3 Fun Things to Do in Sacramento
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American River
Beginning in the high Sierra Nevadas not far from Lake Tahoe, the American River has three forks: the South, Middle and North. They converge east of Sacramento, but each offers great whitewater rafting, with varying levels of challenge and corresponding class of rapids. For those seeking calmer waters, kayaking is also popular.
The South Fork offers the best rapids for beginners, whereas the North Fork is recommended only for experienced rafters and runs only seasonally. The South Fork of the American River is one of the most popular whitewater rafting destinations in the United States.
There are also more than 100 miles of trails along scenic, historic California Gold Rush sites that are immersed in rich natural forests and native wildlife. Hikers and mountain bikers can explore the area’s tall granite canyons or enjoy the foothills of the Gold Country.
Practical Info
Thanks to its close proximity to San Francisco and Sacramento, the American River makes a great day trip itinerary option. The confluence of the North and Middle forks can be reached by taking Interstate 80 to Highway 49 from Sacramento to the city of Auburn, where a visitor information center greets guests.
Address: California, USA, USA
From $ 117
California State Capitol and Museum
Completed in 1874, the neoclassical California State Capitol building houses both a museum and the seat of California’s government. It is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and features artwork and monuments and artifacts from California’s history, both inside and on the surrounding grounds.
The Basics
The California State Capitol in Sacramento attracts visitors who are interested in government, art, and California heritage. There is no admission fee, and public tours are held on the hour every day. A scavenger hunt tour also passes by the capitol building.
The building itself is notable for a number of artistic details, such as the stained-glass state seal in the ceiling of the hallway leading from the rotunda, mosaics of the golden poppy, and tiles that depict California’s motto, “Eureka.” The museum is home to permanent and on-loan collections of art, as well as temporary exhibits like “The Road Ahead: The Automobile’s Impact on California.” Outside in Capitol Park, visitors can see monuments and memorials dedicated to California firefighters and veterans of the Vietnam War, Spanish-American War, and other historical events.
Things to Know Before You Go
- To enter, you must pass through security control, including a metal detector, X-ray of belongings, and presentation of identification.
- Entrances from L Street and N Street have wheelchair ramps.
- There is a tour office in the basement of the building, where wheelchairs can be checked out for use.
- A gift shop is located in the basement.
- Food and drinks can be purchased on weekdays only at a cafeteria-style restaurant or coffee cart in the basement.
How to Get There
The Capitol is located in downtown Sacramento at the intersection of 10th Street and L Street. A paid parking garage and metered parking are available around the building and grounds, or take the light rail to the 8th and Capitol station.
When to Get There
The building is open daily, though refreshments are only available during weekdays Holiday events such as Carols at the Capitol take place during the month of December.
Old Sacramento
Just 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) northwest of the California State Capitol is Old Sacramento, a US National Historic Landmark District on the Sacramento River. After your tour of the Capitol, head here to learn more about California’s history, including the Gold Rush and early days of the railroad.
Address: 1315 10th St, Sacramento, California 95814, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am-5pm
From $ 15
Old Sacramento
A US National Historic Landmark District, Old Sacramento sits on the east bank of the Sacramento River and offers a glimpse of California history dating back to the Gold Rush and early days of the railroad. Occupying 28 acres (11 hectares), this area offers historical architecture, museums, and activities.
The Basics
Visitors to Old Sacramento explore dozens of attractions, including the California State Railroad Museum, Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento History Museum, and the Pony Express Monument. Activities include horse and carriage rides and the Suspects Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre aboard the Delta King Riverboat, which has been converted into a hotel. This area also offers plenty of saloons, restaurants, and shops. A selection of tours are run by the Historic Old Sacramento Foundation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Old Sacramento is ideal for families and history buffs.
- The visitors’ center on 2nd Street offers information about Old Sacramento and the greater region.
- The district spans 8 blocks, so wear comfortable shoes.
How to Get There
Old Sacramento is located right off Interstate 5 (take the J Street exit) and a couple of blocks from the Sacramento Valley Amtrak station. It’s easily accessible for visitors arriving by train or by car. The Sacramento River Bike Trail runs along the waterfront.
When to Get There
Old Sacramento’s shops are generally open from late morning to early evening. Most eateries offer lunch and dinner, and several stay open until late. The area’s signature event, Gold Rush Days, takes place on Labor Day weekend (early September). Other events include ghost tours during the days leading up to Halloween and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony to kick off the holiday season.
California State Capitol Museum
After exploring Old Sacramento, head 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) southeast to the California State Capitol Museum for additional insight into California’s heritage. Artwork, historical items, and memorials are on display in the 19th-century building and its tree-filled Capitol Park.
Address: 922 2nd Street, Sacramento, California, USA
From $ 15