Best 20 things to do in Sacramento, United States

Welcome to Sacramento, where the city proudly boasts more than just politicians and cows! Let's dive right into the best 20 things to do in this fabulous destination. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll along the Tower Bridge, learning how to pronounce "Sutter's Fort" like a pro, or engaging in a friendly competition to spot the most outrageous mustaches at the Cesar Chavez Plaza, Sacramento has something for everyone. So grab your sense of adventure and don't forget to pack your love for all things eclectic, because this city is about to steal your heart without even trying.

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1. Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament

4.8 (1000)

1019 11th St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Sacramento—where spirituality and architectural extravagance blend together like a divine cocktail! Marvel at the splendor of this majestic Roman Catholic church, affectionately known as "The Sacrament Sip 'n' Soar." With its opulent interiors resembling a heavenly ballroom, it's no wonder visitors often find themselves unintentionally waltzing down the aisles. Prepare to be dazzled by the cathedral's renowned stained glass windows, where saints and angels are depicted so vividly, you'll almost expect them to come alive and ask if you're there to RSVP for celestial tea party. And you won't believe your eyes when you catch a glimpse of the grand organ, so colossal in size that rumor has it, merely pressing its keys can awaken the musical talents even in the most tone-deaf amoeba. Hop on over, for an unforgettable experience awaits at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace or simply love the idea of a church with a flair for the dramatic, this place definitely knows how to put the "extravagant" in sacrament.

www.cathedralsacramento.org

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2. Crest Theatre

4.6 (1694)

1013 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to the glorious Crest Theatre in Sacramento, where the magic of the silver screen collides with the quirkiness of a time machine stuck in the 1940s. This architectural gem makes you feel like you've just entered a portal to the Golden Age of Hollywood, complete with its opulent red velvet curtains and a ceiling adorned with twinkling stars that make you wish upon them for a larger popcorn size. Grab a seat, admire the vintage charm, and prepare to be thoroughly entertained while secretly hoping Clark Gable might swing by for a surprise cameo appearance.

www.crestsacramento.com

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3. Crocker Art Museum

4.8 (2843)

216 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to the Crocker Art Museum in lovely Sacramento, where art enthusiasts and accidental tourists alike can revel in the glory of masterpieces without fear of stepping on expensive toes. This magnificent establishment boasts an impressive collection of artworks spanning centuries, from folksy landscapes that will make any overpaid dentist swoon, to modern pieces that are so abstract, you’ll find yourself questioning whether you’re looking at a painting or a cosmic burrito. With its elegant architecture and vibrant exhibitions, the Crocker Art Museum promises a delightful day out that will leave you pondering life's most important question: why didn't you become an artist, too?

crockerart.org

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4. Old Sacramento Historic District

4.6 (24864)

1014 2nd St Suite 200, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to the Old Sacramento Historic District in Sacramento, a place where history meets hilarity, with a dash of Gold Rush charm! Step into a time machine and get ready to be surrounded by impeccably preserved 19th-century buildings, which will make you feel like you’ve stumbled into an Old West movie set – minus the saloon brawls, of course. Don't be surprised if you find yourself looking over your shoulder for cowboys or bandits, but fear not, it's all part of the quirky experience.

www.oldsacramento.com

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5. Fairytale Town

4.5 (2406)

3901 Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822, USA

Once upon a time in Sacramento, there existed a magical place called Fairytale Town, where children's dreams come to life. An enchanting realm filled with whimsical characters straight out of storybooks, this ain't your typical Disneyland. It's more like stumbling into a fairytale-themed acid trip, where you can meet the Three Little Pigs, Alice in Wonderland, and even Hansel and Gretel without fear of being eaten by a wicked witch (hopefully).

www.fairytaletown.org

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6. California State Railroad Museum

4.8 (3764)

125 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to the California State Railroad Museum, where you'll be choo-chooing your way through the history of trains! Prepare to be blown away by the awe-inspiring collection of locomotives, like the Terminator of all trains, the behemoth Southern Pacific Railroad locomotive named "Gov. Stanford." Explore the vibrant exhibits showcasing vintage train cars, each with its own personality that will make you want to hop on board for a wild ride through time.

www.californiarailroad.museum

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7. Sacramento River Cats

4.6 (527)

East, 400 Ballpark Dr, West Sacramento, CA 95691, USA

Welcome to the land of the Sacramento River Cats: where baseball dreams and furry feline fanatics collide for a purr-fectly delightful experience! Nestled in the heart of Sacramento, this feline-friendly ballpark promises a roaring good time. With top-notch baseball action, whisker-twitching excitement, and more hot dogs than you can shake a catnip toy at, it's no wonder this place has fans jumping up and down like kittens on a caffeine high!

sacramento.rivercats.milb.com

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8. Sutter's Fort State Historic Park

4.5 (1793)

2701 L St, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA

Welcome to Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, where history comes alive with a side of quirk! Step back in time to experience California's Gold Rush era, but don't worry, we promise no actual gold fever. This fortress-turned-historic-park offers a delightful blend of immersive exhibits, knowledgeable interpreters, and oxen-drawn wagon rides that will make you wonder, "Why did I ever think modern plumbing was convenient?"

www.parks.ca.gov

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9. Raging Waters Sacramento

3.8 (1370)

1600 Exposition Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815, USA

Welcome to Raging Waters Sacramento, where the sun is scorching and the water is cold enough to make penguins contemplate moving to Sacramento. Get ready to embrace your inner mermaid or merman as you venture into this watery wonderland of thrilling slides and splashtastic adventures. From lazy rivers that are basically nap-inducing swirly tubes to water slides that will rearrange your face into a goofy grin, this place has it all.

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10. American River Bike Trail

American Riv Bike Trl, Sacramento, CA, USA

Welcome to the American River Bike Trail in Sacramento, where you can pedal your way through scenic landscapes while pretending you're in the Tour de France (minus the spandex, unless that's your thing). This 32-mile trail is the perfect destination for both experienced cyclists looking for a hardcore workout and newbie riders who just want an excuse to wear a helmet and feel adventurous. You'll be greeted by breathtaking riverside views, charming wildlife, and the occasional fellow cyclist zooming by so fast you'll question if they've discovered the secret to time travel.

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11. William Land Park

4.6 (5871)

3800 W Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822, USA

Welcome to William Land Park, where nature and hilarity collide! This quirky gem in Sacramento is like a playground for both Mother Earth and your inner comedian. Marvel at the sprawling greenery, meandering waterways, and beware of rogue squirrels plotting mischief - trust me, they're in on the joke. Relax, grab some snacks, and enjoy some fantastic people-watching as laughter and joy fill the air - just be prepared to dodge the occasional frisbee or giant bubble wand, because at William Land Park, every day is a comedy show!

www.cityofsacramento.org

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12. Sutter's Landing Park

4.4 (997)

20 28th St, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA

Welcome to Sutter's Landing Park, where both the leaping salmon and the exuberant joggers compete for the title of "Best Splashy Entrance". This urban oasis boasts a delightful mishmash of shady trees, sun-kissed picnic spots, and conveniently placed geese crossing signs for those who enjoy the thrill of an unexpected bird parade. Don't forget to make friends with the local ducks, they might just teach you how to expertly quack your favorite tunes while walking like a true duck connoisseur.

www.cityofsacramento.org

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13. Towe Auto Museum

4.7 (337)

2200 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95818, USA

Welcome to the Towe Auto Museum in Sacramento, where vintage cars are like aging rock stars, dazzling us with their glory days. Prepare to feast your eyes on an automotive utopia that takes you through time faster than a Formula One race. This mecca for car enthusiasts is where historic vehicles glisten like diamonds, begging you to unleash your inner Vin Diesel while channeling your grandma's driving skills.

www.calautomuseum.org

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14. California State Capitol Museum

4.7 (4949)

1315 10th St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to the California State Capitol Museum in Sacramento, where history and politics intertwine like a never-ending soap opera. Here, you can marvel at the grandiosity of this iconic building that proudly represents the land of endless sunsets and avocado toast. Delve into the world of legislators and lobbyists, where jaw-dropping debates and passionate arguments echo through the halls—so grab a seat and enjoy the political drama unfold!

www.capitolmuseum.ca.gov

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15. California Automobile Museum

4.7 (337)

2200 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95818, USA

Welcome to the California Automobile Museum in sunny Sacramento, where cars of all shapes and sizes reign supreme! Prepare to have your wheels spinning with delight as you embark on a quirky journey through time and witness an enchanting collection of vintage automobiles. From sleek classics to eccentric gems, this museum promises to rev up your adrenaline and leave you humming "Born to Be Wild" long after your visit!

www.calautomuseum.org

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16. Sacramento Zoo

4.4 (6775)

3930 W Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822, USA

Welcome to the Sacramento Zoo, where you'll find an assortment of lovable creatures who have somehow managed to avoid starring in animated movies. Fear not, as they're just as fascinating as any talking animal, minus the Disney contract. Prepare to embark on a journey through the wildest lands of Africa, Australia, and the Americas – though you may still have to pay for souvenirs at the end, no matter how photogenic the giraffes are!

saczoo.org

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17. Governor's Mansion State Historic Park

4.4 (56)

1526 H St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Nestled in the heart of California’s bustling capital, Sacramento, lies the Governor's Mansion State Historic Park, where grandeur and politics unite, offering a delightful mix of architectural prowess and power struggles. Step into the whimsical past as you explore this lavish abode, which once housed Sacramento's governors—because let's be honest, the grandeur of a mansion makes decisions so much more authoritative, right? Revel in the opulent Victorian-era charm that effortlessly mocks your own humble abode, but hey, at least you don't have to make tough political decisions while pretending to be dignified.

www.parks.ca.gov

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18. Sacramento History Museum

4.6 (745)

101 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to the Sacramento History Museum, where the past comes to life like a history professor on an energetic sugar rush! Step into this museum and get ready to embark on a wild journey through Sacramento's vibrant and quirky past. Beware the time-traveling gold miners and prepare to laugh at the outrageous stories of this city's notorious cowboys and glamorous old-timey politicians. Get ready to have a blast as you explore Sacramento's history at this museum that's as entertaining as a stand-up comedy show!

www.sachistorymuseum.org

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19. The Underground Tasting Room

4.6 (25)

900 2nd St Suite A, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to The Underground Tasting Room, where wine tasting meets spelunking! Nestled in the heart of Sacramento, this subterranean sanctuary offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts and avid adventurers alike. Explore the dimly lit caverns and let your taste buds embark on an underground journey – it's like Indiana Jones meets a tipsy sommelier!

www.theundergroundtastingroom.com

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20. Tower Bridge

4.6 (1380)

Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to Tower Bridge, the official gateway to Sacramento, where you'll find an enchanting blend of architectural charm and occasional vehicular chaos! This magnificent landmark straddles the Sacramento River, reminding visitors that nothing unites people quite like a shared commute. Be prepared to witness Californians expertly navigating the bridge's delightful vintage mechanical system, as they master the art of making way for both boats and hurried tourists who just can't resist photo ops.

www.cityofsacramento.org

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Sacramento via plane is to fly into Sacramento International Airport (SMF), which offers both domestic and international flights.

Car

The best way to get to Sacramento via car is to take Interstate 5, which runs North and South through the city.

Train

Although there is no direct train service to Sacramento, Amtrak's California Zephyr offers service from both the East and West coasts, arriving at the Sacramento Amtrak Station.

Boat

Although Sacramento is located on the Sacramento River, there is no direct boat service to the city. However, river cruises departing from San Francisco and other Bay Area cities often make stops in Sacramento.

Bus

The best way to get to Sacramento via bus is to take Greyhound, which offers service to the Sacramento Greyhound Station located downtown.

More guides

Sacramento Splash: The Ultimate Family Day Trip Guide

Sacramento, the vibrant capital city of California, offers a memorable family-friendly trip filled with rich history, abundant outdoor activities, and diverse cultural experiences. From exploring the impressive California State Capitol and visiting the fascinating Crocker Art Museum to enjoying fun-filled days at the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town, there is something for everyone. Families can also unwind by strolling along the charming Old Sacramento Waterfront, indulging in delicious farm-to-fork cuisine, and taking leisurely bike rides along the picturesque American River Parkway.

Sacramento: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

If you're on a tight budget but still want to experience a cosmopolitan city, a trip to Sacramento is perfect for you. The city offers a wide range of free activities such as exploring the Capitol building and strolling along the picturesque riverfront. To save some money on accommodations, consider booking a stay at a budget-friendly hostel or camping at one of the local campgrounds.

Budget-Friendly Sacramento: 5 Days of Fun

A trip to Sacramento on a limited budget can still be enjoyable and full of activities. Visit the California State Capitol for free tours and explore the Crocker Art Museum on their free admission days. Take a stroll along the Sacramento River and grab a bite to eat at one of the many food trucks or local restaurants.

Sacramento Splash: 2 Days of Family Fun!

A family-friendly trip to Sacramento, United States offers a wealth of attractions and activities for all ages. Visit the California State Capitol to learn about the state's history, explore the interactive exhibits at the Sacramento Children's Museum, or take a scenic boat ride along the Sacramento River. With its beautiful parks, family-oriented museums, and vibrant downtown, Sacramento promises a memorable and enjoyable vacation for the entire family.