Discover Sacramento in a Day

Discovering the historic beauty and modern charm of Sacramento.

22 April 2023

A trip to Sacramento as a tourist promises a fun-filled itinerary of historic and cultural attractions that will surely leave an impact on any traveler. From exploring the iconic California State Capitol building to taking a riverboat cruise on the Sacramento River, visitors can experience a blend of olden charm and modern vibes in this vibrant city. The culinary scene, thriving arts and entertainment culture, and abundant outdoor activities make Sacramento an enticing destination for every kind of traveler.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

A Day of Discovery in Sacramento

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast burrito and coffee at Insight Coffee Roasters.
  • Visit the California State Capitol Museum, where you can take a free guided tour and learn about California's government history.
  • Take a leisurely stroll around Old Sacramento, a charming historic district with restored Gold Rush-era buildings and unique shops.
  • Enjoy a riverside lunch at Rio City Cafe, where you can savor fresh seafood and scenic views of the Sacramento River.
  • Head to the Crocker Art Museum, featuring a diverse collection of American and European art, along with rotating exhibitions.
  • End your day with a relaxing pedal boat ride on the nearby Lake Natoma, where you can soak up stunning sunset views before returning to the city.

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 travel plans

Sacramento Getaway: Art, Food and Romance

Sacramento offers a range of romantic activities to explore with your partner. Take a walk through the beautiful McKinley Park Rose Garden, savor the fine dining experiences in the charming Old Sacramento district, and visit the iconic Sacramento Zoo. This city is a perfect getaway for a romantic trip full of adventures and romantic moments.

Getaway to Vibrant Sacramento: A 2-Day Itinerary

Sacramento is the capital city of California and offers an amazing tourist experience. Visitors can indulge in the city's rich history by visiting museums, landmarks, and parks like the California State Capitol, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, and Crocker Art Museum. Additionally, the city has a vibrant food and wine scene that travelers should definitely try out.

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.

Sacramento in 4 Days: History, Parks, and Brews

On a limited budget, a trip to Sacramento can still be enjoyable. Visitors can explore downtown Sacramento and take a free tour of the Capitol building. Outdoor activities like hiking in nearby parks or visiting the city's many museums can also be done on a budget.