Budget-Friendly Day Tripping in Sacramento

Discover Sacramento's hidden gems without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Sacramento, the capital of California, offers plenty of affordable activities for travelers on a budget. Visit historical landmarks like the State Capitol and Sutter's Fort, hike in nearby nature reserves, and sample local cuisine at food trucks and cheap eateries. Stay in hostels or budget hotels and take advantage of public transportation to save money on your trip to Sacramento.

Day trip plan

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Sacramento Adventures on a Budget

  • Start your morning with a visit to the charming and free-to-enter McKinley Park.
  • Get a glimpse into Sacramento's history with a tour of the California State Capitol Museum, which is also free to visit.
  • Grab lunch at the inexpensive and tasty Selland's Market Café.
  • Stop by the quirky and unique Crocker Art Museum, which offers free admission on Sundays.
  • Take a walk along the scenic and picturesque Sacramento River Trail.
  • Finish your day at the affordable Mikuni Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar, where you can satisfy your taste buds with delicious sushi rolls without breaking the bank.

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

5 Days of Family Fun in Vibrant Sacramento!

Sacramento, the capital of California, offers a fantastic family-friendly trip. Visit the California State Railroad Museum for a fun and educational experience, explore the beautiful Sacramento Zoo to get up close with wildlife, and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic River Walk to take in the city's charm. With its rich history, outdoor activities, and kid-friendly attractions, Sacramento is a great destination for a family getaway.

Discover Sacramento in a Day

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.

5 Days of Adventure and Fun in Sacramento!

As a tourist to Sacramento, one can explore the city's rich history by visiting attractions such as the California State Capitol and the Old Sacramento Waterfront. Nature lovers can enjoy the picturesque views of the American River Parkway and Folsom Lake. For entertainment, visitors can attend concerts at the Golden 1 Center or try their luck at the Cache Creek Casino Resort.

Sacramento in 3: Budget-Friendly Fun Guide

A trip to Sacramento on a limited budget can be an enjoyable experience. Included attractions are the California State Capitol Museum, Old Sacramento State Historic Park, and the Crocker Art Museum. For affordable accommodations, travelers can consider hostels or budget hotels outside of downtown.