Top Attractions for First-Time Visitors
Old Sacramento Historic District
Step back in time with a stroll through Old Sacramento, home to the California State Railroad Museum, shopping, dining, and river cruises. Wander along the wooden boardwalks and cobblestone streets to get a glimpse into Sacramento’s Gold Rush era. Be sure to pop into the 150+ specialty shops and restaurants housed in historic buildings along Front and K Streets.
California State Capitol
You can’t miss the imposing granite California State Capitol building, topped with a glittering dome, in downtown Sacramento. Daily tours provide a close-up look at the Capitol’s stunning interiors, historic legislative chambers, and 40 acres of surrounding gardens. Time your visit to witness lawmakers debating bills when the legislature is in session.
Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park
History buffs will love exploring Sutter’s Fort, an original 1839 fort constructed during Sacramento’s earliest settlement days. Costumed docents bring the fort’s trapping, farming, and cattle ranching activities to life. Special events like the yearly Spring Living History Days are a treat for visitors of all ages.
Crocker Art Museum
Art and architecture aficionados must include a stop at the Crocker Art Museum, known for its impressive collections spanning European art to Californian Impressionists. The museum encompasses a complex of three buildings, including the ornate Victorian mansion of railroad magnate Edwin Crocker. Don’t miss the lush Courtyard Garden.
California State Indian Museum
Gain insight into the lives and cultures of California’s Native American tribes at this captivating museum. Interactive exhibits detail tribal history, customs, arts, crafts, and more across multiple floors and outdoor areas. knowledge of California’s indigenous people.
California State Railroad Museum
One of Old Sacramento’s most popular attractions, this expansive railroad museum houses beautifully restored locomotives and railcars. Exhibits trace the history and impact of railroads in connecting California. Train rides are available to take your railroad experience on the go.
Golden 1 Center
Catch an event or concert at the Golden 1 Center, a state-of-the-art arena in downtown Sacramento. Home to the NBA’s Sacramento Kings, big-name musicians also frequently perform at the 17,500-seat venue. Enjoy great views from any seat and explore the complex’s art displays and restaurants.
Fairytale Town
Kids love exploring the two dozen play sets based on classic fairytales and nursery rhymes at Fairytale Town. This 2.5 acre park provides interactive fun with structures like the Old Woman’s Shoe and the Three Billy Goats Gruff. Storytelling, puppet shows, and special events entertain visitors year-round.
Funderland Amusement Park
Cool off with a day of water slides and adventure at Funderland in North Highlands. With over 20 rides and attractions spread across 10 acres, there’s excitement for all ages. From bumper boats to go-karts to a triple-tube slide called Python Plummet, you’ll stay busy all day.
Raging Waters Sacramento
Speaking of water parks, Raging Waters Sacramento offers another way to beat the heat during Sacramento’s hot summers. Speed down water slides, brave the waves in activity pools, or simply relax on a lounge chair. Dining is available on-site when you need to refuel.
Sacramento Zoo
The small, but nicely designed Sacramento Zoo is home to over 500 animals across 90 species. See tigers, elephants, lemurs, reptiles, owls, insects, and more. Special events and shows run throughout the year, like Roaring Nights in summer with extended hours.
Sacramento History Museum
For more about Sacramento’s rich history, this Old Sacramento museum brings the area’s past to life through interactive exhibits and displays. Learn how Sacramento developed from frontier town to diverse metropolis over time, shaped by the Gold Rush, agriculture, and more.
Westfield Galleria at Roseville
Just outside Sacramento in nearby Roseville, this massive shopping mall offers ample retail therapy. Westfield Galleria spans over 1.4 million square feet with anchors like Macy’s, JCPenney, and Nordstrom plus luxury boutiques like Louis Vuitton. Take a break at the mall’s lively food court.
Apple Hill
About 30 minutes outside Sacramento, Apple Hill offers fall fun at its numerous orchards and farms. Go apple picking, sample cider and baked goods, shop crafts, and enjoy activities like tractor rides. Many ranches allow leashed pets and offer dining options too.
UC Davis Campus
University town Davis is under 30 minutes from Sacramento by car. Bike or walk around the beautiful University of California, Davis campus and its arboretum. The campus is also home to innovative museums covering geology, entomology, design, and the arts.
Lake Natoma
Popular Lake Natoma lies near Folsom, about 20 minutes northeast of Sacramento. Choices for recreation include swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and cycling along the lakefront trail. Many areas allow picnicking, beach fun, and relaxing in the sunshine.
How to Get Around Sacramento
Public Transportation
Sacramento Regional Transit offers bus and light rail service around the city and to nearby communities. Most major attractions like Old Sacramento, the Capitol, and downtown museums are accessible by light rail and bus routes.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis and rideshares like Uber and Lyft readily serve the Sacramento area. Rates vary by company and demand. This option works well for smaller groups visiting different parts of the city throughout the day. Double check wait times during busy periods.
Charter Buses
For large groups visiting Sacramento together, charter buses provide customizable transportation. Charter buses allow you to travel together in comfort to attractions across the city. No need to worry about parking or traffic with our experienced team.
Ready to Get Started?
Now that you know some of the top things to do and ways to get around, start planning your Sacramento getaway! Sacramento Party Bus Company offers charter bus rentals to make your group’s travels easy and memorable. Reach out at 279-399-4837 to learn more about renting a charter bus or minibus for your Sacramento vacation.