Things to do in the Sacramento area

How Much Time Do You Have?

• ⏰ Have 3 Hours? — Old Sacramento, Capitol Park, nearby museums, quick lunch
• ☀️ Have an Afternoon? — Old Sacramento + riverfront + Farm-to-Fork dining
• 🌆 Have an Evening? — Dinner, nightlife, Golden 1 Center, live entertainment
• 🗓️ Staying an Extra Day? — Sacramento Zoo, Crocker Art Museum, American River Parkway
• 🚗 Have a Full Day? — Wine country, Gold Country, or a day trip outside Sacramento

🌴 Things to Do in Sacramento

Make the most of your time in Sacramento!
Whether you have a few hours between sessions, an afternoon to explore, or an extra day before heading home, Sacramento offers plenty to see, do, eat, and experience.

⭐ Must-See Sacramento

Old Sacramento Waterfront
Step back in time in this 28-acre historic district along the Sacramento River. Explore Gold Rush-era buildings, shops, restaurants, museums, and attractions. 

California State Capitol & Capitol Park
Visit the California State Capitol and take a stroll through the surrounding Capitol Park, featuring gardens, monuments, and historic landmarks. 

California State Railroad Museum
Explore one of Sacramento's most popular attractions and discover the history of the railroad and its role in shaping California and the American West. 

Crocker Art Museum
Discover California art along with collections spanning centuries and cultures at one of Sacramento's signature cultural attractions. 

🍴 Taste Sacramento

Sacramento is known as America's Farm-to-Fork Capital, making it a great destination for food lovers. From farm-fresh restaurants and farmers markets to breweries, wineries, and locally inspired cuisine, there are plenty of ways to experience Sacramento's food scene. 

🌳 Get Outside

Enjoy Sacramento's sunshine and outdoor spaces. Walk or bike along the American River Parkway, explore the Sacramento River waterfront, or spend some time in one of the city's many parks. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular ways to experience the area's waterways. 

🎨 Explore Sacramento's Arts & Culture

Sacramento has more than 30 museums and a vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore museums, galleries, live entertainment, public art, and the city's colorful mural scene. 

🐾 Traveling with Family?

The Sacramento Zoo, Fairytale Town, and William Land Park offer family-friendly options just south of downtown. 

🏀 Catch a Game or Show

Check out what's happening at Golden 1 Center, home of the Sacramento Kings and a major concert and entertainment venue. Sacramento also offers professional sports and live entertainment throughout the year. 

🍷 Have More Time?

Sacramento is also a great base for exploring beyond the city. Sacramento Regional Wine Country features more than 200 wineries, while Gold Rush-era towns in Gold Country are about 45 minutes away.