When it comes to arts and culture, your group will have no shortage of opportunities when it comes to things to do in Sacramento
As the capital of one of America’s most populous states, Sacramento is buzzing with possibilities for group tours visiting the area, and the city has become a hotspot for history, culture and culinary delights. For young and old alike, Sacramento has a charm that comes from its important place in history and a local community dedicated to making the city a dynamic place to be. There are so many options when it comes to things to do in Sacramento, and here we share some of our top picks.
No visit to Sacramento would be complete without exploring Old Sacramento Waterfront, a National Historic Landmark District located along the river and the core of the city’s attractions. Charming architecture, cute shops, a picturesque setting – it’s the perfect place to begin any visit to Sacramento. Walk along the boardwalk, take a boat ride on the river or learn more about the city’s history by booking one of the popular underground tours.
Capitol Park is a must-see for any group paying a visit to Sacramento. Learn more about the history of how this Sacramento site came to be the seat for the government in 1869 through free guided tours that are offered hourly on weekdays and led by friendly, knowledgeable guides. There is also an on-site museum with lots of interesting artifacts that all have an important role in the state’s history. And remember to leave time to walk the gorgeous grounds of the park, with its various memorials and diverse array of flora and fauna that is beautiful throughout the year.
California State Railroad Museum
On the edge of Old Sacramento Waterfront sits one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, the California State Railroad Museum. Celebrating one of the greatest innovations of the 19th century and one that helped to connect California to the world, this museum is both interactive and informative. Visitors can check out the restored locomotives, learn about the impact trains had on the West’s commerce, and between April and October even hop aboard the Sacramento Southern Railroad for a 40-minute trip along the river. For more of the city’s history, including the important role the Gold Rush played in shaping the city’s identity, head to the Sacramento History Museum where education and fun come together to provide a truly unique insight into this historic capital city.
Art lovers can easily spend the day at the Crocker Art Museum. The longest continuously-operating art museum in the West, it offers an impressive depth of American, Asian, African and Oceania art, all dating back to the time of the American gold rush. Speaking of art, Sacramento is home to hundreds of murals that can be found throughout the city. Spend time walking the streets of Midtown and Old Town and see the varied designs of local and visiting artists who have left their work to be enjoyed by visitors and locals alike.
The Sacramento Zoo is small, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in quality and charm. Within the park’s 14 acres visitors will find nearly 400 animals, many of which are endangered. Towering giraffes, vibrant flamingos, bounding kangaroos – the list goes on, and the zoo’s relaxing atmosphere is a great place to spend some time in the fresh California air.
For groups traveling with young children, Fairytale Town offers the perfect place to engage young minds and have some fun, as kids act out their favorite fairytale on more than 25 oversized play sets that recreate the adventures of Peter Rabbit, Mother Goose, Humpty Dumpty and others.
When it comes to things to do in Sacramento, you won’t want to skimp on the dining scene. Sacramento is known as “America’s Farm-to-Fork” capital thanks to its proximity to farmland that produces some incredible local flavors and amazing seasonal treats. Check out popular restaurants such as Ella Dining Room & Bar or Grange Restaurant & Bar. The city also shines with its abundance of international dining options, including Thai, Moroccan and Persian. The food scene in Sacramento is diverse and thriving.
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