
Sacramento offers a multitude of things to do, from wandering around the historic old town to scoffing down frothy brews on K Street. “California begins here,” its tourism slogan proclaims, and there’s no denying this seldom-explored city is rich in history and culture.
If you’re planning a trip to the state capital and you’re looking for fun attractions to explore, then this is the article for you. We cover the top things to do in the city, and we’ll tick off a varied array of options to cater to most budgets, ages, and tastes.
Discover the history of the city and state
适合: 历史, 照片, 经济
Kick off your city tour at California State Park, home to the gorgeous neoclassical Capitol building that’s been the seat of government since 1869. Inside, an extensive history and art museum showcases California’s past with artefacts, portraits, and antiques – jump on the free guided tour that departs on the hour.
Once you’re done with the museum, spend a few minutes strolling around the surrounding park, where sombre memorials mark major events amid beautifully manicured gardens. The site is a great place to gain an insight into California’s past, and entry into both the park and museum is entirely free.
地址: 1315 10th St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA
开放时间 Monday–Friday from 7.30 am to 6 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm
电话: +1 916-324-0333

California State Park
Warp back in time to the wild, wild west
适合: 历史, 照片
Old Sacramento Waterfront is the city’s historic heart, with many buildings dating back to the gold rush days of the 1840s. Bypass the tacky souvenir stalls and hit up the restaurants and ice-cream hawkers on its planked riverside boardwalk and quaint cobblestone streets. Everywhere you look, well-preserved original architecture creates an endearing old-timey vibe.
The district is home to some of the city’s top museums and you can visit them all in quick succession. A highlight is the California State Railroad Museum, which exhibits 21 intriguing ‘iron horses’ from yesteryear. Other worthwhile spots include the Eagle Theatre, the Tehama Block, the Big Four Building, and the Huntington Hopkins Hardware Store.
地址: 1014 2nd St #200, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA
电话: +1 916-970-5226

Old Sacramento Historic Park
Exceptional artworks from California and beyond
适合: 历史, 照片
Established in 1871, the Crocker Art Museum is one of the longest-running museums in America. The centre showcases an eclectic collection, from portraits of the gold rush era through to contemporary pop art pieces of the present day.
The expansive 15,000-piece collection includes ceramic works from around the globe, as well as exotic artworks from Asia, Oceania, and Africa. Local art is well-represented, too, with several original pieces from the founding Crocker family’s private collection. For modern art, head to the contemporary wing and peruse its exquisite rotating and permanent exhibitions. Boston Crèmes by Wayne Thiebaud is an excellent example of locally produced pop art that’s well worth a look.
地址: 216 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA
开放时间 Tuesday–Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)
电话: +1 916-808-7000

Crocker Art Museum
A crucial site in California’s history
适合: 家庭, 历史, 照片
Sutter’s Fort is key to Californian history; the site kicked off the gold rush that would change the state forever. Swiss immigrant John Sutter first settled here in 1839 to establish a 150,000-acre ranch, employing other migrants to harvest wheat and cotton in the fields. Sutter later commissioned a man named James Marshall to construct a sawmill. He found the first nugget of Californian gold nearby.
The ensuing gold rush saw the fort abandoned as workers left to try their luck in the hills. The site has since been fully restored to its former glory and registered as a National Historic Landmark. Several well-preserved buildings and exhibits are available to explore and the museum provides guests with gold rush-era costumes to enhance the atmosphere.
地址: 2701 L St, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA
开放时间 Saturday–Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm
电话: +1 916-445-4422

Sutter’s Fort
Transport your children to a world of nursery rhymes and fairy tales
适合: 家庭
Fairytale Town is where your children’s favourite bedtime stories come alive and their imaginations will be piqued like never before. Dozens of playsets let kids step foot into loveable tales, with an interactive setup that keeps their bodies moving. From the adventures of King Arthur’s Castle to magical journeys in Cinderella’s carriage, your children will feel like they’re in a fantasy world.
Fairytale Town is inside William Land Park and hosts many events that cater to children throughout the year. The park’s programs educate children on cultural diversity through immersive theatrical performances. Kids have the opportunity to learn about gardening at Mr McGregor ’s Garden, the Alphabet Garden, and an authentic Japanese garden.
地址: 3901 Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822, USA
开放时间 Daily from 9 am to 4 pm
电话: +1 916-808-5233

Fairytale Town
A 32-mile bike path with beautiful riverside views
适合: 经济, 冒险
The American River Bike Trail is a hit among health-conscious locals looking to enjoy Mother Nature with their exercise regime. The 32-mile trail officially starts at Discovery Park, where bike rentals are available. It winds its way along the gushing American River until Bael’s Point at Folsom Lake. Opt to go halfway if the 3-hour jaunt seems too daunting.
En route, expect to encounter splendid views of lush woodlands and the river, not to mention curious critters like woodpeckers and water birds. Water fountains, restrooms, and restaurants dot the fully-paved route.