Sacramento is more than just its action-packed sports scene, as this California charmer is proud of its other attractions that deserve praise. For starters, it is home to many museums, performing arts centers, cultural institutions, and historical landmarks that cater to tourists of varied tastes.
Moreover, this destination is proud of its thriving park system – an oasis in this bustling city. As the state capital of California, Sacramento is a thriving urban jungle, but even as it’s steep in modernity, it also has natural spots where outdoor lovers can find bliss. Sacramento is, indeed, blessed, and so are its tourists.
10 Visit A Museum
The best way to meet a city is by visiting its museums. After all, learning about the area’s past and culture is a good way to kick off a tour. In Sacramento, for instance, visitors can start their journey at Sacramento History Museum and follow it up with a tour of the California State Capitol Museum and The California Museum. For more history, tourists can visit Governor's Mansion State Historic Park and Leland Stanford Mansion. Lovers of art, meanwhile, should not miss checking out the masterpieces at Crocker Art Museum.
9 Check Out Its Landmarks
After exploring the city’s museums, tourists should next turn their heads to the landmarks scattered in its thriving districts. Travelers can first enjoy the vibe of Old Sacramento, home to cobbled streets and historic buildings. Sightseeing in this part of town is like stepping back in time – literally. Those who want to shop a little while enjoying the sights can head to Chinatown. Two other historic districts that offer more stories are Poverty Ridge and Newton Booth. Wherever tourists explore, they’ll have worthwhile moments.
8 Explore Its Parks
Though a state capital, Sacramento has pockets of oasis for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city – at least even for a short time. Those who crave relaxing greenery can enjoy the trees at Capitol Park, while tourists who want to mingle with locals in various activities can stay at Cesar Chavez Plaza. Family fun can always be had at William Land Park, thanks to its many attractions. Lastly, those who want to commune with Mother Nature can opt to explore the relaxing American River Parkway.
7 Watch A Sport
Sacramento is a known city in love with its sports teams, spearheaded by the National Basketball Association’s Sacramento Kings. Fans of this NBA team should head to Golden 1 Center, where they can score some souvenirs. Soccer fans, meanwhile, can visit Heart Health Park, the headquarters of Sacramento Republic FC. Baseball lovers, on the other hand, can have action-packed moments at Sutter Health Park. Lastly, Hornet Stadium is the place to be for football connoisseurs. Sports action is indeed everywhere in Sacramento.
6 Conquer Hiking Trails
Those not content with casual strolls in parks can take their legs on a journey along Sacramento’s hiking trails. There are at least 28 routes, all offering relaxing views of the cityscape. For an easy trek, there’s the five-mile Guy West Bridge to Watt Avenue Bridge, while those raring for a little challenge can head to the nearby Auburn State Recreation Area, where over 100 miles of trails await hikers. Wherever tourists trek, the rewarding views of Sacramento will satisfy them.
5 Bike Like There’s No Tomorrow
Bikers who want to feel the charming outdoors of Sacramento are in for a treat, too. The city’s main cycling spot is the American River Parkway, where the trails follow the pristine waterway, making for a scenic pedal. The area spans 23 miles, so there’s no limit on how bikers plan to explore the trails. Meanwhile, those who want to sightsee the city while cycling can take on the bike lanes of Old Sacramento, where safety and leisure are combined.
4 Take On The Rapids
The city has the American and Sacramento Rivers at its disposal, so those raring to conquer the rapids are in for a treat. Rafting is another favorite pastime in Sactown, so adrenaline is ever-present in the city. The South Fork of the American River is one big playground for thrill-seekers, with its rapids more than ready to pose a challenge to rafters, be they novices or experts. Whatever the skill level, the waterways of Sacramento are always eager to meet new challengers.
3 Befriend Birds
Birdwatchers should ready their logbooks when exploring the birding spots of Sacramento because they are sure to meet new friends. The American River Parkway is home to 100 bird species, making it a favorite hangout spot of wildlife watchers. Cosumnes River Preserve, meanwhile, is perfect for spotting shorebirds and sandhill cranes. Lastly, owls, hawks, geese, swans, and ducks are headquartered at Woodbridge Ecological Preserve. Wherever birdwatchers focus their gaze, the reserves in Sacramento and its winged residents will keep them busy.
2 Try Its Cuisine
Sacramento is dubbed “America's Farm-to-Fork Capital,” something to entice foodies. The region got that tag because locals have been practicing farm-to-fork eating for many years. Many restaurants practice it, offering customers the chance to support the cause. Beyond this, tourists are also encouraged to try local craft beer, thanks to the thriving brewery industry in the area. Wine tasting and fine dining can be experienced, too. The nightlife is also something to enjoy as Sacramento has a lot of dining and party options for painting the town red.
1 Shopping Spree
Before leaving charming Sacramento, it’s a must to visit its shopping destinations, where tourists can score some mementos. Arden Fair Mall is perfect for when visitors want to shop ‘til they drop, but those who want to sightsee while scoring deals can head to Downtown Commons or Old Sacramento. DOCO is the home of the Sacramento Kings’ store, while Old Sacramento is the place to be when looking for souvenirs and handmade items. Shopping is a fun experience in the city, thanks to its varied retail options.