Sacramento
Introduction
You will find Sacramento situated in the heart of the Sacramento Valley, positioned at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers. As the capital city of California and the county seat of Sacramento County, it serves as a central hub within the state.
Before you go
Prepare for a slower pace of life where you will encounter warm and friendly people in a city known for its diversity. Because the city sits in the heart of a productive agricultural region, you will notice the urban landscape emerge abruptly from the surrounding farmland. While the area is generally safe, remain mindful of your surroundings at night and avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash. If you are navigating the downtown area, take extra care with the many one-way streets which can be confusing and are not always well marked.
Experience a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. You can expect dry and sunny days for much of the year, though winter months may bring dense fog that reduces visibility. During the summer, intense heat is common, but it is often mitigated by the "delta breeze" which brings cooler air from the river delta into the city. If you are traveling in the spring, you can enjoy a blossom-laden season as fruit trees and flowers fill the grassland.
Getting there
You can reach the city by air at Sacramento International Airport, which offers non-stop flights from Canada, Hawaii, Mexico, and various regions across the United States. For international arrivals, you may choose to fly into San Francisco International Airport and connect via the BART subway to Oakland before taking a Greyhound, Amtrak, or Flixbus to your destination. If traveling by train, the Sacramento Valley Station is located within walking distance of downtown and Old Town. This busy hub provides access to several rail lines, including the Coast Starlight, California Zephyr, Capitol Corridor, and Gold Runner, as well as local light rail and bus connections.
Driving to the city puts you at a major crossroads where Interstate 5 and Interstate 80 meet. You can reach the area from the San Francisco Bay Area via Interstate 80, from Reno or North Lake Tahoe via Interstate 80, or from South Lake Tahoe along U.S. Route 50. Travelers coming from the Pacific Northwest or Redding can take Interstate 5 south, while those arriving from the San Joaquin Valley or Southern California can travel north on Interstate 5 or State Route 99. Additionally, several intercity bus lines provide service from locations such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and Tijuana.
Getting around
Navigating Sacramento is straightforward thanks to a grid system in the central district where numbered streets run north and south while lettered streets run east and west. You can enjoy a pleasant walk through Central Sacramento, which is known as the tree city for its dense canopy of street trees. Historic Old Sacramento, the Riverfront, and the California State Railroad Museum are all within a short walk of the train station, while the Capitol building is a manageable walk from Old Sacramento. If you prefer to cycle, the wide, flat, tree-lined streets of Downtown and Midtown offer a relaxed experience with clearly marked routes and bike lanes on most grid streets. You can also access the American River Bike Trail for outdoor recreation or use a bike-share app to find nearby rentals.
For broader travel, Sacramento Regional Transit provides light rail service with three lines that share tracks through downtown, as well as local bus services. While buses serve the city, they generally become less frequent as you move away from the downtown area. For trips beyond the walkable and bikeable central core, a car is your best option to navigate the suburbs. Taxis are available at the train station and major attractions, though you should call ahead for locations outside of the downtown area.
Where to stay
When choosing where to stay in Sacramento, consider the timing of your visit, as hotels near the central business district often experience higher rates during weekdays and major events due to the influx of business travelers. You can find a variety of accommodations ranging from eco-conscious options with green housekeeping practices to all-suite hotels featuring fully-equipped kitchens and complimentary breakfast.
Depending on your preferences, you might choose:
- A stay in Old Town near the train station for easy access to rail travel.
- Accommodations near the Cal Expo and Sacramento County Fairgrounds that include fitness centers and whirlpool spas.
- Unique rooms where no two are exactly alike and pets are welcome.
Food & drink
The culinary landscape of Sacramento varies by neighborhood, with the central district offering trendy and hip options while other areas reflect local tastes. In suburban areas to the northeast, you will find many national or large regional chains. For a unique experience, visit an independent grocery store featuring a famous deli counter known for its Italian foods and long-standing ravioli production. If you prefer specific cuisines, choose from authentic Hong Kong and Cantonese dishes, various Indian and Nepalese flavors, or regional Mexican cuisine in a festive atmosphere. You can also find high-quality vegan and vegetarian Southeast Asian dishes, traditional Spanish tapas with sangria, or hearty comfort food like grilled meats and mashed potatoes.
For those seeking specific treats, you can find:
- Stuffed-crust pizza and local beers on tap
- A wide selection of tacos, burritos, and mulitas
- Dim sum in a setting that has gained recognition for its quality
- International and eclectic menus served in historic buildings
- Family-style dining with a variety of dishes to share
- High-end steaks and seafood where the server presents raw ingredients before preparation
The city's vibrant nightlife is concentrated in Downtown and Midtown, particularly around J Street for upscale clubs and lounges. You can experience local culture at an independent historic movie theater featuring art deco design or visit a trendy bar with an urban industrial feel that offers pool tables and large screens. For live music, you can find indie-rock venues hosting local and traveling talent, including dedicated dance parties on weeknights. Other options include gay-friendly bars and clubs in the downtown area, as well as casual, crowded dive bars.
What to see and do
Explore the historical heart of the city in Old Sacramento, a living historic district featuring boardwalk-style sidewalks and horse-drawn stagecoaches. You can wander through this area to find various museums, restaurants, and souvenir shops within walking distance of one another. Nearby, you can visit the California State Capitol, which sits within a large park featuring gardens, memorials, and monuments. For a look at local history, explore the Sacramento History Museum or the State Indian Museum, which showcases Native Californian basketry and beadwork. If you prefer to see the region's cultural heritage or its automotive legacy, visit the California Museum or the California Automobile Museum.
Experience the local culture through various events and activities:
- Attend the Second Saturdays Art Walk in midtown to visit galleries and nearby restaurants.
- Enjoy outdoor music at Concerts in the Park during the summer months.
- Visit the California State Fair at the Cal Expo fairgrounds for live entertainment and exhibits.
- Experience the Sacramento Capitol City Jazz Festival, featuring international bands across various venues.
- Take a leisurely float on the Lower American River by renting an inflatable raft.
- Browse local produce, meat, and artisan goods at the certified farmers' markets throughout the region.
When to go
You can experience a Mediterranean climate in Sacramento, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. During the winter months, you should prepare for dense fog that can significantly reduce visibility while driving. While snow is rare, it occasionally occurs as a light dusting or accumulation. The transition into spring and early summer brings dry, sunny conditions where fruit trees bloom and grasslands fill with flowers.
During the hot season, you will experience intense heat and dry conditions, which are naturally cooled in the late afternoon by delta breezes. These cooling winds prevent prolonged heat waves. If you visit during the autumn months, you can enjoy dry, sunny weather and a foliage fall as temperatures begin to moderate from the summer peaks.
Three days in Sacramento
Day one, you can begin your journey in the heart of the city. Explore Old Town to experience the local atmosphere and history of this area.
Day two, you can travel through the Sacramento Valley or explore the surrounding regions of Sacramento County as you settle into the landscape.
Day three, you can plan your departure from the region by preparing for a trip toward other destinations in California or beyond.