The California State Capitol is a must-see stop on any Sacramento itinerary. Take a docent-led tour or a self-guided tour to experience California’s rich history and witness the making of history through the modern lawmaking process. It's a living museum dedicated to sharing California's past and working to build California's future. Capitol Park is 40 acres spanning 12 city blocks. The park is filled with trees, plants and shrubs that have been gathered from all over the world. And it features some incredible memorials dedicated to different facets of California history. Capitol Park includes memorials for the Mexican-American War, Father Junipero Serra, firefighters, peace officers, the Spanish-American War, the USS California Bell, the Vietnam War and more. One of the most popular spots in the park is the World Peace Rose Garden. Fun fact, the southeast section serves as a test garden for the All-American Rose Selections.
Step back in time in the Old Sacramento Historic District, a charming and vibrant area that captures the spirit of California’s Gold Rush era. With its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and restored 19th-century architecture, Old Sacramento offers a glimpse into the past while offering plenty of modern-day attractions. Explore unique shops, museums, and eateries, or take a ride on a historic riverboat. Bonus point: Our wedding venue, The Firehouse Restaurant, is also located here. This area is a perfect blend of history and fun, where you can experience California’s rich heritage while enjoying a variety of cultural and recreational activities
Soak in the stunning views of the Sacramento River. Step aboard the Capitol Hornblower for a scenic sightseeing cruise or a relaxing cocktail cruise. Enjoy a leisurely excursion while learning about the rich history of California's capital, from the early days of the Gold Rush to the vibrant metropolis that Sacramento is today.
Located next to the Golden 1 Center, home of the NBA's Sacramento Kings, DOCO is a vibrant entertainment and lifestyle district in downtown Sacramento. Just steps from the State Capitol and the Old Town Waterfront, DOCO is the heart of the city, offering a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The California State Railroad Museum in Old Sacramento is a world-class tribute to the pivotal role of the 'iron horse' in connecting California to the rest of the nation. The museum showcases a stunning collection of restored locomotives and railcars, some dating back to 1862. Step back in time to the 1860s as you learn about the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad through the rugged Sierra Nevada. Explore how railroads helped shape California's development, influencing its economy, culture, and the lives of its people.
The Crocker Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the Western United States, located right in downtown Sacramento. Founded in 1885 by Edwin B. Crocker and his wife Margaret. The museum holds one of the premier collections of Californian art. The collection includes American works dating from the Gold Rush to the present, European paintings and master drawings, one of the largest international ceramics collections in the U.S., and collections of Asian, African, and Oceanic art.
Built in 1856, the mansion was formerly the residence of Leland Stanford, 8th Governor of California and founder of Stanford University. The Stanford family donated the estate to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Sacramento in 1900, which maintained a children's home on the estate until 1978. Subsequently, the Californian government purchased the property to serve as the Californian capital's ceremonial reception center and as a state park, officially known as the Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park.
From 1839 to 1849, Sutter's Fort was the economic center of the first permanent European colonial settlement in California's Central Valley. The fort is famous for its association with the Donner Party, the California Gold Rush, and the formation of the city of Sacramento, surrounding the fort. It is notable for its proximity to the end of the California Trail and Siskiyou Trails, which it served as a waystation. The State Indian Museum is in Sutter's Fort Park. The State Indian Museum, opened in 1940, depicts three major themes of California Indian life: Nature, Spirit, and Family. Native peoples lived prosperously for thousands of years in what is now California. All of the exhibits and photographs on display in the museum are presented with respect for those who went before us on this land and continue to live in California communities today.
Sac Brew Bike is a pedal-powered, 15-passenger cycle that takes you on a fun and unique tour of downtown Sacramento. It’s the ultimate pub crawl experience, offering a mix of craft beer and delicious food while you ride through the heart of the city!