But you’re missing out on what this growing city has to offer; this includes access to outdoor activities, vibrant history and culture, and a fantastic food scene. 

This Sacramento itinerary will walk you through the best of the city’s attractions and eateries in the Downtown and Midtown areas, all of which you can experience on a weekend!

Disclaimer: This post uses affiliate links, which means I make a commission if you book through this post. If you do decide to book using my links, thank you so much for your support!

2-Day Sacramento Weekend Itinerary

Day 1

Morning: Coffee and Midtown Farmers Market

Start your Sacramento itinerary by getting some coffee at Pachamama in the Midtown location, one of the best coffee shops in Sacramento. They have a wide range of drinks and specialty lattes with oat milk as the default creamer. There is so much seating indoors and outdoors.

After you get your drink, you can sit down and sip for a bit before you head to the Midtown Farmers Market a few feet away. The Midtown Farmers Market happens every Saturday from 8 AM–1 PM all year round. You can stroll to sample and buy fresh produce, window shop for works from local artists, and order grub from food trucks.

Afternoon: State Capitol

Head over to the California State Capitol, where the state legislators work. While it’s closed on the weekends, you can walk around outside the building and the State Capitol Park, which is open 24/7.

Right inside the park, you have to check out the World Peace Rose Garden, which houses over 600 roses in 140 different colors and fragrances. There are benches all around this gorgeous small garden where you can relax and smell the roses (no pun intended).

Evening: Arcades and Drinks at Coin-Op

Unleash your inner child at Coin-Op Game Room, an arcade for adults featuring retro games from the 90s and 00s. There’s also an extensive menu offering beer, specialty cocktails, appetizers, pizza, and wings. It’s basically a Chuck E. Cheese for adults that closes at 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays!

Day 2

Morning: Crocker Art Museum

Head over to Crocker Art Museum, the oldest art museum in the Western US. The museum is home to over 25,000 pieces of art from different periods and regions, such as Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. There’s also an extensive collective of work during and depicting the California Gold Rush from local artists.

Afternoon: Old Sacramento (Our most visited spot!)

No trip to Sacramento is complete without a visit to Old Sacramento, the most visited attraction in the area. Old Sacramento attracts over 5 million visitors a year and is located right by the waterfront next to the Sacramento River and the Tower Bridge.

You could spend all day in Old Sacramento. Check out the California Railroad Museum where you can learn about the trains that operated in the West since the 19th century. You can even go on a scenic 50-minute train ride along the river from the museum!

Or, you can go on a 90-minute cruise on the Sacramento River with some cocktails, going under Tower Bridge.

Old Sacramento also has a bunch of dessert spots, like Danny’s Mini Donuts, Sacramento Sweets Co. for ice cream, and Candy Haven for laffy taffy. Check out Sean Finnegan’s Pub for a delicious Irish coffee.

And don’t leave Old Sacramento without stopping by Evangeline’s to shop for some quirky gifts!

Evening: Downtown Commons (DOCO)

Walk over to DOCO (Downtown Commons), which is right next to Old Sacramento. You could walk there through the pedestrian tunnel that connects both of them. There are endless choices for food, shopping, and entertainment in DOCO.

For a sit-down dinner with delicious, shareable appetizers (like wings and poke nachos) and a rowdy, fun ambiance, check out Yard House! Or if you’re craving Mexican food and margaritas, head over to Polanco Cantina.

If you’re ever in Sacramento during NBA season, make sure to get tickets to see the Kings in Golden 1 Center, which is right next to DOCO! If you’re lucky to see them win, Golden 1 Center will light a purple beam in the sky.

Where to Stay for Your Sacramento Itinerary

For first-time visitors to Sacramento, I always recommend staying in Downtown or Midtown. You’re near all of the major attractions, museums, restaurants (that aren’t Olive Garden), and bars. You won’t need a car because you can just take the light rail or rent a Lime bike. Plus, most the unique hotels are in Downtown and Midtown!

• Luxury: Kimpton the Sawyer Hotel
• Mid-range: Fort Sutter Hotel
• Budget: Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown

How to Get to Sacramento

You can fly into Sacramento International Airport (SMF) and start your Sacramento itinerary there! The airport is about 15-20 minutes north of Sacramento.

Or you can fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and rent a car and 2 hours to Sacramento (or you can book a one-way private transfer).

Whichever airport you choose to fly into, renting a car is a must if you want to explore beyond Downtown and Midtown. Sacramento is a sprawling city with limited public transportation; while they do have a light rail, it doesn’t go all over the city and it comes every 15 minutes. And the buses come every 30 minutes.

If you plan to only stay in Downtown or Midtown, relying on the light rail will suffice!

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping Up Your 2-Day Sacramento Itinerary

This 2-day Sacramento itinerary shows you the best of what the city has to offer. From the iconic California State Capitol to the weekly Midtown Farmers Market, Sacramento has so much to offer for families and couples!

Now don’t get me wrong, Sacramento during the summer is HOT. I need to warn you that the average temperatures range from 90°–110°. You need to be prepared when the heat slaps you in the face; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and a hat, and stay in the shade as much as possible.

Hopefully, I haven’t scared you from visiting Sacramento during the summer. The heat doesn’t stop people from partaking in outdoor activities, exploring the city’s art and restaurant scene, or going to a River Cats game.

Most people just go out really early in the morning or as the sun sets to avoid the heat.

I’ve lived in Sacramento for more than 20 years, and I know all the exciting summer activities and happenings.

Let me help you plan a kickass time with these summer activities in Sacramento!

Note: Not all of these are specifically in the city of Sacramento. But they are all in the vicinity or in the Sacramento Metropolitan Area (with the exception of Lake Tahoe, one of the most popular getaways for Sacramentans).

Disclaimer: This post uses affiliate links, which means I make a commission if you book through this post. If you do decide to book using my links, thank you so much for your support!

Summer Activities in Sacramento

1. River cruise down the Sacramento River

Consider going down the Sacramento River on a 60–90 minute cruise where you can relax and catch a glimpse of the Tower Bridge and the Ziggurat pyramid building in West Sacramento. I recommend going on an evening cruise since you can watch the sunset with that gorgeous golden hour glow. Order a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) or two for the ultimate relaxation!

All river cruises start and end in Old Sacramento by the docking area.

Sacramento River Cruises

• Alive After Five Cocktail River Cruise
• Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise (21+ only)
• Sacramento: River Cruise with Narrated History
• Sights and Sips Cruise
• Private Sunday River Cruise with Custom Stops

2. Take a dip in Folsom Lake

With how brutal Sacramento summers can get, Folsom Lake provides extra relief from the heat. Folsom Lake is almost 40 minutes away from Sacramento, and is the perfect spot for swimming, boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. There are over 19,000 acres of water and 75 miles of shoreline!

Just be sure to bring an umbrella or a tent because there is no shade by the water!

The most popular area in Folsom Lake is through the Granite Bay entrance, which also has picnic benches and barbeque pits under the shade.

Beal’s Point is another popular spot in Folsom Lake, and it also has an overnight campground and access to a 32-mile bike trail from the American River to Old Sacramento.

Both Granite Bay access and Beal’s Point have a snack bar with beach rental equipment, which includes paddleboards, kayaks, shade canopies, and rafts.

It costs $12 to enter Granite Bay access and Beal’s Point.

If you want to camp overnight in Beal’s Point, it’s $33 for peak season and $58 for the RV campgrounds.

3. Paddle and Kayak at Lake Natoma

Lake Natoma is a small lake in Gold River that is also a part of the larger Folsom Lake. The Sacramento State Aquatic Center is a recreation facility where the rowing teams from the university have their practices.

You can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes from the Sac State Aquatic Center. Click here to learn more information about the rental pricing.

Sac State Aquatic Center also has classes for sailing, paddling, rowing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and jetskiing!

4. Attend the California State Fair

No list of summer activities in Sacramento is complete without attending the California State Fair at least once. It’s held in July for two weeks.

Going to the fair is quite the classic American summer experience, from gorging on the deep-fried foods and funnel cake to going on janky rides. While my husband Cecilio does not like rides, sometimes I drag him to the go on the Ferris wheel or the Skyride, a gondola where you can capture aerial views of the fair.

I recommend going on the Skyride during sunset, especially as the rides light up. It’s stunning!

And of course, you’ve got to visit the animals. Fairs are about agriculture, after all. You can see the goats, sheep, and cows inside the Tractor Supply Co. Big Barn who are competing for a prize at the Livestock Awards Ceremony. Or you can also visit the petting zoo and pay extra to feed them pellets on a cone. The animals in the petting zoo are goats, sheep, pigs, donkeys, llamas, wallabies, ducks, and chickens.

5. Watch a River Cats game

Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, it’s still fun to watch the Sacramento River Cats, our Minor League Baseball team.

The River Cats play in Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, right next to the Tower Bridge (which connects West Sacramento and Downtown Sacramento).

Like most baseball stadiums, Sutter Health Park has some pretty good food. Their garlic fries are honestly much better than the ones at San Francisco’s Oracle Park (where the Giants play, and where garlic fries are a specialty). The fries are smaller and crunchier with more parmesan cheese and garlic topped over them.

They also have refreshing wine slushies, which again, Oracle Park doesn’t have! (I don’t really drink beer so I’d rather have the wine slushie).

You might end up seeing Dinger, the River Cats mascot, walking around, interacting, and taking photos with his fans. Don’t forget to snap a shot with him if you see him!

On some days, when the game is almost over, there will be a fireworks show over the Tower Bridge lit up at night. It’s pretty epic to see!

Another bonus? Starting in 2025, the Oakland A’s will be playing in Sutter Health Park for about 3 seasons before they move to Las Vegas. But there’s a chance that they might make Sutter Health Park their permanent home!

6. Support local artists on Second Saturday

Second Saturday is a classic Sacramento summer activity that takes place from May to October every 2nd Saturday of the month in Midtown. All day, there are art walks, mural walks, gallery popups, art markets, and live music featuring local up-and-coming artists and their fantastic works.

Sacramento is one of the most artsy cities in the US, and Midtown is the hub of arts and culture in the city. Second Saturday celebrates Sacramento’s robust art scene.

In addition, there are so many food trucks and Midtown restaurants that offer food and drink specials, and block parties from participating clubs and clubs from 4–8 pm. Then, as the night goes on after 10 pm, there are afterparties hosted by different bars and venues showcasing performances, comedy, dance, and other immersive art experiences.

7. Visit the Midtown Farmers Market on Saturday mornings

While the Midtown Farmers Market is open all year round from 8 am to 1 pm, summer is the best time to visit. The weather is bright and gorgeous (although still scorching hot), and there are so many vendors selling the freshest produce in season like berries, melons, tomatoes, and other vegetables.

Sacramento is known as the Farm-to-Fork capital, with our restaurant and agricultural scene on the rise. Living in the California Central Valley, we are surrounded by farms with rich soil, making it perfect for sourcing produce and supporting local farmers. Plus, the produce tastes much better than buying it at the store!

But that’s not all that the Midtown Farmers Market has to offer; there are tents lined up with small businesses selling arts and crafts, dog bandanas and treats, and clothes. There are also food trucks and stalls selling Belgian waffles, pupusas, fresh bread, honey, juice, and other goods.

The Midtown Farmers Market also has live music and cornhole, making it an extra lively place to be on a Saturday morning!

I suggest parking by Pachamama, one of Sacramento’s best coffee shops, ordering an iced oat latte, and walking down the street to the farmers market!

8. Take a scenic train ride

Taking a train ride gives you a chance to see Sacramento from a different angle, with views of the river and the countryside.

There are two train ride excursions in Sacramento:

• You can book tickets for a train ride excursion from the California Railroad Museum in Old Sacramento overlooking the river; you can either go coach or first class. First class rides provide larger seats, snacks, and refreshments.
• You can take in views of the Yolo County Countryside by riding on the River Fox Train, which starts and ends in West Sacramento. Included in this excursion are drinks like beer, wine, canned cocktails, and mimosas.

9. Celebrate love at the Pride March & Festival

Pride Month is in June, so there’s no better way than to kick off summer in Sacramento than celebrating love alongside the LGBTQ+ residents. Sure, our parade may not be as large as San Francisco’s but the community is tight and mighty.

The march (parade) is free to attend and starts from Southside Park and ends in the State Capitol. You can follow along the performers, marchers, and floats all the way to the Capitol, where the festival is held.

The festival does cost money to get in for a single day or for the whole weekend. Click here to get more information on pricing.

I’ve been to the festival when I worked at the California State Fair and we had a booth there. It’s pretty lively with lots of music, food drinks, and drinks flowing!

Sacramento Pride March & Festival will take place on June 14 and 15, 2025.

Learn more about Sac Pride!

10. Attend Concerts in the Park

One of the other lively summer activities in Sacramento includes attending Concerts in the Park, a free music festival every Friday at Cesar Chavez Plaza in Downtown, from 5–9 pm.

Concerts in the Park only last from the beginning of May to the end of July. The weekly lineup features local artists and DJs.

The drinks are flowing, there are food trucks for when you’re hungry. There are also afterparties after 9 pm hosted by participating bars where you can get 20% off anything you order if you show your 21+ wristband from Concerts in the Park.

11. Hike the Lake Clementine Trail

The Lake Clementine Trail is located in Auburn under the Foresthill Bridge, about 40 minutes northeast of Sacramento. The trail is on the North Fork of the American River, is only 1.9 miles long each way, and takes about 2 hours to complete. The elevation gain is gradual, and once you’re at the end of the trail, you’re met with gorgeous views of the waterfall.

There are shady areas along the trails, making it more bearable during the summer.

Since the trail is a part of the Auburn State Recreation Area (ASRA), it costs $10 to enter the park.

12. Learn to whitewater raft or wakeboard

In Sacramento, we have access to the great outdoors at our fingertips. This also includes water activities like whitewater rafting, wakeboarding, tubing, and kneeboarding.

If you’ve never tried any of these things, there are private lessons you can take. They aren’t the cheapest, but your instructor will guide you and ensure you’re safe and comfortable. They will also provide the equipment!

Most of these water activities take place in the Sacramento River and the American River in Auburn.

Water activity lessons

• Full-Day Whitewater Rafting Trip on Middle Fork from Auburn (Class 3–4)
• South Fork Half-Day Whitewater Rafting Trip from Lotus (Class 2–3)
• Wakeboard, Wakesurf, or Kneeboard Private Half-Day Adventure
• South Fork American River – PM Gorge Rafting Trip (Class 2–3)
• Full-Day Whitewater Rafting Trip on South Fork from Lotus (Class 2–3)
• Wakeboard, Wakesurf, or Kneeboard Full-Day
• South Fork American River Rafting Express Trip
• Old Sacramento Boat Tubing Fun Day Full Rental

13. Learn to rock climb

I’ve always wanted to learn to rock climb, but have never gotten around to it. Also, I’ve never been able to do it with Cecilio because he’s dislocated his shoulder too many times. But I guess I can try it by myself someday.

If you’ve always wanted to learn to rock climb but never have done so (or just have done it in a rock climbing gym), now is your chance to take a beginner’s private class in Auburn.

Your instructor will help you learn about safety, the basic techniques, and how to belay. All rock climbing guides are certified by the American Mountaineering Guide’s Association, so you are in good hands. They will also provide your climbing harness, helmet, and shoes.

Learn to rock climb today!

14. Chase sunflowers in Yolo County

Yolo County (which consists of the cities of Woodland, Davis, Winters, and West Sacramento) is known for its rich agriculture, making it perfect for flower fields.

When summertime rolls around, Sacramentans flock to Woodland to take gorgeous, Instagram-worthy shots of the sunflower fields during sunset.

This self-guided audio tour takes you to some of these sunflower and lavender fields, wineries, and scenic roads in the countryside. It’s flexible and it gives you a taste of Sacramento Valley’s food, wine, and agricultural scene.

15. Ride the Brew Bike

Sacramento has a growing beer scene, and the Brew Bike proves that. On the Brew Bike, you mingle with other people on the 2-hour tour, pedaling while you sip some beer, wine, and cider. During your tour, your driver/guide will take you to some of Sacramento’s most popular bars and pubs where you can sample delicious bites and craft beer.

Drinks are not included in the price and you will need to pay out of pocket if you want to order some.

Check availability for Brew Bike!

16. Watch a drive-in movie at night

If you’re looking for another summer activity in Sacramento where you won’t melt, consider watching a movie at West Wind Sacramento Drive-In! The earliest show time for most movies is 9:15 pm.

You can also order food and drink from their concessions, like popcorn, candy, ice cream, hot dogs, beer, and cocktails.

So roll your seats back, relax, and enjoy the show!

17. Cool off at Golfland Sunsplash

Sunsplash is a family-friendly water park in Roseville, a large suburb 30 minutes away from Sacramento. There are so many different waterslides, a giant wave pool, and a lazy river called the Bermuda Triangle.

In addition to the water activities, Sunsplash also has a mini golf course, laser tag, arcades, go-karts, and bumper cars.

Food options include Subwave (a play on the sandwich chain Subway, as Subwave also sells sandwiches), pizza, and ice cream.

I’ve been to Sunsplash before, but when Cecilio and I have kids, I definitely want to take them there to beat the heat!

18. Plan a getaway to Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is the ultimate playground for Sacramentans, as it’s only less than two hours away.

While Lake Tahoe is more known for its winter activities like skiing and snowboarding, it’s still a popular getaway during the summer, especially for Sacramento residents who want to beat the heat and swim in the fresh, alpine water.

There are so many activities you can do in Lake Tahoe, like sunbathing by the beaches, paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming, hiking, parasailing, biking, and going on sunset cruises.

I HIGHLY recommend visiting Sand Harbor Beach (located on the Nevada side of Tahoe) for paddling, kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling. The water is crystal clear and fresh, and it reminds me SO much of the beaches in Hawaii (without having to shell thousands of dollars on flights and hotels to go there).

I also recommend Commons Beach in Tahoe City (on the California side); in addition to the water activities, there are some shops, cafes, and restaurants in Tahoe City…it’s a pretty cute town! Truckee River also runs through Tahoe City, which is a popular spot for tubing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping up the best summer activities in Sacramento

Summer in Sacramento brings forth cooler nights, days at the river and lake, and memorable outdoor adventures! If this is your first time visiting California’s capital city, I recommend exploring Old Sacramento and going on a 90-minute river cruise with cocktails as the Delta breeze kisses your cheeks.

If you’re a big-time foodie, I can’t recommend going to the State Fair enough to try all the deep-fried goods (and the funnel cake). Or you can try something unique and ride the 15-seat Brew Bike which you stop at local pubs to try craft beer and delicious bites.

And of course, all of your summer activities in Sacramento must include hiking in the foothills, and taking a nice, cool dip in Folsom Lake or Lake Tahoe.

Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, I hope this guide inspires you to make the most of your summers in Sacramento. And don’t forget to stay cool and hydrated!

The 2024 California State Fair runs from July 12–28.

Buy tickets now!

Disclaimer: This post uses affiliate links, which means I make a commission if you book through this post. If you do decide to book using my links, thank you so much for your support!

California State Fair 2024: Know Before You Go

Location

Cal Expo
1600 Exposition Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95815

Hours

• Monday—Thursday: 11 AM—10 PM
• Friday—Saturday: 10 AM—10 PM

Parking

Parking is $15, and the parking lot wraps around Cal Expo. If you don’t want to pay for parking and are willing to walk a few blocks away, you can park in Arden Fair Mall or Point West Plaza (which has Olive Garden, Kohl’s, and David’s Bridal).

Admission

• General (Adult): $16
• Senior (62 and better): $12
• Youth (5—12): $10
• Children 4 and under: Free
• Unlimited Ride Wristband: $37–$42
• Carnival Tickets: $1/per ticket
• Carnival Fast Pass: $10–$15
• Unlimited Ride Wristbands:
  • Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: $39
  • Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays: $44

Carnival tickets and fast passes are only available to purchase inside the fairgrounds (not available to purchase online).

The fair also has packages that include daily admission, family fun packs, and season passes. Don’t delay, book your tickets today!

Admissions to the fair do not include access to the daily concerts (but you can watch them from far away on the lawn for free. You just won’t be able to go in the stage).

Other things you need to know

• As of 2022, the California State Fair implemented a clear bag policy, and it must be no larger than 12″x12″x12″. If you need to bring a solid colored bag, the maximum size is 5″x8″. I suggest getting a clear fanny pack so that you can move your arms freely and your shoulder isn’t restricted from a purse strap. This is the fanny pack I bought, and I was able to store everything I needed. It’s always good to have since most stadiums and entertainment centers now require you to bring a clear bag.
• It gets insanely hot. July in Sacramento is brutal (for that, they should move the fair to the fall). When Cecilio and I go, it was in the high 80s–low 90s, but on other days it was hot as 100°+. Stay cool by drinking lots of water and staying in the shade (there are lots of shady areas). The seating area in the food court has a little roof that sprays mist, which helps a little (every little bit helps!). Don’t forget to wear sunscreen too!

California State Fair 2024: Things to do

Eat your heart out to some traditional carnival staples

Now, I hope you literally don’t eat your heart out if you do have a heart problem, since some of the foods here miiiiighttttt not be best for it. But it’s a once-a-year thing, so treat yourself (and be cautious if you do have heart disease and high blood pressure).

You can’t go wrong with turkey legs and corndogs. I’m not a fan of either, so I get curly, cheesy bacon fries. They are super delicious!

You can’t forget dessert too. Sometimes Cecilio and I usually get deep-fried Oreos and deep-fried cookie dough, and sometimes we share funnel cake.

This is going to sound random, but I also love the tacos from Pepe’s. Oriental Cuisine Express (which is basically like Panda Express) has a delicious orange chicken bowl with chow mein. Not exactly what you have in mind when it comes to fair food, but it’s yummy nonetheless!

Pet and feed some baby farm animals

This is usually for kids, but I believe you are never too old to be around cute farm animals. The petting zoo is filled with goats, sheep, cows, pigs, ducks, and llamas. They even have wallabies! Admission is $5 per person, and you can feed the animals with a cone full of pellets for another $5 (or 2 for $8). Cecilio and I go to the petting zoo all the time to feed these little babies!

Just make sure to wash your hands before and after coming inside. And be prepared for that stench of animal manure!

Scope out the livestock animals inside the barn

Right next to the petting zoo is the Tractor Supply Co. Big Barn, where livestock barn animals and their producers are competing for a prize during the Livestock Awards Ceremony. This is to show the public the work it takes to raise these animals, and showcase the best of the best livestock in California. The cows are there everyday, while the sheep and goats take turns on certain days.

Stroll around the garden

Right next to the Tractor Supply Big Barn lies the garden, filled with flowers, fruits, and vegetables just waiting to be harvested. It’s pretty indicative of Sacramento’s “Farm-to-Fork” culture.

It’s also educational, since you learn about the 70+ crops. You also learn more water-saving tips. Since the garden is sponsored by California Department of Water Resources; because when are we not in a drought?

Sample award-winning goods

The local olive oils, jams, honey and cheeses are to die for; why not get a taste of them in one of the many booths? Agriculture is strong in California, and we have tasting samples to prove it.

Marvel at the other art installations

You can’t really see it (but I tried to capture it in different angles), but this installation is the silhouette of California, showing where different crops are grown in each region.

For example, Santa Clara County is known for producing garlic because that is where the city Gilroy is in, known for the now-defunct Gilroy Garlic Festival.

And of course, you can’t miss Sacramento’s Farm-To-Fork waterfront (so many people are peeved with how they changed it from “City of Trees” to “Farm-To-Fork”). You also might see a mass of avocados in San Diego County, with how close it is to Mexico.

Cool off with a wine slushie

Walk over to Save Mart Wine Garden to order a wine slushie, which come in different flavors. This is also where the California State Fair’s Wine Competition is held, and where you can also sample different vinos. There are so many seating areas and designated phone charging stations. Surround yourself with lush plants while you sip on a refreshing slushie to take a break before your next activity.

Enjoy views from the sky ride

Most people I talked to say they aren’t a huge fan of the rides. I like some of them, but if I had only one ride to choose from, I would recommend the sky ride. It’s slow so you won’t get nauseous (especially after all the eating and drinking), and you get stunning aerial views of the fair. I recommend going right before the sun sets to get that beautiful golden hour and when the booths start turning on their lights!

Catch a concert

There are many concerts going on in the California State Fair, but the main artists perform on Golden 1 Stage. Artists such as Chaka Khan and The Guess Who have taken the stage in 2022, and Ashanti in 2023. When we went, Journey Revisited performed so we got to hear some classics like “Lights”, “Don’t Stop Believin’”, and “Open Arms”.

The concerts are free with the $14 General Admission ticket, but depending on who’s performing, you can pay $15—$25 for reserved or ADA seating.

Even if you don’t attend the concerts, you can still hear them perform as you are walking around the fairgrounds.

Dance and take a photo with Poppy

If you happen to find the Poppy, the official California State Fair mascot, do not hesitate to take a photo with him! He can be found walking around the fairgrounds with an employee, on different rides, and take photos with so many people. He brings a smile to everyone’s face, young and old.

Every year, we celebrate Poppy’s birthday by inviting other local mascots (like Dinger from Sacramento River Cats) and they all do a dance number on the PG&E Center Stage. We usually have cupcakes afterwards too!

Come celebrate Poppy’s birthday on Tuesday, July 23, 20224 at the PG&E Center Stage.

Candy Maze Selfie Experience

I’ll admit that this isn’t my favorite activity, but the 14 photo stops are pretty cute and quirky and make for great Instagram shots. You walk through a maze of candy that you can purchase, with the photo stops in between. I didn’t put them on my Instagram because I was already a sweaty mess from walking around earlier.

Visit the California Cannabis Exhibit

In 2022, the California State Fair introduced the Cannabis Exhibit, which features cannabis farmers and cultivators all over the state. More than 300 entries were submitted to the competition, and 60 of those entries won trophies and medals. There are also live plants growing in the exhibit from a farm in Sonoma County.

You then walk through life-sized graphics teaching you about the history of cannabis, and the anatomy of the plant, and showing you where the farms are located.

The point of this exhibit is to showcase the farmers who work hard in cultivating the plant and to destigmatize the use of cannabis, especially since it has been legalized for recreational use in California since 2016 (and for medical use since 1996).

You can also shop for CBD and THC-infused things such as skincare, drops, tea, and edibles.

There is even a bar from Lehua Brands offering CBD slushies and seltzers. I ordered the mango slushie and it was delicious; I actually liked it a lot more than the wine slushie! It made me relaxed for sure

Attend the Best of California Brewfest

While I’m not really into beer, I can’t deny that Sacramento (and California in general) has a robust beer scene. So people who love a crafted IPA or stout are going to enjoy the Best of California Brewfest, which takes place on Friday, July 19, 2024.

Guests can enjoy the best hops that beer experts carefully tasted and selected for five days in June. Every year, there are over 900 entries of craft beer, waiting to be featured in this annual event!

Admission to the Best of California Brewfest is not included with your fair tickets. Below is the pricing:

• General Admission: $45
• VIP: $55

You can also purchase a designated driver for $20. Stay safe!

Ways to save money on the California State Fair

Yes, I have to admit that the fair is very expensive (and that is a common complaint among fairgoers, even when I was an intern). But there are ways to save:

SMUD Giving Mondays

By bringing 3 non-perishable food items to the far before 3 pm on one of the Mondays, you will receive free admission AND help support the Elk Grove Food Bank. Win-win, that’s for sure!

Tuesday Kids Free Day and $2 Rides for All

On Tuesdays, those who are ages 12 or under get FREE admission! On any other day, youth ages 5—12 admission is $10. If you are bringing a group of children, you can save big on this one. And rides are only $2 for all fairgoers, no matter what age.

Military, Veteran and First Responder Appreciation Day

Veterans and active members of the military or first responders (including police, firefighters, and EMT) get free admission upon showing proof of ID on July 21 (2023 date is TBA). Thank you for your service!

Senior Savings Friday

Instead of paying $12 for Senior admissions, going to the fair on a Friday, you pay $10. This is for those ages 62 and better

Frequently Asked Questions

Be sure to bookmark, pin, and save this post for the 2024 and 2025 California State Fair!

This post gives you a comprehensive list of the best things to do, see, and eat for the California State Fair and beyond.

Whether you’re there for the food, the rides, or the performances, the State Fair has so much entertainment to offer while educating the public about California’s strong agriculture!

According to WalletHub, Sacramento was ranked among the top 20 as one of the best cities for coffee in the U.S. The personal finance website measured different factors such as the number of cafes per capita and the average price of a cappuccino.

And in 2015, Matador Network ranked Sacramento as the #1 coffee city in the world!

In just about every corner of Sactown, you can find a bougie, Instagrammable coffee shop with fancy latte art, or an old-school hidden gem. And if you are a creature of habit, you won’t have a hard time finding Starbucks or Peets.

If you are looking for a place to relax, a date spot, or your next remote workspace, look no further than the best coffee shops in Sacramento!

The Best Coffee Shops in Sacramento

1. Temple Coffee Roasters

2829 S Street
Sacramento, CA 95816
Temple’s other locations

Temple is one of the most popular and best coffee shops in Sacramento, hands down. While there are multiple locations all over the area, the café off of 28th and S streets is the busiest. The lines are bursting outside the entrance, even during the weekdays!

The founder, Sean Kohmescher, opened up the first café in 2005 inspired by the temples he visited in Indonesia to create a sense of community he experienced there. Today, there are locations all over Midtown and Downtown Sacramento, Folsom, and Davis.

Using a farm-to-cup approach, Temple sources their beans from various farmers and pays them above Fair Trade prices so that they can have a stable income. They also work with farmers and producers who reduce their environmental impact through water conservation, forestry, and shade management.

You honestly can’t go wrong with whatever you choose at Temple. They even have a delicious matcha latte! I am also fond of their cold brews, like the ginger cream one pictured below as a part of their seasonal fall menu. If you’re hungry, grab a donut!

2. Pachamama

919 20th Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
Pachamama’s other locations

Founded by farmers in Latin America, Pachamama sold its first bag of beans in the Davis Food Co-Op. Today, Pachamama has storefronts in Sacramento, Davis, and Placerville. I highly recommend visiting the Midtown Farmers Market on Saturday mornings and walking over to Pachamama, which is right down the street.

Their specialty drinks use oat milk as the default creamer, and they have a decent amount of indoor and outdoor seating. The Midtown location is where they have their own roastery.

Pachamama also has its own booth in the Davis Farmers Market on Saturday mornings! So when you’re strolling around Downtown Davis, make sure to stop by and get your fix!

3. Chocolate Fish Coffee Roasters

4749 Folsom Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95819

Chocolate Fish is an award-winning coffee shop with three locations, one in Folsom, and two in Sacramento in the East Sac and Land Park locations. The East Sacramento location is also where they have the roastery.

They have a spectacular relationship with their farmers, and their mission is all about making coffee accessible to the public through education. They offer different classes such as home brewing, latte art, and coffee tasting workshops (I’ve taken a roastery tour with them many years ago).

If you are interested in becoming a barista, Chocolate Fish even offers SCA-certified (Specialty Coffee Association) classes to help you along the way.

Their drinks are on point, and you have to try their blended drinks (though technically it’s a secret menu item). You can get blended drinks in a coffee, mocha, or white mocha flavor. They also have fancy toasts with avocado or jam and a pretty mean Belgian waffle!

4. Goodside Coffee

1430 H Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

You want Instagrammable? You got it with Goodside Coffee. Located in Downtown Sacramento’s Mansion Flats neighborhood, Goodside reps its location with its large mural etched with fancy lettering inside. The cafe is large and airy with decor thoughtfully planned throughout the space. Not only do they have delicious lattes, but they also offer brunch! I can’t recommend their bagels enough.

5. Camellia Coffee Roasters

1200 R Street, #130
Sacramento, CA 95811

Camellia Coffee Roasters started off as a wholesale roaster and was named after the camellia flower. By the way, did you know that Sacramento is the camellia capital of the world?!

Today, Camellia Coffee Roasters has its own café located in R Street Corridor, a Midtown neighborhood filled with art galleries, breweries, shops, and restaurants.

Camellia has the typical drinks you find at a coffee shop, but I recommend the Horchata cold brew! They also offer food such as breakfast sandwiches, croissants, bagels, and hand pies.

Don’t forget the “babyccino” for your little ones (yes, it’s a cup of whipped cream like the puppuccinos). All the pastries came from Faria Bakery, Sacramento’s “boulangerie” in the Oak Park neighborhood.

6. Milka Coffee Roasters

1501 G Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

Another Instagram spot, Milka Coffee Roasters is an 1861 Victorian house turned cafe in Downtown Sacramento. Much like Goodside Coffee, the interiors and decor are airy, dreamy and impeccable, albeit much smaller.

The staircase leads you to the cafe to your right, while the waiting area has an empty space and a window from ceiling to floor, letting the light in. On the other side of the waiting area is the lounging area.

You might need to wait and fight for a spot (especially on the weekends) with how tight it is. But it’s all worth it! I totally recommend the maple latte with oat milk.

7. Blueprint Coffee Project

1200 2nd Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

Located in Old Sacramento, Blueprint Coffee Project is owned and operated by Project Church next door. They are 100% a nonprofit, serving up drinks like espresso, lattes, mochas, cappuccinos, and drip coffee. Oh, can’t forget iced coffee too! There are also non-caffeinated options like hot chocolate, tea, chai, and bottled water.

If you like your coffee on the sweeter side (like I do), you can add a pump of vanilla, chocolate or vanilla syrup for 50¢. Not into dairy? You can swap regular milk for oat milk for 75¢!

8. Naked Coffee

3527 Broadway
Sacramento, CA 95817
Naked’s other locations

Naked is a small coffee shop with specialty drinks and four locations in Sacramento. The Broadway location in the Oak Park neighborhood is where they have the roastery, whereas the Midtown location is more of a lounge with eclectic decor.

The Oak Park location has very limited seating, but there are bar-type seats facing the roastery. It’s pretty neat seeing the bean-to-brew behind the scenes!

If you’re interested, maybe a barista could show you around also, their Vietnamese iced coffee is delicious and just what you need for a shot of energy!

9. 18 Grams Coffee Roasters

9677 East Stockton Blvd.
Elk Grove, CA 95624

There are two 18 Grams locations, one in the Arden area, and the other in Elk Grove, a suburb right below Sacramento. They are known for a cozy atmosphere, Instagram-worthy decor, and a unique menu with drinks that may not be offered at other cafés.

There are a variety of Asian-inspired drinks. While they have Thai and Vietnamese iced coffees that are pretty common, they also offer Yuanyang, a Chinese drink that blends espresso and black tea with condensed milk.

If you have a sweet tooth, try the ube latte, made from the purple Filipino yam. You can also try other beverages like the rose or charcoal lattes, iced strawberry matcha, or the Mexican mocha. 18 Grams also offers an extensive tea menu!

10. Water & Salt

1620 West Capitol Avenue
West Sacramento, CA 95691

Water & Salt is unique because they specialize more in their alkaline waters (and you can buy jugs of them and refill them as needed), but they have a coffee bar!

They are more wellness-conscious because they offer organic cold brew and bulletproof coffee (butter in coffee for the keto/low-carb people). For some extra sweetness, they only have monkfruit (no Stevia ) On the other hand, they also serve not-so-“healthy” drinks such as Hawaiian shave ice, ice cream, and affogato (espresso with ice cream).

The only downside is that Water & Salt is easy to miss because it’s along West Capitol Avenue, West Sacramento’s largest street, and there is no seating inside; just two tables for two outside. And parking is limited. But it’s so worth checking out!

No shortage of the best coffee shops in Sacramento

One thing is for sure: you won’t be lacking in any options for the best coffee shops in Sacramento. If you’re all about good vibes, ethically sourced and crafted java with a jolt of energy, you’ll find it all here!

In this post, I will uncover the best things to do in Old Sacramento, from historical attractions to scenic cruises or train rides to yummy eats!

Disclaimer: This post uses affiliate links, which means I make a commission if you book through this post. If you do decide to book using my links, thank you so much for your support!

Brief History of Old Sacramento

How the city rose above the storms

Sacramento was founded by Samuel Brannan and John Sutter, Jr. in 1850. At the time during the California Gold Rush, the city became a central hub for miners in search of gold.

The original streets of Sacramento were built 10 feet below the level it is today. However, flooding has always been a problem here (and still continues to be). In 1850, Sacramento experienced its first major flood, and in 1852, the city was completely wiped out by the waters but was still saved. This prompted a proposal to raise the city’s elevation, which was put off for a while. Sacramento then became California’s capital in 1854.

Another major flood occurred in 1862, which finally led the city to be raised just above the original street level using thousands of cubic yards of dirt to save the city once and for all.

From slum to tourist spot

While the gold rush started declining, Sacramento became known for its agricultural industry. However, most of the district moved more east, eventually leading Old Sacramento to be abandoned. Around the 1960s, the city started refurbishing the area.

Today, Old Sacramento attracts around 5 million visitors per year.

Things to Do in Old Sacramento (and Where to Eat!)

1. Visit the California Railroad Museum (and Ride the train across Sacramento from there!)

Owned and operated by the California State Parks System, the California Railroad Museum features 21 restored locomotives dating back to 1862. These trains are either powered by steam or diesel. There are also exhibitions featuring photographs, mini-models, artifacts, showcasing the importance of trains shaping society in California (and the West Coast in general).

Below are the admission costs for California Railroad Museum:

• Adults: $12
• Youths (ages 6–17): $6
• Children (ages 5 and under): Free

But the coolest thing about the California Railroad Museum? You can take a 50-minute train ride overlooking the Sacramento River from Sacramento Southern Railroad, owned and operated by the museum itself. The train excursion transports you back to the early 20th century with its vintage locomotives. There is even a first-class section where you are served snacks and refreshments (which is what I want to do sometime). This excursion operates from April to September only.

Book your train ride today!

2. Grab a cup of joe at Steamers or Blueprint Coffee Project

Old Sacramento has two coffee shops suited to different tastes and preferences. If you like barebones coffee with traditional American dining, Steamer’s is more your jam. It is also a classic Sacramento business that opened in 1994.

If you have bougie taste with an affinity for all things Instagrammable, you’re going to love Blueprint Coffee Project. It is a nonprofit owned and operated by Project Church next door. There’s no food, but they do offer plant-based milk alternatives!

3. Window shop at Evangeline’s

Evangeline’s has two parts; a novelty gift shop and a costume shop adjacent. The street-level gift shop sells cheeky merchandise (albeit, some a bit inappropriate; there’s an 18+ section which I won’t share here) dedicated to pinup ladies, Star Wars, anime, cannabis, and other references you can think of. It’s kinda like Spencer’s.

Right next to the gift shop is the 3-story costume mansion (2 stories above the gift shop). Even if you don’t buy any of the expensive costumes, it’s still fun to walk around each floor marveling at everything and walking up the elaborate staircase in a 19th-century building.

Each floor in the mansion has its own theme of costumes. The second floor is filled with Renaissance, gothic, 1920s, and scientist costumes. The third floor’s costumes are fairytales, 1950s–1990s, and circus-themed. There is also a wall full of wigs, accessories, and makeup!

4. Window shop even more at Stage Nine Entertainment (for the pop culture lovers)

You can find all sorts of Disney and Old Hollywood memorabilia at Stage Nine, which is actually across the street from Evangeline’s. If you love Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, or Wizard of Oz, you’ll find such merchandise here!

There are also Sacramento-themed souvenirs such as mugs, clothing, magnets, and postcards.

Stage Nine has a small room dedicated to all things Disney, such as art prints and sculptures. There is even a TV that shows Disney movies live!

If you have kids, they are going to love Toy Emporium, which is actually adjacent to Stage Nine!

5, Go on a river cruise

City Cruises California takes you on a 90-minute trek on the Sacramento River. You can sit inside or go on the top-floor deck. And yes, there’s a bar. I did this during one of my friend’s birthdays, and we left the tabs open to get multiple drinks.

If you’re local to Sacramento or visiting sometime in the future, you can easily book a cruise right now below if you’d like!

Book your river cruise today!

6. Candy taste to your hearts’ content

Old Sacramento has multiple candy shops, but Candy Heaven allows you to taste the laffy taffy for free (my personal favorites are cinnamon roll, chocolate chip cookie dough, and mint). I always end up leaving with a bag of taffy and another bag of gummy sweets!

For homemade chocolates, popcorn, and ice cream, you’re gonna want to check out Sacramento Sweets Co.

7. Try the Irish Coffee at Sean Finnegan’s Pub

If you love caffeine-based cocktails like I do, you’re going to enjoy the signature drink at Sean Finnegan’s. It’s a concoction of Tullamore Dew Whiskey, coffee, and heavy cream with cinnamon sprinkled on top using a stencil of Finnegan’s logo.

There’s also your standard bar food fare like nachos, pizza, and sandwiches.

If you happen to be in San Francisco, you’re going to want to check out the Buena Vista, which is where Irish coffee started and what it’s famous for. If it wasn’t for Buena Vista, there would be no Finnegan’s.

8. Make your own cereal concoction at Cerealism

You know those fro-yo bars where you can select a flavor and add as many toppings as you want? Well, Cerealism is the cereal version of that!

For $7, you can build your own cereal, with your choice of up to three types of cereal. Then, you can choose up to two toppings, and it’s 50¢ per extra topping. These toppings include fruit, marshmallows, candy, cookies, and mini ice cream cones.

After that, you have your choice of milk; whole, 2%, soy, almond, oat, horchata, or flavored oat (banana, chocolate, or strawberry).

Or you can order one of six specialty bowls; for example, the Rainbow Brite cereal has fruit loops, a big rainbow marshmallow, and mini white marshmallows underneath acting as clouds.

Cerealism also has fun specialty drinks like lemonade pouches, Lucky Charms latte (vanilla latte with Lucky Charms marshmallows and whipped cream on top) and milkshakes topped with candy, cookies, chocolate sauce, and even more whipped cream.

The interiors in Cerealism are fun with neon colors, taking you back to your childhood. It’s also a dessert lover’s dream!

9. Go on an Underground Tour

Want to experience Sacramento from the early 19th century? You’ve got to take the underground tour operated by the Sacramento History Museum, where you can physically experience the city’s original street level, which was 10 feet lower than it is today.

Sacramento is famous for its nasty floods, causing total damage in 1850 and 1852 and wiping out the city. Because of this, the city government pushed for the streets to be completely elevated.

These hour-long tours run seven days a week in the afternoon. During weekdays, the tours start at 12 pm and 1:30 pm, but the weekends have a lot more openings.

Be prepared to wear closed-toe shoes as you will be walking on uneven terrain, dirt, train tracks, and cobblestone streets. The tours operate rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

After your tour, refresh yourself with some wine tasting at the Underground Tasting Room!

10. Make art and support local artists at Atrium 916

Atrium 916 is a non-profit dedicated to creating art for the greater good of the local community and the environment. They offer an open art cafe where you can come in and paint to your hearts desire; the staff provides a canvas, brushes, paints, and stencils.

There are also original art prints, jewelry, and accessories hand-crafted and upcycled by local artists. Most of the earrings are made with inner tubes of a bike!

11. Go on a food tour

Sacramento is rising as one of the top foodie cities in the US and the world. WalletHub ranked us as #3 for the top foodie cities in the US, right after Miami and Portland. Eater.com revered Sacramento as one of the top culinary destinations in 2024, alongside Osaka, Cairo, Medellin, Seychelles, and fellow US cities like Philadelphia and Milwaukee. We even got a shoutout from National Geographic!

So why not get a taste of the culinary delights our city has to offer with a food tour?

SactownBites offers food tours all over the city and beyond (like in Capay Valley and along the Delta), and what do you know? They have a walking food tour in Old Sacramento!

Your guide will take you to a few eateries where you will sample different bites, and it adds up to a full lunch. During the tour, you’ll also get a mini history lesson on how Sacramento came to be, from the Gold Rush to becoming the capital of California. Make sure to come hungry!

Book food tour today!

12. Dine at Delta King

For lunch, dinner, or Happy Hour, you can dine at Delta King, a 285-foot-long steamboat overlooking the Sacramento River, Ziggurat building, and Tower Bridge.

I went here for Happy Hour during 4th of July, ordering some wine and cheese plates. It was a fun experience watching the sun set and the fireworks pop off!

Delta King is also a 44-room hotel. If you’re looking for a unique experience, I can’t recommend staying here enough!

Check prices for Delta King Hotel

13. Grab burgers and drinks at Fanny Ann’s Saloon

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to have some drinks at a 19th-century style bar? Well, you can experience it at Fanny Ann’s Saloon, though it was established in 1973.

Fanny Ann’s Saloon is modeled after Old Sacramento’s old bars before the floods wiped them out. Originally, Fanny Ann was a steamboat built in 1842 that transported supplies to Sutter’s Fort and greater Sacramento during the Gold Rush. Unfortunately, she was caught in a tragic fire in 1869, but some parts of her were able to be salvaged, like the cannon above the entrance to the saloon.

Today, Fanny Ann’s is known for serving up delicious burgers, appetizers like fries, onion rings, wings, cocktails, and beer. It’s also the perfect spot to watch a Kings or Rivercats game (even though it’s smack dab in between Sutter Health Park and Golden 1 Center). There are also fun arcade games, including pinball!

For a more modernized bar (with some old motifs), check out Honey and the Trapcat.

14. Take saloon-style photos at McGee’s Old Time Photos

If you’re looking for a fun experience and souvenir from Old Sacramento, you’ve got to take 19th-century saloon style photos at McGees. Get ready to don some dresses with corsets, accessorized with boa feathers, garters, long pearl necklaces, and hats with even more feathers. Men also have clothing options to choose from like a variety of suits and hats to match. And fake rifles!

The photos come out with a sepia filter, just like how they were taken before color photography was a thing. And you’ll pose against snazzy backdrops with wine barrels, bottles of whiskey, and wagon wheels.

15. Cross the Tower Bridge over to West Sacramento

Right next to Old Sac is the Tower Bridge (basically Sacramento’s Golden Gate Bridge), which connects to West Sacramento, a different city in a different county. West Sac’s River Walk Park is great for a nice stroll, bike ride, or a picnic on a beautiful day. Because West Sac is a fairly small city, you can walk to The Bridge District where all the upcoming, hip restaurants are being built, or to Sutter Health Park for a River Cats game during the summer.

16. Walk over to DOCO (Downtown Commons) for restaurants, shops, and entertainment

On the opposite side of Tower Bridge and West Sacramento is DOCO (Downtown Commons), filled with nightlife, restaurants, shops, and luxury hotels nearby. Golden One Center is nestled right inside, and is home to the Sacramento Kings and many concerts.

What used to be an old mall, DOCO replaced Westfield Downtown Plaza with a walkable, lively atmosphere.

17. Get your giggle on at Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club

I’m not a huge comedy watcher, but I know it’s something people enjoy, especially when their favorite comedian is in town. Laughs Unlimited is one of Sacramento’s well-known comedy clubs! It’s a laid-back atmosphere for a friends’ night out, and there’s a wide selection of drinks like beer, wine, cocktails, mocktails, and soda.

18. Go on a ghost tour

Given Old Sacramento’s history, there are bound to be some haunted buildings and ghosts floating around. If the paranormal fascinates you, consider going on a walking ghost tour at night! This also makes for a fun fall Sacramento activity.

Book ghost tour today!

19. Ride the Waterfront Wheel or the Front Street Carousel

I’m a Ferris wheel lover, but I have yet to ride Old Sacramento’s Waterfront Wheel, which has been installed in recent years. On the 65′ Waterfront Wheel, you can see sweeping views of Downtown, the Sacramento River, Tower Bridge, and the Ziggurat building in West Sacramento. You have to be at least 44″ to ride the Waterfront Wheel.

The Front Street Carousel is your classic merry-go-round, perfect for families. A child must be at least 36″ to ride alone. If they are shorter than that, they need to be accompanied by an adult.

Both the Waterfront Wheel and the Front Street Carousel cost $6 to ride.

Book tickets today!

Holiday Events in Old Sacramento

Mardi Gras Carnaval

Get out your beads, masks, and anything green, purple, and gold to celebrate the biggest Mardi Gras parade and party in the city! Old Sacramento is filled with live music, mask-making workshops, and New Orleans cuisine such as jambalaya, gumbo, beignets, and po boy sandwiches.

The date for the 2025 Mardi Gras Carnaval is TBA.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival

Get lucky with another big bash in Old Sacramento! The St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival is a big deal, with performances from Celtic bands and Irish dance groups. There are also beer gardens and a chance to find leprechauns. Just don’t forget to get decked out in green so ya don’t get pinched!

The date for the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival is TBA.

4th of July Fireworks Show

While the 4th of July Fireworks Show takes place at the Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, you can still watch it from Old Sacramento. You can’t go wrong whether you’re sitting on a bench or doing Happy Hour at Delta King!

Theatre of Lights

The Theatre of Lights is a free evening holiday performance taking place from Wednesday on Thanksgiving Eve to Sunday (except for Thanksgiving Day). Old Sacramento is decked out with colorful lights and garlands. There are so many talented acts during the Theatre of Lights, including Billy Farmer, the Emmy-nominated voice actor who plays Disney’s Goofy.

There are also reenactments of Twas the Night Before Christmas and Sacramento from the 1800s (pre-capital era), with sounds and sights of floods, fires, and rowdy saloon parties.

The Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony will take place on Thanksgiving Eve on November 27, 2024, by Santa Claus.

New Year’s Eve

There used to be a fireworks show coming from Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento. Old Sacramento and the Tower Bridge would get completely packed! But unlike the 4th of July Fireworks Show, they stopped doing it for NYE since COVID-19 and for logistical reasons.

But there are still special dinners and comedy shows taking place in Old Sacramento, so it’s still pretty lively!

You can also go on a New Year’s Eve river cruise, which includes 1 glass of champagne and a live DJ. There are also snacks and cocktails available to purchase!

Book New Year’s Eve river cruise!

Old Sacramento Parking Information

While Old Sacramento has its own parking garage, there are a few parking garages nearby in the Downtown area.

• Old Sacramento Garage
  125 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Tower Bridge Garage
  1289 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• DOCO Central Garage
  414 J St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• DOCO West Garage
  325 L St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• DOCO East Garage
  579 L St, Sacramento, CA 95814

There is also street parking around the area from 10 am – 10 pm.

Wrapping up the Best Things to do in Sacramento

Whether it’s your first time in the capital of California, you come frequently for work, or you’re a local, no trip is complete without visiting Old Sacramento. For a unique, relaxing experience, I recommend a river cruise down the Sacramento River with cocktails in hand.

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