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Sacramento, California's capital, sits at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers and offers a mix of city life, history, and outdoor recreation. Known for its connection to the Gold Rush and historic downtown districts, the city has grown into a vibrant destination with plenty to explore year-round.
This guide highlights popular Sacramento attractions and things to do, including museums, parks, shopping destinations, entertainment, and activities near downtown. Before visiting, check each destination’s official website or social media pages for current hours, events, tickets, parking, and seasonal programming.
California State Railroad Museum
Located in Old Sacramento, the California State Railroad Museum is a popular destination for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in trains and innovation. The museum features restored locomotives, railroad artifacts, and interactive exhibits that explore how railroads helped shape California and the development of the United States.
Visitors can walk through historic railcars, learn about the people who built and worked on the railroads, and explore exhibits that bring railroad history to life. Plan to spend about one to two hours at the museum, then head outside to explore Old Sacramento’s waterfront, shops, restaurants, and historic streets.
Sacramento Zoo
For a family-friendly day outdoors, the Sacramento Zoo offers the chance to see a variety of animals while exploring one of Sacramento’s most popular parks. You can easily pair a visit to the zoo with time at nearby William Land Park, plus a stop at Fairytale Town, which features themed play areas and family-friendly attractions.
Give yourself a few hours to explore the zoo’s exhibits and spend time at the park. If you're visiting during the warmer months, an earlier start can help you make the most of your day before temperatures rise.
Arden Fair
If shopping is on your Sacramento itinerary, Arden Fair offers a convenient mix of department stores and national retailers, including Apple, Banana Republic, Michael Kors, and Levi’s. It’s an easy option for picking up everyday essentials, browsing fashion, or enjoying an indoor outing when the weather isn’t cooperating.
Arden Fair can also be part of a relaxed afternoon or evening, with opportunities to shop, dine, and spend time together without planning a full day downtown.
Sacramento Historic River Cruise
See Sacramento from a different perspective with a Sacramento Historic River Cruise. The one-hour cruise offers views of the Sacramento River while sharing stories connected to the city’s history, including the California Gold Rush and John Sutter.
Because the cruise is relatively short, it’s easy to incorporate into an afternoon or evening downtown. Pair it with a meal, dessert, or a walk through Old Sacramento for a simple date night or outing with visiting friends and family.
B Street Theatre
Looking for live entertainment in Sacramento? B Street Theatre offers a mix of familiar favorites and newer productions for an enjoyable night out. The theater also features youth-focused programming, making it an option for families and adults looking for a date night or evening downtown. Consider pairing a performance with dinner nearby for a complete night out!
Capitol Towers and Villas: Live Near Sacramento Attractions
If you’re considering a move to Sacramento, living close to downtown makes it easy to enjoy the city’s history, culture, dining, and outdoor spaces. Capitol Towers and Villas offers a downtown location near attractions like Old Sacramento, the California State Capitol, Golden 1 Center, and the Sacramento River, with restaurants, shops, and everyday conveniences close by.
Choose from studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes featuring stainless steel appliances, floor-to-ceiling windows, and views of Sacramento. With many of the attractions featured in this guide within about 20 minutes, Capitol Towers offers a convenient home base for exploring the city.
Ready to make Sacramento home? Explore available floor plans and contact our friendly team to learn more or schedule a tour.