Historic Trains & Riverfront Charm in Sacramento
Sacramento
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Pet-friendly
Luxury rentals
Tips on renting in Sacramento
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Sacramento, a vibrant city where the Sacramento River glimmers under the sun, illuminating a rich tapestry of outdoor experiences and serene waterways. As you step into this bustling hub, let the scent of cedar mingle with the distant splash of paddles steering kayaks along the river’s winding paths.
For water enthusiasts, the river offers an array of adventures. Rent a kayak from Sacramento Kayak Tours, allowing you to carve through tranquil waters while basking in the parenting song of migrating birds. If you’re seeking a more leisurely experience, indulge in a sunset boat tour that perfectly frames the golden hour over the shimmering landscape.
After a day of exploration, refuel at The Waterboy, where farm-to-table flavors await, or discover local wineries like the elegant Bogle Vineyards, just a short drive away. Nature lovers will revel in the nearby American River Parkway, perfect for biking or hiking amidst wildflowers.
As summer unfolds, don’t miss the vibrant Sacramento Music Festival, a fusion of culture and community. Soak in the splendor of this riverside city and let each moment inspire adventure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Sacramento has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento, plan your day to arrive between 10 AM and 5 PM, when the museum is open, and consider timing your visit to coincide with the excursion train rides that run from April through September and select dates later in the year. Climb aboard the Sacramento Southern Railroad for a 50-minute roundtrip ride along the Sacramento River, experiencing historic steam or diesel locomotives. Admission to the museum itself is $12 for adults and $6 for youth, with children under 6 entering free, while train ride tickets range from $18 to $28 depending on class and age.
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For a seamless and scenic boat launch experience on the Sacramento River in Sacramento, CA, head to the Elkhorn Boat Launching Facility. Located near the Sacramento International Airport, this facility offers a convenient launch ramp, picnic areas beneath oak and flowering trees, and is open year-round from sunrise to sunset with self-payment required if no fee collector is present. Alternatively, Discovery Park, where the American River meets the Sacramento River, provides another excellent launch point with access to both rivers and additional recreational activities like biking on the 32-mile Jedediah Smith Bike Trail.
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For a memorable outdoor adventure near Sacramento, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards at several scenic locations. The Sac State Aquatic Center offers single and tandem kayaks, as well as stand-up paddle boards, with rates starting at $15 per hour for kayaks and $18 per hour for paddle boards. Alternatively, head to Lake Natoma Paddle Rentals at Black Miners Bar Beach, where you can rent kayaks, paddle boards, and canoes, with prices beginning at $20 per hour, and enjoy the picturesque lake from May to October. For additional options, consider SUPSAC in Sacramento and Napa, which provides on-call rentals, or visit SUP California in Rancho Cordova for a variety of watercraft choices.
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For a picturesque picnic spot in Sacramento, consider McKinley Park, renowned for its 1.5-acre rose garden featuring over 1,200 rose bushes and 200 varieties of roses. This tranquil setting, complete with wooden benches and a butterfly habitat, is particularly vibrant in May and June, making it an ideal spot for a late afternoon picnic. The park’s symmetrically laid-out flower beds and lush grassy areas provide ample space to spread a blanket and enjoy the scenic views.
