Historic Trains & Riverfront Charm in Sacramento
Tips on renting in Sacramento
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Sacramento, California, invites families to experience a refined blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. Begin your stay in the Old Sacramento Waterfront District, a 28-acre National Historic Landmark where wooden sidewalks and Gold Rush-era buildings evoke the spirit of a bygone era. Discover the California State Railroad Museum, embark on a scenic riverboat cruise, and savor classic confections from charming candy shops. The district’s allure is at its peak in spring and fall, when mild weather and lighter crowds create an ideal setting for exploration.
For families who relish the outdoors, the 32-mile Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail offers a picturesque route along the American River, weaving through lush parks such as Discovery Park and Sutter’s Landing Park. Cyclists, joggers, and those seeking a gentle stroll will find this trail especially inviting, with opportunities to spot local wildlife like deer and woodpeckers enhancing the natural experience.
Younger travelers will delight in the Sacramento Zoo, home to over 300 animals from 90 species. The zoo’s intimate layout is perfect for little explorers, while interactive features like the hand-carved Conservation Carousel add a touch of magic. Nearby, Fairytale Town enchants with its storybook-themed playground, where beloved nursery rhyme and fairy tale characters inspire endless imagination. Together, these attractions within William Land Park promise unforgettable moments for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.
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.
