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15 Things to do in Sacramento, California [With Suggested 3 Day Itinerary]

Boasting with a rich history and awesome landmarks, Sacramento, a city in California, surely is a tourist destination. Several unique museums and parks await you as you decide to plan a trip here. With plenty of activities, you will surely leave the city feeling fulfilled and happy. Going here is worth every penny and time. 

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

But do you have any idea on what are the most popular attractions in Sacramento CA? You’re in the right place! In this article, we listed down some of the most popular things to do and places to visit in this marvelous city of Sacramento.

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Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Reno, Nevada

1. california state railroad museum.

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

Learn more about railroad history at the California State Railroad Museum. Whether you’re a fan of trains or not, everyone would surely enjoy their time here. You can take a ride along the rails that played a big role in the development of California. 

2. Crocker Art Museum

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

Want to see one of the country’s finest collections of Californian art? Visit one of the first art museums in the U.S, the Crocker Art Museum. Inside, you’ll find extraordinary holdings of master drawings, a complete collection of international ceramics, as well as European, Asian, African, and Oceanic art. 

3. California State Capitol Museum

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

This beautiful Capitol with pretty interior and a gift shop is home to the California Legislature. It contains a public museum and a surrounding garden. You’ll have a great and educational tour in this place. Lots of history and beautiful architecture.

Suggested Tour: California Gold Rush: The Sacramento Grid on a self-guided Bicycle Audio Tour

4. Old Sacramento

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

A historic area of restored buildings, museums, and unusual shops. The Old Sacramento features wooden sidewalks, restaurants, souvenir shops, and cobblestone streets. This is the ideal place to walk around if you’re looking for a place to shop and chill.

Suggested Tour: Sacramento Alive After Five Cruise 21 +

5. American River Bicycle Trail

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

It is called a bicycle trail but you can either walk or ride a bike. Here, you can get closer to nature. Have a nice, bicycle adventure along the beautiful and serene Sacramento River.

Suggested Tour: Half Day Whitewater Rafting on the South Fork American River

6. Capitol Park

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

One of the most popular parks in Sacramento CA. This park has an extensive collection of trees, and they’re all labeled. So if you love trees and flowers, spare some time to stroll around this wonderful park. 

7. Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

This Catholic church is very picturesque inside and out. A combination of great history and wonderful architecture in one special building. You can also attend the mass if you wish to.

8. Sacramento Zoo

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

A lovely zoo with over 400 species of animals. The zoo itself is not that huge so it’s very easy to get around. Kids would love this place too, not only because of the animals but there is a lot of entertainment for them. A train ride and playground would make the little ones happy.

9. Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

It’s a small park so you don’t need to spend a lot of time here. A short visit is worth it to see what this park has. It is located in the East end of downtown Sacramento. Going here would make you feel like stepping back in time. Learn about the history of California and the story of John Sutter and the role he played in early Californian history.

10. Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park

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A gorgeous mansion that’s rich in history. This mansion was beautifully restored. The house and furnishings, everything that you will see are well preserved. So if you’re interested to learn the history of Sacramento that you never knew, the answers are here.

11. California Automobile Museum

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

An interesting display of a variety of cars. The museum’s mission is to educate and entertain while preserving and promoting the automobile and its impact on our lives. Car enthusiasts would love wandering around this museum.

12. William Land Park

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

A large park with plenty of attractions. The zoo, fairytale town, rose garden, duck pond, a 9-hole golf course, picnic areas, an amphitheater, soccer, and baseball fields. No time is wasted going here. However, this park really gets crowded on the weekends. But definitely worth a visit.

13. McKinley Park

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

Another park in Sacramento, California that you shouldn’t miss. This is an ideal place to run, seat, and just relax. If you love flowers especially roses, you’d probably enjoy this place. You can also see some animals like ducks and squirrels!

14. Tower Bridge

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

Tower Bridge is a unique looking bridge that requires only a short visit. From here, you’ll see beautiful views of Sacramento and the skyline. Just take quick pictures for souvenirs.

Suggested Tour: Sacramento Historic River Cruise

15. Old City Cemetery

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

A unique adventure in Old City Cemetery in Sacramento would be so fun. Learn plenty of information about the early Californian history. The cemetery is also beautiful and serene. They offer awesome tours for visitors if you prefer it. If not, you can also do a self-guided tour. 

Things to do with 3 days in Sacramento, California

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

Day 1 in Sacramento, California

Crocker Art Museum – To have an idea about Californian art, you should go here first. They also have the finest display of a variety of art. 

Day 2 in Sacramento, California

California State Railroad Museum – Enjoy learning about the railroad history of California through riding along the rails. Step back in time at California State Railroad Museum. 

California State Capitol Museum – A trip to Sacramento CA won’t be complete if you will not visit its Capitol. With its wonderful architecture and lovely garden, a drop by here is worth your time.

American River Bicycle Trail – End your second day more special. A bike trip here at the American River Bicycle Trail is totally an activity to try especially in the afternoon. But if you prefer walking, then no problem. So go here for relaxation and calmness.

Day 3 in Sacramento, California

Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament – This gorgeous church is a must-see! Both the interior and the exterior symbolizes beauty and history.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sacramento, California

15 Things to do in Sacramento, California

1. Is it safe to travel to Sacramento, California?

Sacramento is generally safe, especially in the attractions filled with tourists. However, it is not recommended to travel at night in the downtown part because, though it’s rare, crimes still happen sometimes. 

2. When is the best time to visit Sacramento, California?

Most festivals in Sacramento happen in the months of May and June. Going here during these months would be very exciting and fun. And if you want to attend the California State Fair, you can come in July. However, this month is considered the hottest month in Sacramento. Choosing the best time to visit the city still depends on you and what activities you plan to do. 

3. How to get to Sacramento, California?

To get there, you need to travel from your city going to Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento’s main airport). Some airlines fly directly there, some do not. To discover available flights, just visit Skyscanner . 

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15 Things to do in Sacramento, California [With Suggested 3 Day Itinerary]

About the Writer

Fatima Turla2

Hi there! I’m Fatima . My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram .

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THE 10 BEST Sacramento Tours & Excursions

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  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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1. Sacramento Ghosts: Gunslingers and Ghouls Tour

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2. Downtown Sacramento Historical Food Tour

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3. Sacramento Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate

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4. Midtown Sacramento Arts and Food Tour

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5. Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise Sacramento 21+

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6. Old Sacramento: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

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7. Cider and Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch - near Sacramento

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8. Wine Tasting Audio Tour - Amador County CA

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9. Old Sacramento Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game

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10. California Audio Tour Bundle Get 4 Audio Tours

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11. Sacramento City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest

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12. Gold Rush and Ghosts of Sacramento Smart Phone guided (App/GPS) Walking Tour

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13. Sacramento Sutter District History and Food Walking Tour

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14. Half Day Sardinian Pasta Classes with Dining and Latin Dance

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15. Downtown Sacramento Mural and Art Walking Tour

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16. Pedal, Drink, and Bar hop through Sacramento on a 15 seat Beer Bike

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17. Midtown Sacramento Walking Food Tour

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18. Historic Folsom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

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19. Driving in Delta’s Wine Country: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour

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20. Sacramento Scavenger Hunt Adventure

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21. Sacramento Street Art Walking Tour - See the Murals Sacramento is Famous For

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22. Wine Tasting Audio Tour - Lodi California

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23. Railbike on the River

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24. Sacramento Capitol Park Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour

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25. Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour

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26. Wakeboard, Wakesurf or Kneeboard Full Day

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27. Airport Transportation from Sacramento to San Francisco Airport (SFO)

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28. Wakeboard, Wakesurf or Kneeboard Private Half-Day Adventure

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29. Sacramento Puzzling Adventure

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30. Sacramento Sights & Sips Cruise

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25 Fascinating Meetup Groups In Sacramento

December 17, 2014 / 12:31 PM PST / Good Day Sacramento

Many interesting people reside in Sacramento, and that is reflected in the diversity of the local Meetup groups organized via the Meetup.com website. There truly is something for everyone on the site, which facilitates "neighbors getting together to learn something, do something, share something."

Check out our list of 25 of the most fascinating, in no particular order:

Pirates of Sacramento

"Arrrgh" you VERY interested in pirates? Then join this group of "scallywags" that runs a "Pyrate Skool" teaching history, as well as how to talk like a pirate. The group also does re-enactments with historically-accurate costumes.

Sacramento and Elk Grove UFO Meetup

If you are looking for an "otherworldly" Meetup group with an eye on the sky, this Elk Grove-based gathering could be for you.

Girlfriends a la "Sex and the City"

For women seeking the kind of friendships like those of the "fabulous foursome" in Sex and the City , this group provides the "easy camaraderie" of other gals to "laugh, gossip and drink Cosmos with."

Sacramento Death Café

Enjoy cake, sip tea and talk about death: that is the goal of this unique Meetup group, which has the goal of increasing "awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives."

The folks in this group are looking for an "escape from the Crazy Town that their lives are currently marinating in" by providing members with "a safe environment to let your hair down." If you need to get away from the surreal life and just have fun, this group might be for you.

Sacramento Hot Air Balloon Team

There's nothing wrong with leaving things up in the air if you love hot air balloons, which this Meetup believes are "beautiful, exciting, and challenging."

What's Your Everest?

Are you into mountain climbing and hiking? Check out this group which offers hikes and mountain climbing with varying skill levels, from easy kid-friendly hikes to serious climbers and hikers preparing to summit Mount Everest.

The Sacramento Chihuahua & Itty Bitty Meetup Group

Is your pooch pocket size? Did he just say, " Yo quiero a Meetup group?" Then you are in luck! If you have a Chihuahua or other tiny dog, this Meetup is for you.

Sacramento Tall Club Meetup Group

Are you taller than 5'10" if you're a woman and 6'2" if you're a man? Then this Meetup where you can "discuss the differences and difficulties of looking down on the world" might be for you.

Sassy Hands Sacramento

Have you ever wanted to create something Pinterest-worthy? Then Sassy Hands Sacramento is for you. Their motto is "More projects, less pinning!" and they'll give you the tools to actually finish a beautiful project.

Sacramento Bitcoin Meetup

If you are interested in the Bitcoin economy, then check out this Meetup group that hopes to bring this coin-based "exciting marketplace" to Sacramento.

Sacramento Backyard Poultry Group

Do you have an interest in raising chickens right in your own neighborhood? Then check out this "eggciting" Meetup group for "people who have small backyard flocks of poultry."

The Sacramento Original Travel Club

If you adore travel and want to converse about fascinating destinations and how to get there "inexpensively," then this group of world travelers if for you. Bon voyage !

Do you long to be the next Stephen King or J.K. Rowling? Then it's the "write" choice to join this authors' group created to encourage its members to publish "imaginative fiction."

Dance Maniacs

If dancing until the sun comes up takes you to your happy place, then this group is for you.

Sacramento Do Double Dutch

Love jumping rope? Your love will double when you join this Meetup group that claims "it does not matter if you haven't jumped in 20 years or ever, we can help you Do Double Dutch in no time!"

River Dippers

Skinnydippers are welcome in this group that shares its "open enjoyment of sun, breeze, water, and good people in natural, outdoor settings, without the necessity of clothing." The group claims that people both with and without tan lines are welcome.

Sacramento Hash House Harriers

This Meetup group is a self-proclaimed "drinking club with a running problem." Members of this club run through a variety of terrains and even cityscapes (especially pubs) with the help of "plenty of beer, shenanigans, and opportunities for inappropriate fun." If you never take a drink without putting on your running shoes, this group is for you.

Women Who Code Sacramento

Girl geeks unite! This computer savvy Meetup group is designed for women who "excel in technology careers."

Sacramento Foragers

Ever wanted to know which plants are safe to eat in the forest? Check out this group specializing in "wild edible plant recognition."

Sacramento Pink Pistols

This group was created to provide a "GLBTQ-friendly place to learn [gun] safety skills and shooting fundamentals" and especially welcomes those new to the world of firearms.

Sacramento Naked Yoga

Created as a way to reject "the material side of life," this group is designed for those who are looking for "something different." With this group, that is a virtual guarantee.

Carpe Diem Sacramento County

If you want to "seize the day" and "take a hold of every opportunity that is out before you," then the career inspiration this vocational group provides might be for you.

Outdoor Movies Meetup

What's more fun than watching movies outside? Enjoy films in an outdoor urban setting in the heart of Sacramento.

Sacramento Polyamory

If you don't believe that relationships necessarily need to be monogamous, then this group for people exploring "open" relationships might be for you.

- Lauren Chiong, Good Day Sacramento

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The Travel Guys Radio Show is presented live every Saturday from 11am to 12 pm on KFBK AM 1530 or Newstalk 93.1 FM in Sacramento, CA. You can also listen at www.kfbk.com or on the iHeartRadio app . Visit www.travelguysradio.com for the list of topics to be covered in the next program, special guests, weblinks to related sites and even podcasts of past shows. Through the Contact link , you can pose your travel questions to our panel of experts. Yours might even be answered on the air!

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The 10 best day trips from Sacramento

Jun 2, 2021 • 9 min read

Yosemite National Park Valley on a cloudy autumn morning from Tunnel View.

Charming towns and jaw-dropping landscapes, including at Yosemite National Park, are within day-tripping distance of Sacramento © haveseen / Shutterstock

Located roughly halfway between San Francisco and Lake Tahoe, Sacramento is the ideal launchpad for reaching some of California's most popular destinations on easily accessible on day trips.

When you're ready to head out of California's capital city, you can point your GPS in any direction to find gorgeous national parks, old-timey gold mining towns and lush valleys full of world-renowned vineyards. These are the best day trips to take from Sacramento .

Pink clouds in the sky above the Golden Gate Bridge during sunrise

1. San Francisco

Get to know the capital of weird from the inside out, from mural-lined alleyways named after poets to clothing-optional beaches on a former military base. But don't be too quick to dismiss San Francisco 's wild ideas – biotech, gay rights, the internet, cable cars and organic fine dining were once considered outlandish, before San Francisco introduced these underground ideas into the mainstream decades ago.

San Francisco's morning fog erases the boundaries between land and ocean, reality and possibility. Rules are never strictly followed here. The  Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz are entirely optional – San Franciscans mostly admire them from afar. Instead of sightseeing, just follow your bliss through Golden Gate Park , past flamboyantly painted Victorian homes, and through art-filled Mission streets. Just don't be late for your sensational, sustainable dinner : in San Francisco, you can find happiness and eat it too.

How to get to San Francisco from Sacramento:  Traffic and parking can be tough in San Francisco, so hop on the Capitol Corridor train instead. This route links Sacramento to Oakland, which has frequent public transport connections to San Francisco. The journey takes about two hours.

The 16 best California road trips

Blue waters seen from a beach at Lake Tahoe

2. Lake Tahoe

Shimmering in myriad shades of blue and green, Lake Tahoe is the USA’s second-deepest lake. Sitting at 6245ft, it is also one of the highest-elevation lakes in the country. Driving around the 72-mile shoreline is a spellbinding adventure, with curves, viewpoints and beckoning trails. Generally, the north shore is quiet and upscale; the west shore, rugged and old-timey; the east shore, undeveloped; the south shore, bustling with motels and casinos. The horned peaks surrounding the lake are year-round destinations. The sun shines on Tahoe three out of every four days. Swimming, boating, kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) and boat cruises prevail in summer, as do hiking, camping and wilderness backpacking. Winter brings bundles of snow, perfect for hitting Tahoe’s top-tier ski and snowboard resorts.

How to get to Lake Tahoe:  Lake Tahoe straddles the California–Nevada state line. It takes about two hours to drive the 115 miles to Tahoe City, the western shore's commercial hub.

The best time to visit California

3. Yosemite National Park

The jaw-dropping head-turner of the USA's national parks, and a Unesco World Heritage site, Yosemite National Park garners the devotion of all who enter. From the waterfall-striped granite walls buttressing emerald-green Yosemite Valley to the skyscraping giant sequoias catapulting into the air at Mariposa Grove the place inspires a sense of awe and reverence – four million visitors wend their way to the country’s third-oldest national park annually. But lift your eyes above the crowds and you’ll feel your heart instantly moved by unrivaled splendors: the haughty profile of Half Dome , the hulking presence of El Capitan  (known to the Indigenous Ahwahneechee as  To-tock-ah-noo-lah) , the drenching mists of Yosemite Falls , the gemstone lakes of the high country’s subalpine wilderness and Hetch Hetchy 's pristine pathways.

How to get to Yosemite National Park: Yosemite National Park makes for a long day trip from Sacramento, but it's doable and worth your time if you can only spare a day. The Yosemite Valley Visitor Center is 165 miles from Sacramento, and the drive takes three and a half hours.

How to spend your first visit to Yosemite National Park

Foggy morning at Bodega Bay, California

4. Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay is the first pearl in a string of sleepy fishing towns that line the North Coast and was the setting of Hitchcock’s terrifying 1963 avian psycho-horror flick The Birds . The skies are free from bloodthirsty gulls today (though you'd best keep an eye on your picnic); it’s Bay Area weekenders who descend en masse for extraordinary beaches, tide pools, whale-watching, fishing, surfing and seafood. Mostly made up of a few restaurants, hotels and shops on both sides of Hwy 1, Bodega Bay's downtown is not made for strolling, but it is a great base for exploring the endless nearby coves of the Sonoma Coast State Beach. Hwy 1 runs through town and along the east side of Bodega Bay. On the west side, a peninsula resembling a crooked finger juts out to sea, forming the entrance to Bodega Harbor.

How to get to Bodega Bay: Bodega Bay is on the Pacific coast west of Sacramento. The drive is about 110 miles, and the journey time is a little over two hours. 

Exterior of the Wine and Visitors Center in Lodi, California

Although Lodi was once the watermelon capital of the world, today, full-bodied wine rules this patch of the valley. Breezes from the Sacramento River Delta soothe the area’s hot vineyards, where some of the world's oldest zinfandel vines grow. Lodi’s diverse soil is sometimes rocky, sometimes fine sandy loam, giving its grapes a range of distinctive characteristics that allow for experimentation with some less common varietals. Lodi is an ideal destination for those looking for a low-key, budget-friendly wine trip . The town also hosts a slew of festivals dedicated to their famous export, including the Wine and Chocolate Weekend in February and ZinFest in May.

How to get to Lodi: Lodi lies approximately 35 miles southeast of Sacramento. The drive takes about 40 minutes.

Wooden pier of Sausalito, California

6. Sausalito

Perfectly arranged on a secure little harbor on the bay, Sausalito is undeniably lovely. Named for the tiny willows that once populated the banks of its creeks, it’s famous for its colorful houseboats bobbing in the bay. The town sits on Richardson Bay, a smaller bay within San Francisco Bay. Much of the well-heeled downtown has uninterrupted views of San Francisco and Angel Island, and because of the ridgeline at its back, fog generally skips it. Sausalito is (understandably) a major tourist trap, jam-packed with souvenir shops and costly boutiques.

How to get to Sausalito: Sausalito is the first town you encounter after crossing the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, so daytime crowds turn up in droves and can make parking difficult. Either start this day trip early — it's about an hour and 45 minutes driving from Sacramento — or ferry over from San Francisco for a more relaxing excursion. 

Snow covering historic Nevada City, California

7. Nevada City

Nevada City knows it's charming, but it doesn't like to brag. The shops sell prayer flags and chia smoothies, while the drinking holes sling all manner of liquid enlightenment. The person browsing the history museum with you is just as liable to be an old-timer, a road-weary backpacker or a mystical folk artist. In the midst of all this are the requisite Victorian and Gold Rush tourist attractions – an elegantly restored town center and frilly B&Bs. 

Nevada City’s strollable streets are especially lively in summer. In December, the snow blanket and twinkling lights are something from a storybook. Nevada City is the gateway to Tahoe National Forest  , but linger to experience inviting NorCal culture and the energetic, youthful vibe. The theater companies, alternative film houses, bookstores and venues put on shows almost every night; tune into radical local radio station kvmr.org at 89.5FM to catch the vibe and hear what's on.

How to get to Nevada City: Despite its name, Nevada City is in California, and it's about 60 miles northeast of Sacramento. The drive takes about an hour and 15 minutes.

Landscape of Lassen Volcanic National Park in California

8. Lassen Volcanic National Park

The dry, smoldering terrain within the 106,000-acre Lassen Volcanic National Park stands in stunning contrast to the cool, green conifer forest that surrounds it. That’s in summer; in winter tons of snow ensures you won’t get too far inside its borders without some serious gear. Still, entering the park from the southwest entrance is to suddenly step into another world.

The lavascape offers a fascinating glimpse into the earth’s fiery core. In a fuming display, the terrain is marked by roiling hot springs, steamy mud pots, noxious sulfur vents, fumaroles, lava flows, cinder cones, craters and crater lakes. In earlier times, the region was a summer encampment and meeting point for the Atsugewi, Yana, Yahi and Maidu Native American tribes. They hunted deer and gathered plants for basketmaking here. Some indigenous people still live nearby and work closely with the park to help educate visitors on their ancient history and contemporary culture.

How to get to Lassen Volcanic National Park: To reach Lassen Volcanic National Park's headquarters, it's a two hour and 45 minutes drive from Sacramento, clocking in at 170 miles.

Introducing California's national parks

Vineyard in Napa Valley, California

9. Napa Valley

Napa Valley is exactly what you expect when you think of Wine Country: hillside chateau wineries, bold cabernets, vast expanses of perfectly ordered grape vines, grassy slopes speckled by the tungsten sun, restaurant dinners that go on for hours, and some of the finest and most luxurious small-scale boutique hotels anywhere in California. Beyond the typical, Napa has some great hiking in the hillsides, exhilarating mud baths up north in the more working-class town of Calistoga , and plenty of small shops, wineries and classy bistros in the tony village settings of St Helena and Yountville.

How to get to Napa Valley: Most journeys start and end in the city of Napa proper, which is about 60 miles from Sacramento. The drive to Napa takes just over an hour.

Abandoned mine shaft at Empire Mine State Historic Park, California

10. Empire Mine State Historic Park

Atop 367 miles of mine shafts tunneling almost a vertical mile beneath the surface, Empire Mine State Historic Park , the Gold Country’s best-preserved gold-quartz-mining operation, is worth a day’s exploration. From 1850 to 1956 the miners here, mostly Cornish, produced 5.8 million troy ounces of gold (worth about $8 billion today). The visitor center has maps and leads guided tours. It also houses an intricate scale model of the Empire-Star Mine from 1938. Detailing all the tunnels and connections, it was once a closely guarded secret.

It's also well worth paying to enter the mine yard, littered with mining equipment and buildings constructed from waste rock, and to view the main shaft's claustrophobic entry, next to the former site of the head frame (a tall structure used to haul ore and people from underground). Nearby is the English-manor-style summer cottage and 13 acres of gardens belonging to the Bourn family, who originally owned the mine; though this now appears incongruously idyllic, the noise of the mining activity must have been deafening. Hiking backcountry trails that meander past abandoned mines and equipment is free. Trailheads are located at the parking lots behind the visitor center and Penn Gate to its west.

How to get to Empire Mine State Historic Park:  From Sacramento, it's a 60-mile drive to Empire Mine State Historic Park, which takes a little more than one hour.

You might also like: Visit all of California's national parks on this legendary road trip Why you should drive California's scenic Highway 395 Climb aboard for the USA's 6 most amazing train journeys

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Visit Sacramento

Group Activities

Who says you can’t add a little off-agenda fun into your next meeting? Whether it’s within walking distance of downtown or a quick drive away, Sacramento offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, ideal for groups to have the ultimate local experience in California’s capital. 

From hands-on attractions and outdoor adventures to awe-inspiring murals and unmatched farm-to-table cuisine, here are some of the top things to do with your group when meeting in Sacramento .

California Expo

Outdoor Opportunities Worth the Outing

Sacramento's temperate weather allows for plenty of outdoor activities, ranging from hiking and {brew}-biking to wandering the streets enjoying the myriad murals painted throughout the city.

Sac Brew Bike

Experience Sacramento by pedaling through the city with your group on the Sac Brew Bike —a 15-passenger, pedal-powered "bar bike" that stops and visits some of Sacramento’s best watering holes. Get ready to feel like a local when cruising the beautiful tree-­lined streets of the Midtown area in this fun-filled, open-air group adventure.

Sac Brew Boat

Go from pedaling on land to pedaling on water when your group hops on the Sac Brew Boat —a 16-passenger vessel that provides 1.5-hour pedal-powered party boat tours on the Sacramento River. Groups can bring their own beverages and libations aboard the chartered boat as they cruise, pedal and have fun on the river.

Murals That Amuse

Sacramento is home to more than 650 murals, and since 2016, the Wide Open Walls mural festival has added to the number each year as local and international artists converge in the city to create these large-scale paintings throughout the region—giving locals and visitors a spectacular sight, ideal for a self-guided walking tour with your group.

A Geography Great for a Group Golf Outing

Gather your group for a game on the green! Sacramento boasts pristine golf courses designed to be both serene and challenging, while the nearby Sierra Nevada foothills play host as a stunning, scenic backdrop.

Sacramento Zoo

Groups can enjoy a self-guided expedition throughout the Sacramento Zoo during a scheduled visit. For a more up-close-and-personal zoo adventure, request a private animal encounter or stage show—and take advantage of carousel rides, rock climbing and scavenger hunts offered as ideal team-building opportunities.

Adrenaline-Rushing Adventure Awaits at Mother Lode River Center

Gather your group for thrilling, off-site activities at Mother Lode River Center , and experience expertly guided whitewater rafting trips ranging from mild to wild, an on-site Challenge Ropes Course with Zipline and a beautiful 20-acre private camp on the American River.

Indoor Activities of Group Interest

Old sacramento underground wine tasting room experience.

Focused on providing an exceptional and educational wine tasting experience, groups can enjoy a selection of sips from multiple wineries during an Old Sacramento Underground Wine Tasting Room Experience .

Escape Rooms

Escape room games are fun and engaging social activities where groups can work together. At Enchambered: Sacramento Escape Room , teams of three to 12 people are locked into custom-built, challenging and entertaining themed environments and must work together to solve the many mysteries and puzzles to escape before the clock runs out.

California State Railroad Museum

Located in the Old Sacramento Waterfront district, the California State Railroad Museum ’s excursion train rides offer groups a one-of-a-kind activity experience. 2021 marks the 38th consecutive season the excursion trains have been operating in Old Sacramento, returning this year with open-air gondolas pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive from the Museum’s collection.

Broadway Sacramento

Sacramento's hottest entertainment, dining and socializing destination is found at Broadway Sacramento —a live musical theatre with a modern rooftop nightclub and lounge for groups to enjoy a night on the town.

the visit sacramento sales team in the ballroom of the convention center in august 2021

Looking for More Things to Do With Your Group?

Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. When you plan to meet in Sacramento, there’s no shortage of things to do, see and explore with your group.

Our team at Visit Sacramento is here to help you find the ultimate activities and accommodations best suited for your group’s interests—and add some off-agenda fun into the mix for an even more memorable meeting experience!

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IMAGES

  1. Top 8 Sacramento Hiking Groups

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  2. Sacramento 2021: Top 10 Tours & Activities (with Photos)

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  3. 25 of the Best Things to do in Sacramento

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  4. Top things you HAVE to do in SACRAMENTO, California

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  5. Top 8 Sacramento Hiking Groups

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  6. 2022 Sacramento Travel Guide

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COMMENTS

  1. Find Travel Events & Groups in Sacramento, CA

    Find Travel groups in Sacramento, CA to connect with people who share your interests. Join now to attend online or in person events. Skip to content. Travel events near Sacramento, CA. ... Group name:Happiest Place on Earth Travel Group Las Vegas. Online Event. Fri, May 17 · 1:00 AM UTC. Our Featured Bucket List Meetups: Kilimanjaro, Slakantay ...

  2. Find Travel Club Events & Groups in Sacramento, CA

    Group name:Sacramento Sierra Club. Group name:Sacramento Sierra Club. Wed, May 15 · 5:00 PM UTC. ... Group name:Happiest Place on Earth Travel Group Las Vegas. Sat, May 4 · 5:30 PM UTC. Yoga On The River. Group name:Travel Adventures & More. Group name:Travel Adventures & More.

  3. Sacramento Travel Club

    Membership is FREE! Travel the World with us, and make new friends! The Sacramento Travel Club has fun monthly functions, as well as 12 or more trips that we take every year to locations all over the World. All ages and all travel styles are welcome. We are going to Greece in September, and Egypt with the Smithsonian in November.

  4. Travel Club

    It is our pleasure to welcome and introduce you to one of northern California's largest travel groups, Sports Leisure Vacations (SLV). Whether your travel is for a day or on an extended trip, each is carefully planned to offer you the best combination of quality, location and value. ... Sacramento, CA 95827-1732 (916) 361 - 2051 ...

  5. Visitors' Guide

    Order a FREE printed guide. Check out the online version of the guide or request one from our office by clicking here for a free printed guide, calling 916.808.7777, or mailing us at 1608 I St. Sacramento, CA 95814.

  6. Sacramento Student Travel Groups Get Unique Experiences

    When you are arranging your Sacramento group tour, we know that you are looking for deep, unique experiences for your groups. You want to give them experiences that go beyond regular tourism experiences. From special, hands-on tours to special

  7. 15 Things to do in Sacramento, California [With Suggested 3 Day Itinerary]

    14. Tower Bridge. 15. Old City Cemetery. Things to do with 3 days in Sacramento, California. Day 1 in Sacramento, California. Day 2 in Sacramento, California. Day 3 in Sacramento, California. Frequently Asked Questions about Sacramento, California.

  8. TOP 10 BEST Tour Companies in Sacramento, CA

    See more reviews for this business. Top 10 Best Tour Companies in Sacramento, CA - April 2024 - Yelp - TravelStore-Sacramento, Sports Leisure Vacations, Escape travel Tours, Heart of Travel, Sacramento Ghosts, Local Roots Food Tours, Old Sacramento Underground, PACIFIC TRAVEL & TOURS, JJPfister Distilling, NorCal Limousine Services.

  9. THE 10 BEST Sacramento Tours & Excursions

    This tour explores the very beginnings of Sacramento, from Sutter's colony Nueva Helvecia to food tastings in current at…. 13. Gold Rush and Ghosts of Sacramento Smart Phone guided (App/GPS) Walking Tour. Discover the history of Old Sacramento, the Gold Rush, the Union Pacific Railroad, and the ghosts that now linger.

  10. Travel Agency

    About Us. Signature Travel Escapes is a family-owned tour operator and travel agency located in Sacramento, CA. We specialize in a wide range of travel services and are always expanding and enhancing our offers, as well as adding new and exciting tours, all inclusive packages, group travel and more. Signature Travel Escapes was founded by ...

  11. Sacramento Vacation Planning

    Sacramento's location puts you within hours of several renowned attractions such as Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and San Francisco. Learn More. / 7. The capital of California is also America's Farm-to-Fork Capital. Start planning your trip and experience the history, culture, and cuisine of Sacramento.

  12. 25 Fascinating Meetup Groups In Sacramento

    The Sacramento Original Travel Club. ... Sacramento Pink Pistols. This group was created to provide a "GLBTQ-friendly place to learn [gun] safety skills and shooting fundamentals" and especially ...

  13. International Group Travel to Sacramento, California

    International. Sacramento is a popular destination for international travelers. Sacramento's agritourism scene, historical significance in the California Gold Rush and the western expansion of the United States, world-class museums and attractions, and laid-back, affordable style are popular draws for visitors from around the world. We are here ...

  14. Sports Leisure Vacations

    The Travel Guys Radio Show is presented live every Saturday from 11am to 12 pm on KFBK AM 1530 or Newstalk 93.1 FM in Sacramento, CA. You can also listen at www.kfbk.com or on the iHeartRadio app. Visit www.travelguysradio.com for the list of topics to be covered in the next program, special guests, weblinks to related sites and even podcasts ...

  15. Best day trips from Sacramento

    This route links Sacramento to Oakland, which has frequent public transport connections to San Francisco. The journey takes about two hours. The 16 best California road trips. 2. Lake Tahoe. Shimmering in myriad shades of blue and green, Lake Tahoe is the USA's second-deepest lake.

  16. Sacramento Group Travel

    Travel Trade. If you'd like to create a Sacramento group tour - or add Sacramento to a Northern California itinerary - we can help you find out why Sacramento is the best place for your Hub & Spoke itinerary. From developing custom itineraries to helping negotiate hotel room commitments and rates, the Tourism department at the Visit Sacramento ...

  17. Gold Country Travelers RV Club

    Welcome to the website of the Gold Country Travelers RV Club. We are located in Northern California. We camp all year round at public and private campgrounds. We sometimes take extended out of state trips. We are all about having fun, fellowship or just relaxing at our campsites. Have fun browsing our site. If you would like to join us for one ...

  18. Group Activities

    Experience Sacramento by pedaling through the city with your group on the Sac Brew Bike —a 15-passenger, pedal-powered "bar bike" that stops and visits some of Sacramento's best watering holes. Get ready to feel like a local when cruising the beautiful tree-­lined streets of the Midtown area in this fun-filled, open-air group adventure.