Replete with historic buildings boasting beautiful architecture, Old Sacramento Waterfront District stands as the cultural and historical landmark of Sacramento. A tour of the historical four blocks in a horse-drawn carriage comes most recommended, or you can even take a ride on a riverboat. Bustling with activity, this place offers tourists a number of shopping places, museums, and tree-covered spots around the river to soak in the historic vibe of the area. On weekends you can usually hear Cajun, blues, or folk music being played in one of several saloons and restaurants.
The California Auto Museum displays antique automobiles of all makes and models. Antique mannequins and artifacts enhance this museum's history of the automobile. Showcasing more than 150 classics, the museum also features dream exhibits which explore society's passion for speed, independence and the image associated with cars. Guided tours, video programs, group discounts, a gift shop, private party room (with cars displayed) and a research library are available.
Founded in the 1870s, Crocker Art Museum is known as the first art museum in the West. The historical building with hand-carved doors, ornate walls and parquet floors, creates a gorgeous backdrop as impressive as the art. The art includes the Gold Rush, Victorian and European masters and contemporary works. The museum hosts art talks, classical concerts, jazz concerts, and tours (afternoons and weekends). A gift shop is also available.
The Sacramento Zoo is home to more than 400 animals, including the snow leopard, red panda, eagles and different reptiles. In addition to the animals, the zoo has lakes, gardens, an educational amphitheater, and a train that runs through the premises. Service and amenities also include picnic areas, concessions, gift store, stroller rentals and complimentary wheelchairs.
A popular attraction in Sacramento, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park is a must-visit while in the city. A self-guided tour of the beautiful park and the historic Sutter Fort will offer you an insight on the history of the city. Originally built in 1839, Sutter's Fort is symbolic of the Gold Rush era in California. Costumed docents re-enact living history as mountain men, traders, trappers and blacksmiths. View replicas of covered wagons or watch while docents make handicrafts. You can also visit the museum store located within the premises.
Fairytale Town is a fun world where fairy tales come to life. Children can play their heart out and run around the crooked mile. Captain Hook's pirate ship, Owl's tree house and King Arthur's table are all here for the little one's to explore. The petting zoo has a variety of animals to see. You can bring a picnic lunch or purchase hot dogs, corn dogs, nachos and drinks from a concession stand.
Operating continuously since the day the doors opened in 1869, the California State Capitol is where the State of California's legislature met. By the late 1970s, the building was declared seismically unsafe and had become an eyesore. The Legislature decided to stay in its traditional home and authorized a massive restoration. Today, from the intricate tile work on the front lobby floor to the lovingly etched filigreed detail in alcoves under the rotunda, the craftsmanship of a bygone era is evident. A host of exhibitions unravel various aspects of the Capitol, from its history and architecture to its storied office holders. The expansive gardens around the building are beautifully landscaped with diverse types of trees and are perfect for a stroll after the history lesson. A host of memorials dot the park's picturesque landscape.
California State Railroad Museum is one of the largest train museums in the country. Dedicated to accuracy and detail, the California State Railroad Museum, located in historic Old Sacramento, recreates the golden days of American railroading circa 1849. Adults and kids alike can wander for hours among restored locomotives, passenger cars, and railroad equipment. Indoor and outdoor displays bring to life rail travel during the Gold Rush Era. Apart from the permanent exhibits, the museum hosts temporary exhibits that explore railroad history along with a collection of toy trains and other exciting memorabilia.
Across K Street Mall from the Regional Transit (RT) Cathedral Square train stop, is an edifice sculpted in the classic architectural mode. Patisian cathedrals such as Notre Dame inspired its theme, as evidenced by its ascending niched pillars directing worshipers' eyes upward to twin, asymmetrical bell towers. At the front entrance, a mountainous flight of stairs ascends to tall wooden doors. The interior has various saintly sculptures carved in wood, and well-worn wooden pews. A large circular, stained-glass window, crafted in Italy, illuminates the central altar.
The Sacramento History Museum is a perfect place to begin your excursion of the city and the Old Sacramento State Historic Park. At this museum, you can learn about the fascinating history of the city, including details about the Gold Rush and its impact on Sacramento. Other interesting exhibits at the museum shed light on the way of life of the Nisenan and Maidu people who were the early inhabitants of the region. You can also view a wide range of artifacts related to occupations such as fur tapping that were carried out in the region.