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.
Surrounding the California State Capitol Museum, Capitol Park is a quiet retreat away from the city. Featuring lush landscaping, trees from around the world, and various memorials, this park is great for an afternoon of history lessons or moments of solitude and sunshine. The Civil War Memorial Grove was planted in 1897 with saplings from famous battlegrounds and honors those who served. Also located within the park is the life size statue of Father Junipero Serra and the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
This stunning Victorian mansion was originally built in 1856. This architecturally stunning home was the residence of California Governor, Leland Stanford. Featuring 17-foot tall ceilings, light fixtures dating from the 19th Century, artistic relics, paintings, gilded mirrors and original furniture which was the property of the Stanford family, this mansion is a true gem to behold. After a renovation that took 14 years, this former governors residence now serves as a museum and visitor center. Tours are offered throughout the week.
The California Museum offers the history of the state in a dazzling array of high-tech, multimedia displays and exhibits. The museum makes the subject of history an entertaining treat for the entire family. It uses interactive displays (including holograms) to depict the "People, Place, Politics, and Promise of California" in its four main galleries. A highlight of the museum is the display of the original California Constitution.
The seats in Raley Field offer a nice view of the Sacramento skyline. The park has more than 11,000 seats and is a popular venue for concerts, festivals and other events. It is also home to the Sacramento River Cats, a baseball team who holds the 2007 Pacific League Champions title. There are concession stands offering the usual ballpark fare, as well as Mexican cuisine, pizza, barbecue and grilled veggie sandwiches. Beverages include soft drinks and a variety of micro brews on tap.
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.
A 19th-century edifice, the Big Four Building is part of Old Sacramento State Historic Park. The entire structure comprised the Stanford Building, the Huntington building, the Hopkins Building, and the Miller Building. The name of the building commemorates the influential personalities who made up the "The Big Four"; the financial muscle behind the Central Pacific Railroad. A National Historic Landmark, the structure is now home to a reconstructed hardware store that displays various antique memorabilia. The building also houses the Railroad Museum Library, widely regarded as one of the most remarkable railroad references libraries in North America.
Yolo Basin Foundation was established in 1990 to conserve the Yolo Wildlife Area. It focuses on environmental education and restoration of the Yolo Bypass Region, in cooperation with the California Department of Fish & Game. The organization introduces people to wildlife, and teaches them to live harmoniously alongside; it is also a sponsor for non-profit events, such as California Duck Days. Check out the website for more details.
Thousands of school children come here to learn about the native plants on this unique 80-acre preserve. During day camps in July and August, children get an up-close-and-personal look at nature. Other year-round activities for children include guided tours through the redwoods and occasionally the staff offers stargazing sessions. The Arboretum is not just for children. The staff offers gardening and landscaping workshops for adults.
This leafy campus offers a variety of entertainment and sports for spectators, as well as diverse recreational opportunities. The annual Festival of the Arts (various venues campus-wide, including the University and Playwrights Theaters) attracts artists from around the world. Visual artists, as well as film animators, sculptors, dancers and classical and jazz musicians, present their work at the Festival. Running trails wind through the wooded campus on the southern bank of the American River.
Wine lovers will find their paradise at Six Hands Winery, renowned for serving unique and hand-crafted, best-selling wine varieties. Their wines are quiet popular in California and you can spot their bottles in stores and restaurants throughout California. A family owned-winery, Six Hands can be visited with your friends for a tremendous wine tasting tour in a picturesque location. Carefully grown and reaped grapes go into the making of what they call as excellent wines. The winery is admirable not just for its wine varietals but sustainable farming practices. You can be a member of the winery and get access to amazing benefits throughout the year.
RiverWalk is a natural oasis meandering along the western bank of the Sacramento River. The network of scenic trails begins in the shadow of the Tower Bridge across Third Street from Raley Field. The paved trail is lined with native plants as well as signs that colorfully describe them. The centerpiece of this urban jewel is the Grand Staircase just below the Money Store ziggurat; it doubles as a concert amphitheater highlighting entertainers from everywhere.