Your guide to Sacramento

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California’s inland capital combines Gold Rush history with riverfront parks, farm-to-table dining and easy access to the Sierra Nevada. Sacramento moves between historic districts, contemporary museums and outdoor adventures that range from cycling trails to whitewater rafting nearby. Our Sacramento travel guide delivers the food, breweries and laid-back energy that give the city a different side of California.

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Sacramento highlights

Old California

Begin your stay in Sacramento with a visit to the city’s riverfront historic district. The wooden walkways and preserved 19th-century buildings of Old Sacramento are a hub of dining, retail and entertainment. Visit the California State Railroad Museum and tour the opulent Leland Stanford Mansion for a peek into the past. And don’t leave without experiencing the Sacramento History Museum’s interactive exhibits.

Rivers run through it

Sitting at the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers, Sacramento is a playground for outdoor adventure. You’re always close to whitewater rafting and scenic, tree-shaded bike trails. Hike through lush parks like Discovery Park and Effie Yeaw Nature Center, home to deer and turkeys. Enjoy peaceful kayaking on Lake Natoma, or explore the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge.

Where to stay

Many of Sacramento’s best hotels are found in the Downtown and Midtown neighbourhoods. These hubs provide quick access to cultural attractions, not to mention the lion’s share of the city’s farm-to-fork eateries and craft cocktail bars. Midtown is a bit trendier, with third-wave coffee shops and art museums. Go just west and you’ll hit Old Sacramento and its many Gold Rush–era relics.

Sacramento: Know before you go

Language	English
Currency	United States dollar ($)
Time zone	UTC-8 (PST) and UTC-7 (PDT)
High season	June - August
Low season	January - February

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Things to do in Sacramento

Places to eat

Fresh, seasonal ingredients are a way of life in Sacramento — after all, the city is home to more than 40 farmers markets. Expect Delta asparagus in spring, almonds year-round and rotating seasonal taps at over 70 breweries. Midtown offers diverse dining, from cheap eats to cafes and acclaimed gastropubs. Come in autumn for the annual Farm-To-Fork Festival, when local chefs and producers show off the region’s bounty.

Take in the culture

Opened in 1885, the Crocker Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the American West and home to a diverse collection of Californian art. The immersive experiences at the Sacramento History Museum celebrate life during the Gold Rush. For something different, check out the Automobile Museum’s vintage car displays or the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity’s hands-on fun.

Beaches

You can spend weeks exploring the rivers, lakes and swimming holes surrounding the city. But if you have a hankering for salt water, you’ll find Pacific waves about two hours southwest at beaches like family-friendly Stinson Beach. In the opposite direction, the crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe await. Pull over at Sand Harbor State Park for wide, golden sand and picture-postcard views.

FAQs about visiting Sacramento

Is it safe to visit Sacramento?

A trip to Sacramento is very safe. Some of the safest neighbourhoods are Midtown, East Sacramento and South Land Park. Keep in mind that this is still a bustling city, so practise regular caution. Also be aware of light rail crossing when walking around town.

What language is spoken in Sacramento?

English is what you'll hear the most while you're here. Pick up a few local expressions during your city break in Sacramento and you'll blend right in.

What is the coldest month in Sacramento?

January is the coolest time of year to visit. Plan your Sacramento trip then and you can expect lows of 2ºC (36ºF).

What currency is used in Sacramento?

You'll be using the United States dollar (USD) while in Sacramento. Along with your credit and debit cards, consider having cash available for things like minor purchases and public transport fares.

What is the hottest month in Sacramento?

With temperatures hitting highs of 37ºC (99ºF), July is the warmest month in Sacramento.

What is the rainiest month in Sacramento?

With an average rainfall of 120 millimetres, December is the wettest month to visit Sacramento. When the drizzle sets in, head indoors and make the most of the city's cafes, galleries, museums and more.

How many days do you need in Sacramento?

While you can experience the city in a single weekend, a three- to four-day trip to Sacramento is ideal. This will give you plenty of time to enjoy the region’s best cultural and outdoor attractions. Sacramento is also a great base for exploring some of California’s lesser-known wine regions, like Amador and El Dorado.

Is Sacramento a good place to visit?

A trip to Sacramento is ideal for all kinds of travellers, be it families, couples or friends. Kids love to explore the riverfront, the Sacramento Zoo and the Gold Rush attractions. And the city is a playground for adults too, with no shortage of great food, drinks and nightlife.

How expensive is a trip to Sacramento?

The time of year you visit, the airline you pick, and where you stay will help influence how much you pay for your city break in Sacramento. If you want to cut costs, search for special promotions or last-minute deals on Sacramento flights and hotels. Travelling on weekdays and signing up to airline loyalty programmes are other good ways to save.

What is the cheapest time to go to Sacramento?

Squeeze more out of your travel budget when you lock in your Sacramento flights and hotels in May. This is one of the cheapest times of year to experience Sacramento and when airfares are at their most affordable.