Affordable Dog Friendly Hotels in Sacramento

Sacramento, California’s capital, is a city full of history, culture, and outdoor attractions. From gold rush landmarks to scenic riverfronts, the city offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer California trip, these are the top 5 must-see places in Sacramento you won’t want to miss.

1. California State Capitol & Museum

The California State Capitol & Museum is both a functioning government building and a historical landmark. Visitors can explore the beautifully maintained grounds, tour the legislative chambers, and learn about California’s history through the museum exhibits.

Address: 1315 10th St, Sacramento, CA 95814
Rating: 4.7⭐ (Google Reviews)
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Highlights:

• Guided tours of the legislative chambers

• Museum exhibits about California’s history

• Beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces

Best Time to Visit:
Morning or early afternoon on weekdays is ideal for fewer crowds. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather for exploring the gardens.

2. Old Sacramento Waterfront

The Old Sacramento Waterfront is a historic district filled with wooden sidewalks, Gold Rush-era architecture, shops, museums, and restaurants. It’s a great place to step back in time and enjoy scenic views along the Sacramento River.

Address: Old Sacramento State Historic Park, Sacramento, CA 95814
Rating: 4.6⭐ (Google Reviews)
Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (shops and museums may vary)

Highlights:

• Historic buildings and museums

• Riverfront dining and boat tours

• Unique shopping experiences

Best Time to Visit:
Late morning to early evening is perfect for walking the district and enjoying river views. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.

3. Crocker Art Museum

The Crocker Art Museum is one of California’s oldest art museums and houses an impressive collection of European, Asian, and American art, along with contemporary exhibits.

Address: 216 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814
Rating: 4.7⭐ (Google Reviews)
Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Closed Monday

Highlights:

• European, Asian, and American art collections

• Rotating contemporary exhibitions

• Educational programs and workshops

Best Time to Visit:
Late morning or early afternoon is best for a quiet experience. Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends.

4. California State Railroad Museum

The California State Railroad Museum in Old Sacramento showcases the state’s rich railroad history. Visitors can see restored locomotives, historic railroad cars, and interactive exhibits that highlight the golden age of train travel.

Address: 125 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814
Rating: 4.8⭐ (Google Reviews)
Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Highlights:

• Historic locomotives and railroad cars

• Interactive train exhibits for kids

• Educational tours about California’s rail history

Best Time to Visit:
Morning is ideal, especially for families, to see the trains before it gets crowded. Spring and fall offer pleasant walking weather along the waterfront.

5. American River Parkway

The American River Parkway is a 23-mile scenic parkway perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife watching are popular activities along this river trail.

Address: Access points vary along American River Parkway, Sacramento, CA
Rating: 4.8⭐ (Google Reviews)
Hours: Daily 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Highlights:

• Hiking and biking trails

• Kayaking and paddleboarding on the river

• Birdwatching and wildlife viewing

Best Time to Visit:
Early morning or late afternoon is perfect to avoid midday heat and enjoy wildlife. Spring and fall are the best seasons for comfortable temperatures and scenic views.