Stage 1 of Amgen Tour of California Spins into Sacramento
(SACRAMENTO, Calif.) - Sacramento will once again experience the excitement of the Amgen Tour of California as world-class cyclists, including Lance Armstrong and last year's winner Levi Leipheimer, ride into downtown for the completion of the tour's first stage on May 16. In addition to the thrilling conclusion of Stage 1, spectators can enjoy Sacramento hotels, restaurants, museums and other attractions that will be rolling out the red carpet for race weekend. For true VIP treatment during their overnight stay in the Capital City, race fans can pick up a free Sacramento Gold Card at any participating hotel, good for special offers throughout the region. 
For more information on the Sacramento Gold Card, please visit: discovergold.org/visitors/goldcard 
For Tour of California travel packages, please visit: www.discovergold.org/amgen

Below is a sampling of travel options to fit every visitor's needs - from hardcore cyclists, to casual spectators, there's something for every Tour of California fan in Sacramento.

Lodging
After catching the exciting conclusion of Stage 1, take a load off your feet within blocks of the finish line at any of Sacramento's convenient hotel options. The Citizen Hotel, Downtown's newest addition, offers guests fine dining in addition to sophisticated accommodations, creating a perfect retreat for singles and couples alike. The Hyatt Regency, Sheraton Grand and Residence Inn Capitol Park serve as a gateway to Midtown Sacramento's fantastic dinning and nightlife, and provide great city views and proximity to the Capitol. Those looking to stay a little farther from the action can rest easy with a riverfront view at Embassy Suites Sacramento - River Promenade, Le Rivage or historic Delta King River Boat in the Old Sacramento Historic District. To find more Sacramento lodging options and special Tour of California lodging packages, visit: www.discovergold.org/amgen

Dining 
Hungry race spectators will have a lengthy menu of local flavors to sample while in town. Patrons who choose Mulvaney's Building & Loan or Ella Dining Room will experience some of Sacramento's best fine dining. Ernesto's serves up mouth-watering Mexican food in a bright and vivacious atmosphere. Those looking to sharpen their chopsticks should head to Mikuni for a modern spin on sushi or Frank Fat's for delectable Chinese cuisine. Jack's Urban Eats offers unlimited family friendly choices, but visitors craving a burger and fries should visit Hamburger Pattie's or The Squeeze Inn for one of the best burgers in town. Gold Card members can head to Pyramid Alehouse for 10 percent off their total bill or to Spataro Restaurant & Bar for preferred seating and free chef's appetizer. To find more Sacramento dining options, visit: http://www.discovergold.org/visitors/diningnightlife.cfm

Activities 
Beyond catching the race, Tour of California fans will find plenty to keep them busy in Sacramento. Visitors can learn about the Golden State's history at the State Capitol, The California Museum, home of the California Hall of Fame, or the California State Railroad Museum. For families, check out nursery rhymes come to life at Fairytale Town, or visit the new ‘Tall Wonders Giraffe Habitat' exhibit at the Sacramento Zoo. To find more Sacramento activities, visit: www.discovergold.org/visitors/thingstodo.cfm

Recreation
Feel like stretching your legs? Don't just watch the cycling action, take a spin on one of Sacramento's countless bike trails for the casual cruiser or experienced rider. The scenic American River Parkway provides miles of smooth path, while Discovery Park offers rugged terrain for a more adventurous trek. For more information on cycling in Sacramento, visit: http://www.discovergold.org/amgen/

Nightlife
When the sun goes down on Stage1, the party will just be starting in Sacramento. To see and be seen, visitors have their pick of hot spots including The Park Ultra Lounge, Social Nightclub and the new Mix Downtown. Causal bar goers can visit Bar R15 or deVere's Irish Pub for a neighborhood pub experience. Wine connoisseurs can sip varietals at one of many downtown wine bars, including the L Wine Lounge and Urban Kitchen, and beer lovers can craft their own ales at Brew It Up!. Travelers in search of the perfect cup of coffee should grab a seat at Java City Café and take in the hustle and bustle of Sacramento's after-hours scene. Travelers looking for a little drama can find mystery and fine food at the Suspects Mystery Dinner, aboard the Delta King River Boat. To find more Sacramento nightlife options, visit: http://www.discovergold.org/visitors/diningnightlife.cfm

About the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau 
The mission of the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau is to strengthen the positive awareness of the City and County of Sacramento as a convention and visitor destination to increase revenues and stimulate economic development for the community. The SCVB is a non-profit organization administered and funded by the City of Sacramento, the County of Sacramento, a local hotel self-assessment and business membership throughout the greater Sacramento region.