Looking for a fun and easy getaway the whole family will love? Sacramento is the perfect place for a weekend full of family-friendly fun, adventure, and delicious food. From interactive museums and outdoor activities to sweet treats and family-friendly dining, here’s how to spend the perfect weekend in California’s capital city.
Featuring: Old Sacramento Waterfront
Day 1: Step Back in Time at the Old Sacramento Waterfront
Start your morning with breakfast at Tower Café, a Sacramento favorite known for its globally inspired comfort food and kid-friendly dishes. The French toast and eggs benedict are local favorites.
Then head to the Old Sacramento Waterfront, where history comes with Gold Rush-era attractions. Step aboard historic locomotives at the California State Railroad Museum, North America’s largest railroad museum, or explore Sacramento’s past on an underground tour with the Sacramento History Museum.
When the kids get hungry, grab lunch at Willie’s Burgers, a laid-back, family-friendly spot serving burgers, fries, and milkshakes that always hit the spot.
After lunch, explore the cobblestone streets to pick out a new toy at G. Willikers Toy Emporium or a sweet treat at Candy Heaven.
Wrap up your first day with dinner in Midtown at Paesanos, where the whole family can enjoy wood-fired pizzas, and delicious pasta dishes.
Featuring: Sacramento Children's Museum
Day 2: Hands-On Learning and Outdoor Fun
Start your day with breakfast at Bacon & Butter, where everything from the pancakes to the breakfast burritos is made from scratch and served in generous portions. Parents will appreciate the farm-to-fork options, while kids can enjoy a stack of pancakes or waffles.
After breakfast, spend the morning exploring one of Sacramento’s interactive museums. Budding scientists will love the hands-on exhibits at the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity (MOSAC), while younger kids can play, explore, and create at the Sacramento Children’s Museum.
For lunch, stop by Sellands Neighborhood Café & Bar to pick up fresh sandwiches, salads, and baked goods, then head to William Land Park for a picnic under the shade trees.
After lunch, enjoy everything William Land Park has to offer. At Fairytale Town, children’s imaginations come to life as they explore life-sized playsets inspired by their favorite fairy tales and nursery rhymes. Families who love rides and attractions will have a blast at Funderland, a classic amusement park with fun for all ages. And for animal lovers, a visit to the Sacramento Zoo is sure to be a hit.
End the day with dinner at Cafeteria 15L, a downtown favorite offering modern comfort food in a fun, welcoming setting that is great for families.
Day 3: Adventure and Sports for the Whole Family
Start your final day with breakfast at The Porch Restaurant & Bar, known for its Southern-inspired comfort food. The whole family will love the buttermilk biscuits, fried chicken, and hearty breakfast plates made with locally sourced ingredients.
After breakfast, it’s time to soak up some sunshine. Take a family bike ride or walk along the American River Parkway, or try something new with River Fox Train’s Railbikes, pedaling together through scenic countryside views. If you are feeling adventurous, whitewater rafting with Tributary Whitewater Tours is a family memory in the making.
For lunch, head to Ernesto’s Mexican Food in Midtown for flavorful fajitas, enchiladas, tacos, and burritos even the pickiest of eaters will enjoy.
In the evening, catch a game together. Cheer on the Sacramento River Cats or the Athletics at Sutter Health Park, join the excitement of a Sacramento Republic FC soccer match at Heart Health Park, or, during basketball season, watch the Sacramento Kings light the beam at the Golden 1 Center.
Before heading home, stop by Gunther’s Ice Cream, a beloved local spot since 1940. Their handmade ice cream and classic sundaes are the perfect sweet ending to your Sacramento adventure.
