Whether you’re planning a quick day trip, a weekend escape, or an extended vacation, Sacramento is a must-visit road trip destination for families. From hands-on museums and outdoor adventures to animal encounters, sweet treats, and exciting family-friendly attractions, California’s capital city is packed with fun for the whole crew. So, load up the car and get ready – here are the must-stop spots on your family road trip to Sacramento.
Take a Step Back in Time at the Old Sacramento Waterfront
The Old Sacramento Waterfront is a must-visit stop on your family’s road trip to Sacramento, offering Gold Rush-era attractions, unique museums, and charming shops the whole family will love. Experience the time of the Transcontinental Railroad at the California State Railroad Museum, North America’s largest railroad museum, or learn about Sacramento's history around the Gold Rush on an underground tour of the Old Sacramento Waterfront at the Sacramento History Museum. After brushing up on your history, treat the kids to a new toy from G. Willikers Toy Emporium or a sweet treat at Candy Heaven.
Image Courtesy of: Sacramento Children's Museum
Hands-On Fun at Sacramento Museums
Sacramento is home to museums that make learning fun for children of all ages (and even adults). Those interested in science, technology, engineering, art, and math can explore the interactive exhibits and seasonal design challenges the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity has to offer, while the Sacramento Children’s Museum’s hands-on exhibits prompt children to test, tinker, laugh, and wonder.
Have Three Times the Fun at William Land Park
For a guaranteed day full of fun during your road trip, head over to William Land Park, which is a one-stop destination for kid-approved adventure as it’s home to the Sacramento Zoo, Fairytale Town, and Funderland. At Fairytale Town, your child’s imagination will come to life as they explore 3D play sets based on all of their favorite fairytales and nursery rhymes. If your family likes amusement rides and attractions, a visit to Funderland is great for children of all ages. For the animal lovers in your family, a trip to the Sacramento Zoo is sure to be a hit.
Have Some Fun in the Sun
With more than 270 days of sunshine per year, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy during your Sacramento road trip. Take a hike or bike ride along the American River on the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail. Looking for something unique? Enjoy breathtaking views as you pedal along the river and Yolo Countryside on River Fox’s Railbikes. If you’re feeling adventurous, whitewater rafting with American Whitewater Expeditions is sure to guarantee an exciting and thrilling adventure.
Image Courtesy of: Francisco Chavira
Catch a Game Together
If your family loves sports, Sacramento delivers year-round action that makes for an exciting and affordable outing. At Sutter Health Park, you can catch a Sacramento River Cats game or see the MLB’s Athletics in action, as they call Sacramento home for the next few seasons. Soccer fans can cheer on Sacramento Republic FC at Heart Health Park, where the energy is always electric. And during basketball season, don’t miss the chance to experience the thrill of a Sacramento Kings game at Golden 1 Center, right in the heart of downtown.
Sweet Treats and Kid-Friendly Eats
As America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, Sacramento has plenty of kid-friendly restaurants that offer fresh, healthy, and tasty meals for the picky eaters in your family. Enjoy a delicious Italian dinner at Paesanos where they even offer kids dough balls to keep them entertained while they’re waiting on their food. Cafeteria 15L is another great option for families as they are known for offering all of your favorite traditional, home-cooked comfort foods with a twist. When it’s time for dessert (and it always is on a road trip), be sure to head to Leatherby’s Family Creamery, a local favorite serving huge ice cream sundaes that the whole family can share, or smaller sundaes for the children insisting they want their own.
