Sacramento is a the metropolitan hub of a diverse region with attractions ranging from the Gold Rush-era Old Sacramento to a trendy Midtown area, farm-to-fork restaurants, a robust wine region and a host of outdoor activities. There is something for everyone in California's beautiful state capital. Whether you're visiting family, traveling with a spouse at their annual conference or on your own Northern California adventure for one, two or more days, here are five ultimate days of Sacramento fun.
Day 1
We suggest starting your morning with a free docent-led tour of the California State Capitol. Experience California’s rich history and witness the making of history through the modern lawmaking process. Continue the history lesson in Old Sacramento at the California State Railroad Museum. Enjoy stimulating exhibits and beautifully restored railroad cars and locomotives illustrating railroad history in California and the West.
When you're done, take some time to explore Old Sacramento. Meander the boardwalk and enjoy the beautiful Sacramento River. Rent bikes at Practical Cycle and experience Old Sacramento and downtown Sacramento at your own pace. Finish your visit with an souvenir photo at McGees Old Time Photos.
Finish the day in The Handle District in Midtown. First stop, The Rind, a cheese-centric bar where you can experience unique and inspiring artisanal cheeses and finish with dinner at Mulvaney’s, a farm-to-table restaurant that specializes in hand-crafted New American cuisine.
Day 2
Travel up to Apple Hill and start your morning with some hot apple cider donuts at Rainbow Orchard. Don't forgot to stop by Delfino Family Farms for some Walkin' Pies -- one may be enough to share among the group! We suggest a wine tasting at Boeger Winery or a beer flight at Jack Russell Farm Brewery.
Head back down the hill and end your evening with some physical activity and libation on the Sac Brew Bike. Pedal around Midtown Sacramento and experience the best bars and craft beer Sacramento has to offer. Make it a progressive dinner sampling farm-to-fork fare at each stop.
Day 3
Today you'll head to the Delta for some wine and beautiful Sacramento River views. The Old Sugar Mill is just a short drive out of downtown Sacramento along the river. Explore each of the 13 wineries and taste wines in a beautiful historic building. Pick up some lunch at Husicks Country Store & Taphouse and head to Bogle Winery to sip some award-winning wine and eat your lunch in the beautiful picnic area.
Conclude your relaxing Delta day in downtown Sacramento with a Local Roots Food Tour. Meet in downtown Sac for a tour that explores the restaurants, chefs, architecture and history that make the Sacramento region an amazing culinary destination.
Day 4
Today starts with a Good Eats Cooking Class. Each class includes three hours of hands-on instruction in a professional kitchen, coffee, a fresh-baked breakfast treat, tastings of all the recipes and a recipe booklet to take home. After some cooking, we move on to history and art, starting with a visit to Sutter’s Fort, built in 1838, to learn about important California history and the cultures that inhabited the fort and the surrounding areas during the 1840s. Next, visit the Crocker Art Museum, the oldest art museum west of the Mississippi, featuring world’s foremost display of California art.
It's time for another hands-on lesson, this time at Hook & Ladder Manufacturing Company for a cocktail class. Join one of their talented bartenders for the ultimate cocktail experience including a lecture and demonstration, tasting and hands-on drink creation and enjoy your creation over a true farm-to-fork dinner.
End your evening with some live entertainment where the possibilities are endless. Depending on the time of year, check out a Sacramento Kings game or big concert at Golden 1 Center, or take in a baseball game at Raley Field. If a more intimate live music experience is what you’re looking for, see who’s playing at Harlow's, but don’t forget the theater. Go to Sacramento365.com for a complete listing of Sacramento events.
Day 5
The last day of our five-day itinerary is a relaxing one. Start your day with a custom blend of tea at Ben Ben's Hidden Tea Room, a zen-style tea room. We suggest the spicy ginger tea. Next, make your way up to Lake Natoma and unwind on the water. Enjoy a private stand-up paddle boarding lesson that will incorporate yoga as well for a truly relaxing and mind-clearing experience.
Wrap up your rejuvenating day and trip with a soak. Asha Baths brings the modern and cultural fusion of the old-world bathhouse, a center for healing and rejuvenation and a gathering place to restore your well-being with heat and water.
This is just a small bite of what Sacramento has to offer. For more Sacramento inspiration, read the latest edition of our Visitors' Guide.
