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Did you know that Old Sacramento State Historic Park sits approximately 10 feet higher than its original street level? After catastrophic floods in the 1860s, the entire district was raised to prevent future flooding, creating a fascinating underground network of the original streets and buildings that you can still explore today.
This 28-acre National Historic Landmark district along the Sacramento River preserves the charm and character of California’s Gold Rush era. With its wooden boardwalks, historic buildings, and cobblestone streets, stepping into Old Sacramento feels like traveling back in time to the 1850s when fortune seekers flocked to the area in search of gold.
Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for kid-friendly activities, or a couple seeking a unique date experience, Old Sacramento offers something for everyone. From world-class museums to riverboat cruises, underground tours to horse-drawn carriage rides, this guide will help you discover the best things to do in one of California’s most distinctive historic districts.
The historic wooden boardwalks and preserved 19th-century buildings of Old Sacramento State Historic Park transport visitors back to the Gold Rush era
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is the primary gateway to the region, located just 16 km (10 miles) northwest of downtown Sacramento. The airport offers direct flights from major U.S. cities and connections to international destinations. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is another option, about 145 km (90 miles) away.
If you’re driving, Old Sacramento is easily accessible from Interstate 5, with dedicated exits for the historic district. From San Francisco, the drive takes approximately 1.5 hours via Interstate 80. Los Angeles is about a 6-hour drive north via Interstate 5.
Amtrak’s Capitol Corridor train provides service to Sacramento from the San Francisco Bay Area, with the Sacramento Valley Station located just a short walk from Old Sacramento. This can be a scenic and stress-free way to arrive, especially if you’re visiting from nearby cities.
Old Sacramento State Historic Park sits beautifully along the Sacramento River, with the iconic Tower Bridge connecting it to West Sacramento
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Sacramento experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The best times to visit Old Sacramento are during spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) when temperatures are pleasant and outdoor activities can be enjoyed comfortably.
Recommended Seasons
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures range from 15-26°C (59-79°F) with blooming flowers and fewer crowds. Perfect for walking tours and outdoor exploration.
- Fall (September-October): Similar comfortable temperatures with beautiful autumn colors. The Farm-to-Fork Festival in September is a highlight.
- Winter (November-February): Mild temperatures between 5-15°C (41-59°F) with occasional rain. Holiday decorations and events make this a charming time to visit.
Seasons to Avoid
- Summer (June-August): Temperatures frequently exceed 32°C (90°F) and can reach 38°C (100°F). If visiting during summer, plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening and stay hydrated.
Old Sacramento hosts various seasonal events throughout the year, including Gold Rush Days during Labor Day weekend, which features historical reenactments, and the Theatre of Lights during the holiday season. Check the event calendar when planning your visit to catch these special celebrations.
Getting Around Locally
Old Sacramento’s compact 8-block area makes it ideal for exploring on foot. The district’s wooden boardwalks and cobblestone streets are part of its historic charm, though they can be uneven in places, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
For a unique experience, consider taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the district. These leisurely tours provide a period-appropriate way to see the sights while learning about the area’s history from knowledgeable drivers.
If you’re exploring beyond Old Sacramento, several transportation options are available:
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- Light Rail: Sacramento Regional Transit operates light rail service with a station near Old Sacramento at 7th & K Streets.
- Buses: Several bus routes serve the downtown area with stops near Old Sacramento.
- Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft operate throughout Sacramento.
- Bike Rentals: JUMP bikes and electric scooters are available for rent through mobile apps, providing a fun way to explore the riverfront and nearby areas.
Parking is available in two garages specifically serving Old Sacramento: the Tower Bridge Garage (on Capitol Mall at Neasham Circle) and the Old Sacramento Garage (on I Street between 2nd and 3rd Streets). Street parking with meters is also available but tends to fill quickly, especially on weekends and during events.
Horse-drawn carriage tours offer a period-authentic way to explore Old Sacramento’s historic streets
Where to Stay
While Old Sacramento itself has limited accommodation options, its central location means there are plenty of places to stay within walking distance or a short drive. Here are some of the best lodging choices in and around the historic district:
In Old Sacramento
The Delta King Hotel
For a truly unique experience, stay aboard the Delta King, a historic riverboat built in 1927 that has been converted into a floating hotel. Permanently docked on the Sacramento River, this boutique hotel offers 44 staterooms, two restaurants, and a theater. Each room features period-appropriate decor while providing modern amenities. The boat’s rich history as a working riverboat during the Depression era adds to its charm.
Near Old Sacramento
Embassy Suites Sacramento Riverfront Promenade
Located just across the Tower Bridge, this hotel offers spacious suites with views of the Sacramento River and Old Sacramento. It’s within easy walking distance of the historic district and provides complimentary breakfast and evening reception.
Kimpton Sawyer Hotel
Part of the Downtown Commons (DOCO) development, this upscale hotel is about a 10-minute walk from Old Sacramento. It features modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and is connected to the Golden 1 Center arena and numerous dining options.
Budget-Friendly Options
HI Sacramento Hostel
Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion in downtown Sacramento, this hostel offers affordable dormitory and private rooms about 1.6 km (1 mile) from Old Sacramento. It’s ideal for budget travelers and provides a communal kitchen and free breakfast.
For families, many hotels in the downtown and midtown areas offer suites with kitchenettes, while business travelers might prefer the convenience of hotels near the Capitol or Convention Center. Book accommodations well in advance if visiting during major events like Gold Rush Days or the California State Fair.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Old Sacramento offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Many restaurants are housed in historic buildings, adding to the unique dining experience.
Waterfront Dining
Rio City Café
Enjoy American cuisine with a California twist while taking in spectacular views of the Sacramento River and Tower Bridge from the outdoor patio. The restaurant is known for its seafood dishes and weekend brunch.
Joe’s Crab Shack
This casual seafood restaurant offers buckets of crab, shrimp, and other seafood favorites along with river views. It’s family-friendly with a fun atmosphere.
Historic Establishments
The Firehouse Restaurant
Housed in an 1853 firehouse, this upscale restaurant serves sophisticated American cuisine in an elegant setting. Their extensive wine list has won numerous awards, and the historic brick courtyard offers a romantic dining experience.
Fanny Ann’s Saloon
This multi-level saloon dates back to the 1800s and features eclectic decor with antiques covering every surface. The casual menu includes burgers, sandwiches, and beer, making it a fun stop for a relaxed meal.
Sweet Treats
Old Sacramento is famous for its candy shops and sweet treats, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while exploring:
- Candy Heaven: A massive candy store with barrels of taffy, nostalgic candy, and unique sweets from around the world.
- Munchies Salt Water Taffy: Watch taffy being made on antique machines while sampling various flavors.
- Danny’s Mini Donuts: Fresh mini donuts made to order, perfect for a quick snack.
Waterfront dining in Old Sacramento offers spectacular views of the Sacramento River and the iconic Tower Bridge
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Old Sacramento State Historic Park is packed with attractions that showcase the area’s rich Gold Rush history and provide entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Historic Landmarks
Tower Bridge
This iconic golden-colored vertical lift bridge connects Old Sacramento to West Sacramento. Built in 1935, it’s one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and offers beautiful views of the riverfront. Walking across the bridge provides excellent photo opportunities of the Sacramento skyline.
Delta King Riverboat
Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, the historic Delta King riverboat is worth visiting. This 1927 paddlewheel riverboat once transported passengers between Sacramento and San Francisco. Today, you can explore parts of the boat, dine at one of its restaurants, or enjoy a drink at the dockside bar.
Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum
This replica of a one-room schoolhouse from the 1800s offers a glimpse into education during the Gold Rush era. Visitors can sit at authentic desks and experience what school was like for children in the 19th century.
Unique Experiences
Underground Tours
One of the most fascinating attractions in Old Sacramento is the underground tour, which takes you beneath the current street level to explore the original streets and building foundations. When the city raised its streets in the 1860s to prevent flooding, an entire network of underground spaces was created. Guided tours explain this engineering feat and the daily life of early Sacramento residents.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Experience Old Sacramento as the early settlers did by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the cobblestone streets. Drivers share historical information and stories as you clip-clop through the district.
Underground tours reveal Old Sacramento’s original street level and the fascinating history of how the city was raised in the 1860s
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Old Sacramento is home to several world-class museums that preserve and showcase California’s rich history.
Must-Visit Museums
California State Railroad Museum
One of the finest railroad museums in North America, this 9,290-square-meter (100,000-square-foot) museum houses 21 meticulously restored locomotives and train cars dating from 1862 to 1944. Interactive exhibits explain how the railroad transformed California and connected it to the rest of the nation. Don’t miss the opportunity to ride a historic train along the Sacramento River on weekends from April through September.
Sacramento History Museum
Housed in a reproduction of the 1854 City Hall, this museum chronicles Sacramento’s history from the Native American settlements through the Gold Rush and beyond. Interactive exhibits include a working print shop where you can see demonstrations of Gold Rush-era printing techniques. This museum also serves as the starting point for the popular Underground Tours.
Wells Fargo History Museum
Located in the historic B.F. Hastings Building, this free museum showcases Wells Fargo’s role in Gold Rush history. Exhibits include an authentic stagecoach, gold nuggets, mining tools, and a working telegraph. The building itself is significant as the western terminus of the Pony Express and the former home of the California Supreme Court.
Annual Festivals & Events
- Gold Rush Days (Labor Day Weekend): The streets are covered with dirt and transformed into an 1850s scene with costumed performers, gold panning, stagecoach rides, and historical reenactments.
- Sacramento Music Festival (Memorial Day Weekend): Formerly known as the Jazz Jubilee, this festival features multiple genres of music performed throughout Old Sacramento.
- Theatre of Lights (Holiday Season): A free holiday light show that brings to life the famous poem “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” with a special focus on Sacramento history.
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March): One of the oldest parades in Sacramento, featuring Irish music, dance, and culture.
The California State Railroad Museum houses an impressive collection of meticulously restored locomotives and train cars that tell the story of how railroads transformed California
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
While Old Sacramento itself is primarily an urban historic district, its location along the Sacramento River provides opportunities for outdoor recreation and natural experiences.
River Activities
Sacramento River Cruises
Several companies offer river cruises that depart from Old Sacramento’s docks. These range from one-hour sightseeing tours to dinner cruises with entertainment. It’s a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective and learn about the river’s historical importance to the region.
Delta King Riverboat
While permanently docked, the historic Delta King riverboat offers a unique way to experience the Sacramento River. Enjoy a meal at one of its restaurants with river views, or simply stroll its decks to imagine what river travel was like in the 1920s.
Nearby Outdoor Spaces
Sacramento River Bike Trail
This paved trail runs along both sides of the Sacramento River and connects to the larger American River Bike Trail. Rent a bike in Old Sacramento and enjoy a scenic ride along the waterfront with views of the Tower Bridge and downtown skyline.
Crocker Park
Adjacent to the Crocker Art Museum near Old Sacramento, this small park offers a peaceful green space with shade trees and benches, perfect for a break from sightseeing.
For more extensive outdoor adventures, the American River Parkway is just a short drive away. This 37-km (23-mile) “ribbon of green” offers hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming opportunities in a natural setting.
River cruises offer a unique perspective of Old Sacramento’s historic waterfront and the iconic Tower Bridge
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Old Sacramento is generally a safe area for tourists, particularly during daylight hours when it’s busy with visitors. As with any tourist destination, it’s wise to remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night when some areas may be less populated.
Safety Tips
- The wooden boardwalks and cobblestone streets, while charming, can be uneven in places. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and watch your step, especially if mobility is a concern.
- Sacramento summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 32°C (90°F). Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas or during special events.
- If exploring beyond Old Sacramento at night, consider using rideshare services rather than walking through less populated areas.
Etiquette & Customs
- Many of the buildings in Old Sacramento are historic structures with significant cultural value. Treat them with respect and follow any posted guidelines about photography or access.
- When visiting museums, be mindful of other visitors by keeping conversations at a reasonable volume and following any rules about photography or touching exhibits.
- Tipping is customary in restaurants (15-20% of the bill), for tour guides ($5-10 per person), and for horse-drawn carriage drivers (similar to tour guides).
- Sacramento prides itself on being the “Farm-to-Fork Capital,” so appreciating locally sourced food and supporting local businesses is part of the culture.
The staff at the Sacramento Visitor Center in Old Sacramento can provide assistance if you have questions or concerns during your visit. They’re an excellent resource for current information about the area.
Visitor Comments About Old Sacramento
“We spent a wonderful day exploring Old Sacramento’s wooden boardwalks and historic buildings. The Underground Tour was fascinating—learning how they raised the entire city was incredible! Don’t miss the Railroad Museum either; even our teenagers were impressed with the massive locomotives. The old-fashioned candy stores were the perfect way to end our visit.”
“As a history buff, Old Sacramento was a dream come true. Walking the same streets as Gold Rush pioneers and seeing the preserved architecture gave me goosebumps. The docents at the museums were incredibly knowledgeable. We stayed at the Delta King riverboat hotel which added to the historical experience—sleeping on a 1927 paddlewheel boat was unique and comfortable!”
“We visited with our young children and found plenty to keep them entertained. The horse-drawn carriage ride was their favorite, followed closely by panning for gold and watching the candy being made at the taffy shop. Old Sacramento manages to be educational without being boring for kids. The restaurants were family-friendly too, with options for even our pickiest eater.”
Practical Travel Tips
Money-Saving Tips
- Many museums offer discounted admission on certain days or times. Check their websites before visiting.
- The Sacramento Museum Day (typically in February) offers free admission to many museums.
- Consider purchasing a Sacramento Attractions Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions.
- Parking can be expensive in Old Sacramento garages. Look for metered street parking a few blocks away for better rates, or use public transportation.
Family-Friendly Advice
- The California State Railroad Museum offers a dedicated children’s area with toy trains and interactive exhibits.
- Many restaurants have children’s menus, and the casual atmosphere of places like Joe’s Crab Shack makes them suitable for families.
- Horse-drawn carriage rides are typically 15-20 minutes long—perfect for children’s attention spans.
- The Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum offers a fun, educational experience where kids can see what school was like in the 1800s.
Photography Tips
- The golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) provides beautiful lighting for photos of the historic buildings and Tower Bridge.
- The view from the Tower Bridge looking back at Old Sacramento makes for excellent photos, especially at sunset.
- Some museums restrict photography or flash photography, so check their policies before taking pictures.
- For unique shots, consider taking the Underground Tour or a river cruise for different perspectives of the historic district.
Interactive gold panning exhibits in Old Sacramento offer families a hands-on way to experience Gold Rush history
Finding Your Way Around Old Sacramento
Old Sacramento State Historic Park is located along the Sacramento River in downtown Sacramento, California
Shopping in Old Sacramento
Old Sacramento offers a unique shopping experience with over 100 specialty shops housed in historic Gold Rush-era buildings. From souvenirs to artisanal goods, there’s something for everyone.
Specialty Shops
Old-Fashioned Candy Stores
Old Sacramento is famous for its candy shops where you can find nostalgic treats, handmade chocolates, and saltwater taffy. Candy Heaven and Munchies Salt Water Taffy are popular stops where you can watch candy being made using traditional methods.
Unique Boutiques
Browse shops like The Sock Emporium, offering hundreds of fun sock designs, or G. Willikers Toy Emporium with its collection of classic and unusual toys. For Western wear and accessories, check out Steamers, which carries everything from cowboy hats to leather goods.
Souvenir Shops
Find Sacramento and California-themed souvenirs at shops throughout the district. Many stores carry Gold Rush memorabilia, including replica gold nuggets, mining tools, and educational books about the era.
Unique Experiences
Old Time Photos
Several studios in Old Sacramento offer the opportunity to dress in period costumes—from saloon girls to outlaws—and have your photo taken in sepia tones as a unique souvenir of your visit.
Antique Shops
Treasure hunters will enjoy browsing the antique shops scattered throughout Old Sacramento, where you can find everything from vintage jewelry to historic artifacts.
Old-fashioned candy stores in Old Sacramento offer a nostalgic shopping experience with barrels of colorful treats and handmade confections
Embrace the Spirit of the Gold Rush
Old Sacramento State Historic Park stands as a living monument to California’s vibrant Gold Rush history, offering visitors a chance to step back in time while enjoying modern amenities and experiences. From the wooden boardwalks to the historic buildings, from world-class museums to riverboat cruises, this unique district captures the spirit of adventure and opportunity that defined early California.
Whether you’re panning for gold with your children, exploring the fascinating underground network, riding the rails on a historic train, or simply enjoying a meal overlooking the Sacramento River, Old Sacramento provides memorable experiences for visitors of all ages. The district’s careful preservation allows us to connect with our past while appreciating how far we’ve come.
As you plan your visit to Old Sacramento State Historic Park, remember that you’re not just visiting a tourist attraction—you’re experiencing a crucial chapter in American history that helped shape California and the nation. The gold may have been mined long ago, but the rich experiences of Old Sacramento continue to shine brightly for today’s visitors.
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