Sacramento County, California: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Sacramento County is home to more than 800 stunning murals, making it one of America’s most vibrant outdoor art galleries? As California’s capital region, Sacramento County offers visitors a perfect blend of historic charm, farm-fresh cuisine, and outdoor adventures along its scenic rivers. Whether you’re drawn to Gold Rush history, award-winning farm-to-fork dining, or family-friendly attractions, this diverse county delivers experiences that often surprise first-time visitors.

Getting to Sacramento County

Sacramento International Airport (SMF) serves as the main gateway to the region, located just 10 miles northwest of downtown Sacramento. The airport offers direct flights from major U.S. cities and connections to international destinations. Flights to Sacramento are typically more affordable than those to San Francisco or Los Angeles, making it a budget-friendly entry point to Northern California.

If you prefer ground transportation, Sacramento is easily accessible via Interstate 5 (north-south) and Interstate 80 (east-west). Amtrak’s Capitol Corridor train provides regular service between Sacramento and the Bay Area, while the San Joaquins route connects to Southern California cities.

Planning Your Sacramento County Journey

Sacramento County offers diverse experiences throughout the year, so planning your visit depends on your interests. The county spans 994 square miles, with the city of Sacramento at its heart, surrounded by charming communities like Folsom, Elk Grove, and Rancho Cordova.

Essential Planning Tips

• Allow at least 2-3 days to explore Sacramento’s main attractions
• Book accommodations in advance during summer and festival seasons
• Consider a rental car for exploring outlying areas
• Download the Visit Sacramento app for up-to-date event information
• Check Sacramento365.com for current events and festivals

Best Time to Visit Sacramento County

Sacramento experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The best times to visit are spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are pleasant and outdoor activities are in full swing.

September is particularly special in Sacramento County with the annual Farm-to-Fork Festival showcasing the region’s agricultural bounty. Summer brings vibrant outdoor activities along the American and Sacramento Rivers, though temperatures regularly exceed 90°F (32°C). Winter offers milder weather than much of the country, making it suitable for exploring indoor attractions.

Getting Around Sacramento County

While downtown Sacramento is walkable and bike-friendly, exploring the broader county requires transportation. The Sacramento Regional Transit District operates buses and light rail throughout the city and nearby suburbs, but service can be limited in outlying areas.

Downtown Sacramento’s grid layout makes it easy to navigate, with lettered streets running east-west and numbered streets running north-south. The American River Parkway bike trail offers 32 miles of scenic riding for active travelers.

Where to Stay in Sacramento County

Sacramento County offers accommodations for every budget and preference, from historic boutique hotels to family-friendly options near major attractions. Downtown and Midtown Sacramento provide the most convenient access to restaurants and cultural sites, while areas like Folsom and Rancho Cordova offer more space and proximity to outdoor recreation.

For a truly unique experience, consider historic bed and breakfasts in Old Sacramento or boutique hotels in converted historic buildings throughout downtown. During major events like the State Fair or Farm-to-Fork Festival, book accommodations well in advance as rooms fill quickly.

Top Attractions in Sacramento County

Old Sacramento Waterfront

Step back in time at this 28-acre National Historic Landmark district featuring Gold Rush-era buildings, wooden boardwalks, and cobblestone streets. Once the western terminus of the Pony Express and transcontinental railroad, Old Sacramento now houses museums, restaurants, and unique shops. Don’t miss the California State Railroad Museum, which showcases the state’s rich rail history through meticulously restored locomotives and interactive exhibits.

For a unique perspective, take an Underground Tour to explore the original street level, which was raised in the 1860s to prevent flooding. River cruises along the Sacramento River offer another vantage point of this historic area. Families particularly enjoy the old-time candy stores and ice cream parlors that line the district.

California State Capitol & Museum

The stunning California State Capitol, completed in 1874, continues to serve as the state’s working seat of government. Free guided tours of this neoclassical building reveal ornate chambers, historic artwork, and exhibits detailing California’s political history. The surrounding 40-acre Capitol Park features memorials, native plants, and an impressive collection of trees from around the world.

Inside the Capitol Museum, visitors can explore recreated historic offices and view changing exhibits about California’s government. The building’s architecture itself is worth admiring, with its distinctive dome modeled after the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

Crocker Art Museum

As the oldest public art museum west of the Mississippi, the Crocker Art Museum houses an impressive collection spanning from European masterworks to contemporary California art. The museum uniquely combines a historic Victorian mansion with a modern 125,000-square-foot addition. The Crocker’s ceramics collection is considered one of the finest in the nation, while its early California art provides insight into the state’s visual history.

Regular events include Art Mix (adults-only evening events), family festivals, and specialized tours. The museum’s education programs serve visitors of all ages, making it a cultural cornerstone of Sacramento County.

American River Parkway

This 23-mile “ribbon of green” stretches from downtown Sacramento to Folsom Lake, offering one of the nation’s premier urban parkways. The paved Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail provides a scenic route for cycling, running, and walking, while the river itself is popular for swimming, fishing, and rafting during summer months.

Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with over 200 bird species, river otters, and deer frequently spotted. Access points throughout the parkway make it easy to enjoy this natural treasure, whether for a quick afternoon visit or a full day of outdoor recreation.

Farm-to-Fork Dining in Sacramento County

Sacramento proudly claims the title of America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, and for good reason. Surrounded by some of the nation’s most productive agricultural land, the county’s restaurants showcase ultra-fresh ingredients often harvested just hours before serving. The annual September Farm-to-Fork Festival celebrates this bounty with tastings, demonstrations, and the spectacular Tower Bridge Dinner.

Must-Try Culinary Experiences

• Sample locally-sourced cuisine at Mulvaney’s B&L or The Kitchen
• Explore global flavors at the diverse eateries in the R Street Corridor
• Visit the year-round farmers markets for the freshest produce
• Try craft cocktails made with locally-distilled spirits
• Experience Sacramento’s booming craft brewery scene

Downtown’s K Street and the Handle District in Midtown offer the highest concentration of notable restaurants. For a unique experience, check out the Midtown Farmers Market on Saturdays, where you can purchase ingredients directly from farmers and enjoy prepared foods from local vendors.

Practical Tips for Visiting Sacramento County

Why Sacramento County Should Be Your Next California Destination

Sacramento County offers visitors a refreshing alternative to California’s more crowded tourist destinations. With its rich Gold Rush history, thriving farm-to-fork culinary scene, and abundant outdoor recreation along two scenic rivers, the region delivers authentic California experiences without the crowds and high prices found elsewhere in the state.

Whether you’re floating down the American River on a summer afternoon, sampling locally-grown produce at a farm-to-fork restaurant, or stepping back in time in Old Sacramento, the county’s diverse attractions provide memorable experiences for every type of traveler. As California’s capital region continues to evolve and flourish, now is the perfect time to discover why Sacramento County deserves a prominent place on your California itinerary.