Are you looking for some fun ways to spend your weekend in California’s capital city? As an adventurous explorer, I’m always on the hunt for unique and entertaining activities that allow me to enjoy the city. With exciting events, beautiful parks, intriguing museums, and delicious restaurants, Sacramento has something for everyone. Here are some of my top picks of things to do in Sacramento to make the most out of your Sacramento weekend.
1. Spend a Day at the Park
When it comes to outdoor fun things to do in Sacramento, Sacramento parks shine bright. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon at sprawling William Land Park, home to the Sacramento Zoo, Fairytale Town theme park, and picturesque Land Park Lake.
The zoo houses over 500 native and exotic animals in natural habitats while Fairytale Town brings childhood stories to life with elaborate play sets. Pedal a four-person surrey bike around the lake and feed the ducks. On sunny days, nothing beats lounging in the grass while the kids play.
For more natural scenery, head over to Effie Yeaw Nature Center inside Ancil Hoffman Park. Wander the nature trails and learn about native plants and animals at their discovery museum. Or test your navigation skills on a geocaching adventure!
McKinley Park offers another nice green space with a huge playground, rose garden, flowing fountains, and plenty of shade trees.
2. Explore Old Sacramento
One of my personal favorite things to do in Sacramento is explore the Old Sacramento, located along the Sacramento River. This National Historic Landmark District transports you back in time to the 1840s when Sacramento was a bustling commercial hub and terminus of the Transcontinental Railroad.
Today, the cobblestone streets are filled with old-fashioned candy and ice cream parlors, souvenir shops, restaurants, and various attractions. Ride the Sacramento Southern Railroad or catch a show at the Delta King Riverboat.
Don’t miss the California State Railroad Museum – featuring 21 restored locomotives and railroad cars to explore. The whole family will enjoy strolling the wooden sidewalks and imagining Sacramento’s glorious boomtown past.
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3. Visit Some Intriguing Museums
When I want a dose of culture and history, Sacramento museums always inspire and educate. The California Museum is one of my go-to’s, with interactive exhibits focusing on the state’s history and future.
Walk through a glowing forest, get creative in the Dreamer’s Studio, or try your hand at building earthquake-proof structures. Of course, the 40-foot-tall tribute to women’s suffrage is a must-see photo op!
For aviation buffs, the Aerospace Museum of California displays impressive aircraft from balloon-basket gondolas to sleek jets. Peer into the cockpits and even climb aboard a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker!
Art aficionados will appreciate the Crocker Art Museum’s collections spanning from California Impressionism to vibrant Mexican muralists. And don’t miss the artifacts at the California State Indian Museum or tour the historic Governor’s Mansion.
Catch Some Live Music
Sacramento knows how to entertain. No matter your musical tastes, you’ll find plenty of concerts and lively venues across the city. The Bank offers an eclectic schedule in a chic converted bank with a soaring ceiling and massive chandelier. Catch tribute bands at Harlow’s or two-step to country music at Goldfield Trading Post. Laugh it up with stand-up comics at Punch Line Sacramento.
For big-name acts, head to the Golden 1 Center, Hard Rock Live, or Ace of Spades. And for unparalleled acoustic performances in an intimate 1928 vaudeville theatre, check out shows at the Sofia Tsakopoulos Center for the Arts. With so many places and things to do in Sacramento this weekend, you’re sure to be singing a happy tune!
Sample Sacramento’s Fantastic Food Scene
It’s no secret that Sacramento’s food scene is exploding with delicious flavors to suit any palette. Start your weekend right with brunch at Bacon and Butter or Evan’s Kitchen, housed in a historic railroad depot. Biba offers upscale Italian cuisine in a restored Victorian home. Or grab a table at Scott’s Seafood on the riverfront and splurge on fresh oysters.
For diverse international fare, visit Little Saigon, Del Paso Boulevard’s “International Corridor,” or the culinary destinations along 12th Street. Or browse the city’s fabulous farmers’ markets to gather ingredients for a relaxing picnic. From food trucks to fine dining, these are just a taste of Sacramento’s top-notch eats!
