Sacramento blends historic charm with a vibrant food scene and riverfront recreation. Known for its Gold Rush heritage, Capitol architecture, and farm-to-fork cuisine, the city shines in spring and fall when the weather is mild and the river is lively.
Top Things to Do in Sacramento
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Getting Around Sacramento
From the Airport
Bus. Sacramento Regional Transit Route 30 (Airport Express) runs every 30‑45 min between downtown and SMF, about 30 min travel and $2.50 fare. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft operate at SMF; rides typically cost $25‑$35 to downtown and take 20‑30 min. Taxi. Taxis are available at the arrivals level; a ride to downtown is around $50‑$60 and takes about 20 min.
Once You're There
Light Rail. Sacramento RT Light Rail’s Blue Line connects downtown to mid‑city neighborhoods; $2.00 fare, trains run every 15‑20 min. Bus. RT bus network covers the city with 70+ routes; a day pass is $5 and most stops are within walking distance. Walking. Downtown Sacramento is very walkable, especially around Old Sacramento and the Riverfront, with many attractions a few blocks apart. Rideshare. Uber and Lyft are widely used for trips beyond the rail/bus reach; pricing is comparable to other California cities.
Where to Stay in Sacramento
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Where to Eat in Sacramento
Kru Contemporary Japanese★ 4.7 (2,083)The omakase sushi tasting, featuring a fresh uni nigiri that melts on the palate, is the highlight at Kru.
The Waterboy★ 4.7 (865)Their miso-glazed pan-seared salmon, paired with a citrus-herb beurre blanc, defines The Waterboy's refined approach.
The Kitchen★ 4.7 (823)Their nine-course Chef's Tasting Menu culminates with a perfectly seared pork belly glazed in apple-cider reduction.
Bacon & Butter★ 4.6 (3,974)The bacon-butter fried chicken sandwich, piled high with crisp bacon and a drizzle of melted butter, is the must-try.
Mikuni Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar★ 4.6 (3,020)The aburi-flamed salmon sushi, lightly torched to release smoky notes, is the standout dish at Mikuni.
Magpie Cafe★ 4.6 (878)The buttery lobster roll, served chilled on a toasted brioche bun, is the cafe's signature coastal offering.
Mulvaney's B&L★ 4.6 (875)The house-made mushroom-and-truffle risotto is the standout dish that showcases their farm-to-table ethos.
Ella Dining Room & Bar★ 4.5 (1,447)The roasted half-chicken served with sweet-corn pudding and sage-brown butter is a signature that draws locals.
Zócalo★ 4.4 (3,414)The mole rojo enchilada, simmered for 24 hours with chocolate and chilies, defines Zocalo's authentic Mexican flavor.
Grange Restaurant & Bar★ 4.4 (884)Their dry-aged ribeye, aged 30 days and finished on a wood-fired grill, is the centerpiece of Grange's menu.
Tours & Activities
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3 Days in Sacramento
Old Sacramento & Riverfront
Morning. Stroll through Old Sacramento State Historic Park, explore wooden sidewalks and visit the California State Railroad Museum for vintage locomotives.
Afternoon. Walk along the Sacramento Riverfront, snap photos of the iconic Tower Bridge, and hop aboard the historic Delta King if it’s docked.
Evening. Enjoy a sunset view from Capitol Park and unwind with a nightcap at a riverside bar.
Midtown Arts & Capitol
Morning. Grab a hearty breakfast at Bacon & Butter, then wander the vibrant Midtown Murals and pop into the Crocker Art Museum.
Afternoon. Savor a farm‑to‑fork lunch at Mulvaney's B&L, then tour the grand California State Capitol Museum and its surrounding gardens.
Evening. Dine on a tasting menu at The Kitchen, one of Sacramento’s premier fine‑dining experiences.
Sutter's Fort & River Adventure
Morning. Step back in time at Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, followed by a bike ride or walk along the scenic American River Parkway.
Afternoon. Visit the Sacramento Zoo for a quick wildlife break, then enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ella Dining Room & Bar.
Evening. Conclude with modern Japanese flavors at Kru Contemporary Japanese in the Natomas district.
