Sacramento Travel Guide

The discovery of gold in nearby Coloma led to the burgeoning growth of Sacramento, now the state capital of California. And, as in the gold rush era, when the city attracted large numbers of immigrants, Sacramento today still has a very diverse population. In such a multicultural environment, people are more friendly, laid-back and more understanding of each other and even more accommodating to tourists. Apart from the myriad tourist attractions that can be seen here, the warmth of the city's people makes this historically progressive place a pleasure to visit.

Sights

Since this is the political hub of California, you should begin your tour of Sacramento at the California State Capitol, where you can see the various restored offices and legislative chambers of this historic building. Another must-see attraction is Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, the oldest restored fort in the country. In the Old Sacramento historic district, you can explore the sights or ride the steam train...

The discovery of gold in nearby Coloma led to the burgeoning growth of Sacramento, now the state capital of California. And, as in the gold rush era, when the city attracted large numbers of immigrants, Sacramento today still has a very diverse population. In such a multicultural environment, people are more friendly, laid-back and more understanding of each other and even more accommodating to tourists. Apart from the myriad tourist attractions that can be seen here, the warmth of the city's people makes this historically progressive place a pleasure to visit.

Sights

Since this is the political hub of California, you should begin your tour of Sacramento at the California State Capitol, where you can see the various restored offices and legislative chambers of this historic building. Another must-see attraction is Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, the oldest restored fort in the country. In the Old Sacramento historic district, you can explore the sights or ride the steam train at the Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot. Bring the kids to the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town for a day. When visiting Sacramento in the summer, be sure to try fishing or other water sports at Folsom Lake. You can also go river rafting from May to September along the American River. Museums to visit include the California State Railroad Museum, the State Indian Museum and the Sacramento History Museum.

Dining

You'll find a lot of typical American fare in Sacramento but you'll find plenty of other restaurants serving a wide variety of international cuisines that reflect the diversity of the population. Many of the restaurants and cafes are clustered along J Street in downtown Sacramento. For dinners with a view of the river, your best bet is the Front Street of Old Sacramento. A number of dining spots can be also be found inside Arden Fair Mall.

Shopping

Roseville Galleria, Westfield Downtown Plaza, Country Club Mall and the Town and County Village shopping center are where you'll find your typical mall shopping. Native American arts and crafts are available at the Gallery of the American West. You can find clothes at discounted prices at Nordstrom Rack. The area around 24th and J streets is home to a lot of shops selling fashion, cosmetics, clothing, home furnishings and antiques.