California Automobile Museum, United States - Things to Do in California Automobile Museum

Things to Do in California Automobile Museum

California Automobile Museum, United States - Complete Travel Guide

Sacramento might not be the first California city that comes to mind for tourists, but this capital city has quietly built itself into a destination worth your time. The California Automobile Museum sits in a city that's managed to balance its government role with a surprisingly vibrant arts scene, farm-to-fork dining culture, and genuine historical character. You'll find tree-lined streets, a revitalized downtown area, and the kind of authentic California experience that doesn't feel manufactured for visitors. Sacramento's location in the Central Valley gives it access to some of the best agricultural products in the state, which shows up in everything from farmers markets to high-end restaurants.

Top Things to Do in California Automobile Museum

California Automobile Museum

This museum houses an impressive collection of vintage cars, muscle cars, and automotive memorabilia that tells the story of California's car culture. You'll see everything from 1920s classics to modern supercars, with rotating exhibits that keep things fresh for repeat visitors. The museum does a particularly good job of connecting automotive history to broader California culture.

Booking Tip: General admission runs around $10-15 for adults, and the museum tends to be less crowded on weekday mornings. Check their website for special events and car shows that happen throughout the year.

Old Sacramento Historic District

This waterfront area preserves Sacramento's Gold Rush-era architecture with wooden sidewalks, historic buildings, and period storefronts. You can ride a vintage train, browse antique shops, or just soak up the Old West atmosphere. It's touristy, sure, but genuinely well-preserved and worth the crowds.

Booking Tip: The area is free to walk around, though individual attractions charge admission. Visit during weekdays to avoid the heaviest crowds, and parking can be tricky on weekends.

California State Capitol Building

Free guided tours take you through this beautifully restored 19th-century building, including the legislative chambers and governor's office. The surrounding Capitol Park features plants from around the world and makes for a pleasant stroll. Tours are surprisingly engaging, even if politics isn't your thing.

Booking Tip: Tours are free but require advance booking online, especially during the school year when field trips fill up slots. Security screening is required, so arrive early and don't bring prohibited items.

Midtown Sacramento Food Scene

Sacramento's farm-to-fork movement is centered in the Midtown area, where you'll find everything from casual bistros to upscale restaurants showcasing local ingredients. The concentration of quality restaurants in a walkable area makes it perfect for a food crawl. Many places change their menus seasonally based on what's available from nearby farms.

Booking Tip: Reservations are essential for dinner at popular spots, especially on weekends. Many restaurants offer happy hour menus that let you sample their food at lower prices.

American River Bike Trail

This 32-mile paved trail follows the American River and offers a peaceful escape from the city. You'll pass through parks, wildlife areas, and historic sites, with plenty of spots to stop for picnics or river access. The trail connects to Folsom Lake, making longer rides possible.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals are available at several shops in Sacramento for around $30-50 per day. Early morning or late afternoon rides avoid the heat and offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Getting There

Sacramento sits about 90 minutes northeast of San Francisco and two hours north of Los Angeles by car. Sacramento International Airport handles domestic flights and some international routes, though many visitors fly into San Francisco or Oakland and drive. Amtrak's Capitol Corridor connects Sacramento to the Bay Area multiple times daily, and the California Zephyr provides a scenic route from Chicago. Interstate 5 and Highway 99 make driving straightforward from most California destinations.

Getting Around

Sacramento is actually quite walkable in the downtown and Midtown areas, and the city has been investing in bike infrastructure. The RT Light Rail system connects major attractions and neighborhoods, though service can be infrequent. Ride-sharing works well for getting around, and parking downtown is manageable with both street meters and parking garages available. Many visitors find that staying in Midtown or downtown eliminates the need for a car for most activities.

Where to Stay

Downtown Sacramento
Old Sacramento
East Sacramento
Land Park
Airport Area

Food & Dining

Sacramento's farm-to-fork reputation isn't just marketing - the city genuinely has access to incredible local ingredients and chefs who know how to use them. You'll find everything from Vietnamese pho in the Asian district to high-end California cuisine in Midtown. The farmers markets, particularly the Saturday market under the freeway, give you a sense of just how good the local produce is. Food trucks and casual spots do the farm-to-fork thing just as well as the fancy restaurants, often at much better prices.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Sacramento

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Tower Café

4.6 /5
(4284 reviews) 2

Bacon & Butter

4.6 /5
(3730 reviews) 2

Urban Plates

4.8 /5
(1711 reviews)

The Waterboy

4.7 /5
(824 reviews) 3
bar

The Kitchen Restaurant

4.7 /5
(777 reviews) 4

Hawks Public House

4.6 /5
(590 reviews) 3
bar

When to Visit

Sacramento's Mediterranean climate makes it pleasant most of the year, though summer temperatures regularly hit the 90s and can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities. Spring and fall offer the best weather, with mild temperatures and clear skies. Winter is actually quite nice - cool but rarely cold, with occasional rain that keeps things green. Summer evenings can be lovely once the temperature drops, and many outdoor events take advantage of the long daylight hours.

Insider Tips

The Tower Bridge at sunset offers classic Sacramento views and photo opportunities, especially when lit up at night.
Many of Sacramento's best restaurants don't take reservations - arrive early or be prepared to wait, especially on weekends.
The city's tree canopy provides excellent shade in summer, making walking more comfortable than you might expect in the heat.

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