Things to Do in Sacramento Zoo, United States of America

Sacramento, California's vibrant capital city, offers a perfect blend of rich history, modern attractions, and natural beauty. Located at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers, the city serves as a gateway to Northern California's diverse landscapes, from the Sierra Nevada mountains to the San Francisco Bay Area. The historic Old Sacramento district preserves the city's Gold Rush heritage with its wooden sidewalks and 19th-century architecture, while the modern downtown core bustles with government buildings, museums, and a thriving farm-to-fork dining scene. The Sacramento Zoo, nestled in the heart of William Land Park, represents one of the city's most beloved family attractions. This intimate 14.3-acre zoo houses over 500 animals representing more than 140 species from around the world. Known for its conservation efforts and educational programs, the zoo provides visitors with close encounters with everything from endangered Sumatran tigers to playful river otters, making it an essential stop for nature lovers and families exploring California's capital region.

Top Things to Do in Sacramento Zoo

Sacramento Zoo Animal Encounters

Explore the Sacramento Zoo's diverse collection of animals across themed habitats including the African Savanna, Reptile House, and Primate Discovery Center. The zoo's compact size allows for an intimate experience with over 500 animals, including rare species like snow leopards, jaguars, and Humboldt penguins. Interactive feeding opportunities and educational keeper talks throughout the day enhance the wildlife experience.

Booking Tip: General admission costs around $15-20 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors. Visit during weekday mornings for smaller crowds and more active animals. Check the zoo's website for special events and behind-the-scenes tours that offer enhanced experiences for an additional fee.

Old Sacramento Historic District Exploration

Step back in time in this preserved Gold Rush-era district featuring wooden sidewalks, historic buildings, and authentic 19th-century storefronts. The area houses numerous museums, including the California State Railroad Museum, antique shops, and restaurants. Horse-drawn carriage rides and vintage train excursions add to the authentic Old West atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Walking tours cost $15-25 per person and typically last 1-2 hours. Book afternoon tours to avoid morning fog and enjoy better lighting for photos. Look for combination tickets that include multiple attractions like the Railroad Museum and riverboat cruises for better value.

American River Bike Trail Adventures

Cycle along the scenic 32-mile American River Parkway, one of the longest paved bike trails in California. The trail offers beautiful river views, wildlife spotting opportunities, and connections to various parks and recreational areas. Multiple access points allow for rides of varying lengths, from short family outings to full-day adventures.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals cost $25-40 per day from local shops near the trail. Early morning rides offer cooler temperatures and better wildlife viewing. Choose guided tours ($50-75) for historical insights and guaranteed equipment, or rent independently for more flexibility.

Capitol Building and Gardens Tour

Tour California's stunning State Capitol building with its neoclassical architecture, restored chambers, and beautiful rotunda. The surrounding Capitol Park features over 1,400 trees from around the world, creating a peaceful urban oasis. Free guided tours provide insights into California's political history and governmental processes.

Booking Tip: Tours are free but require advance reservations, especially during legislative sessions. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekend tours. Weekday tours offer a chance to see the legislature in action, while gardens are best viewed during spring bloom season (March-May).

Farm-to-Fork Food Tours

Sacramento's renowned farm-to-fork movement comes alive through guided culinary tours showcasing local restaurants, farmers markets, and artisanal food producers. These walking tours typically include 4-6 tastings at diverse establishments, from upscale farm-to-table restaurants to local breweries and specialty food shops. Learn about the region's agricultural heritage while sampling seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine.

Booking Tip: Food tours range from $65-120 per person and last 3-4 hours. Book tours that coincide with farmers market days (Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday) for the freshest experience. Evening tours often include wine or craft beer pairings and showcase the city's nightlife scene.

Getting There

Sacramento is easily accessible via Sacramento International Airport (SMF), located 10 miles northwest of downtown, with direct flights from major US cities. The city sits at the intersection of major highways including Interstate 5 and Interstate 80, making it a convenient drive from San Francisco (90 minutes), Lake Tahoe (2 hours), or Los Angeles (6 hours). Amtrak's Capitol Corridor provides comfortable train service from the San Francisco Bay Area, while the California Zephyr connects Sacramento to Chicago and other major cities across the country.

Getting Around

Sacramento offers multiple transportation options for getting around the city and to the zoo. The Regional Transit (RT) system includes light rail and bus services, with the Blue Line providing convenient access to downtown and Old Sacramento. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, while the city's flat terrain makes it bicycle-friendly with numerous bike lanes and the extensive American River Bike Trail. The Sacramento Zoo is located in William Land Park, accessible by car with free parking, or via RT bus routes that stop near the park entrance.

Where to Stay

Downtown Sacramento

Midtown Sacramento

Old Sacramento Waterfront

Arden-Arcade

West Sacramento

Airport Area

Food & Dining

Sacramento's dining scene centers around the celebrated farm-to-fork movement, with restaurants sourcing ingredients from the fertile Central Valley and nearby farms. Downtown and Midtown offer the highest concentration of acclaimed restaurants, from upscale establishments like The Kitchen and Ella to casual favorites like Zocalo and Hook & Ladder Manufacturing Co. The city's diverse population ensures excellent international cuisine, including authentic Mexican food in the Oak Park neighborhood, Vietnamese pho in South Sacramento, and Italian fare in Little Italy. Don't miss the vibrant farmers markets, particularly the Saturday Downtown Farmers Market under the freeway, where local vendors sell everything from organic produce to artisanal cheeses and freshly baked breads.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Sacramento and the zoo is during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. Spring offers blooming flowers in Capitol Park and throughout the city, while fall provides pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Summer can be quite hot with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, though the zoo provides shaded areas and misting stations for comfort. Winter is mild but can be rainy, making it less ideal for zoo visits and outdoor exploration. The zoo animals are generally more active during cooler morning and evening hours regardless of season.

Insider Tips

Visit the Sacramento Zoo early in the morning when animals are most active and temperatures are cooler, especially during summer months

Combine your zoo visit with other William Land Park attractions like Fairytale Town and Funderland amusement park for a full day of family fun

Take advantage of the zoo's reciprocal membership program if you're a member of other AZA-accredited zoos for discounted or free admission

Things to Do in Sacramento Zoo