Things to Do in Tower Bridge, United States of America

Tower Bridge is a small, historic community located in Sacramento County, California, situated along the Sacramento River. This charming area gets its name from the iconic Tower Bridge that spans the river, connecting Sacramento's downtown area with West Sacramento. The neighborhood offers a unique blend of urban convenience and riverside tranquility, making it an interesting base for exploring the greater Sacramento metropolitan area. While Tower Bridge itself is primarily a residential and commercial area rather than a major tourist destination, its strategic location provides easy access to Sacramento's rich history, vibrant arts scene, and California's renowned wine country. Visitors can enjoy waterfront activities along the Sacramento River, explore nearby historic districts, and use the area as a gateway to discover the diverse attractions of Northern California's capital region.

Top Things to Do in Tower Bridge

Sacramento River Activities

The Sacramento River offers excellent opportunities for boating, kayaking, and riverside walks with scenic views of the Tower Bridge. The riverfront provides a peaceful escape from urban life with well-maintained paths perfect for cycling or jogging. Several boat rental companies operate in the area, offering everything from casual paddle boats to guided river tours.

Booking Tip: Kayak rentals typically cost $30-50 per day, with guided tours ranging from $60-90 per person. Book river activities during weekdays for better rates and fewer crowds. Look for operators that include safety equipment and basic instruction in their packages.

Historic Sacramento Exploration

Just minutes from Tower Bridge, Old Sacramento offers a fascinating glimpse into California's Gold Rush era with preserved 19th-century buildings, museums, and authentic period shops. The area features wooden sidewalks, horse-drawn carriages, and historic riverboats that transport visitors back in time. The California State Railroad Museum, one of the finest railroad museums in North America, showcases beautifully restored locomotives and cars.

Booking Tip: Museum admission ranges from $10-15 for adults, with combination tickets available for multiple attractions at $25-35. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and consider purchasing tickets online for small discounts. Allow 3-4 hours to properly explore the historic district.

California State Capitol Tours

The magnificent California State Capitol building offers free guided tours showcasing the state's political history, beautiful architecture, and restored legislative chambers. The surrounding Capitol Park features gardens with plants from around the world, monuments, and peaceful walking paths. Visitors can observe legislative sessions when in session and explore the Capitol Museum's exhibits on California history.

Booking Tip: Tours are free but require advance reservations, especially for groups. Tours run hourly Monday through Friday, with limited weekend availability. Arrive 15 minutes early and bring valid ID for security screening. Peak season (spring/summer) books up quickly.

Wine Country Day Trips

Tower Bridge's location provides convenient access to several renowned wine regions including Lodi, Clarksburg, and the nearby Napa Valley. These areas offer world-class wineries, scenic vineyard landscapes, and diverse tasting experiences from intimate family operations to grand estate wineries. Many facilities also offer tours that include barrel tastings, food pairings, and educational experiences about winemaking.

Booking Tip: Wine tasting fees range from $15-40 per winery, often waived with purchases. Book transportation services ($100-200 per person) to safely visit multiple wineries. Weekday visits offer more personalized attention, while weekends feature special events but larger crowds.

American River Parkway Recreation

The American River Parkway offers 32 miles of paved trails perfect for cycling, walking, and nature observation along the American River. This green corridor provides opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing while remaining easily accessible from the Tower Bridge area. The parkway connects several parks and recreation areas, creating an extensive outdoor recreation network.

Booking Tip: Trail access is free, but parking fees apply at some locations ($5-8 per day). Bike rentals are available at various shops for $25-40 per day. Early morning visits offer the best wildlife viewing and cooler temperatures during summer months.

Getting There

Tower Bridge is easily accessible by car via Interstate 80 or Highway 50, with Sacramento International Airport located about 20 minutes away by car or taxi. Amtrak serves nearby Sacramento station with regular service from major California cities and connections to national routes. Public transit options include Sacramento Regional Transit buses and light rail, though a rental car provides the most flexibility for exploring the greater region and nearby attractions.

Getting Around

The Tower Bridge area is best navigated by car, as attractions are spread throughout the Sacramento region and public transit has limited coverage. Sacramento Regional Transit operates buses and light rail with day passes available for $7, though service frequency varies by route. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, and bike rentals offer an eco-friendly option for exploring the riverside areas and downtown Sacramento. Walking is pleasant within the immediate riverfront area, but longer distances require transportation.

Where to Stay

Downtown Sacramento

West Sacramento

Midtown Sacramento

Old Sacramento Waterfront

Airport Area

Natomas

Food & Dining

The Tower Bridge area and nearby Sacramento offer a diverse culinary scene ranging from farm-to-fork restaurants highlighting California's agricultural abundance to ethnic cuisines reflecting the region's multicultural population. Downtown Sacramento features upscale dining establishments, craft breweries, and trendy cafes, while the historic areas offer casual eateries and riverfront dining with scenic views. The region is particularly known for its emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, craft beer scene, and proximity to Central Valley farms that supply fresh produce year-round.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Tower Bridge is during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are mild and comfortable for outdoor activities along the river. Summer months can be quite hot with temperatures often exceeding 95°F, though this is ideal for water activities and the area's numerous festivals. Winter brings cooler, rainy weather but fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates, making it suitable for indoor attractions and cozy dining experiences.

Insider Tips

Visit the Tower Bridge area during the annual Farm-to-Fork Festival in September for the best showcase of Sacramento's culinary scene and local produce

Take advantage of free parking along the riverfront during weekdays, as weekend parking can be challenging during events and peak season

Download the Sacramento Regional Transit app for real-time public transportation updates and mobile ticketing to save time and money when exploring the wider area

Things to Do in Tower Bridge