A Week in California's Capital
History, Culture, and River Life in Sacramento
Trip Overview
Sacramento offers a perfect blend of California history, vibrant culture, and outdoor recreation along the confluence of two rivers. This week-long itinerary takes you through Gold Rush-era landmarks, world-class museums, and beautiful parks while exploring the city's thriving farm-to-fork dining scene. You'll discover the political heart of California at the State Capitol, journey through railroad history, and enjoy leisurely walks along the waterfront. The pace balances cultural immersion with relaxation, allowing time to truly experience Sacramento's laid-back charm. From historic districts to modern science centers, this itinerary showcases why Sacramento is one of America's most livable cities while remaining accessible and authentic.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Historic Waterfront Welcome
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Sacramento near Old Sacramento (Mid-range hotel within walking distance of the waterfront)
Central location provides easy access to Old Sacramento and downtown attractions for the next few days
California's Political Heart
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Sacramento (Same hotel as Day 1)
Continuing to explore downtown attractions makes staying in the same location convenient
Art, History, and Pioneer Life
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Sacramento (Same hotel as previous nights)
Central location continues to be ideal for accessing attractions
Science, Nature, and Neighborhood Parks
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Sacramento (Same hotel as previous nights)
Remaining centrally located for final days of exploration
Parks, Gardens, and Local Flavor
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Sacramento (Same hotel as previous nights)
Final nights in your convenient central location
River Adventures and Outdoor Discovery
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Sacramento (Same hotel as previous nights)
Final night in your established location before departure
Leisurely Departure Day
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Departure day)
End of itinerary
Practical Information
Getting Around
Sacramento is very car-friendly, and renting a car provides maximum flexibility for exploring parks and outer attractions. However, downtown, Midtown, and Old Sacramento are highly walkable. The city offers bike-share programs and scooters for local travel. Public transit via light rail and buses connects major attractions affordably. Ride-sharing services are readily available. For this itinerary, you can manage without a car by using ride-shares for trips to Discovery Park and William Land Park, though a car adds convenience.
Book Ahead
Book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season (April-October) and when state legislature is in session. Reserve Stanford Mansion tours and Sacramento History Museum underground tours ahead. Consider booking any river cruises or special dining experiences in advance.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and hat (summers are hot and sunny), layered clothing for variable temperatures, reusable water bottle, camera, casual attire (Sacramento is very laid-back), light jacket for evenings
Total Budget
$800-1,200 for the week (excluding accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Save money by staying at budget hotels or vacation rentals outside downtown, preparing picnic lunches from local markets, taking advantage of free attractions like Capitol tours and parks, visiting museums on free admission days, using public transit and bikes instead of ride-shares, and dining at food trucks and casual eateries. Many of Sacramento's best experiences including the waterfront, parks, and Capitol are completely free.
Luxury Upgrade
Upgrade to a boutique hotel in downtown or Midtown, book private guided tours of museums and historic sites, enjoy fine dining at Sacramento's acclaimed farm-to-fork restaurants nightly, arrange private wine country day trips to nearby Lodi or Clarksburg, book spa treatments, take private river cruises, and consider helicopter tours over the delta. Hire a private driver for seamless transportation between attractions.
Family-Friendly
Add more time at Fairytale Town for young children, extend zoo visits, focus on interactive exhibits at the science museum, plan picnics in parks with playgrounds, choose family-style restaurants, consider shorter museum visits with ice cream breaks, explore the Children's Receiving Home exhibit at Sutter's Fort, and build in pool time at your hotel. The River Fox Train and Old Sacramento's novelty shops are particularly engaging for kids.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Sacramento