Things to Do in Sacramento in February

February Weather in Sacramento

62°C (142°F) High Temp

41°C (106°F) Low Temp

2.5 mm (0.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Almond Blossom Festival peaks in mid-February when 2,000+ almond trees bloom across Sacramento Valley - creating spectacular pink and white landscapes within 48 km (30 miles) of downtown
Ideal outdoor weather with daytime temperatures averaging 18°C (64°F) - perfect for American River Bike Trail cycling and outdoor farmers markets without summer's 38°C+ (100°F+) heat
Pre-peak season pricing saves 25-40% on accommodations compared to March-May conference season, with downtown hotels averaging $89-129 versus $149-199 in peak months
Farm-to-fork dining showcases winter citrus harvest - blood oranges, Meyer lemons, and early spring vegetables from Central Valley farms are at absolute peak freshness

Considerations

Afternoon rain showers occur 60% of days, typically lasting 20-30 minutes but can disrupt outdoor plans between 2-4pm
Daylight limited to 10.5 hours (sunrise 7:15am, sunset 5:45pm) restricts sightseeing time compared to summer's 14+ hour days
Sacramento Kings basketball season creates downtown traffic congestion and higher parking costs ($25-35) on game nights, occurring 8-10 times in February

Best Activities in February

American River Parkway Cycling Tours

February's mild 16-20°C (61-68°F) temperatures make the 51 km (32-mile) paved American River Bike Trail ideal for cycling. Winter rains keep the parkway green, and you'll avoid summer's intense heat and crowds. Morning rides (8-11am) offer best weather before afternoon showers.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals typically cost $35-55 per day. Book 3-4 days ahead for weekend rides. Look for operators offering hybrid bikes suitable for paved trails. Rain gear included in premium packages ($65-75/day).

Sacramento Valley Almond Orchard Photography Tours

Mid-February is peak almond blossom season in Sacramento Valley. Over 2,000 acres of orchards create stunning pink and white landscapes within 48 km (30 miles) of downtown. Early morning tours (7-10am) capture best lighting and avoid afternoon rain probability.

Booking Tip: Photography tours typically cost $125-175 per person for 4-hour excursions. Book 10-14 days ahead as February is peak bloom season. Look for tours including multiple orchard locations and transportation from downtown.

Historic Old Sacramento Riverfront Walking Tours

February's cooler temperatures make exploring the 11-hectare (28-acre) Old Sacramento waterfront district comfortable. Covered wooden sidewalks provide shelter during brief afternoon showers. Winter months offer clearer views of Sierra Nevada mountains 160 km (100 miles) east.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free with downloadable apps. Guided walking tours cost $18-25 per person for 90-minute experiences. Book day-of or 1-2 days ahead. Choose morning tours (10am-noon) to avoid afternoon rain.

California State Capitol and Museum District Tours

Indoor cultural activities perfect for February's rainy afternoons. The Capitol building offers free guided tours, while nearby museums provide 4-6 hours of climate-controlled exploration. Park-like Capitol grounds beautiful with winter landscaping and 18°C (64°F) walking weather.

Booking Tip: Capitol tours are free but require advance booking 1-2 weeks ahead. Museum passes cost $25-35 for multiple venues. Choose afternoon bookings (1-4pm) as backup plans for rainy weather.

Midtown Sacramento Farm-to-Fork Food Tours

February showcases winter citrus harvest and early spring vegetables from Central Valley farms. Walking food tours cover 1.6 km (1 mile) through Midtown's restaurant district, with indoor tastings perfect for variable weather. Local chefs feature seasonal ingredients at peak freshness.

Booking Tip: Food tours typically cost $85-125 per person for 3-hour experiences including 6-8 tastings. Book 5-7 days ahead for weekend tours. Choose tours focusing on seasonal menus and indoor venues for weather flexibility.

Folsom Lake Recreation Area Hiking Tours

February rains fill Folsom Lake to higher levels, creating better scenery and cooler 14-18°C (57-64°F) hiking temperatures. Multiple trail options from 3-12 km (2-7.5 miles) offer flexibility for weather changes. Morning hikes avoid afternoon shower probability.

Booking Tip: Day use fees $12-15 per vehicle. Guided nature walks cost $25-35 per person. Book 3-5 days ahead for guided tours. Choose morning departures (8-11am) and bring layers for temperature changes at 150m (500ft) elevation.

February Events & Festivals

Early to late February

Camellia Festival

Capitol Park's 1,200+ camellia plants bloom throughout February, creating stunning red, pink, and white displays. Free self-guided tours available daily with peak blooms mid-month. Photography workshops and botanical talks offered weekends.

Mid February

Sacramento Almond Blossom Festival

Regional celebration of almond orchard blooms across Sacramento Valley. Features farm tours, blossom photography contests, and local almond product tastings. Peak bloom timing varies by weather but typically mid-February.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket with hood - afternoon showers occur 60% of days lasting 20-30 minutes, but morning stays dry

Layered clothing for 16-24°C (61-75°F) temperature swings - mornings cool, afternoons warm, evenings mild

Waterproof walking shoes with good grip - rain creates slippery brick sidewalks in Old Sacramento historic district

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even with February cloud cover, especially for outdoor cycling and hiking

Compact umbrella fits in day pack for sudden afternoon showers during walking tours

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity conditions which trap moisture and heat

Light cardigan or fleece for early morning activities starting before 9am when temperatures drop to 8-12°C (46-54°F)

Waterproof phone case for photography during almond blossom tours with potential light rain

Closed-toe shoes for winery and farm tours - muddy conditions common after winter rains in agricultural areas

Small backpack for day trips to Folsom Lake area where elevation changes of 150m (500ft) create temperature differences

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in Midtown rather than downtown - save $30-50 nightly while staying within 1.6 km (1 mile) of best restaurants, and avoid convention center crowds that spike prices downtown

Visit farmers markets Thursday-Saturday mornings (8-11am) for peak selection of winter citrus from local farms - vendors offer samples and prices drop 30% in final hour before closing

Use Sacramento RT light rail ($2.75 day pass) instead of driving downtown - avoids $25-35 event parking fees and connects directly to airport, Old Sacramento, and major attractions

February almond blossoms peak 10-14 days after significant rain - check local weather patterns and plan orchard visits accordingly for best blooms rather than fixed calendar dates

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling too many outdoor activities for afternoons - 60% chance of rain between 2-4pm disrupts plans, morning activities from 8am-1pm stay consistently dry

Underpacking rain gear assuming California means no rain - February brings 10 rainy days with sudden afternoon showers that catch unprepared tourists

Booking downtown hotels during Sacramento Kings home games without checking schedule - creates traffic delays and inflated parking costs of $25-35 on game nights