Sacramento
California’s past, present and future converge in a dynamic city
In 1848, the discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada mountain range enticed more than 300,000 settlers to California, representing the largest mass migration in the nation’s history. Today, there’s no better place to relive the gold rush days than in the state capital of Sacramento.
Nestled in the heart of Gold Country, Sacramento will delight avid historians of all ages. Capitol Park, Sutter’s Fort and the many museums and restored buildings in Old Sacramento will give you an in-depth look into the state’s history and the pioneers who were a part of it. History buffs aren’t the only ones who will love it here. The city is currently undergoing a cultural renaissance, which means you’ll find microbreweries, farm-to-table restaurants, art galleries and trendy boutiques at every turn. Sacramento preserves its past while keeping an eye on the future.
Mining Gold Country History
When miners struck gold in the Sierra Nevada foothills, legions of fortune seekers navigated the rivers to get to Gold Country. Many ended up at the confluence of the American and Sacramento rivers, and it was here the city of Sacramento was born. Today, the original settlement is preserved in a 28-acre National Historic Landmark known as Old Sacramento. Here, you can explore a variety of shops housed in revived buildings, enjoy a meal onboard a 19th-century riverboat, take a historic walking tour led by guides dressed in period costumes or glimpse the town’s past at five museums.
One of the most popular is the California State Railroad Museum. Boasting more than 20 restored cars and locomotives, this museum offers a clear window into the history of Golden State rail travel. If you’re visiting between April and September, don’t miss a train ride on a steam locomotive along the Sacramento River. Afterward, history enthusiasts will want to visit the California Museum. Home to the California Hall of Fame, this museum sheds light on famous Golden State sons and daughters like Walt Disney, Steve Jobs, Francis Ford Coppola, John Muir, Billie Jean King and more.
Another area steeped in history is Capitol Park. Since 1869, the neoclassical Capitol building has been home to the California state government and functions as a free museum teeming with antiques, murals and other artifacts. Outside, you’ll find the Civil War Memorial Grove, the California Vietnam War Memorial and the California Veterans Memorial. When you’re done exploring the park, relax or enjoy a picnic in its lush gardens and finely manicured lawns.
Just a mile away is Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park. The fort was constructed by John Sutter, the famous Swiss immigrant who started the California Gold Rush by discovering the first gold nugget in his eponymous sawmill. Before he struck gold, his fort was home to many immigrants and was used as a trading post and farm in the 1840s. Restored to its former glory, the fort welcomes visitors with costumed guides and period re-enactments.
Discover a Vibrant Arts Scene
Sacramento has developed an impressive art scene in recent years. The best way to experience it is by checking out the city’s Downtown, Midtown, Uptown and East Sacramento communities on the second Saturday of the month. During this time, galleries create a lively street-party environment by opening their doors to the public until the late evening. This gives you the opportunity to mingle with local artists, see rotating exhibits and enjoy live music.
If you can’t make Second Saturday, a visit to the Crocker Art Museum is an excellent alternative. This was the first public art museum in the Western United States and it continues to be a leading museum in California, with more than 15,000 pieces just waiting to be discovered. Here, you’ll find an exquisite collection of California art with some pieces dating back to the 1800s. The museum also showcases European, Asian and African art, along with photography and contemporary works.
Indulge in Outdoor Pursuits
Sacramento has beautiful weather year-round, making it a great place for outdoor activities. The League of American Bicyclists awarded the city with a gold medal in bike friendliness, thanks to its spacious bike lanes and paved trails along the rivers. One of the most popular sights is the Great Tower Bridge, a vertical lift bridge built in 1935 and still in operation. The bridge connects West Sacramento and Yolo County and can be raised to accommodate taller vessels.
The popular American River Bike Trail spans 32 miles from downtown Sacramento to Folsom, weaving through several parks and swimming areas. In the summer, the rivers are the perfect destination for anglers, boaters and kayakers. You can also make a splash in them by going on a tubing or white-water rafting adventure. Golfers will love teeing off at top courses such as William Land, Haggin Oaks, Bing Maloney and much more.
For More Information
Visit Sacramento
800-292-2334
www.visitsacramento.com
Visit California
877-225-4367
www.visitcalifornia.com
