10 BEST Things to Do in Sacramento (That Locals Actually Recommend)

If you're thinking about moving to or visiting Sacramento, you're probably wondering:


"What is there to actually do here?"


Well, I’ve lived here over 48 years, and I’m gonna break it down for you. Here are my top 10 things to do in the Sacramento area — a mix of history, good eats, and spots locals actually love.


🎥 Prefer to watch instead? Check out the full video on YouTube here



1. 🚶‍♀️ Wander Old Sacramento Waterfront

Cobblestone streets, wooden sidewalks, riverboats, and history buffs everywhere—it’s like stepping onto a Gold Rush movie set. Don’t miss the Pony Express hub and those backstage tunnels. Truly a National Historic Landmark .



2. 🏛️ Explore Sutter’s Fort

This 1840s adobe stronghold is ground zero for Sacramento’s founding story—and where the Gold Rush kicked off. It’s educational and Insta-worthy .



3. 🚂 Ride the California State Railroad Museum

Feel like a kid again aboard restored steam engines and vintage cabooses. It’s one of the world’s largest railroad museums—and yes, train rides included.



4. 🎨 Visit Crocker Art Museum

Want art without the attitude? The Crocker’s got everything from Gold Rush paintings to modern ceramics—plus a cool vibe in the Italianate-meets-contemporary building!



5. ☕ Chill in Midtown & K Street

Coffee, street art, farmers' markets, food trucks—this is true local life. Sip at a roastery, grab brunch, then just wander. Total Sacramento energy.



6. 🚴 Stroll or Bike the American River Parkway

Nature minutes from downtown: bike paths, picnic spots, river banks for swimming and chillin’. Perfect spot to unplug & unwind..


7. 🚣‍♂️ Paddle at Lake Natoma

Kayak, row, or bike around this scenic lake east of Sacramento. Great for a tranquil escape or a day trip out to Folsom.


8. 🌸 Snap Photos at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacramento

Majestic dome + Italian-style architecture = photo ops galore. Serenity meets grandeur downtown.



9. 🍦 Score Ice Cream at Vic’s & Gunther’s

Old-school scoop shops that scream nostalgia. Vic’s (since 1947) and Gunther’s (since 1940) are community classics you have to taste!



10. 🎶 Eat, Drink & Play in Midtown Nights

Arcade, cocktails, live music—it’s electric after sunset. Hit Coin‑Op for old-school games, Red Rabbit or Magpie for dinner, and Harlow’s or Ace of Spades if you want tunes or dancing 
bonappetit.com

Want the Inside Track?

This is just the tip of the iceberg. Moving here—or even thinking about it? Grab your FREE Greater Sacramento Living City Guide and get the lowdown on:

✅ Best neighborhoods & schools
✅ Top employers & healthcare
✅ Cost-of-living breakdown
✅ Local insider tips

👉 Download it [HERE] and start planning your Sacramento story!