Things To Do
Old Sacramento
Nestled just west of Downtown Sacramento is Old Sacramento. Lined with cobblestone streets and 1800s architecture, this place is meant for the history buff. There are plenty of shops, restaurants and museums encompassed over 10 city blocks. At the north end is the famous California Railroad Museum where they do excursion trains, you can even take a River Boat Cruise along the Sacramento River. This is fun for the whole family!
R Street Corridor
Located in the middle of downtown Sacramento, this area is home to a lot of our favorite spots. On the corner is Iron Horse Tavern, where we had our first date! This gastropub has plenty of good eats and drinks, and may necessitate a reservation. On the other side of the same building is Mas Tacos, one of our favorite taco bars in town…their margaritas are excellent! Nearby are a couple of good bars including The Snug and The Shady Lady.
Dawson's Steakhouse
If you’re looking for a solid steakhouse, look no further than this place. The cocktails and wine list are impressive, the service is intimate yet non-intrusive, and the food is excellent to boot! In case you’re confused about the location, the restaurant is located in the lobby of the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
Crocker Art Museum
Located on the west side of Downtown, this museum is one part historical home, one part contemporary art museum. The museum shifts exhibits out every few months, and it is home to many different styles of art.
California State Capitol
Although the Capitol does not offer tours during COVID times, there are free tours of Capitol Park, which has several different exhibits and displays. Tours are free and last about 1 ½ hour.
Old Sugar Mill
Although it’s not quite Napa, this old beet-sugar refinery south of Sacramento is home to quite a few tasting rooms. Check out their website and you can even make reservations for wine tasting!
Jackson, California
The birthplace of the Serbian Orthodox Church in the United States, this small town located in Gold Country is full of history, and is only an hour south of Sacramento. The church is located just north of Downtown Jackson along Main Street. Located on the northeast end of town is the Jackson Rancheria Casino & Hotel. If you do go, make sure you stop by Mel & Faye's Diner and grab yourself a Moo Burger along the way!
Thunder Valley Casino Resort
For those who have the itch to go gambling, but don't want to make the 2 1/2 hour drive to Reno or Tahoe, this is the perfect place. Thunder Valley has plenty of slots and table games, restaurants and a buffet, and is about a 35 minute drive from Downtown Sacramento.
Plymouth Wine Tasting
Although it isn't exactly Napa, Plymouth is an up and coming wine tasting area in California. Catered towards the Zinfandel and Syrah lovers, this spot nestled in the Sierra Foothills has good views and hidden gems!
Napa Valley Wine Tasting
We recommend for our out-of-town guests, if you plan on visiting Napa, dedicate your entire day to this trip and make your winery reservations in advance. Highway 80 gets very busy in both directions, especially during the summer!