Cultural & Historical Destinations in Sacramento, California, United States

Sacramento, United States, Sacramento, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Cultural & Historical Destinations

Cultural & Historical Destinations in Sacramento, California, United States

1. California State Railroad Museum

Explore the golden age of railroading in California. See historic locomotives and learn about their role in shaping Sacramento.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Experience the thrill of operating a steam engine in a simulator
  • Historic Collection: View over 100 pieces of railroad history, including freight cars and passenger coaches.
  • Educational Programs: Join guided tours and workshops that teach about the railroad's impact on California's development

2. Sutter's Fort State Historic Park

Step back in time to the early days of California at this 1840s fort built by John Sutter. Explore exhibits about gold rush history.
  • Living History: Witness blacksmithing, gunsmithing, and other craft demonstrations.
  • Original Structures: Visit the only remaining original adobe building from the California Gold Rush era.
  • Educational Programs: Participate in educational activities like gold panning and rifle shooting demonstrations.

3. Old Sacramento Underground Tours

Discover the hidden underground city beneath Old Sacramento's modern façade. Explore restored tunnels and hear stories of its colorful past.
  • Historical Significance: Learn about the fire and floods that shaped Sacramento's history.
  • Unique Experience: Walk through tunnels originally built for the underground businesses of the Gold Rush era.
  • Expert Guides: Tour with knowledgeable guides who bring Sacramento's history to life.

4. California Museum

Explore the rich cultural and natural history of California at this comprehensive museum.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Engage with hands-on exhibits about California's diverse cultures, landscapes, and ecosystems.
  • Art Collection: Admire works by California artists, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.
  • Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, lectures, and other educational activities about California's history and culture.

5. Tower Bridge

Cross the iconic Tower Bridge, one of Sacramento's most recognizable landmarks. Enjoy scenic views of the city and Sacramento River.
  • Iconic Landmark: Photograph the bridge's unique design, inspired by London's Tower Bridge.
  • Scenic Views: Take in panoramic vistas of Sacramento and the surrounding area from the observation deck.
  • Architectural Marvel: Witness the bridge's drawbridge operation, a testament to engineering ingenuity.

6. Crocker Art Museum

Discover a world-renowned art collection spanning 5,000 years at the Crocker Art Museum.
  • Diverse Collection: View American, European, and Asian art, as well as works by California artists.
  • Changing Exhibitions: Experience rotating exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists.
  • Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, lectures, and other educational activities about art history and appreciation.

7. California State Indian Museum

Learn about the Native American cultures that have called California home for thousands of years.
  • Cultural Artifacts: Explore exhibits showcasing tools, art, and other artifacts used by California's indigenous peoples.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Engage with hands-on activities that teach about Native American traditions and daily life.
  • Educational Programs: Join guided tours, workshops, and storytelling sessions led by Native American educators.

8. Ambassador Richard G. Lugar Center for Diplomacy

Explore the history of diplomacy through exhibits and interactive displays at this unique center.
  • Global Perspective: Gain insights into the importance of diplomacy in maintaining international peace.
  • Interactive Displays: Experience simulated negotiations, role-playing exercises, and other interactive activities.
  • Educational Programs: Participate in workshops and lectures led by diplomats and foreign policy experts.

9. Leimert Park

Stroll through this charming neighborhood known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history.
  • Historic Buildings: Admire the grand Victorian homes and other architectural gems.
  • Cultural Diversity: Enjoy a variety of restaurants, shops, and art galleries that reflect Sacramento's cultural tapestry.
  • Community Events: Participate in neighborhood events like farmers markets, concerts, and festivals.

10. California State Capitol Museum

Explore the history of California's government at this museum housed within the iconic Capitol building.
  • State History: Learn about California's journey from a territory to a state.
  • Architectural Marvel: Admire the beautiful architecture of the Capitol building, a National Historic Landmark.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Engage with exhibits about California's political leaders and key events in state history.

11. B Street Theatre

Experience professional theater productions at this historic venue in downtown Sacramento.
  • Classic Architecture: Enjoy performances within a beautifully restored 1864 building.
  • Variety of Productions: Choose from a diverse lineup of plays, musicals, and other theater productions.
  • Community Engagement: Participate in workshops, lectures, and other events that foster an appreciation for the performing arts.

12. Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park

Visit this historic power plant that revolutionized California's electrical grid in the late 19th century.
  • Historical Significance: Learn about the technology and engineering feats that made this power plant possible.
  • Scenic Beauty: Admire the picturesque setting on the American River.
  • Guided Tours: Join knowledgeable guides for an in-depth exploration of this remarkable landmark.

13. César E. Chávez Plaza

Honor the life and legacy of labor leader César Chávez at this beautiful plaza in downtown Sacramento.
  • Tribute to a Hero: Pay tribute to a champion for farmworkers' rights and civil rights.
  • Community Gathering Space: Enjoy events, concerts, and other gatherings that celebrate diversity and unity.
  • Artistic Expression: Admire the murals and sculptures that depict Chávez's life and accomplishments.

14. Sacramento History Museum

Discover the rich history of Sacramento at this museum dedicated to telling the city's story.
  • Local History: Learn about Sacramento's role as California's first state capital and its contributions to the West.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Engage with hands-on activities that bring the city's past to life.
  • Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, lectures, and other educational activities about Sacramento's history.

15. The Haggin Museum

Explore American art, history, and culture at this beautiful museum in downtown Stockton, just a short drive from Sacramento.
  • Diverse Collection: Admire works by artists like Thomas Hill, Albert Bierstadt, and Winslow Homer.
  • Changing Exhibitions: Experience rotating exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists.
  • Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, lectures, and other educational activities about art history and appreciation.