A Weekend in Sacramento: Discover Its Unique Charm and Unmissable Activities

Sacramento, California, may not be the first place that pops into your mind when thinking about big city excitement, but it offers a diverse array of activities and attractions that are sure to captivate visitors and residents alike. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, here's a guide to making the most out of a weekend in Sacramento.

Entertainment and Excursions

Pick up an intriguing murder mystery dinner adventure aboard the historic River Queen ferry boat. The cool bar and hotel ambiance complement the lively performances, making for a memorable evening.

The Old Sacramento River Walk is a treasure trove of entertainment. Enjoy comedy clubs, indulge in delicious food at restaurants, shop for unique items at novelty stores, sing along at karaoke bars, and explore historical museums. Depending on the season, catch downtown sporting events, from basketball games to football matches.

For a unique experience, rent a bicycle and explore the city’s parks. The Rose garden at the Capitol building is particularly stunning, and you can also enjoy boating, swimming, and floating along the river. In the evenings, visit local nightclubs for a vibrant atmosphere.

Dining and Shopping

For a real taste of the city, don't miss Bali Kitchen for its unique and special Indonesian cuisine. Savor the locally-made crafts and boutique items at Evangeline's, a fun, two-story costume shop.

Check out the Sacramento Automobile Museum for a unique look at the history of automobiles. Explore more at other attractions like the Crocker Art Museum, Sutter's Fort, and the State Indian Museum. For sports enthusiasts, keep an eye on the Rivercats, Sacramento Republic, and Kings teams.

Performing Arts and Comedy

Sacramento offers a rich performing arts scene, with several theaters hosting plays by dedicated artists and directors. Follow EMH Productions and catch shows at theaters like the Geery, Ooley, Ovation, and Resurrection. Larger theaters include Capital Stage, Wells Fargo Broadway, Sac Theatre Company, Music Circus, and B Street/Sofia. Don't miss comedy shows at Punchline Comedy Spot, Laughs Unlimited, STAB!, and Comedy Sportz.

Eat Your Way Through Sacramento

The food scene in Sacramento is as exciting as its attractions. Good luck deciding among the farm-to-fork regular food and drink options highlighted in the Sacramento A-List. You'll find a range of dining experiences from Indonesian cuisine to Cajun/Caribbean and Jamaican at various restaurants.

Indulge in a coffee break at places like Temple, Insight, and Chocolate Fish. Explore local breweries such as Bike Dog and Jackrabbit. Try your luck at pubs like Fox Goose, LowBrau, and Midtown Biergarten. For unique dining experiences, visit Célestin’s for Cajun/Caribbean cuisine and Dubplate for Jamaican food.

Remember, Sacramento is also about exploring its rich culinary scene, including Mexican cuisine, pizzas from One Speed Massulo, and vegetarian and vegan options from Veg Cafe, Mother Anna’s, and Pushkin. Don't miss out on a good brunch at places like Bacon Butter Cafeteria or 15L Firestone (not Firehouse).

Outdoor Activities and Nature

For those who love the outdoors, the American River Bike Trail is a delightful option, reaching from south of Sacramento to Folsom. While the trail can sometimes flood, it's a great place to fish. The Nimbus Fish Hatchery offers the chance to watch fish and get fish food. Sacramento also has a variety of parks for activities like yoga, acroyoga, and gymnastics. For a more adventurous experience, try white water rafting down the American River from Auburn or visit the Sierras for hiking, camping, snowboarding, and skiing.

For a truly local experience, check out Folsom's Old Town during rodeo season. You can also float the American River or white water raft the Sierras. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at shooting guns or archery at local ranges. For a fun day out, visit the Black Chasm cavern for unique geology.

During the fall, enjoy the Apple Hill apple cider and other apple treats in the Camino region. In winter, cut your Christmas tree in the Placer hills. For gold prospectors, the rivers of Colfax offer a chance to pan for gold (though good luck to you).

Support local charities like Loaves and Fishes by feeding the homeless, even for a short time. If you're up for something unique, try the one-man band on J and 22nd streets. Join a community

A Final Thought

Sacramento may not have the glitz and glamour of other cities, but it more than makes up for it with its laid-back charm and vibrant community. While some of the local folks might seem aloof, they're generally friendly, so don't hesitate to ask for recommendations. But be warned: some smiling, friendly folks might just stab you for interrupting their imaginary conversations!