Old Sacramento is a place to get a feel for Sacramento’s history and character. Gold Rush-era buildings, railroad history, museums, shops, restaurants and the waterfront come together in a compact district along the Sacramento River.
Part of the district is occupied by Old Sacramento State Historic Park which preserves more than 50 historic buildings that reflect Sacramento’s past.
California State Railroad Museum
Railroads played a major role in shaping Sacramento and the American West, and the California State Railroad Museum brings that story to life through restored locomotives and railroad cars, exhibits on the Transcontinental Railroad, and stories of the people who built and worked on the railroads.
Depending on the season, visitors can also take a ride along the Sacramento River aboard a fleet of historic railroad cars.
Sacramento History Museum
To learn about the people, communities and events that shaped the city, visit the Sacramento History Museum. The museum is also the starting point for the Old Sacramento Underground Tours, which explore the remains of the city's original street level beneath today's streets and sidewalks.
Old Sacramento Underground Tour
There’s another Sacramento beneath the streets. During the 1860s and 1870s, the city raised its streets and buildings to help protect against recurring floods. The Old Sacramento Underground Tour takes visitors below the current street level to see hollow sidewalks, underground spaces and other remnants of the earlier city — a particularly unusual way to experience Sacramento’s past.
Sacramento Riverfront
The Sacramento Riverfront Promenade is a pleasant place to walk and take in the district from a different perspective. Several companies offer river cruises and other experiences on the water, with availability varying by season.
Shopping and Dining
Old Sacramento has evolved into a destination for independent and novelty shops. There are plenty of shops to browse while making your way through the streets. Restaurants and cafes offer a range of dining options. Walk-in visitors are welcome at casual eateries but reservations are recommended for more formal dining.
Extend your visit
There’s so much more to explore nearby:
California State Capitol — Tour the historic building, see exhibits about California’s history and explore Capitol Park.
Leland Stanford Mansion — Visit the National Historic Landmark and former home of Gov. Leland Stanford, with guided tours of the restored Victorian mansion.
Crocker Art Museum — Explore California, European and international art, along with classes, talks, performances, family programs and evening events.
State Indian Museum — Learn about the diverse cultures and traditions of California’s Native peoples through exhibits and collections.
Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park — Explore a reconstructed 1840s fort and exhibits about early California.
Sutter Health Park — Catch a River Cats game at this home for minor league baseball and temporary home of the Athletics.
What connects these experiences
Old Sacramento is one place to begin getting to know Sacramento. The mix of historic buildings, museums, shops, restaurants and the riverfront offers a glimpse of the city’s history and distinctive character, while showing how its past and present exist alongside one another.
How to use this
There’s no set way to experience Old Sacramento. Choose museums, tours, shops and waterfront activities based on your interests and schedule.
Most attractions are within a few blocks of one another and easy to reach on foot.
Accessibility varies by attraction. Some areas have cobblestone streets and wooden boardwalks. Check individual sites for information about accessible routes, entrances and facilities.
Check individual attractions for current hours, admission and tour schedules before you go.
The district has limited shade, so bring sun protection and water during hot weather.
How much time to allow
Plan on at least 2–3 hours to get a feel for Old Sacramento, or half a day if you want to visit a museum or take a tour, browse the shops, and spend some time along the riverfront. If you’re interested in several museums or attractions, or want to take your time over a meal, you can easily make a full-day visit out of Old Sacramento.
Parking
Parking in Old Sacramento is available in public garages and metered street spaces Street spaces are limited and have posted time limits. For details see Getting Here.
Learn more
Want to learn more? The Living in Sacramento guide and Visit Sacramento Podcast offer information about neighborhoods, food, arts, recreation and other things to do in Sacramento.