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César Chávez Plaza: Sacramento's Historic Heart

Experience Sacramento's vibrant heart: César Chávez Plaza, a historic park hosting events, markets, and community gatherings in a lush downtown setting.

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César Chávez Plaza, a central park in Sacramento since 1849, has evolved from a simple city plaza to a vibrant community hub. Named after the civil rights leader, it hosts farmers' markets, concerts, and rallies, surrounded by historic buildings like City Hall and the Central Library.

A brief summary to César Chávez Plaza

  • Monday 7 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-8 pm
  • Friday 7 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Plaza on Fridays in May and June for the free Concerts in the Park series.
  • Check out the weekly farmers' market from May to October for fresh produce and local goods.
  • Enjoy a picnic on the lawn or grab a bite at the cafe within the park.
  • Take a stroll around the plaza to admire the historic architecture of the surrounding buildings.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Sacramento Convention Center, walk east on J Street for approximately 0.5 miles. Turn left onto 10th Street and continue for two blocks until you reach I Street. Turn right on I Street, and you will find César Chávez Plaza at 910 I St on your left. No cost.

  • Public Transport

    If you are near the Sacramento Valley Station, take the Blue Line towards the Folsom station. Get off at the 8th & K station. From there, walk north on 8th Street for two blocks, then turn left onto I Street. César Chávez Plaza will be on your right at 910 I St. Alternatively, find a bus stop for the 30 or 38 routes. Board the bus heading towards downtown Sacramento. Get off at the stop at 9th & I Streets. Walk east on I Street for one block, and you will see César Chávez Plaza at 910 I St on your left. A single ride fare is $2.50. A daily pass is $7.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Sacramento Valley Station, a taxi or ride-share to Cesar Chavez Plaza will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. The journey is approximately 1 mile.

  • Driving

    Several parking lots are available within a block of Cesar Chavez Plaza. These include City Hall Garage (1000 I St), SP+ Parking (849 J St), Standard Parking Plus (1010 8th St), and ABM Parking Services (1111 J St). Parking rates vary, but expect to pay between $12 and $26 for hourly parking. Street parking may also be available, but it can be limited, especially during events.

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Discover more about César Chávez Plaza

César Chávez Plaza, located in the heart of downtown Sacramento, has been a focal point for community activities for over a century. Originally founded in 1849 as Old City Plaza by John Sutter, it was one of ten public squares dedicated for the city's inhabitants. The plaza occupies an entire block between I and J Streets and 9th and 10th Streets. Over the years, the plaza has been known by various names, including City Plaza and Plaza Park. In 1997, it was renamed César Chávez Plaza to honor the civil rights leader. Chávez had strong ties to Sacramento, having worked as a migrant farmworker in the Sacramento Delta. The California State Capitol Building was once proposed for the location, but the idea was abandoned in 1857 after residents voiced concerns. The plaza's design still incorporates elements from John Keating's 1872 plan, including axial walkways and a central fountain. The Coleman Fountain, designed by Robert Stackpole, was added in 1927. The plaza has undergone several renovations to maintain its beauty and adapt to public needs, including a major renovation from 1990 to 1998 and more recent improvements in 2012. These updates included new turf, planter boxes, benches, and a raised stage for concerts. Today, César Chávez Plaza is surrounded by prominent historic buildings, including the Beaux-Arts-style Sacramento City Hall and the Renaissance Revival-style Sacramento City Library. The plaza hosts a variety of events, including a weekly farmers' market from May through October and the Concerts in the Park series every Friday in May and June. The park also features picnic areas and a cafe, making it a popular spot for residents and visitors alike.

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