Discovery Park: Sacramento's Riverfront Playground
Explore Sacramento's natural beauty at Discovery Park, where the American and Sacramento Rivers meet for outdoor fun and recreation.
Nestled at the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers, Discovery Park is a sprawling 302-acre urban oasis offering a diverse range of recreational activities and natural experiences. From boating and fishing to biking and picnicking, this scenic park provides a cherished green space for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Discovery Park
- 1600 Garden Hwy, Sacramento, American River Parkway, California, 95833, US
- +1916-875-6961
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
- Thursday 6 am-8 pm
- Friday 6 am-8 pm
- Saturday 6 am-8 pm
- Sunday 6 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Bring your bike and explore the 32-mile Jedediah Smith Bike Trail along the American River.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic views at one of the park's designated picnic areas.
- Check the park's event calendar for concerts and festivals throughout the year.
- Be aware that the park is designed to flood during high water periods, so check conditions before you go.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown Sacramento, take Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) bus lines 11, 86, or 88 to Discovery Park. The bus ride takes approximately 26 minutes. A single ride fare is $3. Check SacRT schedules for the most up-to-date information.
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Walking
From downtown Sacramento, you can walk to Discovery Park, which is approximately 2.7 miles. The walk takes about 51 minutes. Follow the Jibboom Street Bridge across the river.
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Driving
Discovery Park has two entrances from Interstate 5. Take the Richards Boulevard off-ramp to the south entrance or the Garden Highway exit to the north entrance. Parking is $7 per vehicle. Parking fees are collected year-round.
Discover more about Discovery Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nisipowinan Village California Historical Landmark No. 900
0.4 km
Discover Nisipowinan Village, a captivating historical landmark in Sacramento that reveals the rich Native American heritage of California.
I Street Bridge
2.2 km
Discover the I Street Bridge in West Sacramento, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's vibrant culture.
Big Four Building
2.3 km
Discover the Big Four Building, a historic landmark in Old Sacramento that embodies the spirit of the Gold Rush era and railway history.
Sacramento's Original Street Level
2.4 km
Explore Sacramento's Original Street Level, a historical landmark that showcases the rich heritage and stories of California's vibrant capital city.
Old Sacramento (California Historical Landmark 812)
2.5 km
Experience the charm of Old Sacramento, a historical landmark that echoes the Gold Rush era with its preserved architecture, museums, and vibrant atmosphere.
Old Folsom Powerhouse Sacramento Station A (California Historical Landmark #633-2)
2.5 km
Explore the Old Folsom Powerhouse, a historic landmark in Sacramento that showcases California's industrial heritage and offers scenic river views.
Site of China Slough (California Historical Landmark No. 594)
2.5 km
Unearth the historical significance of the Site of China Slough, a cultural landmark in Sacramento that tells the story of Chinese heritage in California.
Site of the Sam Brannan House
2.5 km
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B. F. Hastings Bank Building
2.5 km
Explore the B. F. Hastings Bank Building, a historical landmark in Old Sacramento that showcases California's rich banking heritage and architectural beauty.
Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot
2.5 km
Discover California's railroad history at the Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot, a historic museum in Old Sacramento showcasing vintage trains and interactive exhibits.
Site of Home of Newton Booth (California Historical Landmark No. 596)
2.5 km
Discover the rich history of Sacramento at the Site of Home of Newton Booth, a California Historical Landmark that celebrates the legacy of its 19th-century governor.
Sacramento Visitor Center
2.5 km
Explore Sacramento through the Visitor Center: Your essential resource for the city's attractions, history, and culture.
Site of Orleans Hotel (California Historical Landmark No. 608)
2.6 km
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Lady Adams Building (California Historical Landmark No. 603)
2.6 km
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Sacramento County Courthouse (Sacramento Historic Landmark)
2.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity
1.4 km
Explore interactive science exhibits at Sacramento's SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity, blending history and innovation for an engaging educational experience.
California State Railroad Museum
2.3 km
Discover the rich history of railroads at the California State Railroad Museum, where fascinating exhibits and stunning locomotives await every visitor.
Underground Tours
2.3 km
Unearth Sacramento's past on a guided tour through the hidden underground spaces beneath Old Sacramento, revealing the city's remarkable engineering feat.
Sacramento History Museum
2.3 km
Explore the captivating history of Sacramento through engaging exhibits and artifacts at the Sacramento History Museum, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Old Sacramento State Historic Park
2.4 km
Relive the Gold Rush era in Sacramento's historic district, with museums, train rides, and underground tours.
River City Saloon
2.5 km
Experience the Wild West in Old Sacramento's River City Saloon, where history, drinks, and good times flow freely.
Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Old Sacramento
2.5 km
Discover Old Sacramento's Gold Rush history through an engaging scavenger hunt walking tour, perfect for families and history enthusiasts.
Pony Express Statue
2.5 km
Explore the Pony Express Statue in Sacramento, a historic monument honoring the daring riders of the Pony Express and the spirit of the American West.
River Walk Park
2.5 km
Enjoy scenic views, walking paths, and public art at this vibrant waterfront park in West Sacramento, offering recreation and relaxation for all.
Wells Fargo Museums
2.5 km
Explore the history of Wells Fargo and the American West in Old Sacramento, with tales of pioneers, gold, and the Pony Express.
Old Sacramento Waterfront
2.6 km
Experience California's Gold Rush history at Old Sacramento Waterfront, a vibrant district with museums, shops, dining, and riverfront charm.
What Cheer House
2.6 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of What Cheer House in Old Sacramento, a must-visit historical landmark for every traveler.
O'Mally's Irish Pub
2.7 km
Experience the authentic taste of Ireland at O'Mally's Irish Pub in Old Sacramento, where hearty food, great brews, and a lively atmosphere await!
Waterfront Park
2.7 km
Enjoy scenic river views, recreational activities, and historical charm at Sacramento's Waterfront Park in the heart of Old Sacramento.
Waterfront Wheel
2.7 km
Enjoy panoramic views of Sacramento's historic waterfront from this whimsical, carnival-style Ferris wheel. A memorable experience for all ages!
Essential places to dine
The Pilothouse Restaurant at the Delta King
2.6 km
Experience the charm of Sacramento at The Pilothouse Restaurant on the historic Delta King—where fine dining meets breathtaking river views.
Honey and The Trapcat
2.6 km
Savor classic American dishes at Honey and The Trapcat - a charming eatery nestled in historic Old Sacramento.
Bear & Crown British Pub
2.6 km
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Fanny Ann's Saloon
2.6 km
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La Terraza
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Mexico at La Terraza in Old Sacramento – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Railroad Fish & Chips
2.6 km
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ReUnion Kitchen & Bar
2.6 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at ReUnion Kitchen & Bar nestled in historic Old Sacramento - where comfort meets culinary creativity.
The Firehouse Restaurant
2.7 km
Indulge in fine dining at The Firehouse Restaurant, where historic elegance meets innovative New American cuisine in Old Sacramento.
Rio City Cafe
2.7 km
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Yard House
2.7 km
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Echo & Rig
2.7 km
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Joe's Crab Shack
2.7 km
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Sauced BBQ & Spirits
2.8 km
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Foundation Restaurant & Bar
2.9 km
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Koja Kitchen Sacramento
2.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Visions of Eden
2.5 km
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Cali Way
2.5 km
Explore Cali Way in Old Sacramento for unique gifts and clothing that celebrate California's vibrant culture.
Sacramento Shop - Atrium 916
2.5 km
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Evangeline's
2.6 km
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Mea Vita
2.6 km
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Garden of Enchantment
2.7 km
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Old Sac Shirts & Gifts
2.7 km
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Kolores
2.7 km
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Old Sacramento Trading Post
2.7 km
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Blu Nile Art
2.7 km
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Pregame Vintage
2.9 km
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Capitol Books & Gifts
3.3 km
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Vintage YSJ
3.7 km
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Trove Gift-Same-Day
3.8 km
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The Constellation Marketplace
3.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Last Stop Saloon
2.5 km
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The Other Office
2.5 km
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Brannan Manor Restaurant & Spirits
2.5 km
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Vega's
2.6 km
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Sean Finnegan's Pub
2.6 km
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The Back Door
2.7 km
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Revival
2.7 km
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Chambers Room
2.8 km
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Fizz Champagne & Bubbles Bar
2.8 km
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Malt & Mash | Irish Pub
2.9 km
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Ten Ten Room
3.0 km
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Dive Bar
3.1 km
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Smic's Bar Sacramento
3.3 km
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The Rooftop
3.5 km
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The Grand
3.7 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Clardeon
2.7 km
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Logo
2.8 km
Experience Sacramento's vibrant nightlife at its premier nightclub, where music and excitement come alive in Downtown.
The Chelsea
3.0 km
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Social Nightclub
3.1 km
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District 30
3.1 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Sacramento at District 30, where stylish ambiance and energetic music create unforgettable nights.
Torch Club
3.3 km
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The Park Ultra Lounge
3.5 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at The Park Ultra Lounge, Sacramento's premier night club offering exhilarating music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable moments.
Mix Downtown
3.6 km
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Mango's Sacramento
3.9 km
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Badlands Sacramento
3.9 km
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Faces Nightclub
4.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Faces Nightclub, Sacramento's premier gay club with lively entertainment, themed nights, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Old Ironsides
4.0 km
Experience the pulse of Sacramento at Old Ironsides, where great music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks come together for an unforgettable night out.
The Mercantile Saloon
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Mercantile Saloon, Sacramento's premier gay bar and cocktail destination, where fun and inclusivity abound.
The Press Club
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Press Club in Sacramento, where live music, craft cocktails, and dancing converge for an unforgettable evening.
Press Club was Barfly
4.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Press Club in Sacramento, where exceptional drinks meet an electrifying atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
