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Governor's Mansion State Historic Park: A Victorian Time Capsule

Explore the former residence of California's governors, a Victorian-era mansion filled with history and stories from the state's past.

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Step back in time at the Governor's Mansion State Historic Park in Sacramento, a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion that served as the residence for 13 California governors and their families from 1903 to 1967. Explore the opulent rooms and gardens, offering a glimpse into the lives of California's leaders.

A brief summary to Governor's Mansion State Historic Park

  • 1526 H St, Sacramento, Mansion Flats, California, 95814, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Check the California State Parks website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and tour availability before visiting.
  • Metered street parking is available near the mansion, but public parking lots are within a two-block radius.
  • Consider exploring other nearby attractions, such as the California State Capitol Museum and Old Sacramento State Historic Park.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the California State Capitol, head east on L Street towards 15th Street. Turn left onto 15th Street, then turn right onto H Street. The Governor's Mansion will be on your left, a short walk from the Capitol. This walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) offers bus and light rail services to the vicinity of the Governor's Mansion. From various points in Sacramento, take the light rail or bus to a stop near 16th and H streets. From there, it is a short walk to the mansion. A single ride ticket costs $2.50, and a day pass is $7.00. Exact change is required on the bus.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Sacramento. A ride from downtown Sacramento to the Governor's Mansion is a short trip, typically costing between $13 and $21, depending on the distance and traffic. Base fare is $4, with an additional $3 per mile.

  • Driving

    From I-80, take the Capital City Freeway/Highway 50 east. Exit at 15th Street and head north. Turn right onto H Street. The Governor's Mansion will be on your left. Metered street parking is available, but limited. Several public parking lots are located within a 2-block radius. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $10-$20 for a few hours.

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Discover more about Governor's Mansion State Historic Park

The Governor's Mansion State Historic Park in Sacramento offers a unique glimpse into California's past. Built in 1877 for Albert Gallatin, a hardware merchant, the Second Empire-Italianate Victorian mansion was purchased by the state in 1903 to serve as the official Governor's residence. For 64 years, it was home to 13 governors, including Earl Warren and Ronald Reagan, before becoming a historic house museum in 1970. The mansion's interior boasts a mix of styles and stories, with many furnishings remaining from former governors. Visitors can see George C. Pardee's 1902 Steinway piano, velvet chairs and sofas belonging to Governor Hiram Johnson, and Persian rugs bought by the wife of Earl Warren. These details, including marble fireplaces from Italy and decorations from France, evoke the rich history of California in the 20th century. The surrounding grounds feature vegetation dating back to 1877, offering a serene escape in the heart of Sacramento. Although the park is currently closed to the public, it usually offers guided tours that provide an inside peek at the daily lives of some of California's more famous citizens. These tours, which typically run on the hour, guide visitors through the well-preserved rooms, showcasing original furnishings and decorations that tell the story of California's gubernatorial eras.

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