Old Sacramento, Sacramento Travel Guide

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Experience California's Gold Rush history at Old Sacramento Waterfront, a vibrant district with museums, shops, and riverfront charm.

Step back in time at Old Sacramento Waterfront, a historic district brimming with Gold Rush-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and wooden sidewalks. Explore museums, shops, restaurants, and attractions that capture the spirit of California's early days, all set against the backdrop of the Sacramento River.

A brief summary to Old Sacramento

Sacramento, Old Sacramento, California, US

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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Sacramento.

Explore the Sacramento History Museum to discover exhibits showcasing real gold and replicas of early miner dwellings.
Take an Old Sacramento Underground Tour to explore the hidden spaces and streets beneath the raised city.
Visit the California State Railroad Museum and take a ride on a historic train.
Enjoy a romantic stroll along the Riverfront Promenade for scenic river views.
Check out the Old Sacramento Garage for parking, but be aware of the varying rates depending on the time of day and day of the week.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Old Sacramento on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Old Sacramento, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Sacramento Valley Station (Amtrak), Old Sacramento Waterfront is a short walk west. Follow the signs westward through the parking lot to reach 2nd Street. The California State Railroad Museum will be nearby. This walk is approximately 2 blocks.
Public Transport

Several Sacramento Regional Transit bus routes (11, 30, 31, 62, 86, and 88) stop on 3rd Street between I and L, just a block away from Old Sacramento Waterfront. From various points in Sacramento, take the light rail (Blue or Gold line) to the Sacramento Valley Station, and walk west. Single ride fares for both bus and light rail are typically around $2.50.
Driving

From Interstate 5, take the J Street exit and follow the signs to Old Sacramento. Covered parking is available at the Old Sacramento Garage (3rd and J Streets) and the Tower Bridge Garage (Capitol Mall and Front Streets). Metered street parking is also available. Parking rates vary, with garage rates typically around $1.50 per 30 minutes, with daily maximums ranging from $13-$20. Weekend and evening rates may be lower.

Discover more about Old Sacramento

Old Sacramento Waterfront, a National Historic Landmark District and State Historic Park, transports visitors to California's Gold Rush era. This 28-acre district on the Sacramento River features over 50 historic buildings, many dating back to the mid-19th century.Originally a bustling commercial center fueled by the Gold Rush, agriculture, and river trade, Old Sacramento served as the western terminus of the Pony Express, the first transcontinental railroad, and the transcontinental telegraph. The city faced challenges like floods and fires, leading to the innovative raising of the streets to combat the incessant rising flow of the river. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the original street level on underground tours.Old Sacramento offers a variety of attractions, including museums like the California State Railroad Museum, the Sacramento History Museum, and the Wells Fargo History Museum. Visitors can also enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, train excursions, and riverboat cruises. The district features over 125 shopping, dining, and entertainment options, with cobblestone streets and wooden sidewalks adding to the historic charm.