California State Railroad Museum: A Journey Through Rail History
Discover California's rich railroad history with meticulously restored locomotives, immersive exhibits, and scenic train rides in Old Sacramento.
Explore the rich history of railroads in California and the West at the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento's Old Sacramento State Historic Park. With over 225,000 square feet of exhibit space, the museum features meticulously restored locomotives and railroad cars, engaging exhibits, and living history experiences that bring the past to life.
A brief summary to California State Railroad Museum
- 125 I St, Sacramento, Old Sacramento, California, 95814, US
- +1916-323-9280
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid potential lines, especially during peak season.
- Take a ride on the Sacramento Southern Railroad (April - September) for a scenic journey along the Sacramento River.
- Explore the exhibits inside the museum to see the restored locomotives and learn about the impact of railroads on California.
- Visit the Central Pacific Railroad Passenger Station and Freight Depot to see historic railroad equipment.
- Check out the museum's website for information on special events like Spookomotive and Polar Express trains.
Getting There
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Walking
The California State Railroad Museum is located in Old Sacramento, easily accessible on foot from most points within the Old Sacramento Waterfront. From the Sacramento Valley Station (Amtrak), follow the signage westward through the parking lot to reach Old Sacramento. The museum is located at 125 I Street.
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Public Transport
The museum is a short walk from the Sacramento Valley Station, which is serviced by Amtrak, Capitol Corridor, and Regional Transit Light Rail Gold Line. Several bus lines also stop near Old Sacramento. From the Sacramento Valley Station, follow the signage westward through the parking lot to reach Old Sacramento and the museum. Single ride fares on Sacramento Regional Transit are around $2.50.
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Parking
Limited metered street parking is available in Old Sacramento, but spaces fill up quickly. Several parking garages are located nearby, including the Old Sacramento Garage (I Street between 3rd and 2nd Streets) and the Tower Bridge Garage (Capitol Blvd near the Tower Bridge). Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $10-$25 for several hours. Check online parking apps for real-time availability and rates.
Discover more about California State Railroad Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Big Four Building
0.0 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
0.1 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)
0.1 km
Experience the charm of Old Sacramento, a historical landmark that echoes the Gold Rush era with its preserved architecture, museums, and vibrant atmosphere.
Site of the Sam Brannan House
0.2 km
Explore the Sam Brannan House, a historical landmark in Old Sacramento, and delve into California's intriguing past through its architecture and rich stories.
B. F. Hastings Bank Building
0.2 km
Explore the B. F. Hastings Bank Building, a historical landmark in Old Sacramento that showcases California's rich banking heritage and architectural beauty.
Sacramento Visitor Center
0.2 km
Explore Sacramento through the Visitor Center: Your essential resource for the city's attractions, history, and culture.
Site of Home of Newton Booth (California Historical Landmark No. 596)
0.2 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.
Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot
0.2 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.
I Street Bridge
0.2 km
Discover the I Street Bridge in West Sacramento, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's vibrant culture.
Site of Orleans Hotel (California Historical Landmark No. 608)
0.3 km
Explore the rich history of Sacramento at the Site of Orleans Hotel, a key landmark from the Gold Rush era in Old Sacramento.
Lady Adams Building (California Historical Landmark No. 603)
0.3 km
Explore the Lady Adams Building, a historic landmark in Sacramento's Old Town, where the charm of the Gold Rush era comes to life.
Site of China Slough (California Historical Landmark No. 594)
0.3 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.
Ebner Hotel
0.3 km
Explore the historical significance of Ebner Hotel, a landmark in Old Sacramento, showcasing the charm and heritage of California's Gold Rush era.
Old Folsom Powerhouse Sacramento Station A (California Historical Landmark #633-2)
0.6 km
Explore the Old Folsom Powerhouse, a historic landmark in Sacramento that showcases California's industrial heritage and offers scenic river views.
Historic Lamp Posts
0.8 km
Discover the enchanting historic lamp posts of Old Sacramento, illuminating the charm and history of this vibrant district.
Unmissable attractions to see
Underground Tours
0.0 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
0.1 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
0.1 km
Relive the Gold Rush era in Sacramento's historic district, with museums, train rides, and underground tours.
River City Saloon
0.1 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
0.2 km
Discover Old Sacramento's Gold Rush history through an engaging scavenger hunt walking tour, perfect for families and history enthusiasts.
Pony Express Statue
0.2 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.
Wells Fargo Museums
0.2 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
0.2 km
Experience California's Gold Rush history at Old Sacramento Waterfront, a vibrant district with museums, shops, dining, and riverfront charm.
What Cheer House
0.3 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
0.4 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
0.4 km
Enjoy scenic river views, recreational activities, and historical charm at Sacramento's Waterfront Park in the heart of Old Sacramento.
River Walk Park
0.4 km
Enjoy scenic views, walking paths, and public art at this vibrant waterfront park in West Sacramento, offering recreation and relaxation for all.
Waterfront Wheel
0.4 km
Enjoy panoramic views of Sacramento's historic waterfront from this whimsical, carnival-style Ferris wheel. A memorable experience for all ages!
Theodore Judah Monument
0.5 km
Honoring Theodore Judah, the visionary engineer who conquered the Sierra Nevada and paved the way for the Transcontinental Railroad in California.
Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum
0.5 km
Experience 19th-century education in a living replica schoolhouse in Old Sacramento, where history comes to life for all ages.
Essential places to dine
Honey and The Trapcat
0.3 km
Savor classic American dishes at Honey and The Trapcat - a charming eatery nestled in historic Old Sacramento.
Bear & Crown British Pub
0.3 km
Discover the flavors of modern British cuisine at Bear & Crown Pub in Old Sacramento – your cozy retreat for food and drink.
Fanny Ann's Saloon
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Fanny Ann's Saloon in Old Sacramento – where great food meets lively entertainment.
La Terraza
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Mexico at La Terraza in Old Sacramento – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
ReUnion Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at ReUnion Kitchen & Bar nestled in historic Old Sacramento - where comfort meets culinary creativity.
The Pilothouse Restaurant at the Delta King
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Sacramento at The Pilothouse Restaurant on the historic Delta King—where fine dining meets breathtaking river views.
Railroad Fish & Chips
0.3 km
Experience delicious seafood and classic American dishes at Railroad Fish & Chips in historic Old Sacramento.
The Firehouse Restaurant
0.4 km
Indulge in fine dining at The Firehouse Restaurant, where historic elegance meets innovative New American cuisine in Old Sacramento.
Rio City Cafe
0.4 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Rio City Cafe with stunning riverside views in historic Old Sacramento.
Yard House
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Yard House in Downtown Sacramento, where great food meets an energetic atmosphere.
Joe's Crab Shack
0.5 km
Experience the joy of fresh seafood in a lively setting at Joe's Crab Shack in Old Sacramento.
Foundation Restaurant & Bar
0.6 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Foundation Restaurant & Bar in Sacramento – where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Echo & Rig
0.6 km
Discover Echo & Rig in Sacramento: A premier steakhouse blending fine dining with casual elegance featuring an in-house butcher shop and vibrant cocktail bar.
Il Fornaio Sacramento
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Fornaio Sacramento - where tradition meets modern dining in the heart of California.
House Kitchen & Bar
0.7 km
Experience vibrant American cuisine and exquisite cocktails at House Kitchen & Bar in Downtown Sacramento - your culinary haven awaits!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Visions of Eden
0.2 km
Explore Visions of Eden in Old Sacramento for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.
Cali Way
0.2 km
Explore Cali Way in Old Sacramento for unique gifts and clothing that celebrate California's vibrant culture.
Sacramento Shop - Atrium 916
0.3 km
Discover the artistic charm of Sacramento at Atrium 916, where creativity meets community in a delightful café and gallery experience.
Evangeline's
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Evangeline's in Old Sacramento, where unique gifts and whimsical treasures await every visitor.
Mea Vita
0.3 km
Explore the unique charm of Mea Vita in Old Sacramento, where local crafts and artistry come together to create an unforgettable shopping experience.
Garden of Enchantment
0.3 km
Explore the whimsical Garden of Enchantment in Old Sacramento, where unique gifts and local artistry come together to create unforgettable memories.
Old Sac Shirts & Gifts
0.3 km
Explore Old Sac Shirts & Gifts for unique California souvenirs, T-shirts, and local crafts in Sacramento's historic district.
Kolores
0.4 km
Discover Kolores, an enchanting gift shop in Old Sacramento, where unique home goods and extraordinary gifts celebrate the heart of California's capital.
Old Sacramento Trading Post
0.4 km
Explore unique treasures and a rich historical ambiance at the Old Sacramento Trading Post, a top destination for novelty and antique finds.
Blu Nile Art
0.4 km
Explore Blu Nile Art: A unique gift shop and art gallery in Sacramento's Old Sacramento district, featuring fair trade handicrafts and local artistry.
Pregame Vintage
0.8 km
Explore Pregame Vintage in Sacramento for an unparalleled selection of retro clothing and unique fashion finds that define timeless style.
Capitol Books & Gifts
1.3 km
Explore Capitol Books & Gifts: A unique blend of shopping and local history in the heart of Sacramento.
The Constellation Marketplace
1.6 km
Explore The Constellation Marketplace in Sacramento for unique gifts, vintage clothing, and locally crafted treasures.
Old Gold
1.7 km
Shop unique and stylish clothing at Old Gold in Sacramento's WAL Public Market, a hub for local fashion and creativity.
Gearhead Gift Shop
1.7 km
Discover unique automotive gifts and memorabilia at the Gearhead Gift Shop, located inside the California Automobile Museum in Sacramento.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Last Stop Saloon
0.1 km
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The Other Office
0.2 km
Discover local charm and crafted cocktails at The Other Office, a cozy bar in the historic Old Sacramento district.
Brannan Manor Restaurant & Spirits
0.2 km
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Vega's
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Vega's in Old Sacramento, a lively bar offering delicious drinks and a welcoming ambiance for all visitors.
Sean Finnegan's Pub
0.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious drinks at Sean Finnegan's Pub in Old Sacramento, a perfect spot for tourists to unwind and mingle.
The Back Door
0.4 km
Discover the charm of The Back Door, a cozy bar in Old Sacramento, where craft drinks and a friendly atmosphere await your visit.
Revival
0.6 km
Discover Revival, Sacramento's stylish lounge where craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await for an unforgettable night out.
Fizz Champagne & Bubbles Bar
0.6 km
Fizz Champagne & Bubbles Bar offers an exquisite selection of sparkling wines in a chic, vibrant atmosphere, perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings.
Chambers Room
0.7 km
Discover the Chambers Room, a charming bar in downtown Sacramento, offering crafted cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for the perfect night out.
Malt & Mash | Irish Pub
0.8 km
Discover the authentic Irish experience at Malt & Mash, where delicious food, lively music, and a warm atmosphere await in Downtown Sacramento.
Ten Ten Room
1.1 km
Experience the art of cocktail-making at Ten Ten Room, Sacramento's favorite cocktail bar known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
Dive Bar
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Sacramento at Dive Bar, where craft cocktails and a unique ambiance await you.
Smic's Bar Sacramento
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Smic's Bar Sacramento, where exceptional cocktails meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of downtown.
The Rooftop
1.9 km
Unwind at The Rooftop, Sacramento's chic bar and lounge offering stunning city views, craft cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Grand
1.9 km
Experience the best of Sacramento's cocktail and wine culture at The Grand, where every sip is a celebration of flavor and craftsmanship.
