California State Capitol Museum: A Living History
Explore California's history and witness the legislative process at the iconic State Capitol Museum in Sacramento. Free admission!
The California State Capitol Museum in Sacramento offers a captivating journey through the state's history and political processes. Completed in 1874, the building is home to the California State Legislature and features stunning architecture, historical exhibits, and an art collection. Visitors can explore restored offices, witness legislative sessions, and stroll through the beautiful Capitol Park.
A brief summary to California State Capitol Museum
- 1315 10th St, Sacramento, Downtown, California, 95814, US
- +1916-324-0333
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Tours are free and offered hourly, but arrive early to sign up at the information desk as they are limited to 20 people.
- The Capitol is closed on weekends and most holidays, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Visit the Capitol Park surrounding the building to see various memorials and gardens.
- Check the legislative calendar to see if the Senate or Assembly is in session and observe the lawmaking process.
- Free bus parking is available on 10th and 15th Streets between L and N Streets if you are arriving with a group.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Sacramento Valley Station (Amtrak), the Capitol is a 15-20 minute walk. Head south on 7th Street, then turn right onto L Street. Continue for several blocks until you reach 10th Street. The Capitol will be on your left, occupying the block between 10th and 11th Streets, and L and N Streets.
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Public Transport
From the Sacramento Valley Station (Amtrak), take the Sacramento Regional Transit Gold Line to the 7th & Capitol Station. From there, walk east on Capitol Mall, then turn left onto 10th Street. The Capitol will be on your left. The fare for the light rail is $3.
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Public Transport
Several bus lines also connect the Sacramento Valley Station to the Capitol area. Check Sacramento Regional Transit schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times. A single ride on the bus is $3.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Sacramento Valley Station, a taxi or ride-share to the Capitol is a short ride, typically costing between $7 and $10, depending on traffic. Note: Metered street parking is available around the Capitol, but can be limited. The nearest parking garage is the City of Sacramento-Capitol Garage on 10th and L Streets. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $15 for 2 hours.
Discover more about California State Capitol Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stanford-Lathrop House
0.4 km
Explore the Stanford-Lathrop House, a stunning Victorian landmark in Sacramento showcasing rich history and exquisite architecture from the 19th century.
Heilbron House
0.6 km
Discover Heilbron House, an enchanting historical landmark in Sacramento that showcases the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Sacramento County Courthouse (Sacramento Historic Landmark)
0.8 km
Explore the historical significance of Sacramento County Courthouse, an architectural marvel in downtown Sacramento showcasing California's rich judicial heritage.
Ace of Spades
0.8 km
Experience the heart of Sacramento's nightlife at Ace of Spades, where live music meets an unforgettable atmosphere.
Graffiti Alley
0.8 km
Discover the artistic heart of Sacramento at Graffiti Alley, a vibrant hub of street art showcasing local talent and cultural expression.
Old Folsom Powerhouse Sacramento Station A (California Historical Landmark #633-2)
0.9 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)
1.0 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
1.2 km
Explore the historical significance of Ebner Hotel, a landmark in Old Sacramento, showcasing the charm and heritage of California's Gold Rush era.
B. F. Hastings Bank Building
1.2 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
1.2 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)
1.2 km
Explore the rich history of Sacramento at the Site of Orleans Hotel, a key landmark from the Gold Rush era in Old Sacramento.
Southside Park
1.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Southside Park, an urban oasis in Sacramento with lush landscapes, community engagement, and scenic beauty.
California's First Passenger Railroad
1.2 km
Explore the rich history of California's First Passenger Railroad in Sacramento, where the journey of rail travel comes alive through captivating exhibits and stories.
Lady Adams Building (California Historical Landmark No. 603)
1.2 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.
Old Sacramento (California Historical Landmark 812)
1.2 km
Experience the charm of Old Sacramento, a historical landmark that echoes the Gold Rush era with its preserved architecture, museums, and vibrant atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Sacramento Capitol Building
0.0 km
Unleash your inner explorer at Sacramento's Capitol with Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours, blending history, fun, and adventure in one captivating experience.
about capa
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and artistic charm at Capa in Sacramento, California – a must-visit for every traveler.
California State Capitol Park
0.2 km
Explore California's history and natural beauty in this tranquil 40-acre park surrounding the State Capitol building in Sacramento.
Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament
0.3 km
Visit Sacramento's Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament: a historic landmark with stunning architecture and a vibrant parish community in the heart of downtown.
California Museum
0.3 km
Explore California's diverse history and culture at the California Museum, a must-visit destination in Sacramento.
Stanford Mansion
0.4 km
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State Capitol Park World Peace Rose Garden
0.4 km
Discover a serene oasis of floral beauty and inspirational messages at Sacramento's World Peace Rose Garden in Capitol Park.
SAFE Credit Union Convention Center
0.5 km
Sacramento's premier convention and event destination, hosting diverse events in a modern, sustainable, and centrally-located venue.
César Chávez Plaza
0.5 km
Experience Sacramento's vibrant heart: César Chávez Plaza, a historic park hosting events, markets, and community gatherings in a lush downtown setting.
Golden 1 Center
0.7 km
Experience sports, concerts, and entertainment at Sacramento's premier, state-of-the-art arena in the heart of downtown.
Sacramento Memorial Auditorium
0.7 km
Experience history and culture at the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium, a landmark venue hosting diverse events in the heart of California's capital.
Dart
0.7 km
Experience the charm of Dart in Sacramento, a vibrant tourist attraction that blends history, culture, and scenic beauty for an unforgettable visit.
The hand
0.8 km
Discover the iconic Hand sculpture in Sacramento, a stunning symbol of art and culture in California's vibrant capital city.
Sacramento Theatre Co.
0.8 km
Experience live theater and arts education at Sacramento Theatre Company, a cultural gem in the heart of Sacramento since 1942.
Governor's Mansion State Historic Park
0.8 km
Explore the former residence of California's governors, a Victorian-era mansion filled with history and stories from the state's past.
Essential places to dine
Prelude Kitchen & Bar
0.2 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Prelude Kitchen & Bar in Downtown Sacramento—where culinary artistry meets vibrant atmosphere.
Ella Dining Room & Bar
0.3 km
Experience the essence of New American cuisine at Ella Dining Room & Bar in Downtown Sacramento - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Empress Tavern
0.3 km
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Brasserie du Monde
0.3 km
Indulge in authentic French cuisine at Brasserie du Monde, where elegance meets culinary excellence in downtown Sacramento.
Grange Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
Discover exquisite dining at Grange Restaurant & Bar in Sacramento – where local flavors meet culinary excellence in a stylish atmosphere.
Koja Kitchen Sacramento
0.5 km
Experience the best of Asian fusion cuisine at Koja Kitchen Sacramento, where flavor meets creativity in every dish.
TableVine
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at TableVine in downtown Sacramento - an unforgettable dining experience awaits!
Cafeteria 15L
0.5 km
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Public House Downtown
0.6 km
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Sauced BBQ & Spirits
0.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of slow-smoked meats at Sauced BBQ & Spirits in Downtown Sacramento – where great food meets lively ambiance.
Station 16
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of coastal cuisine at Station 16 – Sacramento's premier seafood restaurant offering fresh dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Frog & Slim
0.6 km
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Fox & Goose Public House
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Fox & Goose Public House in Sacramento - your destination for authentic British cuisine and cozy dining experiences.
Camden Spit & Larder
0.7 km
Discover Camden Spit & Larder: A fine dining destination in Sacramento showcasing local flavors with innovative dishes.
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
Capitol Books & Gifts
0.0 km
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Pregame Vintage
0.5 km
Explore Pregame Vintage in Sacramento for an unparalleled selection of retro clothing and unique fashion finds that define timeless style.
The Constellation Marketplace
0.6 km
Explore The Constellation Marketplace in Sacramento for unique gifts, vintage clothing, and locally crafted treasures.
Old Gold
0.7 km
Shop unique and stylish clothing at Old Gold in Sacramento's WAL Public Market, a hub for local fashion and creativity.
Trove Gift-Same-Day
1.0 km
Discover unique treasures and local crafts at Trove Gift-Same-Day, a charming gift shop in Sacramento's vibrant Midtown area.
Vintage YSJ
1.0 km
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Heart Clothing Boutique
1.0 km
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Blu Nile Art
1.1 km
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Kolores
1.2 km
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Old Sac Shirts & Gifts
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Garden of Enchantment
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Mea Vita
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Visions of Eden
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Evangeline's
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Cali Way
1.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dive Bar
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Smic's Bar Sacramento
0.3 km
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Ten Ten Room
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Malt & Mash | Irish Pub
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The Grand
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Chambers Room
0.6 km
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Fizz Champagne & Bubbles Bar
0.7 km
Fizz Champagne & Bubbles Bar offers an exquisite selection of sparkling wines in a chic, vibrant atmosphere, perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings.
The Roost
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The Shady Lady Saloon
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Shady Lady Saloon in downtown Sacramento, where unique decor and delicious drinks await every traveler.
The Rooftop
0.8 km
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Revival
0.8 km
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The Snug
0.8 km
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58 Degrees & Holding Co.
0.9 km
Experience the charm of 58 Degrees & Holding Co. in Midtown Sacramento, where exquisite wines and delightful bites await in a cozy atmosphere.
Streets Pub and Grub
0.9 km
Experience the heart of Sacramento dining at Streets Pub and Grub, where local flavors and vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable outing.
Frank
1.0 km
Experience Sacramento's vibrant nightlife at Frank, a chic cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks and a stylish atmosphere. Perfect for any occasion!