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Sutter's Fort State Historic Park: A Journey into California's Past

Explore California's pioneer past at Sutter's Fort State Historic Park in Sacramento, a living history museum with interactive exhibits and historical reenactments.

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Step back in time at Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, a living history museum in Midtown Sacramento. Explore the reconstructed 1840s fort, once a bustling agricultural and trade hub known as New Helvetia, and experience California's pioneer era firsthand.

A brief summary to Sutter's Fort State Historic Park

  • 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

  • Check the park's schedule for special events and living history demonstrations to enhance your visit.
  • Parking is limited to metered street parking; arrive early or consider public transportation.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the fort's grounds.
  • Visit the Friends of Sutter's Fort Museum Store for gifts and publications related to California history.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Sacramento Valley Station (401 I St), take the light rail to the 12th Street station, then transfer to Bus #30 towards 'Marconi' and get off at the 'L Street & 27th Street' stop. The park is a short walk from there. Single ride fares are typically around $2.50.

  • Walking

    If you're in Midtown Sacramento, start at 16th and L Street and walk east on L Street for about 10-15 minutes. Sutter's Fort is located at 2701 L St. Ensure you check a map for the best route.

  • Driving

    Sutter's Fort is located between K and L Streets and 26th and 28th Streets in Midtown Sacramento. There is no on-site parking; street parking is available and metered by the City of Sacramento. Parking rates vary, so check the meter. Limited bus parking is available on K Street near 27th Street and on L Street near 29th Street.

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Discover more about Sutter's Fort State Historic Park

Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, nestled in the heart of Midtown Sacramento, offers a captivating glimpse into California's early history. Founded in 1839 by Swiss immigrant John Sutter, the fort, originally called New Helvetia, served as a vital agricultural and trade colony. It quickly became a hub for settlers, explorers, and Native Americans, playing a pivotal role in the development of Sacramento and the state. Today, the meticulously restored fort allows visitors to experience the challenges and triumphs of California's pioneers. Explore the adobe walls, reconstructed buildings, and interactive exhibits that showcase life in the 1840s. Wander through the carpenter shop, kitchen, blacksmith, distillery, and other rooms to get a sense of the daily activities within the fort. Sutter's Fort offers immersive living history programs, with costumed interpreters demonstrating traditional crafts, cooking, and other skills. These demonstrations provide insights into the routines and struggles of the fort's inhabitants. The park also hosts special events throughout the year, including historical reenactments and hands-on activities. While the fort catalyzed change across California, it profoundly impacted the diverse Native peoples whose lives were transformed by its presence. Many Native people helped build the fort, and their labor made the fort's industries possible. The discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill in 1848 triggered the Gold Rush, which ultimately undermined Sutter's businesses and led to further exploitation of Native people. California State Parks is working to reinterpret the history presented at Sutter's Fort to be more inclusive and accurate.

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