Should You Visit Sacramento?

Are you thinking about visiting Sacramento, California? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.


Is Sacramento worth visiting?

Sacramento is worth visiting for one to two days so that you can explore everything that the city has to offer. Sacramento is the capital of the state of California and it sits where the Sacramento River meets the American River. The city has a number of museums, particularly in Old Sacramento. While it's an important political center for the state, it is often overlooked by tourists.

Sacramento, California Sacramento, California

Reasons to Visit Sacramento

Museums
As the state capital, you'll find a number of historical and informational museums around town. You should check out the State Capital, as well as the California State Railroad Museum, the Crocker Museum of Art, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile Museum.

Food
Casual restaurants with laid back atmospheres are what's most common around town. You'll also find a variety of international cuisines that include Korean and Vietnamese.

Nightlife
There highest concentration of activities are found in Downtown Sacramento. You'll find bars, clubs and live music in the area. You can also head to midtown, which has performing arts and comedy shows.

Shopping
You'll find down-to-earth vendors who have reasonable prices and a great selection. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at the Old Sacramento Waterfront or along Folsom Boulevard.

Authenticity
Sacramento has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.




Is Sacramento worth visiting in the Summer?

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 24°C (76°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 34°C (93°F).

The peak season for travel is summer in Sacramento, so expect to see more tourists than usual. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.

This is a great time of year to browse the museums and dance the night away.


Summer Weather in Sacramento
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
July 24°C (76°F) 1 mm (0 in)
August 24°C (75°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
September 22°C (72°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)

Is Sacramento worth visiting in the Autumn?

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Sacramento. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 18°C (64°F).

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums.


Autumn Weather in Sacramento
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
October 18°C (64°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
November 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
December 7°C (45°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)

Is Sacramento worth visiting in the Winter?

This is the low season for travel in Sacramento. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Sacramento can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 7°C (45°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks, the cuisine, and the nightlife.


Winter Weather in Sacramento
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
January 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
February 10°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
March 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)

Is Sacramento worth visiting in the Spring?

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 15°C (58°F).

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Sacramento, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

This is a great time of year to browse the shops, wander through the museums, and enjoy an evening out.


Spring Weather in Sacramento
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
April 15°C (58°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 7 mm (0.3 in)
June 22°C (72°F) 3 mm (0.1 in)

Things to Consider Before Visiting Sacramento

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Sacramento might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Sacramento here or see if Sacramento is expensive here.

Related

What is Sacramento most famous for?

Sacramento is most famous for its history and state capital. People visit this impressive city for its great museums. It's also known for food, nightlife, and shopping. It is often described as laid back, relaxed, and undiscovered.

What is the most famous sight in Sacramento?

The most popular sight in Sacramento is the California State Railroad Museum. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Sacramento on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the California State Railroad Museum and other attractions here.

How touristy is Sacramento? Is it a popular city to visit?

Sacramento is an off-the-beaten-path city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

  • Old A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Nevada City Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Placerville to Jackson: $12
  • Driving in Delta’s Wine Country: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Old Sacramento Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sacramento Sutter District History and Food Walking Tour: $98
  • Sacramento Ghosts: Gunslingers and Ghouls Tour: $33
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Jackson to Angels Camp: $12

How long should I spend in Sacramento?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Sacramento is one to two days. Since Sacramento has activities such as museums, many visit for up to two days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Sacramento? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Sacramento?.