Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in Sacramento

Sacramento is known for many things. For starters, it’s the City of Trees, meaning its canopied streets are perfect for strolling through farmers’ markets or checking out street murals. Sacramento is also the nation’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, with tons of great restaurants and an annual street festival. It’s also known for its Gold Rush history, as evidenced by the many attractions found in Old Sacramento.

But there is so much more to the Sacramento area. It has a rich cultural history, a natural landscape that is just begging to be explored, and unique attractions that can’t be found anywhere else. So, if you’re looking for something different, following are things you didn’t know you could do in the greater Sacramento region.

Photo Courtesy of Michael Kahn

Hit the Beach

There’s no need to travel to the coast for a day of sun and sand. The Sacramento area has several great beaches, perfect for enjoying a summer day. True, they aren’t ocean beaches. But our rivers and lakes are a great alternative.

• Granite Bay. This lively lakeside beach hugs the western shore of Folsom Lake in Placer County. It has everything you need for a fun day on the water: a sandy beach, a snack bar, and barbecue areas. You can also rent paddle boards, kayaks, and shade canopies. Nearby Beals Point also has a beach and services.
• Paradise Beach. Located in Sacramento’s River Park neighborhood, this popular beach is located in a cove along the American River Parkway. The beach has it all — golden sand, calm water, and a carefree vibe. Plus, it’s free!
• Jenkinson Lake. Also known as Sly Park, this lake in Pollock Pines has several beaches scattered across its shores. There are also campgrounds if you’d like to make a weekend of it, plus hiking trails and a waterfall.
• Upper Lake Clementine Beach. On the banks of the North Fork of the American River, Upper Lake Clementine has a rocky beach and crystal-clear waters, popular for swimming and paddling. Note: Parking reservations are required on weekends.

Live the Beach Life in Yolo County

Take a Cruise

Photo Courtesy of Sacramento River Cruise | IG: sacramento_river_cruise

Sure, when you think about cruising, the Caribbean or Mexico usually come to mind. But if you’re hankering for some relaxing time on the water, there are options near Sacramento as well. There are cruises up and down the river near Old Sacramento via City Cruises, including historic narrated cruises and lively party cruises. Or, you can enjoy a romantic dinner cruise on the River City Queen. There’s also the Sac Brew Boat, a chartered tiki boat great for groups. In Clarksburg, you can enjoy a wine tasting cruise or a seasonal tequila tasting cruise via Sacramento River Cruise.

Visit a Living Museum

As a recognized historic district, the Delta town of Locke was built in the late 1800s for Chinese immigrants, by Chinese immigrants. Although some consider it a ghost town, it’s still home to a small group of residents. You can stroll its rickety sidewalks, browse its original buildings, and learn about its fascinating history at its little museum.

Historic District Homes in Sacramento County

Go to the Drive-Ins

Did you know there are only 16 drive-in movie theaters left in California, and one of them happens to be in Sacramento? If you haven’t been before, you’re in for a treat. There’s nothing like watching the sun go down, enjoying the evening breeze while watching a first-run movie in the comfort of your own car. Plus, you can order popcorn right from your phone.

Go Ziplining

Photo Courtesy of Quarry Park Adventures | IG: quarryparkadventures

There’s no need to take a tropical vacation to get a zipline-fueled adrenaline rush — you can do it right here in the Sacramento area. At Quarry Park Adventures in Rocklin, you can sail through the sky at over 30 miles an hour. They also have a zipline and a ropes course at Mother Lode Adventure Center in Coloma.  

Explore the Underground

Did you know Old Sacramento was raised up in the 1800s to prevent flood damage? You can tour the original street level with an Old Sacramento Underground Tour. Learn about this feat of engineering, see old storefronts and doorways, and get a feel for what Sacramento was like during the Gold Rush.

Zipline Into El Dorado County Real Estate

See Major League Baseball

There’s no need to travel to the Bay Area to catch a major league baseball game! The A’s (formerly the Oakland A’s) are now playing at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento. You can catch a game throughout the summer and early fall without the hassle and traffic of a long drive. 

Pan For Gold

Photo Courtesy of Marshall Gold Discovery SHP | IG: marshallgolddiscovery

It’s no secret that the greater Sacramento area ushered in the Gold Rush in the late 1800s. But what most people don’t know is there’s still gold in them thar hills! We’re not talking about the kid-friendly gem panning found at tourist traps. There are still miners who have claims along the river beds in the Sierra. Most areas have a “hands and pans” rule, meaning you can only use your hands or designated gold pans — no other tools allowed. Some spots to consider are the South Yuba River, the South Fork of the American River near Coloma (the original gold discovery site), and the Auburn State Recreation Area.  

Live the Gold Rush Legacy in Placer County

Spot Sea Lions

True, sea lions are native to coastal areas in California. But they’re prolific swimmers and often make their way up the Sacramento River to feed on the abundant fish here. They’re most often spotted where the Sacramento and American rivers meet, but you can often find them even further upstream along either river. The most common sightings occur in Old Sacramento, Discovery Park, and River Park.

Spend a Day Exploring the Sacramento Area

There’s plenty of things to do in the Sacramento area, but if you’re looking for something unique, why not consider something out-of-the-ordinary? From gold panning to ziplining, the area offers a plethora of activities that not even locals know about. So get out there and explore all that Sacramento has to offer!