Sacramento may not always be the first city that comes to mind when planning a quick getaway, but California’s capital has a lot to offer in a short amount of time. With its rich history, interesting arts scene, and amazing local food, Sacramento can surprise you, and you only need 24 hours to experience the best of it!
Whether you’re passing through or planning a jam-packed day trip, here’s a guide that will help you soak up the city's highlights, one adventure at a time.
Start your day early, and like any great adventure, you’ll need coffee! Old Soul Co. or Temple Coffee Roasters are your best bets for quick, local brews that fuel you for a day of exploring. Temple Coffee, known for its ethically sourced beans, offers some of the best pour-overs in town, but if you're in a hurry, grab a cold brew to-go at Old Soul Co. Their pastries are hard to resist too.
Once caffeinated, head straight to the California State Capitol and visit Capitol Park. The Capitol building is a beautiful blend of history and architecture, and its sprawling park is perfect for a leisurely walk.
You’ll spot beautiful monuments, memorials, and a stunning rose garden. Snap a quick photo with the Capitol building as your backdrop, it’s an iconic shot that captures Sacramento's history in one frame.
Next, take a short drive or bike ride to Old Sacramento Waterfront, a charming district filled with cobblestone streets and Gold Rush-era buildings. This part of town feels like stepping back in time, and it’s brimming with cool spots to explore.
For history buffs, the California State Railroad Museum is a must. You don’t have to be a train enthusiast to appreciate the vintage locomotives and engaging exhibits. But if museums aren’t your thing, you can still stroll along the waterfront and visit small shops, enjoy street performers, or take in the view of the river.
Before leaving, be sure to grab a quick photo at Tower Bridge, a Sacramento landmark known for its striking golden hue. You can even rent an e-scooter or bike near Old Sacramento to zip through the area faster. This gives you a chance to see more without spending too much time walking between stops.
The city’s farm-to-fork movement makes lunchtime an unforgettable experience. Whether you're craving a classic sit-down meal or something more casual, the city offers plenty of eateries featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients that highlight the region's vibrant food scene.
If you have time to relax, find a trendy Sacramento restaurant where you can indulge in dishes packed with bold, fresh flavors and creative spins on classic favorites.
If you’re on the other hand short on time, grab a quick bite at Burgers & Brew. This casual eatery serves up local favorites, offering everything from juicy burgers to fresh salads, perfect for a fast yet satisfying meal.
With lunch wrapped up, it’s time for some culture. Crocker Art Museum is your next stop. It’s a gem of Sacramento and home to both contemporary and classic art, all housed in a stunning building that marries Victorian architecture with modern design. You can wander the galleries, soaking up paintings, sculptures, and photography from both local and international artists.
In a hurry? Focus on the museum’s highlight exhibits, which showcase California’s unique art scene and heritage.
Sacramento’s Wide Open Walls street art might be a perfect alternative if museums aren’t your thing. Midtown is covered in stunning murals, and you can easily spend an hour or two just walking around and snapping photos.
By late afternoon, it's time for a nature break. Head to the American River Parkway, where you can walk or bike along trails that wind along the river. It's a peaceful escape that doesn’t feel too far from the city, and the views of the river are a perfect way to recharge before dinner.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak for a quick paddle along the river. It’s a unique way to experience the beauty of Sacramento’s natural surroundings.
If you'd prefer to stick closer to the city’s history, however, take a quick detour to Sutter’s Fort. This preserved pioneer fort gives a glimpse into Sacramento’s early days, and the grounds make for a short, interesting stop.
As the sun starts to set, it’s time for some good food. If you're craving something more laid-back but still delicious, Selland’s Market Café is a great option for a quicker, high-quality meal. They also offer to-go boxes that let you take your dinner to a nearby park or back along the waterfront.
After dinner, the night is yours! Midtown Sacramento offers a lively nightlife scene with bars like The Shady Lady, a speakeasy-style bar serving craft cocktails, or Coin-Op Game Room, a bar with vintage arcade games for a fun, retro vibe.
End your whirlwind day with a relaxing nightcap. The Darling Aviary is a rooftop bar with sweeping views of the city, offering the perfect spot to sip a cocktail while watching the sunset over the skyline. Another great option is Drake’s: The Barn, which combines outdoor seating, local brews, and a great view of the river.
If you’re looking to capture one last iconic Sacramento moment, head back to the Tower Bridge or stroll along the riverfront for a stunning sunset shot. It’s a peaceful way to close out your 24 hours in the city.
In just 24 hours, you’ve experienced Sacramento’s blend of history, culture, nature, and incredible food. From the iconic Capitol to the charming Old Sacramento Waterfront, the colorful art scene, and the farm-to-fork dining, this itinerary packs in the best River City has to offer.
Sacramento may be a city you can explore in a day, but the memories you make here will last long after.
