10 Unique Things to Do in
Sacramento: Explore the
City’s Local Charm

December 3, 2024 by Sarah Ford

Sacramento is a city brimming with charm, history, and an ever-growing list of
activities to enjoy. Known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning parks, and
renowned dining scene, it’s a city where the past meets the present in exciting
ways. With its diverse neighborhoods and unique local attractions,
Sacramento offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re in the market to purchase a home in Sacramento, are looking
for an apartment to rent, or are interested in a rental home in the city, this
guide will introduce you to the most unique things to do in Sacramento. From
indulging in farm-fresh dining to a plethora of outdoor activities, here’s your
insider’s guide to the best experiences the city has to offer. Let’s dive in.

1. Visit Sacramento’s Curtis Park Tucked just south of Midtown, Curtis Park is a favorite Sacramento
   neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, charming historic homes, and
   close-knit community. At its heart is Curtis Park itself—a peaceful spot perfect
   for picnics, casual strolls, or catching up with friends. While you’re there, be
   sure to take a walk around the trail loop and then check out some of
   Sacramento’s many hidden gems throughout the rest of the neighborhood.
   Before your visit to the park, be sure to stop by  Qisa Coffee , located within the
   neighborhood. Qisa is the city’s only late-night coffee shop and blends
   Yemeni coffee traditions with flavors from Peshawar. It’s a community-
   centered space perfect for relaxing with a cup of karak chai or honey bites.
   The shop offers a warm, inviting atmosphere, ideal for winding down after a
   visit to Sacramento’s parks.
2. Have the perfect day out with your pup

If you’re looking for a fun day out with your furry friend, Midtown, Sacramento
is the place to be. Midtown’s lively streets are perfect for a stroll, with plenty of
dog-friendly patios, shops, and spaces to explore. Whether you’re grabbing a
coffee, browsing local boutiques, or simply taking in the vibe, you’ll find
businesses that are happy to welcome both you and your pup. Midtown truly
captures Sacramento’s love for pets, making it an unforgettable outing for you
and your best friend.
The team at Leash and Collar, a local dog boutique, puts it best. “Sacramento
is such a dog-friendly city. We recommend taking a walk around Midtown,
where most of the businesses welcome pups either inside or outside on their
patios. Make sure to stop into Leash and Collar Dog Boutique for a fun treat,
and then head next door to Acheson Wine Company’s dog-friendly tasting
room.”

3. Celebrate farm-to-fork dining Sacramento is known as America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, and for good reason. Surrounded by rich farmland, the city has built a dining scene that
   thrives on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced directly from local farmers. This
   connection between the region’s agricultural roots and its vibrant food culture
   makes dining in Sacramento truly special.
   One of the best places to experience this is  Localis , a favorite in the Midtown
   neighborhood. The team at Zoe Coffee and Tacos, a Sacramento-based
   upscale catering business and coffee shop, recommends this Michelin-starred
   gem, just steps away from their spot. “Localis captures the essence of
   Sacramento’s farm-to-fork spirit under the creative guidance of chef and
   owner Chris Barnum-Dann. His inventive, seasonal menus showcase the
   region’s agricultural bounty with dishes that reflect the community’s passion
   for fresh flavors and culinary excellence. Dining at Localis is a true
   Sacramento experience—a celebration of sustainability, creativity, and the
   vibrant food culture that defines the city.”
4. Reconnect with nature on the American River Parkway
   If you’re in need of a peaceful escape, the American River Parkway is the
   perfect spot to unwind. “When I need a break from the constant hustle of
   modern life, I head to the American River Parkway,” says landscape
   photographer, Derrick Kelly of Derrick Kelly Photography. “This hidden gem

stretches from Folsom to Downtown Sacramento, offering a sanctuary for a
variety of activities—cycling, hiking, kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and
picnicking.” He goes on to share his favorite thing to do on the Parkway. “I
love to explore the quiet, winding trails that weave through oak and
cottonwood groves, blackberry thickets, and old mining tailings reclaimed by
nature. There’s something incredibly grounding and peaceful about getting
lost here, and no matter your interests, the Parkway has a place for
everyone.”
Savor brunch with scenic views
After a day of exploring the Parkway, head to the nearby Rivers Edge Cafe for
a meal with a scenic view. Established in 2003, this family-owned restaurant
offers a welcoming atmosphere with delicious American cuisine, making it the
perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and ordering catering. Conveniently
located near the Watt Avenue Access, it’s the perfect place to stop after
spending time along the American River. Enjoy a delicious meal with friends
and family inside or outside on their spacious patio. Once you try the award-
winning ‘California Club Sandwich’ or famous ‘Stuffed Hash Browns’, you’ll be
hooked.

5. Explore the Pocket-Greenhaven neighborhood
   For a peaceful day out with suburban charm, head to Sacramento’s Pocket-
   Greenhaven neighborhood. Tucked along the Sacramento River, this area
   features scenic trails, relaxing parks like Garcia Bend Park, and plenty of
   opportunities for kayaking, fishing, or riverside picnics. Take a stroll along the
   Pocket Canal Parkway or simply soak up the calm atmosphere of this hidden
   gem, just minutes from downtown. It’s the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy
   a quieter side of Sacramento.
   While exploring this neighborhood, make sure to stop by  Cacio  for Italian-
   inspired cuisine. “We love the bounty of produce that Sacramento brings,”
   shares the team at Cacio. “At our restaurant, we believe in constantly rotating
   our menu, letting the produce dictate what we serve. We also believe that
   community, sharing food, and connecting with fellow humans is equally as
   important, which is why we value our small neighborhood restaurant.”
6. Ignite your curiosity at the SMUD Museum
   One of the more unique things to do in Sacramento is to soak in the city’s
   history at a museum. If you’re looking for an engaging museum in
   Sacramento, ideal for all ages, the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity is
   a must-visit. With interactive exhibits designed to engage both kids and adults,
   this museum makes learning enjoyable for everyone.
   As local photographer, Chelsea Kukuruda of Chelsea Kay
   Photography shares, “One of my favorite friendly places to visit in Sacramento
   is the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity. It’s engaging, fun, and
   educational for kiddos of all ages, and is fun for parents too. If you’re new to
   the area and have kids, this is a must-do activity, especially on those hot or
   rainy days when you’re looking for an indoor activity.”
7. Step back in time at the Sacramento Valley Museum
   Just an hour north of Sacramento, in Williams, CA, a charming city near
   Sacramento, the Sacramento Valley Museum provides a unique glimpse into
   the region’s history. This museum highlights life in the Sacramento Valley over
   the past 200 years, with 22 exhibits including an apothecary, a general store,
   a victorian parlor, and a historic schoolhouse built in 1865. This free museum
   offers both guided and self-guided tours. Open Thursday through Saturday,
   It’s a wonderful way to explore the area’s rich past and gain a deeper
   understanding of the history that shaped this beautiful region.
8. Sip and savor at Baker Family Wines
   For a unique wine-tasting experience, head just across the Sacramento River
   to Baker Family Wines in West Sacramento. This urban winery offers a cozy
   atmosphere where you can savor hand-crafted wines while taking in the local
   charm. It’s a perfect stop for wine lovers and sports fans alike. Co-owned by
   former Major League Baseball player and Manager Dusty Baker, it is an urban
   winery specializing in small hand-crafted lots of wine. Just minutes
   from Downtown Sacramento, it’s now near the new home of the A’s and the
   Sacramento River Cats. Stop by for a tasting and enjoy a beautiful room and
   great wines.
9. Satisfy your sweet tooth Sacramento’s thriving food scene isn’t just about savory dishes, it’s also a
   haven for dessert lovers. If you’re moving to or already living in Sacramento,
   don’t miss BAD Bakers, a must-visit mom-and-pop shop and a unique activity
   to do in the city. Known for their warm, buttery sweet Staxx, gourmet donuts,
   and delicious Filipino savories, it’s a treat for any food lover. With five
   locations in the Sacramento area, it’s easy to stop by and indulge while you’re
   exploring the city.
10. Get lost in the stacks at Wild Sisters Book Shop
    A unique thing to do in Sacramento for book lovers, is to visit some of the
    city’s popular independent bookstores. Wild Sisters Book Company is a
    charming book shop in East Sacramento with “Shop Around the Corner” vibes
    that would make Meg Ryan proud – especially during the holidays. A must-
    visit for any book lover, it offers a unique selection of new and used books,
    along with games, toys, and stationery. One of the fun additions to the shop is
    their life-size Tom Selleck cutout who often “shares” book recommendations
    of his own. Whether you’re browsing for your next great read or picking up a
    unique gift, Wild Sisters is sure to delight.

Discovering the unique things to do in Sacramento

Sacramento is more than just California’s capital; it’s a city full of experiences
waiting to be explored. Even after you’ve crossed off your Sacramento bucket
list, there’s always new adventures to discover in the City of Trees. You might
find yourself enjoying a quiet coffee in Curtis Park or taking in the natural
beauty of the American River Parkway. Whether you’re new to the area or
have lived here for years, there is always another side of the city to
experience. Some of your best memories might be just around the corner.