10 Unique Things to Do in Sacramento: Explore the City’s Local Charm
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.
The post 10 Unique Things to Do in Sacramento: Explore the City’s Local Charm appeared first on Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling & More.
