Don’t have a lot of time to explore the capital of California? No problem. Check out this itinerary, perfect for a quick morning visit to Sacramento.
Last updated: September 25, 2024
How to Spend Morning in Sacramento: A First-Timer’s Guide and the Best Places to Visit
Spending a day or morning in Sacramento has never been on my bucket list. For some apparent reasons, I pictured this city to be strictly professional, packed to the brim with various government institutions.
And thus, when Roshan offered to add Sacramento to our Central and Northern California road trip, I quickly looked for any interesting destinations nearby. If the city ended up being a boring, bureaucratic hub of the state, the way I had always imagined it to be, at least its, hopefully more diverting, surroundings would soothe my disappointment.
With that in mind, we decided to spend one morning and early afternoon in Sacramento on our way back to Los Angeles from Lake Tahoe. The city, however, exceeded all my expectations. Sure enough, even this quick, morning visit to Sacramento dispelled any misconceptions I had had.
The city seems to incorporate different eras, styles, and purposes. It looks so cool and modern in the center and keeps its vibrant, old-day vibe intact in the riverfront historic district. A place that I deliberately avoided in the past, Sacramento is a thoughtful host and entertainer that caters to people from all walks of life. Without further ado, here’s a quick guide to spending a morning in Sacramento.
Welcome to Sacramento, California
Sacramento is the capital of the US state of California and one of the most important, politically and historically, places in the region. The city lies at the confluence of the Sacramento River and the American River.
As one of the dominant cities in the state, Sacramento is a place that reflects both present and past. It’s especially evident in downtown Sacramento.
Spending a morning in Old Sacramento is equivalent to going back in time. The modern section of the city impresses with a series of landmarks, numerous parks and alleys, restaurants, and hotels for every budget.
Arriving in Sacramento on an Early Morning
- As I mentioned before, we arrived in Sacramento from South Lake Tahoe. The fastest and easiest way to get here is by taking US 50 W / El Dorado Freeway. It took us approximately two hours to reach Sacramento on that sunny morning. The route, however, was so gorgeous that we didn’t even notice how the time passed.
- Those who drive from North Lake Tahoe should take I-80 W.
- If you head to Sacramento from Los Angeles, like we were planning in the beginning, you can take either I-5 N or CA-99 N.
THINGS TO DO IN DOWNTOWN SACRAMENTO IN THE MORNING
1. Step Inside the California State Capitol Museum
It’s impossible to spend the morning in Sacramento without first visiting the California State Capitol Museum. The most prominent building in the city is located on the intersection of 10th and L Street. It serves as both a museum and the seat of the California state government. So, if you have any legal affairs in Sacramento, this is a place you need to visit.
2. Walk around California State Capitol Park
Spanning 10 city blocks surrounding the Apart from the State Capitol, California State Capitol Park entices with green lawns, orange trees, and a few memorials. This is a perfect place to spend a quiet morning in Sacramento with family and kids.
At the far end of State Capital Park, you’ll find the World Peace Rose Garden with a small fountain and pavilion. A few steps away, another city’s landmark further unveils the true values of Sacramento. The California Vietnam Veterans Memorial was established to remember the names of the 5,822 Californians who died in the war or are still missing.
3. Visit Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament
Your morning trip to downtown Sacramento can’t be complete without a visit to the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. The Cathedral is located just a block away from the State Capitol. Yet you can see its pointed spires from many other places in the neighborhood.
4. Spend the Morning Exploring Sacramento’s Squares and Parks
Bishop Gallegos Square, a small square between the Cathedral and the State Capitol, is another beautiful place for a quiet morning walk in Sacramento.
Within a walking distance from Bishop Gallegos Square, you will find Cesar Chavez Plaza. A historic park in downtown Sacramento, the area is a regular host of community rallies, music concerts, and Farmers’ Market.
THINGS TO DO IN OLD SACRAMENTO IN THE MORNING
Old Sacramento entices you with its old-time appeal. Dotted with signature Gold-Rush-era buildings and lined up with cobblestone streets where horse-drawn carriages are still a regular sight, this neighborhood of Sacramento offers different kinds of morning activities.
1. Dive into History of Sacramento
Taking a leisurely stroll here is an adventure on its own. To enhance this experience, though, you should visit the Sacramento History Museum and the State Railroad Museum. While exploring rare exhibits of the latter, make sure to take a ride on one of their old trains.
Additionally, step inside the Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum and the Wells Fargo History Museum for a sneak peek into California’s early days of education and banking.
2. Explore Old Sacramento’s Parks
Old Sacramento has its own share of urban parks. From such tiny green gems as Old Sacramento State Historic Park and Pioneer Park, these places offer a perfect close to your morning visit before getting back on the road.
PLACES TO VISIT NEAR SACRAMENTO: FOLSOM LAKE
For those who long for more nature on the outskirts of Sacramento, visit Folsom Lake, a perfect place to spend a morning with family or even a book. Located 25 miles northeast of the state capital, it’s one of the closest day trips from Sacramento that offers great opportunities for boating, fishing, and simply soaking up the sun without maddening crowds.
