1. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

Let loose and have the time of your life at the Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, where you ride the roller coasters, enjoy encounters with animals and take time off to spend time with friends and family. You’ll eat delicious food, go shopping, and scream with the best of them as your group rides the rides and enjoys the day. 

2. California Agriculture Museum

California is one of the world’s largest producers of food and agricultural commodities, so it only makes sense that the California Agriculture Museum would be located a short drive from downtown Sacramento. Including displays about the marvels of commercial trucking and agriculture, as well as the world’s largest collection of antique agricultural equipment, a visit will help you gain a sense of the wonders of agriculture and the role that agriculture plays in California society. Enjoy visiting this 130,000 square foot museum and walk away with more knowledge about food and food growing than you ever expected. 

3. California State Railroad Museum

The California State Railroad Museum is a Smithsonian affiliated museum located in Old Sacramento State Historic Park. At this museum, you’ll learn more about the history of railroads in the United States (as well as in California), and if your visit occurs in April through September, you’ll be able to take a historic excursion train ride. 

4. California Museum

The California Museum will delight and entertain you as you learn about the rich history of California. Find out more about California’s diverse population, its influence on arts and culture, its history and more. At any given time, the museum features 6 to 8 temporary exhibits as well as interactive exhibits in the permanent collection. 

5. California Capitol Museum

Learn more about the most influential law makers and people in California state leadership at the California Capitol Museum. This museum features historic items about the California State Capitol and exhibits about the history of lawmaking in California. Learn more about California’s political past, and see the historic building for yourself. 

6. California Automobile Museum

Do you want to know more about classic cars, race cars and muscle cars? California Automobile Museum features 72,000 square feet of museum space dedicated to old cars. The local car club features new cars each month, and the museum also features a rotating exhibit that changes quarterly. Each new exhibit explores a new theme. Bring children and car-loving adults to this fun and fascinating museum. 

7. Fairy Tale Town

Fairy Tale Town is a children’s park set in a lush garden with play sets based on fairy tales. The town is the perfect place for children for an afternoon of play. You can also bring your children for parties and events, birthday parties and more. 

8. Crocker Art Museum

Crocker Art Museum puts California art on display alongside European master drawings and a collection of international ceramics. At this prominent Sacramento art museum, you can see displays of Asian, Oceanic and African art, as well as photography. Come to the Crocker Art Museum to see films, events and traveling exhibitions. The museum proudly hosts classes, lectures and a range of children’s activities. The first floor of the historic building is dedicated to classroom space and space for community events. 

9. Jan Shrem and Marie Manetti Shrem Museum of Art

Jan Shrem and Marie Manetti Shrem Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum that makes art accessible to the public. This museum was recently named one of the 25 Best Museum Buildings of the Past 100 Years by ARTnews. The Manetti Shrem Museum is committed to honoring art’s past while helping to shape its future by encouraging exceptional teaching and practice of the arts. 

10. Aerospace Museum of California

Want to learn more about the history of aviation and aerospace generally? The Aerospace Museum of California includes over 40 historic aircraft and rockets, a 40,000 square foot exhibit hall, a 4-acre outdoor air park, interactive STEM exhibits, traveling exhibits and hundreds of aerospace related artifacts onsite. Bring the kids to learn about the science and history of flight. Spend a couple hours, or the whole day. 

11. Sacramento Zoo

Why not spend an afternoon at the Sacramento Zoo? This popular family attraction includes an expansive zoo and residents for the animals that are modeled after the animals’ indigenous environments including wetlands, mountain ranges, tundras, and tropical forests. The Sacramento Zoo includes over 140 rare and endangered species. Some visitors even enjoy feeding experiences with the animals. It’s a great place to bring the whole family. 

12. Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park

Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park is a Victorian mansion that belonged to Leland Stanford, the former California governor and railroad tycoon. This mansion served as the governor’s office before the state Capitol opened, and is today an official location for diplomatic and protocol receptions. You can enjoy its beauty and elegance by taking one of its daily tours. 

13. River Cruise

Want to go on a cruise for an evening? The Sacramento River Cruise can provide different types of entertainment at different times. Whether you’re looking for historical ambiance, a romantic ride, or a simple way to relax, the river cruise can provide all of that. Take the dinner cruise or a Sunday brunch; there are many options to consider!

14. Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament

Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament is Sacramento’s most important Catholic church. The cathedral includes a soaring dome 175 feet high and Italian Renaissance style architecture. In addition to the regular masses, the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament gives tours and also hosts events. You can learn more about it on their website. The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament is located downtown not far from State Capitol Park.

15. Hornets Game

The Hornets play in the Hornet Stadium just 15 minutes from downtown. Sports fans watch the game with beer and snacks in this state-of-the-art facility. Hornets games also cost far less than NFL games, which makes these events a preferred activity for people who love to watch football on the weekends in the fall. 

16. Candlelight Concerts

Candlelight Concerts offer an opportunity to hear a stunning musical performance in an unusual and soothing environment. Flickering candlelight helps create a multisensory listening experience that’s good for your mind and soul. The professional orchestra can play a mixture of classical music as well as recent hits. Visiting at the holidays, you’ll enjoy themed concerts for Christmas and other holiday events. 

17. Sacramento Kings Game

Are you a basketball fan? The Sacramento Kings are among the most beloved sports teams in California. If you’re one of the loyal fans, you have an excellent opportunity to see the Kings play at the Golden 1 Center. With VIP booths, concession stands and opportunities to see fantastic performers, the Kings game is the place to be. 

18. Savor After Hours Wine Tasting 

Want to enjoy a drink while you sit back with friends in an intimate setting? You can do all this while listening to and enjoying a cabaret performance featuring Maks and Val Chmerkovskiy from Dancing with the Stars. Savor After Hours is the only cabaret wine tasting in Napa Valley. For an upgrade, you can even enjoy a pre-show meet and greet. 

19. Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is a popular destination in summer and spring when you can stay at one of the four major campgrounds or go horseback riding on one of the scenic trails. There are places where you can rent a boat, or go canoeing. This park is 11,500 acres and a common place where people from Sacramento go to get their outdoor fix.  

20. McKinley Park

McKinley Park was recently renovated and is now open to the public. With 31 acres of land and lots of family-friendly things to do, this is a fantastic place to go with the kids for a day. Enjoy the adventure play area, climbing walls and swimming pools. If you’re out for the day you can also make a picnic. For those of us who enjoy athletic activities, you can also visit the sporting courts.

21. Trampoline Park

The trampoline park is a place where adults and kids can enjoy themselves, burn off steam and get exercise. The Sacramento area has multiple trampoline parks, so you can choose the right park for you. Parks can have giant foam pits, dodgeball zones, slacklines and other features that really make the visit worth your while. Visit for an afternoon or take a party there for a rollicking good time. The Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is popular, as isRebounderzand DEFY. 

22. Zip Lining

Looking for something a little more thrilling? Sacramento’s zip lining scene is the place to enjoy your shot of adrenaline as you fly over the lush landscape at speeds of over 30 miles per hour. You’ll be strapped into a safety harness, but that won’t stop you from feeling a sense of exhilaration and possibly some healthy fear. There are multiple zip lining locations in the Sacramento area, including Quarry Park Adventures, a large zip lining enterprise with a range of packages to please everyone. 

23. California State Fair

The California State Fair takes place over 17 days in July and is a summer tradition for many people living in California. You can visit for the rides and educational opportunities. This event has been growing for the last 100 years, and is now a place where you can find over 100 food vendors, shopping, animal exhibits and more. There’s even a large parade, live music and entertainment for all. 

24. American Bike River Trail

American Bike River Trail is a breathtaking experience for bikers and walkers looking for a scenic experience. Get your exercise and your fix for natural beauty on the American Bike River Trail. This trail is walkable year round because of the moderate temperatures. The trail includes a 5% incline, so it’s wheelchair friendly, horse friendly and dog friendly. 

25. K1 Speed

K1 Speed is an indoor go-karting facility where you can race friends on an indoor roadway. K1 Speed is a popular facility for corporate events, birthday parties, bachelor parties and casual fun.The facility includes an on-site bar and cafe. No reservation is required so head on over for a good time. K1 Speed includes adult and junior tracks, so you can bring the kids.

26. Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park

Visit the Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park to get your fix of historic California life. See reenactments of pioneer life over 5 acres of land, including an old school building, blacksmith and original wells. The park is open daily for self-guided tours, and is open for events. You can find out more on their website. 

27. Rafting on American River

Do you love spending time outdoors, riding rapids or drifting by stunning scenery? Do you love to be on the water, spending day long excursions engaging in physical exercise? This what it’s like when you go rafting on American River. American River is only 30 miles long, but it’s a center of activity in the Sacramento area. 

28. Golfing

The golf course is a fantastic place to enjoy some peace and quiet and thoughtful contemplation as you try to improve upon your best score. It’s also a good place to go with friends who enjoy golf. Sacramento’s Haggin Oaks has a lot of history and has been around since 1932, while WIlliam Land Golf Course is located in the 160-acre William Land Park, near the Zoo. There are other courses as well, so you can pick the course that appeals to you most.  

29. Sacramento Beer Festivals

There are actually many different beer festivals that happen in the Sacramento area throughout the year, so you can go to one or many of them. Sacramento Beer Week takes place in February and March, California Brewer’s Festival happens in September, West Coast Brew Fest,which happens in May. There’s a Beer and Chilli Festival in April and also a Farm-to-Fork Festival with Brewer’s Alley in September. In other words, you’ve got plenty of opportunities to enjoy a pint with friends and some good food as well. 

30. Sacramento Raceway Park

The Sacramento Speedway is a multi-purpose facility that hosts events throughout the year, including funny car racing, compact racing, New Year’s Day Drags and more. Bring your ear plugs if you don’t like the noise, because this raceway is full of fun roaring noises and the roar of the crowd too!

31. Sacramento History Museum

Learn more about the fascinating history of the area in the Sacramento History Museum. There, you’ll see artifacts from eras gone by, like the California gold rush and the Victorian era. The museum offers guided tours and self-guided tours, so you can choose the way you would prefer to learn about the rich history of the area. 

32. World of Wonders

The World of Wonders, also known asWOW, is known for its 70 fully immersive displays designed for children and adults. Learn more about the scientific community as you explore science concepts in a space that’s made to be fun for the whole family. You’ll have to see it for yourself to really appreciate it, but the most popular attractions include the Illumination Lab and the giant Newton’s Cradle.

33. World Peace Rose Garden

Want to spend your time surrounded by beauty? The World Peace Rose Garden is more than 140 species of roses, with over 600 bushes. Intended to be a sanctuary of peace, the World Peace Rose Garden is a major landmark in Sacramento. The garden includes 40 plaques engraved with messages of peace to help you spend time contemplating your role in peace. 

34. B Street Theater

This cozy 140 seat theater near Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park is a local favorite.B Street Theatre has been entertaining audiences for over 40 years with performances ranging from children’s events to theater for adults, musical events and more. Schedules are updated regularly; check online for the latest events at this popular venue. 

35. California State Indian Museum

The California State Indian Museum is dedicated to the Native Americans who made their home in California before the land was a part of the United States. The museum provides information about the history of these cultures, the earliest inhabitants of the area and how people in early civilizations lived their lives. The museum features hands-on exhibits and a gift shop that includes items made by native Americans and books on the topic. 

36. Sky Drifters Hot Air Balloon Rides

Experience the thrill of hot air ballooning with owner and operator Tim Nelson as he  takes you high in the air on the ride of a lifetime. Sky Drifters times their flights carefully to ensure good weather and beautiful views, and your pilot will be sure to tell you when the perfect opportunity for a snapshot has come up. You’ll see stunning views of the Deer Creek Hills Preserve, where you can enjoy a unique view of wildlife and protected forests. Journeys also go to the Sierra Nevada Mountain range and a variety of other sites throughout Northern California. Book tickets here.

1. Yosemite Falls Trail

No trip to Yosemite is quite complete without a visit to Yosemite Falls Trail. This 7.2 mile round trip trail takes you to the top of North America’s tallest waterfall. This hike takes many people between 6 to 8 hours total, on a trail that gains nearly 3,000 feet in elevation. Along the way, you’ll see Columbia rock, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock and Upper Yosemite Falls. This is a strenuous walk that’s not for the inexperienced hiker. Be sure to bring plenty of water and your most comfortable hiking shoes.

2. Mist Trail

Sometimes called the quintessential Yosemite experience, the Mist trail is a signature hike that gets you up close and personal with some of Yosemite’s most beautiful waterfalls. Mist trail takes you to the Nevada Fall, Vernal Fall, or all the way to the top of Half Dome. The trail also includes intermediate destinations where you can turn around for a shorter hiking experience. Mist trail may be so named because it takes you close enough to waterfalls that you can feel the mist, but there are other opportunities for pictures too. The best time of year for this trail is in spring and early summer. Start in the early morning.

3. Tunnel View

Of all the things to do in Yosemite, this is one you shouldn’t miss. Perhaps one of the most iconic views of the park is the Tunnel View, where visitors can see Bridalveil Fall on the right, El Capitan on the left, and Half Dome in the distance. Tunnel View shows the drama and beauty that really draws people to Yosemite. This is also a spot that you can easily visit by car. Simply head down the highway toward Yosemite West, and you’ll reach it. The granite walls of Tunnel View shimmer in the afternoon sunlight, but morning shows the granite walls in silhouette, so you can pick the time of day that seems just right to you. 

4. The Ahwahnee

This beautiful hotel is known for its premium dining experience (requires proper attire) and beautiful architecture called “National Park Service Rustic”. You can wander the Ahwahnee grounds where you’ll see stunning wildlife, and enjoy a comfortable, climate-controlled hotel interior where you can relax at the end of a long day. The red elevator in the hotel is said to have inspired Stanley Kubrick when he made The Shining.  

5. Skydive Yosemite

Thrill seekers come one come all for the chance of a lifetime! Skydive Yosemite will take you to all new heights where you’ll see the El Capitan, Half Dome and Yosemite Valley from 10,000 feet (or more). When the time is right, you’ll jump out of the plane and free fall with views of the mountains, landing very close to where you started, just outside the park. For an extra fee, you can get pictures or video of the entire experience. 

6. Glacier Point

Glacier Point is a high overlook approximately 3,200 feet above the valley floor. At Glacier Point, you can enjoy views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome and the High Sierra. From Glacier Point, you can almost see Half Dome at eye level. Glacier Point is also a starting point for several difficult hikes, so if you’re at Yosemite for the hiking, you won’t want to miss this. The road that leads to Glacier Point closes frequently due to snow – even in summer months. Check ahead of time before making the trek this way. 

7. Mariposa Grove

About 500 mature sequoias live in Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove. These giant trees stand tall, their stunning size looming over the people who come visit them. Mariposa Grove is part of the reason that Yosemite exists today, because Abraham Lincoln wanted to set aside Mariposa Grove and Yosemite Valley for the public to come see and enjoy. Abraham Lincoln knew there was something worth visiting back then, and it’s still a magnificent thing to see today. 

8. Tenaya Lodge

Located outside the park in the tiny town of Fish Camp, Tenaya Lodge has multiple restaurants including pizza, barbecue, a deli and a bar and grill. The lodge is sometimes host to live music, and is available for rent for events, where you can take advantage of the lodge’s catering service. You’ll enjoy staying in cabins and can take part in events like the flashlight hike, where you’ll go on a guided hike to listen to the nocturnal animals. 

9. Tenaya Lake

Tenaya Lake is the largest lake at Yosemite and is a popular destination for kayakers, swimmers and people who enjoy paddleboarding. The lake is bordered by sandy banks that make this a perfect destination for people who enjoy sunbathing. There is no renting, so you’ll need to bring your own non-motorized equipment. If you enjoy fishing and have a valid California fishing license, then bring your fishing line as well. 

10. Yosemite Trails Horseback Adventures

Yosemite Trails Horseback Adventures offers horseback trail rides for one or two hours. They’re an excellent opportunity for the family to engage with nature and ride a magnificent animal. You can also take the 5-hour round-trip ride to a 2,000-year-old redwood tree known as Grizzly Giant. Each horse is well-trained and experienced on these trails, so even less comfortable riders are welcome on shorter excursions. You’ll get a hands-on lesson in horseback riding before going on your trail. 

11. See the Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep

Visit the Cathedral Range, and you may see one of the Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep that live in Yosemite. Once an abundant part of the park, the Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep were gone from the area just 25 years after the park was established. The National Park Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife would eventually help restore the populations of bighorn sheep to the mountain range, and there are now three herds in the area. Visiting Tuolumne Meadows may offer you a glimpse of these majestic animals. 

12. Happy Isles Art and Nature Center

Looking for things to do in Yosemite that involve natural history exhibits, art workshops, and interactive displays? The Happy Isles Art and Nature Center is a family-friendly space where adults and kids can all find something to do. It’s always a great day for learning at Happy Isles. Outside, short trails take the kids on a walk that’s appropriate for little ones. You’ll also get a chance to see the remains of a rockfall that sent 90,000 tons of rock falling form Glacier Point cliff to the valley floor, knocking over hundreds of trees. This center is open from April to October, so plan your visit accordingly. 

13. Bridalveil Fall

Bridalveil Fall is one of the most famous sights in Yosemite, and in spring it’s especially impressive. This is one of the first sights that you’ll see when you enter Yosemite, and the trail to the fall is open year round. People walking the trail often get wet in spring and early summer, so be prepared! In fact, the spray can be so strong that at times, it’s hard to access the end of the trail. In winter, Bridalveil Fall trail is slippery and treacherous, so be careful. Don’t want to walk the trail? Bridalveil Fall Viewpoint is easy to reach, and from there, you’ll get a good view of the fall.  

14. Hetch Hetchy Valley

Hetch Hetchy Valley is a glacial valley located in the northwest corner of the park, featuring a large reservoir, waterfalls, fishing and hiking. There is no swimming or boating in the reservoir because the water is on its way to deliver clean drinking water to San Francisco, but the Hetch Hetchy Valley is still a lovely space to visit for some peace and quiet away from the more populated parts of the park. Many people skip Hetch Hetchy Valley, so it’s one of the few places you can go for a truly serene afternoon. 

15. Yosemite Health Spa

The Yosemite Health Spa is a rustic resort just outside the park. Visitors can enjoy a massage, enjoy a herbal steep bath, do yoga and enjoy the hot rocks sauna. The spa has its own garden deck that overlooks the valley below. In other words, you can take a break from the endless hiking and nature-viewing of Yosemite to enjoy the luxury of self-care. 

16. Half Dome

For most visitors to the park, Half Dome is something that is only seen. Some visitors, however, actually climb to the top of Half Dome. The giant rock formation is one of the most famous and iconic structures in the park. At the top, hikers stand at 8,800 feet above sea level. Climbing to the top of Half Dome takes about 12 hours round trip and in the steepest part of the climb, metal cables are provided to help hikers pull themselves up to the top. Permits are required to do the climb, and the hike is only open from May through mid-October, so plan ahead. 

17. Golden Crown Mine Hike

Yosemite National Park was founded by an act of Congress in 1890, but before that happened, the park was a site for silver mining. The Golden Crown Mine operated at 11,000 feet elevation from 1879 to 1890, and today you can hike to the Golden Crown Mine complex where you can see several log cabins in varying states of decay. The park encourages people to make this strenuous hike as it helps educate visitors about the history of extractive industries in the area. This is a challenging and rewarding hike for those who enjoy such activities. 

18. Indian Village of the Ahwahnee

Yosemite Valley originally belonged to the Miwok people, and that land was taken from them through violence. In the 1920’s, a recreation Ahwahnee village of the Miwok people was built to allow visitors to see and understand how the Miwok people constructed their homes from bark of fallen trees. The village includes a sweathouse, chief’s house and the ceremonial roundhouse, which was built in 1992. These structures and others provide insight into the culture and community of the Miwok people. 

19. Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls is actually three waterfalls, but when combined, they make up one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. Just walking the one-mile trail at the base of the falls gets you a beautiful view, but you can also go see Yosemite falls without hiking any trails. Simply driving through the valley, you’ll see it repeatedly. There are many opportunities to pull over and see Yosemite falls from viewing points, so be on the lookout. If you plan to hike to the crest of Upper Yosemite, you’ll need to have a lot of hiking gear and should go with an accredited guide.

20. El Capitan

El Capitan is a dramatic rock formation that stands 3,000 feet above the valley floor. That’s 2.5 times taller than the Empire State Building and 3 times taller than the Eiffel Tower! The El Capitan Trail is for more experienced hikers and takes about 8 to 10 hours, but this trail is not for you unless you’re a very confident and experienced hiker. You can also see El Capitan without ever heading up a trail. If you want to see El Capitan from the road, just stop at Tunnel View and you’ll have a wondrous experience. You can also see El Capitan from El Capitan Meadow.

21. Tuolumne Meadows

This dreamy space is the place to be for peace and relaxation. Nestled near the Tuolumne River, the Tuolumne Meadows includes miles of beautiful wildflower blooms and views of Lembert Dome, Pothole Dome and Cathedral Peak. The best time to come to Tuolumne Meadows is in spring just as the flowers are starting to bloom, but any time of year is a good one to see this lovely meadow up close and personal. You won’t believe how magical and lush this meadow is. Bring your camera. 

22. Cathedral Peak

Cathedral Peak is a stunning granite peak formed by glaciers thousands of years ago. Only seasoned climbers can reach the top of this mountain, but it can be done. This peak was first climbed by John Muir in 1869, but has been climbed many times since then. If you’re up for the challenge and know what you’re doing, you may be able to climb Cathedral Peak yourself. If you’re not a climber but still want to experience some of this peak for yourself, follow the trails to Lower Cathedral Lake and enjoy the beautiful views!

23. Taft Point

Taft Point, located just west of Glacier Point, is known for its stunning views and lack of guard rail. In fact, this lack of a guard rail can make taking pictures at Taft Point extra fun – and dangerous. Take care of yourself when visiting this beautiful cliff. The trail to reach Taft Point is a relatively easy hike, so this trail is popular as well. Act responsibly, and you’ll be glad you went. 

24. Vernal Fall

Vernal Fall is one of the more powerful falls at Yosemite, and unlike Bridalveil and Yosemite Fall, Vernal Fall can’t be viewed in a vehicle when you’re on the valley floor. Want to see Vernal Fall? You’re going to have to work for it. Of course, the visit will be rewarding! Vernal Fall is awe-inspiring, but be sure to bring plenty of water and proper hiking gear. The trail can be physically challenging and slippery at certain times of year. 

25. Tioga Road Drive

Tioga Road Drive is a 47-mile long road that passes some of the most beautiful views in Yosemite. In summertime, Tioga Road is the place to be. Drive up to an elevation of almost 10,000 feet and pass landmarks like Tenaya Lake, Olmstead Point, Tuolumne Meadows and other well-known features of Yosemite. You’ll have plenty of places to pull out and snap pictures. Remember to take your camera and be prepared to take a meandering pace. 

26. Lembert Dome

Lembert Dome‘s elevation at 9,450, and its position over Tuolumne Meadows, makes it a popular destination for hikers in search of breathtaking views. The hike to Lembert Dome gains about 850 feet of elevation over the course of a 3.4 round-trip trail. The hike itself is rated as moderately strenuous, but this dome is considered one of the most easily accessed summits in Yosemite. The best time to visit is likely June, when the Meadows below are still green and the wildflowers are blooming. 

27. Hot Air Balloon Rides with Sky Drifters

Just an hour from Yosemite is the hot air balloon company Sky Drifters. Known for providing personal attention, catering to small groups and going boldly over some of the most beautiful landscape in the area, Sky Drifters will take you over the Sierra Nevada foothills for a ride you won’t forget. They provide private charter flights, and even can accommodate proposals and weddings, if you’re ready to pop the question. Enjoy your flight with a pilot who can tell stories and jokes as you drift high in the air.