Unique Things To See in Sacramento
An Overview of Sacramento
Originating as a supply center for prospectors, Sacramento now serves as the capital of California. The growing metropolitan area has a long history as a successful Gold-Rush era community, made more livable thanks to a climate of mild winters and warmer, drier summers. The city is home to many farmers markets, local breweries and colorful street murals. There are many unique things to see in Sacramento.
Strange Things To See in Sacramento
Old Town Sacramento
The Old Sacramento district is the riverfront historic site with numerous Gold Rush-era buildings, long cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages. The area has several museums, including the Sacramento History Museum, the State Railroad Museum and numerous souvenir shops.
The Dragon House
This is a private home and popularly photographed building fount in the Curtis Park Neighborhood. The Dragon House is decorated in numerous artworks depicting a massive mosaic dragon, a white tiger, fairies, owls and other creatures. The private residence also has numerous kinetic sculptures in the yard.
Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area
The Yolo Bypass Area is a wildlife restoration area which is home to fish, waterfowl, shorebirds and migratory animals. The most famous sometimes-resident of the area is the enormous urban Mexican free-tailed bat colony. At its height, the colony has roughly 250,000 bats. They’re best seen flying into the night at dusk during the summer, when they use the Yolo Bypass for shelter.
Drive-in Movie Theaters
While drive-in movie theaters seem like a feature of a more retro America, there are still a few in Sacramento. The West Wind Sacramento 6 Drive-In is especially popular.
Vic’s Ice Cream Parlor
This is an old-school ice cream parlor operating out of a vintage diner. The diner has remained a quaint and delicious feature of Sacramento since 1947.
‘Subtile’ Sculpture
Found along the Sacramento River Walk, this unusual sculpture looks like a combination between a tall hedge and glinting disco ball.
Downtown Sacramento
The major central hub of Sacramento is home to many of the city’s most famous features, including Capitol Park, the neoclassical State Capitol Building, the Golden 1 Center performance venue, the classic, old-school arcade Coin-Op, the Stanford Mansion, the Crocker Art Museum and the California Museum.
Samson Luggage Sculpture
For those flying into Sacramento, it’s worth stopping by the Sacramento Airport’s baggage claim. Hanging from the ceiling, there’s a massive 23-foot sculpture made of over 700 suitcases and travel bags.
Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park
Sutter’s Fort was an important agricultural and trading hub, which was eventually abandoned when Sutter could no longer employ workers, as everyone was in the gold fields. The fort is notorious for it’s association with the Donner Party, the California Gold Rush and a nearby end point for the California Trail and Siskiyou Trails. There’s a small entrance fee to visit.
State Indian Museum
This museum contains artworks and artifacts interpreting the diverse cultures of the indigenous peoples of California.
State Capitol Park World Peace Rose
This Victorian-style garden contains over 100 varieties of roses with different colors, fragrances and forms. The entire park, which includes small trails and a fountain centerpiece is themed after world peace.
Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum
Named in honor of venerated abolitionist and women’s rights activist sojourner Truth, this institution offers murals, educational displays and insights on Asian, African, Latino & Native American art.
California State Fair
This annual state fair is a 17-day event held at Cal Expo. The fair is filled with food, music, games and exhibitions for California’s industries.
Read more about unique things to see in Sacramento and seeing the world by visiting Leftfade Trails Blog.
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