Top 15 Attractions and Activities in West Sacramento, CA

West Sacramento is a riverfront suburb of Sacramento with an estimated population of 53,000, located in Yolo County. This area is celebrated for its favorable weather, proximity to outdoor recreational spaces, and central position providing convenient access to the region’s premier attractions.

In West Sacramento, visitors can enjoy numerous parks, dining establishments, and shopping venues such as Westbridge Plaza, Riverpoint Marketplace, and Riverbend Shopping Plaza.

The community hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including TBD Festival, The Sacramento Aloha Festival, and the Lantern Street Festival.

Below are 15 exceptional activities to experience in and around West Sacramento, California.

1. Hang Out in Bryte Park

During visits to new locations, there are instances when one prefers to relax rather than continuously move between attractions. Bryte Park serves as an ideal location for such moments.

This community park features ample grassy areas perfect for laying out a blanket and enjoying a good book, or simply basking in the sun and fresh air.

The park also offers picnic areas with barbecue facilities, allowing you to bring your lunch along. For sports enthusiasts, there are four baseball diamonds, eight soccer fields, and a basketball court.

Additional amenities include a walking track and a playground.

2. Visit the California State Capitol Museum

Located in downtown Sacramento, the California State Capitol Museum boasts a rich array of exhibitions. This historic estate, erected in 1869, features splendid grounds adorned with monuments and elaborate gardens that encompass 40 acres of global tree species.

Begin your exploration at the museum with a brief film that highlights the estate’s historical significance. The museum includes restored offices and three art galleries housing both permanent and temporary collections, showcasing hundreds of paintings, murals, and sculptures.

In the West Wing, you will encounter 38 portraits of previous governors. Engaging guided tours of the building’s exterior and interior are available.

3. Spend a Day on the Greens at Bing Maloney Golf Course

For over 50 years, Bing Maloney Golf Course has been providing an exceptional golfing experience to players of all skill levels.

The course includes 27 holes, comprising an 18-hole course and an additional 9-hole course. The 18-hole course is a par-72, presenting a diverse range of challenges to maintain interest for golfers.

The 9-hole course, a par-29, is regarded as even more demanding than the 18-hole course, making it an excellent option for those with limited time.

The facility features a driving range, chipping green, putting area, and sand bunker, with lessons available. The on-site golf shop is ranked among the top 100 shops in the nation.

Enjoy a variety of delightful menu options, including burgers and sandwiches, at Maloney’s Grill, all served in a relaxed atmosphere.

4. Admire Classic Cars at the California Automobile Museum

Nestled along the picturesque Sacramento River, the California Automobile Museum is an extensive venue featuring over 160 classic vehicles.

This museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing automotive history. During your visit, you have the opportunity to admire stunning cars while learning about their historical significance.

The collection includes hot rods, muscle cars, race cars, and vintage models, with numerous pieces available on loan, leading to frequently changing exhibits. Guided tours are offered for those interested.

5. Sit Down to Classic Comfort Food at the Broderick Roadhouse

Those seeking traditional American comfort cuisine will find satisfaction at Broderick Roadhouse.

This casual dining establishment, adorned with country-style decor, prepares all dishes from scratch using high-quality, all-natural ingredients.

While the signature offerings include towering burgers, a selection of appetizers and sandwiches is also available. Vegetarian and vegan options exist for those who prefer a meat-free experience.

The drink menu features a variety of carefully curated local craft beers.

6. Take the Kids to Fairytale Town

For more than 50 years, Fairytale Town in Sacramento has captivated children of all ages through its enchanting exhibits themed around fairy tales and nursery rhymes.

At Fairytale Town, children engage in playful learning experiences, enjoying themselves while quietly acquiring knowledge.

The petting zoo, a beloved highlight, allows children to interact with domestic farm animals, including lambs and pigs.

Visitors will also find several picturesque gardens, such as the Alphabet Garden. Occasional concerts, movie screenings, and storytelling sessions occur at the outdoor stages.

7. Check out the Subtile Sculpture

Along the Sacramento River, one can witness an extraordinary artistic installation. This striking sculpture, known as the Subtile Sculpture, measures 26 feet in length and 14 feet in height, making it an eye-catching feature.

Created by artist Federico Díaz and installed in 2017, this sculpture was designed to introduce public art to underserved neighborhoods.

At first glance, depending on the viewer’s perspective, the sculpture might resemble a collection of trees or even a sizable disco ball. However, with time, its form begins to shift and transform.

The countless steel discs that comprise this artwork sway with the breeze and glimmer in the sunlight, creating an ever-changing appearance influenced by surrounding conditions.

8. Explore Old Sacramento State Historic Park

Old Sacramento is not only a historic district but also a State Historic Park that provides a fascinating exploration opportunity. Here, visitors can shop, dine, learn about the area’s history, and admire the stunning architecture of historic buildings.

The ambiance reflects the era of the Transcontinental Railway and the California Gold Rush.

Spanning 28 acres, this district along the Sacramento River is home to over 100 retail stores, restaurants, museums, and cultural landmarks.

As you wander through the district, consider taking a riverboat cruise, riding on a vintage train, or enjoying a nostalgic journey in a horse-drawn carriage.

9. Sample Local Wines at Baker Family Wines

Baker Family Wines offers a selection of handcrafted wines crafted from locally sourced grapes. The inviting tasting room provides an excellent venue for sampling these offerings or purchasing a bottle to enjoy later.

The winery regularly hosts a variety of events throughout the year.

10. Appreciate Fine Art at the Crocker Art Museum

The Historic Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento, which began as a private collection, transitioned into a museum in 1885.

The displays feature a diverse range of artwork, both local and national. European collections include paintings, drawings, and ceramics, along with pieces from Africa and Asia.

Guided tours are offered for those who wish to delve deeper into the exhibits, and various events such as studio classes take place throughout the year.

11. Visit the Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park

Located in downtown Sacramento, the Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park is an indispensable California Historical Landmark established in 1856.

Upon visiting this expansive property, you will observe remarkable artworks, exquisite woodwork, 17-foot high ceilings, and period furnishings. Guided tours of the estate are available for a more informative experience.

12. Learn About Local History at the California State Railroad Museum

Since the mid-1970s, the California State Railroad Museum has been dedicated to showcasing the historical significance of railroads in California and the Western United States.

The extensive site comprises a collection of six buildings, each housing exhibits that reflect the history of the city and its railroads. Furthermore, there are 21 refurbished train cars and locomotives on display.

Throughout the year, numerous educational events are conducted at the museum, enriching visitors’ understanding of transportation history.

13. Pay a Visit to the Sacramento Regional Fire Museum

The primary objective of the Sacramento Regional Fire Museum is to exhibit artifacts related to the historical background of the region’s fire service.

The museum features various exhibits showcasing artifacts, documents, and antiquated firefighting equipment, providing visitors with an insightful look into firefighting history.

14. Visit the Animals at the Sacramento Zoo

Founded in 1926, the Sacramento Zoo initially operated on a modest four-acre site, caring for 40 animals. Today, it spans 14 acres, housing over 500 animals in a state-of-the-art facility.

Conservation is a core priority for the zoo, which places emphasis on ensuring animals experience habitats akin to their natural environments.

During your visit, you will encounter a range of mammals, including lions, jaguars, giraffes, zebras, chimpanzees, and red pandas, as well as various amphibians, birds, and reptiles.

15. SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity

At the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity in Sacramento, a variety of interactive exhibits await the eager minds of young visitors.

Exhibits include a planetarium, a space mission simulator, and a nature discovery room, and guests have the unique opportunity to participate in a real archaeological dig.