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Sep 27, 2018

Insider's Guide to Visiting Old SacramentoExpanding for approximately 20 acres along the banks of the Sacramento River, Old Sacramento is a collection of 58 buildings of some historic significance. Conservation of the buildings started In the mid-1960s, and the area is now recognized as a national state park.

Old Sacramento Keeps Bustling

With a unique blend of the past era combined with the present, there is always something to see and do. History buffs will love the various museums where the past is brought to life. Don’t pass up on a visit to the car museum, which is a great place not only for history buffs but for all auto enthusiasts. An impressive exhibit of over 150 cars remains on permanent display. Some classics date back to the late 1800s, and a walk through the exhibit will demonstrate the evolution of the automobile on the streets of California up to the present day.

Relive the Past at the California State Railroad Museum

Occupying 225,000 square on 125 I Street, the California State Railroad Museum is North America’s most popular railroad museum and features some meticulously restored iconic engines. Visitors learn the history of the locomotive with the 19 steam locomotive collection that date from 1862 to 1944. The museum also houses a store that offers memorabilia, books, and clothing items. Facilities are available for rent, and one of the most popular events is the 45-minute Polar Express train ride on the Sacramento River.

Enjoy Open Air Rides and Scenic Tours

Open air coach and wagon rides are offered throughout  the year by private operators, and there are scores of available boat cruises during the day and at nighttime. A dinner cruise on the Sacramento River to observe some of the city’s landmarks, such as the Tower Bridge and Air Force Dock, can be an enjoyable and enlightening experience. There are several walking tours where guides will point out some of the distinctive landmarks that make up the rich history of Old Sacramento.

The Spotlight on Food 

One of the things that make Old Sacramento so unique is the food. The lack of national brands is noticeable, and customers are instead treated to owner establishments where the love of food is apparent. It can be a really pleasant experience when diners can sit and enjoy hospitality while being served meals that are on par with a home cooked dinner. The Firehouse Restaurant consistently receives top reviews for its innovative approach and outstanding menu that sources only local ingredients.

Shop Til You Drop

There are scores of places for shopping in Old Sacramento from the quirky to the classic. Gifts shops are almost everywhere, and it’s just as easy to obtain apparel and hand-crafted accessories. California is also known for outstanding artwork. Some of the potential can be seen in Old Sacramento where there are several stores that offer original art and collectibles.

image via Flickr by ProComKelly licensed under CC BY 2.0