Surrounded by scenic farms and orchards, California’s serene capital is undergoing a renaissance. Whether you’re in town for work, leisure or bleisure, carve out a few hours to soak up Sacramento’s friendly, easy-going vibes.
A serene scene along the Sacramento River
Wind Down or Wake Up
At the brand-new Golden 1 Center, catch a concert or cheer for the Sacramento Kings basketball team on their home court. After a fun event or a day of meetings, wind down at one of these local neighborhood spots.
- Sink into vintage sofas at modern speakeasy The Shady Lady Saloon, where live blues, jazz and swing bands jam on weekends.
- Bottle and Barlow – part bar, part barbershop – offers proper shaves during the day, then hand-crafted cocktails and DJs at night.
- Block Butcher Bar’s delicious menu is anchored by house-cured charcuterie and an extensive whiskey selection.
- Within walking distance of the Center, head to rooftop pool lounge Revival at the Sawyer for elevated bottle service and thoughtful seasonal cocktails.
Cozy up to the bar at Revival for some creative handcrafted cocktails
Come morning, head out for a local roast and brunch.
- Insight Coffee’s rich brews are consciously sourced – grab one to go and stroll to nearby Fox and Goose Pub for a hearty British-style breakfast.
- Farm-inspired fare tops the menu at Grange, while Tower Café’s eclectic décor and international menu have made it a Land Park neighborhood favorite for over two decades.
- Old Soul Coffee’s light, sunny space has patio seating that’s great for kids and dogs, while Temple Coffee’s artisanal roasts are a hit across the state.
Temple Coffee is a classic California spot for caffeine-lovers (Photo credit: Temple Coffee)
Midtown, All Day
Work and play go hand-in-hand in the walkable, tree-lined Midtown district.
- Trade Coffee & Coworking inspires with a cheeky mural and playful décor. Access is member-only so check the website for deals on day passes.
- Urban Hive also provides day passes, plus a cheerful, community buzz.
- Post-laptop, scoot over to Scout Living to browse a curated selection of mid-century furnishings.
- Indulge your inner gardener at Sacramento Beekeeping Supplies, stocked with honey-infused treats, candles and gifts.
- Grab truffles and macarons at Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates, or stay ahead of warm weather with a cool ice cream sandwich.
Teleworking has never been so sweet (Photo credit: Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates)
Culture Escape
Step into a museum gallery or congressional chamber for a quick History 101.
- The popular California State Railroad Museum, on the cobbled 19th-century streets of Old Sacramento, delights train enthusiasts of all ages.
- See the “California’s Remarkable Women” exhibit at the California Museum, a passion project of former First Lady Maria Shriver.
- Housed in a grand Victorian mansion and modern pavilion, The Crocker Art Museum’s exhibits spotlight Californian and contemporary artists.
- The gold-topped California State Capitol offers daily, free tours. Watch the Assembly and Senate in action – their historic chambers are open to the public.
Flanked by palm trees, the California State Capitol building is a must-see
Where to stay: Lay your head at the design-forward Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, just steps away from the Golden 1 Center, where natural materials, California wood and indoor-outdoor spaces bring the region’s beauty inside every day of the year.
— Meredith Black
