Sacramento’s Essential Experiences: The Real Best Things to See and Do

Southside Park is more than just a green space—it’s a community anchor with a rich multicultural history, as noted by the Sacramento Bee and local historians. The park features a striking, colorful playground designed by local artist Gina Rossi, a tranquil pond, and shaded walking paths. Its role as a gathering spot for festivals and neighborhood celebrations, particularly among Sacramento’s diverse communities, makes it an authentic slice of city life.

Steeped in Gold Rush history, the Old Sacramento Waterfront is much more than a tourist spot—it’s a living district of independent shops, museums, and riverfront attractions that locals frequent for its unique charm. Recognized by the Michelin Guide and The New York Times, the area is home to the California State Railroad Museum, riverside dining, and lively festivals. Wooden boardwalks and preserved 19th-century buildings set the stage for exploring boutiques, galleries, and the city’s storied past. Visiting at sunset offers stunning views of the Tower Bridge and the Sacramento River.

Verge Center for the Arts stands out as Sacramento’s most progressive contemporary art space, fostering local talent and experimentation. Praised by Sactown Magazine and featured in the Sacramento Bee, Verge hosts rotating exhibitions, artist studios, and community workshops, making it accessible and engaging for all. Its industrial-chic setting and active support for emerging artists reflect the city’s thriving creative energy.

Sol Collective is a grassroots arts and culture center that the Sacramento News & Review calls one of the city’s most vital community spaces. Focused on uplifting BIPOC voices and fostering social justice, Sol Collective hosts art exhibitions, music performances, and educational workshops. Its welcoming atmosphere and deep local ties make it an essential stop for anyone interested in Sacramento’s contemporary cultural pulse.

Celebrated by Condé Nast Traveler and local publications like Sactown Magazine, the Midtown Farmers Market is at the heart of Sacramento’s farm-to-fork movement. Every Saturday morning, local farmers, artisans, and food makers transform Midtown into a vibrant open-air event. You’ll find heirloom produce, fresh-baked bread, and ready-to-eat treats, all accompanied by live music and friendly faces. The market’s focus on small-scale regional growers and innovative food startups reflects Sacramento’s agricultural heritage and creative culinary energy.

A Sacramento institution, Tower Café is regularly highlighted by Eater Sacramento and local critics for its globally inspired menu and lush, garden patio. Set in a former 1930s movie theater lobby, the café is renowned for its eclectic decor and legendary brunches. Tower Café’s dedication to diverse flavors and community events keeps it at the heart of Sacramento’s dining scene. The restaurant’s vibrant, welcoming vibe has made it a favorite gathering place for locals since 1990.

Magpie Café is a darling of both locals and food critics—including Eater Sacramento and the Michelin Guide—for its uncompromising dedication to seasonality and locally sourced ingredients. The airy, art-filled space welcomes guests for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a menu that evolves alongside the region’s harvests. Magpie’s attention to detail and warm service make it a go-to for those seeking an authentic taste of Sacramento’s farm-to-fork ethos.

Temple Coffee Roasters is consistently praised by Food & Wine and local publications as one of the nation’s top independent coffee shops. Founded in Sacramento in 2005, Temple has grown without losing its commitment to quality, community, and sustainability. The flagship location is a gathering spot for students, professionals, and creatives, showcasing meticulously roasted beans and a serene, minimalist design. Temple’s direct-trade relationships and innovative brewing draw coffee aficionados from across the region.

For those seeking the unexpected, The Red Museum is a nonprofit venue spotlighted by KQED Arts and Sacramento Magazine for its daring music, art, and performance events. Housed in a former warehouse, it’s become a launchpad for emerging artists, experimental musicians, and eclectic happenings. The ever-changing lineup makes every visit a new adventure, reflecting Sacramento’s spirit of reinvention and risk-taking.

The Sofia is home to B Street Theatre, Sacramento’s premier venue for contemporary plays, musical performances, and improv. Endorsed by American Theatre Magazine and highlighted by The New York Times, this independent theater champions new works and diverse voices, fostering a lively creative scene. Its sleek modern space and intimate performance halls ensure every seat feels close to the action. The Sofia’s year-round calendar includes family shows, comedy, and community events, making it a hub for Sacramento’s performing arts lovers.

As California’s oldest continuously operating art museum, the Crocker Art Museum is a cornerstone of Sacramento’s cultural landscape. Housed in a stunning blend of Victorian Italianate architecture and modern design, the Crocker offers an expansive collection ranging from European masterpieces to a robust selection of California and contemporary art. The museum’s lively calendar of events—highlighted by Eater Sacramento and The New York Times—makes it a gathering spot for art lovers and families alike. Its commitment to showcasing regional artists alongside international exhibitions ensures every visit brings something new. Don’t miss the sculpture garden and live music events that energize the museum’s welcoming spaces.