tour old sacramento

Old Sacramento Waterfront

Old Sacramento Waterfront , the 28-acre Historic Landmark District to California's state capital, is a bustling neighborhood along the beautiful Sacramento River filled with shopping , dining , entertainment , and exploring options for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a night out, shopping for the perfect gift, visiting a museum, exploring the underground city, or attending one of the many monthly events hosted at the waterfront, there is always a wide variety of things to do for you to choose from.

Move beyond the ordinary and discover your next adventure at the Old Sacramento Waterfront. Come find it!

*Photo courtesy of Downtown Sac

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California State Railroad Museum

Experience the largest railroad museum in North America – impeccably restored equipment & exhibits, and the only historical train ride in Sacramento.

Sacramento History Museum and Underground Tour

Learn Sacramento history from before the Gold Rush to beyond World War II.

The Delta King

This historic riverboat now serves as tourist attraction, restaurant, venue, and hotel.

Shopping, Dining & More

Old Sacramento Waterfront is a thriving business and residential district full of shops, restaurants, entertainment, and exploring options for everyone. Visit their website for a complete directory of businesses.

Museums & History

There are 28 museums in Sacramento, and they cover everything from medical history to the Gold Rush to California, art, and the railroad.

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The Complete Guide to Old Sacramento | 🛍️ What to Do in Old Sacramento [ Info, Tips, Data]

Last Updated on: 27th May 2024, 03:57 pm

Have you been searching for a fun and historic attraction in the Sacramento area ? You should head down to Old Sacramento. Old Town Sacramento is a fun and exciting riverfront historic district featuring gold-rush-era buildings, cobblestone streets, wooden sidewalks, and horse-drawn carriages.

It’s also full of art galleries, museums , bars and restaurants, comedy clubs, parks , and so much more. The Old Sacramento waterfront offers breathtaking views, riverboat tours, paddle boats, and other fun activities.

So whether you’re interested in learning about the transcontinental railroad, looking to shop, or exploring the River City with your kids, you’ll find something to keep you entertained in the neighborhood. Here is a look at what to do in Old Sacramento.

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Table of Contents

Where Is Old Sacramento?

Old Sacramento, Sacramento, CA, is a neighborhood and historic district located between I-5 and the Sacramento River. It’s just west of downtown Sacramento and Southside Park and directly across the river from West Sacramento .

It’s also conveniently located between Tower Bridge and I Street Bridge, making it easy to navigate wherever you’re coming from. It’s also within walking distance from top attractions in Sacramento, such as the California State Capitol , Raley Field , and the Crocker Art Museum .

History of Old Sacramento

The history of Old Sacramento dates back to 1839 when a man named John Sutter established a settlement near the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers, which he called Sutter Fort. The settlement grew and became permanent, attracting wealthy local businessmen. Sutter’s Fort became a major commercial center and exploded into Sacramento with the gold rush of 1848.

The city became a trading center for miners who needed clothing and equipment to work the gold fields. Many of Old Sacramento’s historic buildings were constructed during this period , and the neighborhood’s major attractions still pay homage to its past as a pivotal Gold Rush town.

When Was Old Town Sacramento Built?

Before Sacramento’s levee system was created, the area was prone to flooding. Over time, Sacramento’s main commercial district moved east, and the area known as Old Sacramento suffered from neglect and urban decay.

By the 1960s, it had become a dangerous and derelict area that was a common talking point for local politicians and civic leaders. In the same decade, plans began to materialize to convert Old Town Sacramento into a living history center, similar to Colonial Williamsburg.

Several historic buildings were preserved and reconstructed, while others that couldn’t be saved were demolished. In 1966, Old Sacramento was designated a National Historic Landmark District, which features 53 historic buildings within about 28 acres.

What Time Does Old Sacramento Open?

The area is open 24 hours per day, and residents can visit Old Sacramento, California, whenever they please. However, the district’s businesses, museums, and restaurants have their own specific hours of operation.

Most of the shops in Old Sacramento open around 10 am and close in the early evening. Most of the Old Town Sacramento restaurants are open for lunch and dinner, and some even provide after-hours entertainment.

The Old Sacramento State Historic Park is open from 9:30 am to 5 pm, seven days a week. So, if you’re searching for fun things to do in Old Sacramento, make sure to research the opening hours of the specific attraction you’re interested in.

What to Do in Old Sacramento? | Old Sacramento Shops, Attractions and Entertainment

Visitors will find a wide variety of fun things to do in Old Sacramento, from history museums to mini golf. There are more than 50 stores in Old Sacramento, CA, selling everything from jewelry to antiques and collectibles.

Threadeco is a trendy clothing boutique selling eco-friendly fashion. Movie buffs should check out Stage Nine Entertainment , a memorabilia store dedicated to cartoons, animations, movies, TV, and pop culture. The General Store is one of the most popular Old Sacramento stores and sells fun souvenirs and apparel to commemorate your trip.

The Old Sacramento Trading Post is another fun spot selling handcrafted gifts and products from local artisans. In addition to shopping, here is an in-depth look at what to do in Old Sacramento.

Old Sacramento State Historic Park

The historic park covers about one-third of the neighborhood and features several Gold Rush-era buildings, including the Eagle Theater, the BF Hastings Building, and the Big Four Building.

111 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 445-7387

Sacramento History Museum

Located within the historic park, the Sacramento History Museum is dedicated to documenting and interpreting the city’s history through interactive exhibits, images, artifacts, and more.

101 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 808-7059

Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is a pleasant green space along the riverfront with a 65-foot Ferris wheel, a carousel, and other kid-friendly attractions.

1240 Sacramento River Bike Trail, Sacramento, CA 95814

Atrium 916 is an art gallery, cafe, and innovation space dedicated to promoting sustainability and creativity . With regular events, showcases, and networking events, it’s one of the best things to do in Old Sacramento, CA, for aspiring creatives.

1020 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 642-9415

Underground Mini Golf

Underground Mini Golf is a unique 18-hole miniature golf course with a gold-rush theme located in one of the underground tunnels beneath Sacramento.

1028 2nd St, Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 312-4142

Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club

Laughs Unlimited is a local staple that hosts established and well-known comedians and live music.

1207 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 446-8128

Old Sacramento Events & Experiences | Tours, Cruises and Christmas Events

In addition to permanent attractions, visitors can participate in some fun recurring events in old Sacramento . Here are a few regular events in Old Sac and things to do nearby.

City Cruises

City Cruises by Hornblower offers a 1.5-hour cocktail cruise of the Sacramento River with different packages available, including a history cruise with live narration by the captain.

1206 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 446-1185

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Excursion Train Rides

The California State Railroad Museum operates regular train excursions where you can chug along the Sacramento Southern Railroad behind an authentic Granite Rock No. 10 steam locomotive.

1050 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814

Old Sacramento Underground Tours

The local historical society offers regular Sacramento old-town underground tours. On these tours, you will explore the seedy underbelly of Old Sacramento and learn about the real-life rascals who frequented the area. You will also explore its Gold Rush-era saloons, gambling parlors, and theaters after dark.

Theater of Lights

The Theater of Lights is a free Old Sacramento Christmas that includes a reading of Twas the Night Before Christmas from the rooftops of one of the area’s historic buildings.

1002 2nd St, Sacramento, CA 95814

Where to Eat in Old Sacramento | Old Town Sacramento Dining Options

If you’re feeling a bit peckish, you’ll find plenty of great restaurants in Old Sacramento, CA . There are more than 20 restaurants and bars in Old Sacramento serving everything from seafood to fine dining. Here are a few spots to check out in Old Town Sacramento for food.

V’s Paradise

V’s Paradise is a fine dining restaurant and premium steakhouse serving sophisticated menu items like Wagyu short rib and pan-seared duck breast.

1001 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 888-8800

Pilothouse Restaurant at the Delta King Hotel

If you’re looking for Sacramento restaurants on the river, Pilothouse at the Delta Bar and Hotel is an upscale eatery in a historic riverboat serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with amazing views of the water.

1000 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 441-4440

Honey and the Trap Cat

Honey and the Trap Cat is another great Old Sacramento bar and restaurant serving craft cocktails and classic American cuisine with a twist.

1023 Front St A, Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 661-5852

Where to Park in Old Sacramento

Parking in Old Sacramento, CA, is often a concern. Two-hour metered parking is available all over Sacramento’s old town waterfront seven days a week from 10 am to 10 pm. Free parking is also available on select days during the holiday season.

You can also park in a surface-level lot between Front and L Streets, which is accessible through Firehouse Alley. Alternatively, there are two parking garages available.

The Old Sacramento Garage is on I-Street between 2nd and 3rd. The weekend prepay rate is $10 to $15 on Friday from 3 pm to close and all day Saturday and Sunday. Some businesses will even validate parking.

The Tower Bridge Garage is on Capital Blvd at Neasham Circle. Weekend prepay rates are $10-$15 on Friday and Saturday from 3 pm to close (Sunday as well if Monday is a holiday).

You can visit SacPark.org for more info on parking in downtown and old Sacramento.

Tips for Visiting Old Town Sacramento

• Arrive as early as possible to find good parking, especially on days with popular old sac events.
• Weekdays tend to be less crowded, although not all the popular events and tours will be running. The busiest days are Thursday afternoon through Sunday evening.
• You can find a list of ATM locations and public restrooms on the official Old Sacramento website.

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9 Best Things To Do on the Old Sacramento Waterfront

The Old Sacramento River’s eastern banks are where you’re heading for this adventure.

February 15, 2024

Only a few minutes away from Sacramento’s sleek, modern Golden 1 Center, the Old Sacramento Waterfront stands as a time capsule of sorts. Its wooden sidewalks serpent around 19th-century buildings, providing a glance into the Gold Rush you can’t experience anywhere else in California—not at this concentration at least. The Old Sacramento River’s eastern banks are where you’re heading for this adventure .

Gold Fever: The History of the Old Sacramento Waterfront 

When glittering nuggets of gold were discovered in the Sierra Foothills , a hell-bent tide of fortune-hunters raced as fast as they could to the Gold Country . Sailing as far as they could up from San Francisco Bay east on the Old Sacramento River, the gold-hungry pioneers pulled up at the furthest point they could given that they were in their sailing ships. A town sprang up seemingly overnight, with a slew of buildings constructed out of leftover ship timbers and sails—this was the birth of Old Town Sacramento. And today, on those same sycamore-shaded banks of the Old Sacramento River, you too can get a sense of those years ; only now you can do so at a 28-acre National Historic Landmark.

Old Sacramento Waterfront Things to Do

1. travel back in time at old sacramento state historic park.

Completely blocked off to street traffic, this section of the Old Sacramento Waterfront preserves the time when the Pony Express and the First Transcontinental Railroad were active within the town. Old Sacramento State Historic Park is a beauty to behold, with the exterior walls of the historic Eagle Theater still intact, constructions of canvas and wood taken from ships, and the 1855 Huntington-Hopkins Hardware store full of fun trinkets from the bygone era.

2. Explore the Delta King

Step back in time and experience the charm of early 20th-century river travel with a modern twist at a unique hotel and dining spot, anchored along the picturesque banks of Old Sacramento. This splendid 1927 riverboat, which once ferried passengers between San Francisco and Sacramento, now invites visitors to immerse themselves in its beautifully preserved decor. Guests can enjoy a cozy overnight stay in rooms that boast a nautical flair, making for an unforgettable experience. For those on a tighter schedule, the boat houses two delightful eateries. The Pilothouse offers an upscale dining experience, while the Delta Bar and Grill presents a laid-back setting perfect for savoring a standout American Kobe burger among other culinary delights.

3. Pop by the California State Railroad Museum

Nestled within the Old Sacramento Historic State Park, the California State Railroad Museum may appear unassuming from the outside, but it houses an extraordinary journey through the golden era of train travel. This expansive space is home to over 40 impressive locomotives and railcars, capturing the essence of luxury travel before the advent of modern ride-sharing services. Highlights include the colossal Southern Pacific Railroad Cab Forward Number 4294 and a dynamic sleeping car exhibit that replicates the sensation of overnight rail travel. The museum's upper level enchants visitors, especially children, with a captivating display of model trains navigating through a miniature landscape filled with towns, bridges, and tunnels, offering a delightful experience for the entire family.

4. Take the Underground Tour at the Sacramento History Museum

In response to catastrophic floods during the 1850s and 1860s, Sacramento's pioneering residents undertook the remarkable task of elevating the city's streets by up to 20 feet. Today, the Sacramento History Museum offers an intriguing Underground Tour, where knowledgeable guides lead visitors through the remnants of the old cityscape, including eerie hollow sidewalks and hidden underground areas. Admission to the tour also grants access to the museum itself, which is a treasure trove of information on Sacramento's vibrant Gold Rush era. Among its many fascinating exhibits, the third floor proudly displays a collection of gold valued at half a million dollars, showcasing the city's rich historical legacy.

5. Shop at Brook’s Novelty Antiques 

While a good portion of Old Town Sac proffers in Gold Rush romance, Brook’s Novelty Antiques is a timewarp to a pre-Spotify era when record stores were an essential component of a trendy neighborhood . Located on Firehouse Alley, this hidden gem brims with bins of jazz, soul, and classic rock. You can also find a small collection of vintage Americana; keep an eye out for jukeboxes, pinballs, and slot machines.

6. Wander ARound Evangeline’s Costume Mansion

Ever wished it was Halloween all year long? Well, one of the best things you can do in Old Sacramento is visiting Evangeline’s Costume Mansion , a goth palace filled with every costume and accessory imaginable. Wander around the many themed rooms spread across two buildings; one of them is the 1853 Lady Adams Building built of brick ballast from a namesake ship and the other is the show-stopping three-story Murder and Mayhem scavenger hunt. Participants in the latter experience are sent into a manor to learn about the most notorious murders in history.

7. Lunch at the Firehouse Restaurant

Nestled within a historic 1853 firehouse, the Firehouse Restaurant is a gem of fine dining, known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional cuisine. Since opening its doors as a restaurant in 1960, this venue has charmed guests with its museum-quality Gold Rush-era artwork adorning the walls, creating a backdrop of unparalleled sophistication. The menu, featuring exquisite dishes like herb-crusted rack of lamb, is matched by impeccable service that elevates the dining experience to a first-class level. The restaurant's blend of historical allure and culinary excellence makes it a must-visit destination at the Old Sacramento Waterfront. For an even more enchanting experience, guests can dine in the outdoor courtyard, where the serene sound of a fountain complements the exquisite meal.

8. Dine at Fanny Ann’s Saloon

Drawing inspiration from the storied 1842 steamship that played a role in the Civil War, Fanny Ann's Saloon offers a unique blend of history and hospitality. This establishment is a treasure trove of memorabilia, with walls and ceilings adorned with an eclectic mix of artifacts, some of which are said to have been salvaged from the very ship it's named after. Despite its compact kitchen, the saloon impresses with a remarkable menu that celebrates the region's farm-to-fork offerings. Among its hearty pub fare, the standout Jiffy Burger—a creative concoction topped with peanut butter and bacon—stands as a must-try, alongside other favorites like burgers and wings, ensuring a culinary experience as memorable as the saloon's rich historical backdrop.

9. Hike the Sacramento Waterfront Trail

The Sacramento Waterfront will always remain one of the state capital’s best walking trails. The year-round wander encircles the banks of the Sacramento River, boasting multiple Instagram-worthy angles of the nearby pedestrian bridges—stunning mountainous landscapes reflecting in blue waters are guaranteed to flow all the heart reacts.

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Unveiling the Past: Exploring Old Sacramento’s Rich History on a Walking Tour

Old Sacramento , nestled along the banks of the mighty Sacramento River , is a living testament to the rich history of California ‘s capital city. With its cobblestone streets, preserved buildings, and nostalgic ambiance, this historic district offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the past.

Embarking on a SacTown walking tour of Old Sacramento is a fascinating way to immerse yourself in the region’s history. We’ll explore historic sights on our walking tour, from Gold Rush-era landmarks to captivating museums and charming shops. Here are merely 8 of the many places you can visit with our Old Sacramento walking tour .

Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum

Step back in time at the Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum, the city’s oldest surviving school building. Immerse yourself in the 19th-century classroom experience as you browse through the authentic furnishings and learn about education during the Gold Rush era. Knowledgeable docents bring the history to life, providing insights into the challenges and triumphs of early education in California.

The B.F. Hastings Building

Admire the architectural splendor of the B.F. Hastings Building, an iconic structure that served as the western terminus of the Pony Express in the mid-1800s. Today, the building houses unique shops and boutiques, allowing visitors to explore its rich history while indulging in some retail therapy.

Experience the Gold Rush

Delve deeper into the city’s past at the Sacramento History Museum , where engaging exhibits and interactive displays shed light on Sacramento’s role as a commercial and cultural hub during the Gold Rush. Learn about the city’s diverse heritage, from the Native American presence to the arrival of European settlers , and discover the stories of the individuals who shaped Sacramento’s history.

Old Sacramento Waterfront

Stroll along the Old Sacramento Waterfront, where you can experience the charm of the past while enjoying modern amenities. Admire the beautifully preserved storefronts and take in the views of the Sacramento River. Indulge in delicious dining options, browse unique boutiques, and savor sweet treats from candy stores that evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Marvel at the majestic Delta King, a historic riverboat-turned-hotel docked on the Sacramento River. Step aboard to explore its elegant interiors, filled with Art Deco accents and reminders of its glamorous past. Take a moment to imagine the bustling riverfront of the past as you soak in the stunning views from the deck.

California State Railroad Museum

At the California State Railroad Museum, you will visit a captivating institution dedicated to preserving the state’s railway history . Explore the exhibits showcasing beautifully restored locomotives and learn about the crucial role of the railroad during the Gold Rush and the development of California. You can later explore the opportunity to take a ride on the Sacramento Southern Railroad, a vintage steam train that offers scenic excursions along the riverfront.

Eagle Theatre

Make your way to the Eagle Theatre, one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in California. This small and intimate venue transports visitors to the era of melodramas and vaudeville performances. Catch a live show or simply admire the beautifully restored architecture of this historic gem.

Big Four House

Visit the Big Four House, a remarkable relic of Sacramento’s early days and once the residence of the “Big Four” railroad barons— Collis Huntington , Leland Stanford , Mark Hopkins , and Charles Crocker . Learn about their influential role in shaping the development of California’s railway network, which propelled the state’s growth and prosperity.

SacTown Bites

With SacTown Bites , you will discover Old Sacramento with great photo opportunities over our 2 -hour tour , learning about the Gold Rush and Sacramento’s history of fire and flood. You will also experience delicious food tastings at 5 to 6 stops and feel like you had a full meal by the end of the tour.

Each guest will walk approximately 1.1 miles , with periods of standing. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as Old Sacramento has cobblestone streets, wooden sidewalks, and uneven surfaces. This tour is not recommended for people with walkers or have difficulty with balance or walking. Of note, vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free and allergies can be accommodated. Please contact us before your tour.

If you’re ready to experience Old Sacramento like the locals, call us at (916) 905-0031 to speak with our guides or book your next tour online!

• Walking Tour
• Old Sacramento's Rich History
• User All ages
• Hour Glass 2.5 hours

Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour

Walk along the very cobble stoned streets of historic figures such as General Sherman, Ulysses S. Grant and John Sutter while hearing about the harrowing history of the state Capital. Enjoy several food stops along the way on this guided food tour.

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Heather Greenwood Davis and her son, Cameron, ride electric bikes around historic Old Sacramento.

A Tour of Old Sacramento

The original part of the city captivates a new generation of visitors.

Benjamin Franklin Hastings takes out a cloth and wipes his brow. He sticks it back into his waistcoat pocket and then motions for me and my 11-year-old son, Cameron, to follow him.

And despite the fact that Mr. Hastings died in 1882, we do.

Our Mr. Hastings is actually a costumed actor played by Curtis Carroll as part of the Old Sacramento Underground Tour run out of the Sacramento History Museum . At first, the idea of heading underground to see the city seemed counterintuitive.

Old Sacramento was the original heart of the city when it was developed alongside the gold rush in the late 1840s; it later became the last stop going west on the Pony Express. The buildings, museums, ice-cream parlors, and train depot maintain the look and feel of that era. Historical markers make it easy to explore the 53 historic buildings, horse-drawn carriages offer quick tours of the streetscapes, and the continued development of the American River Parkway bicycle trail offers cyclists of all abilities a chance to explore the waterfront on two wheels. (We did just that on Pedego electric bikes that morning before the sun got too hot to pedal.)

Old Sacramento is a convenient spot to access numerous bike trails.

There's also another surprising part of Sacramento to explore its history. In the 1800s, locals built a series of corridors and chambers that are about nine feet tall and run under the downtown core. You can’t simply climb down some stairs to get in here. You need someone in the know. We have Mr. Hastings.

With his mass of keys, he unlocks hidden doors and hallways as we take a tour back through time. Along the way he stays in character, sharing his own story (including his long journey to the area and eventual launch of his own bank on J Street, making him one of the first bankers in Sacramento and one of earliest in the state) and those of his equally progressive neighbors.

“[A woman] operated a business here for nearly 20 years—and on a family-friendly tour, I can only describe it as an overnight entertainment emporium,” Mr. Hastings says. “She was very successful. “

As we tour, Cameron remains enthralled, at times wandering ahead or lingering behind to look at some artifact or another. I’m equally captivated.

Mr. Hastings shares details that will impress a history buff, but he also offers a kid-friendly introduction to a side of the gold rush that is about more than just pans and pails.

He engages Cameron in a discussion about what it would have been like to live during that time and shares facts like the historic divorce of Samuel Brannan and his wife. Brannan was a prominent Mormon and the founder of San Francisco’s first newspaper. He lost a record (at the time) 50 percent of his assets to his soon-to-be ex-wife. To pay the cash-only divorce settlement, Brannan had to liquidate most of his real estate holdings and went bankrupt. That gets Cameron and me talking about feminist history and why California’s laws allowing women to own land and run businesses were unusual at that time.

We also see a model of Mr. Hastings’s bank and take turns twisting the tiny levers and building the Jenga-like jack system that saved the city.

Students from local Cosumnes River College have worked over the years to uncover the life stories of those who once lived here. Through their Archaeological Working Lab they’ve uncovered artifacts (including weighted dice and old newspapers) and assisted in the creation of new displays that help fill in the stories of the lives that were lived here.

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The history on its own is interesting enough, but as Mr. Hastings takes us on the hour-long tour through the passageways under the city’s historic buildings, you can’t help but feel like you’re getting an exclusive extra. It feels a little bit like following the white rabbit in Alice in Wonderland, without the threat of the Queen of Hearts lurking around the corner.

If You Have More Time

Explore the Crocker Art Museum : The first public art museum founded in the western United States showcases California art and offers special programs geared to kids (infant and up).

Take in a Sacramento River Cats baseball game: The Triple-A Sacramento River Cats are local favorites. Tickets are inexpensive and a focus on locally sourced food at the stadium means you don’t have to stick to hot dogs and popcorn while you watch. The Kids’ Zone offers a fun way to stretch your legs when little ones get restless.

Heather and Cameron watch the Sacramento River Cats play baseball at Raley Field.

Explore Sacramento’s foodie movement: The city has been pushing a farm-to-fork lifestyle for a while now and the result is no shortage of great places to eat. Don’t miss Bacon and Butter . The small eatery tucked into a short strip plaza in a suburban neighborhood has perfect brunch written all over it. Pop in for strawberry and rhubarb flapjacks, chicken and waffles, or pork belly bánh mi.

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• Excursion Train Rides

Excursion trains are back!

California State Parks and the California State Railroad Museum Foundation invested a combined $1.8 million toward the replacement of approximately 1,000 feet of mainline south of Capitol Mall along the Old Sacramento Waterfront in the summer of 2023. With the work complete and the main line reopened, we are rolling into our 40th anniversary season!

Ticket Information

COACH Adult: $18. Youth (6-17): $10. Child (under 6): Free. Members: Free

FIRST CLASS (available Saturdays and Sundays)

Adult: $28. Youth (6-17): $18. Child (under 6): Free. Members: Adult: $15, Youth (6-17): $12

Buy Tickets Here

Additional Information

Tickets may be purchased or picked up from the Central Pacific Passenger Station at the corner of Front and J streets in Old Sacramento. Click here for a google maps link.

Accessibility

Due to the historic nature of the coaches, all passengers must be able to climb a narrow set of stairs to board the coaches. Due to limited aisle widths, wheelchairs, mobility devices, and strollers are not permitted on the coaches. Temporary storage for devices is provided at the passenger station. Should you have any questions regarding accessibility, please call the Membership Office at (916) 445-5995.

Ride In First Class Style

Enjoy a scenic, 50-minute ride along the Sacramento River and sit back in luxury and air-conditioned comfort as you are served refreshments in first class style. Each operating day we will be pulling one of our three elegant first class cars. Learn about our first class cars below.

The El Dorado

This handsome 1920s lounge car offers large windows and comfortable seating. The car is divided into two sections select either the Parlor or Lounge. Passengers in both locations are free to move about the car and step off onto the observation platform for a beautiful view of the Sacramento River.

The French Quarter

This beautifully restored car was inspired by the New Orleans French Quarter, with wrought iron balconies and a “Sunset pink” painted ceiling studded with stars. Complete with its own serving bar, the French Quarter has large windows and a variety of seating combinations including four small dining table booths for seating of four guests; settees and lounge-style chairs.

The Audubon Dining Car

The Dining Car is known as the “Audubon” because of the hand-painted reproductions of bird illustrations by the artist/naturalist John James Audubon. Groups of four passengers are seated around a small dining table.

About The Sacramento Southern Railroad

Since 1984, more than one million guests have taken a ride aboard the Sacramento Southern Railroad, served by all-volunteer crews fully trained and certified under Federal Railroad Administration regulations. Each spring, the Sacramento Southern Railroad takes center stage as visitors enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of authentic locomotives as they roll along the levees of the Sacramento River. Appealing to all ages, the experience offers guests the chance to experience train travel from an earlier era.

Perhaps the most dynamic way to experience railroading is to actually ride a train, as many visitors to the California State Railroad Museum can attest. Since 1982, excursion trains have been a popular offering along the Sacramento waterfront and a rewarding activity for those involved in the myriad, related tasks of construction and refurbishment, operation and maintenance. But what has it taken to get to this point, and where does the name "Sacramento Southern Railroad" come from anyway?

Click here to read about the history of the Sacramento Southern Railroad

You can find some of our Frequently Asked Questions below:

Adults - $18, Youth (6-17 years old) - $10, Child (5 years and under) – Ride for Free

Members ride Coach Cars for Free

Member Adults - $15, Member Youth (6-17 years old) - $12, Member Child (5 years and under) – Ride for Free

Catholic artifact touring Sacramento-area churches

(FOX40.COM) — A Catholic artifact that has been touring the United States is currently making stops at Sacramento-area churches , according to the Diocese of Sacramento.

A relic of Saint Jude Thaddeus, one of the 12 apostles of Jesus, is on view in the Diocese of Sacramento from August 12 to August 16.

• St. Catherine of Sienna Parish in Vallejo
• St. Rose Parish in Sacramento
• St. Joseph Parish in Redding
• St. Clare of Assisi Parish in Roseville

More information about each stop can be found on the diocese’s event flyer .

The tour is being produced by Treasures of the Church, a US-based non-profit.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40.

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By submitting this form, you are granting: Sacramento History Museum, 101 I Street, Sacramento, California, 95814, United States, http://sachistorymuseum.org permission to email you. You may unsubscribe via the link found at the bottom of every email. (See our Email Privacy Policy for details.) Emails are serviced by Constant Contact.

The Sacramento History Museum is located in the heart of Historic Old Sacramento.  We are located next to the beautiful Sacramento River and two buildings away from the California State Railroad Museum.  We are also minutes away from fine and family dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Sacramento History Museum 101 I Street, Old Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 808-7059

Download Old Sacramento map

Regular Museum Hours: Open Monday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please note we accept our last admission at 4:30 p.m.

Holiday Hours: The Sacramento History Museum will be closed on the following holidays:

• Thanksgiving
• Christmas Eve
• Christmas Day
• New Year’s Day 

Admission Prices: Sacramento History Museum Members – FREE Adults (18+) – $12.00 Youth (6-17) – $6.00 Children (0-5) – FREE

Please call our front desk to confirm admission, hours, and special events.

Payment Options: We accept the following forms of payment:  cash, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.

The Sacramento History Museum is proud to be part of Museums For All, an initiative of the Institute of Library and Museum Services to make museums accessible to all. Present your SNAP EBT card and photo ID for free Museum admission for up to four people. 

Accessibility: The Sacramento History Museum is accessible to persons with disabilities.  Wherever possible, access to exhibits is facilitated by elevator and ADA accessible aisle width.  Additional assistance may be available upon request from our friendly staff.  Please call our front desk for more information at (916) 808-7059.

Watch CBS News

ISIS and al Qaeda material found at home of second suspect in foiled Taylor Swift concert attack

Updated on: August 8, 2024 / 7:57 PM EDT / CBS/AP

Authorities found Islamic State group and al Qaeda material at the home of the second suspect in a foiled plot to attack the Taylor Swift Eras Tour shows in Austria, which were canceled on Wednesday. No other suspects are being sought, Interior Minister Gerhard Karner said in Vienna on Thursday.

"The situation was serious, the situation is serious. But we can also say: A tragedy was prevented," Karner said.

The second suspect, a 17-year-old Austrian citizen with Turkish and Croatian roots, was arrested by special police forces near the stadium where the concerts were supposed to take place this week, Austrian security authorities said. A 19-year-old Austrian was also arrested. 

Austrian security officials alleged the two young men — whose names were not released in line with Austrian privacy rules — wanted to commit an attack outside the stadium, killing as many people as possible using knives or self-made explosives.

The main suspect, a 19-year-old Austrian with North Macedonian roots, fully confessed his attack plans, the security officials said at a press conference in Vienna. They also said he was "clearly radicalized in the direction of the Islamic State and thinks it is right to kill infidels."

The second suspect was employed a few days ago by a facility company providing services at the venue during the concerts. Investigators said they found extensive material related to ISIS and al Qaeda at his home.

A CBS News analysis of ISIS propaganda from the last six months showed the group promoted attacks on targets in Europe, particularly sports stadiums. In posts throughout the spring and summer of 2024, ISIS-K, the Afghan branch of ISIS, encouraged followers to target stadiums in London, Madrid, and Paris, as they host large gatherings including the Olympic Games, football games, and concerts. 

Lucas Webber of the Soufan Center told CBS News in an interview that the group often ramps up its propaganda before large events.

Europol said it took down one of the group's other propaganda networks in June, in coordination with the FBI. "They were used to disseminate worldwide propaganda and messages capable of inciting terrorism in at least thirty languages," Europol said.

The cancellations of three sold-out concerts this week devastated Swifties across the globe, many of whom had spent thousands of euros on travel and lodging in Austria's expensive capital city for the sold-out Eras Tour shows on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the Ernst Happel Stadium, which sat empty Thursday morning aside from media filming outside.

One social media user named Sarah wrote she had been "waiting to see taylor in my home country since i was 9 years old, i'm now 25... to have all this taken away by some men being so fueled by hatred for no reason at all makes me so beyond angry i can't put it into words."

Event organizer Barracuda Music said "all tickets will be automatically refunded within the next 10 business days." The same wording was posted under the Vienna dates on Swift's official website.

"I won't be able to see Taylor again with these resale prices so I am pretty devastated," another social media user named Caroline said . "This was supposed to be my 'you beat cancer' trip so losing it hurts."

Other fans in Vienna found moments of comfort together after the concerts were canceled.

"Thank you lovely church in #vienna that played Taylor swift songs the day of the first cancelled concert and gave lots of sad swifties a place to gather," social media user kristi hovington wrote , posting a video of fans in the church. "Thanks to the police for keeping us all safe!"

About 100 fans of all ages gathered on a Vienna street on Thursday to sing the Taylor Swift song "Long Live," which has the lyric "I'm not afraid." With some fans in tears, they exchanged friendship bracelets, and their singing could be heard from blocks away.

Some fans started looking for tickets to Taylor Swift's upcoming London performances, which are scheduled to take place between August 15th and August 20th.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said Thursday that U.K. officials had learned lessons from a 2017 attack during an Ariana Grande concert at northwest England's Manchester Arena in which a suicide bomber killed 22 people.

"I'm sure Vienna has got its own reasons to cancel the Taylor Swift concerts. We're going to carry on, working closely with police (and) ensuring that the Taylor Swift concerts can take place in London safely," Khan told U.K. broadcaster Sky News on Thursday.

Haley Ott , Eleanor Watson and Joanne Stocker contributed to this report.

• Taylor Swift

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