Scenic waterways channel around a few flashy skyscrapers of the Downtown Sacramento zone, which contains the city’s central business district. In addition to a great variety of restaurants, theaters and shops, the area has some of California’s most significant political and religious landmarks. Visit Downtown Sacramento to appreciate the essence of of the city in this eclectic cultural zone between the rivers.

Rising from the center of the district is the impressive white dome of the California State Capitol. Venture into the historic rooms and see where important political decisions are made. Enter the California State Capitol Museum for free and browse the paintings, murals and sculptures of the Capitol Collection. Take photos of the roses and memorials in Capitol Park.

Gaze up at the Italian Renaissance-style façade of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament and bring your kids to the family performances of the B Street Theatre.

For a change of scenery, head to the Downtown Commons, an open-air shopping center filled with entertainment venues and restaurants. The Golden 1 Center, part of the shopping mall, hosts all types of sports and music events.

Thoroughly appreciate Sacramento’s typically warm and sunny weather with a trip to its lovely parks. Get a sense of local culture and community in César Chávez Park, where many of the city’s concerts, political rallies and markets take place. A little east is McKinley Park, with a children’s playground, jogging trail and sports fields. Enjoy a picnic next to its pretty lake.

Downtown Sacramento is located between the areas of Midtown and West Sacramento. It is bordered on the north by the American River and on the west by the Sacramento River. Arrive at the Sacramento Valley Station and travel around the area by light rail and bus or on foot. You can also ride a direct bus from the Sacramento International Airport to get here in about 1 hour.