20 Things to Do in Sacramento with Kids

Are you looking for the best things to do in Sacramento with kids?

Sacramento is the Golden State’s capital, yet one of the lesser traveled-to major cities in Northern California. That said, it’s a beautiful region that holds a special place in our family’s heart (it’s where Nathan grew up).

But since we’ve been back visiting his parents over the last few years, we’ve seen Sacramento through a new lens. No longer is it the place we go for Happy Hour and dinners like when we were first dating. It was now a place we needed to find kid-friendly activities that would (ideally) give us a few seconds of quiet to catch our breath.

That’s why, in this post, we’re going to share the best 20 things to do in Sacramento with kids. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in.

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A Few Things to Know When Planning a Trip to Sacramento With Kids

Book Your Flight to Sacramento or San Francisco

Find cheap flights to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) or San Francisco International Airport (SFO) by using Google Flights or Skyscanner. Those three search engine searches for different airlines deserving those two international airports, including some low-cost ones.

There are of course more options flying in San Francisco.

Book Your Accommodation in Sacramento

Booking.com is a great search engine for hotels and guesthouses in Sacramento. For campgrounds, check out The Dyrt app or Harvest Hosts.

Some nice hotel options for families in Sacramento are:

• Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront: This hotel is located in Old Sac, overlooking the Sacramento River. There is an indoor swimming pool and it offers a family fun package that includes free Wi-Fi, complimentary hot breakfast and a 50 percent discount for a Sunday stay.
• Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown-Arena: This hotel is next to the city’s new Golden 1 Center, home of the Sacramento Kings basketball team. It offers free meals for kids. Plus, there is an outdoor heated pool located on the fourth-floor deck.

Rent Your Car or Campervan

It’s best to have a car when visiting Sacramento, especially if you’re flying in San Francisco. DiscoverCars is a good search engine for car rentals. 

Outdoorsy and Escape Campervans are great for RV and campervan rental, from San Francisco and even Sacramento.

Book Your Tours in Sacramento

Viator and Get Your Guide are two great hubs for finding fun tours in Sacramento, such as a historic gold rush river cruise or an Old Sacramento Scavenger hunt.

Download a Few Apps to Help You Plan

The AllTrails app is a great resource for up-to-date trail reports. The GoWhee app is the perfect app for finding fun kid-friendly activities.

Still Need Help Planning Your Itinerary

Let me help you plan your custom itinerary.

Things to Do in Sacramento With Kids

We have created this list of 20+ fun things to do in Sacramento with kids, along with some day trip ideas. You can scroll down or use the table of content below:

1. Sacramento Zoo

The Sacramento Zoo may not be as big as the San Diego Zoo, but kids will definitely enjoy their time anyway. There are now more than 400 animals to see, from reptiles to mammals. There is even a dinosaurs exhibit.

Plan on half a day to explore all the different sections of the zoo. There is also a playground and picnic tables for snack and lunch breaks.

2. Fairy Tale Town in Sacramento

Recommended by Cynthia from Sharing the Wander

Fairytale Town in Sacramento is a non-profit playground themed around various nursery rhymes and fairytales. It is located in Land Park, right across from the Sacramento Zoo. A yellow brick road leads to the low stone entrance at Humpty-Dumpty’s bridge. Once inside, kids can climb inside Cinderella’s pumpkin carriage or run through King Arthur’s castle.

There are 26 different play areas, mostly made of painted concrete. The play stations are really creative – from a slide down from Owl’s House in Pooh Corner, to running along the crooked mile.

When you pay your admission fee, you can get a story box key for a $20 deposit, $17 of which is refundable when you return the key. When inserted into story boxes around the park, the keys start a song or story.

We found that only some of the boxes worked, and often the kids didn’t have the patience to stay and listen to the ones that did. (But that’s our little guys, and we see kids with more patience often enjoying them 🙂  ).

There are also some barnyard animals at Fairytale Town- including “three little pigs”, a donkey, and a small Scottish Highland calf. 

Fairytale Town is fantastic for kids 2-6: it is a safe, enclosed space with lots of room for their imaginations to run wild. We even saw quite a few kids celebrating 4th and 5th birthdays here. 

If you’re heading west on I-80 towards the San Francisco area and looking for other family activities in Sacramento, stop at the Jelly Belly Factory Store. About an hour outside Sacramento, it makes a sweet, family-friendly stop!

3. Old Sacramento

When I first visited Old Sacramento, I started calling it Cowboy town. And it stuck with me. Every time we visit the family back in Sacramento, you’ll ask, “Are we going to Cowboy town?”

From restaurants by the waterfront to old candy stores, there is a lot to do in Old Sacramento. And if you don’t shop too much, it’s one of the great free things to do in Sacramento.

You can park in the garage parking lot or directly in the Old Sac streets (paid parking).

Make sure to stop at Angelica to try some new costumes. And why not do an underground guided tour of the railroads the run beneath the city?

When you’re done, you can return to the surface and grab some taffy from The Candy Barrel. Nathan still remembers coming here as a kid with his parents when their family would make trips to that part of town.  

The Old Town is part of the California Historical Sites. Old town Sacramento has many things to do to learn about California history such as visiting the old town school, the old hardware store and the historical museum.

4. California State Railroad Museum

Located just at the corner of the historic Old town, the California State Railroad Museum gives tribute to the role of the “iron horse” that helped connect California to the rest of the country.

If you’re a train-loving family, then it’s the thing to do with kids in Sacramento. Kids will enjoy the museum.

The museum features 20+ restored locomotives and cars dating back to 1862. There is also a kids’ play zone and a huge automated train set. Our kids loved it.

The Museum is a great place to start your California gold rush curriculum. The California State Railroad Museum also offers train excursions from April to September. It’s a 45-minute ride along the Sacramento River.

5. Nimbus Flat State Park / Lake Natomas

On a hot summer day, Nimbus Flat State Park on Lake Natomas is the place to be and one of the cool things to do in Sacramento in the summer.

You’ll find a great sandy beach and a calm lake at Nimbus Flat to enjoy water sports. We did some paddle boarding with the kids, but you can also kayak or enjoy the water. 

Some areas have trees, but not everywhere is shaded, so bring sunscreen. They also have restrooms that are good for changing or emergencies with your kids. Next door is the water sports center where you can rent some water equipment.

Because it’s a state recreational area, a $10,00 parking fee is valid all day.

6. Quarry Park

If you are looking for outdoor activities in Sacramento and a day packed with adrenaline for your kids, Quarry Park is the place to go.

Located in Rocklin, Quarry Park offers plenty of adventure activities for all the family. The Quarry Kids Kove is made for kids from 3 years old to 13 years old, where they can run free and climb. With more than 30 different activities from climbing nets to zip lines and balance beams, your kids will have a lot of fun.

It costs $15.00 per child for a 1.5-hour session. Parents do not pay to enter.

7. Stock Ranch Natural Preserve

In the suburbs of Sacramento, in Citrus Heights, you’ll find a hidden natural gem and an easy hike for the family.

It’s hard to believe that it’s next to a Costco.

But I promise you, you won’t feel like you’re in a commercial district once you enter the Natural Preserve.

There is a boardwalk with some interpretive signs and a few trails. There is also a kids’ playground. When wandering in the park, you’ll probably see a few wild turkeys walking around.

8. Folsom Lake – Negro Beach

Negro Bar in Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is another great place to cool off during the summer months. There is a boat launch where you can depart for kayaking or paddleboarding. With little kids, the boat launch is not ideal as there is no place to chill between paddle sessions. 

But if you park at the main parking lot and walk along the trail, you’ll reach a lovely little beach. Kids can play in the water and on the rocks. They even have some life jackets for day use if you forgot yours. Plus, the view of the bridge is also beautiful, but make sure you pack a lunch.

There is a $10,00 parking fee to enter the Folsom SRA.

9. Old Folsom

Old Folsom is a great place to spend an afternoon. There is a nice central plaza with restaurants and little shops. In the center, you’ll find a reconstruction of a turntable used to turn locomotives. It was built in 1867 and is a fun history to share with the kids. 

From there, you can walk around the old town and find a few fun things to do in Folsom with kids such as visiting one of the museums:

• Pioneer Village
• Railroad Museum
• History Museum

Those are all great kids’ activities in Folsom.

There are live concerts in the amphitheatre on Thursday evenings during the summer months.

A short walk from the historic downtown, you’ll reach the Waterfront trail, where you can walk along the lake. There is also access to the lake if you want to go swimming, paddle boarding, or kayaking. 

10. Sacramento Children’s Museum

This is a great thing to do indoors in Sacramento with younger kids. The Sacramento Children’s Museum is designed especially for kids from birth to 8 years old (but ideal for toddlers). Right at the entrance, outside, you’ll find a big second-hand book library (pick one-leave-one principle) and a few chairs where the kids can read books.

Inside, the Sac Kids’ museum is separated into activity sections where kids can play and learn through sensory activities. 

11. Galleria Mall Playground & Train Ride

This isn’t your common “things to do with kids in Sacramento” type of activity, but you’ll love it anyhow. 

The Galleria Mall in Roseville is the perfect mall for families, including playgrounds and kids’ activities. 

There is one indoor playground, but the coolest is outside, on the main level by the food court. The playground is in the middle of the restaurant’s outdoor patio and has some shade. Kids will have so much fun playing (while you sit down with a quiet cup of coffee).

There is also a train where you can board and do a small tour around the court and playground. 

12. Sutter Fort State Historic Park

Sutter Fort State Historic Park dates from the 19th century. It was a fort during the colonial trade time in the Mexican Alta California province. The fort was established in 1839 when California was still part of Mexico. But it’s also where James Marshall called John Sutter to discuss the discovery of gold.

The kids will love this living museum, where they’ll see old buildings and tools. I know my kids love outdoor living museums. Make sure to ask questions to the staff to learn more about what happened in the fort during the 19th and 20th century. Outside the fort, there is a nice green park where you can have lunch. You can also walk around and see ducks in the pond.

13. California State Capitol

Did you know that Sacramento was the capital of California? And that each state capitol has its own Capitol? Sacramento is no exception.

The Capitol shows the complete history of the state of California. Inside the Capitol, there’s a museum and a section that is open to the general public. You’ll find some statutes, portraits of former governors, and additional exhibits. Plus, it’s a nice walk straight to tower bridge.

The Capitol Museum offers a free guided tour of the Capitol Park on Sundays. But you can also walk around only with your family. The gardens are beautiful and filled with roses, lavender, and orange trees.

14. MOSAC (Museum of Science and Curiosity)

The Museum of Science and Curiosity is a brand-new museum in town. It’s an interactive and kids-oriented science center. It’s made for kids to learn science through hands-on exhibits.

Throughout the exhibits, kids will discover math, engineering, arts and so much more. In all fairness, we haven’t gone to this one personally, but we’re excited to try next time we visit Nathan’s parents. 

15. Wacky Tacky

Oh boy was this one a miracle. It’s not quite in Sacramento but in one of the surrounding areas in Roseville. Wacky Tacky Roseville is an indoor playground for kids, so it’s perfect year-round.

They have two sections, both for kids of all ages. One has a gun that shoots nerf balls into the center of the playing area, and there were more than a few parents taking shots at their little ones. 

But here’s where this place really saved the day: over the summer, Nathan was alone with the kids for 5 days.

The problem was that he had to work full-time, and we didn’t have childcare for the whole week. He took them to Wacky Tacky, found out they had WIFO, and got most of his day done in the 5 hours our kids play (without asking for anything). Two days later, they enjoyed it just as much and didn’t want to leave when it closed. 

If you’re a parent who needs a work day or just a few hours to relax, this is the place to try. 

Fun Day Trips from Sacramento With Kids

16. Upper Lake Clementine and Lower Lake Clementine

Clementine Lake is located a few miles east of Auburn. At the Lower Clementine Lake entrance, you’ll find the beautiful man-made Lake Clementine waterfall.

To reach the Lake Clementine waterfall, it’s only a short walk from the road (and parking lot). The trail leads to a viewpoint where you’ll have a beautiful view of the fall. You can continue walking down to a small boat launch where you could do some paddleboarding or kayaking.

We recommend driving to Upper Lake Clementine for access to the pebble beach. The $10.00 entrance fee is valid all-day for both the Lower and Upper sections. The Upper Lake Clementine beach is a great place to swim, play in the water, and do some paddleboarding.

💡Fun Fact 💡
When driving to Lake Clementine, you’ll drive on Foresthill Bridge, the highest in California and the 4th highest in the USA.

17. Hidden Falls Trail

Hidden Falls Regional Park is hidden between Lincoln and Auburn, somewhere in the valley. With its name, it’s a great hidden gems in Sacramento area.

On your way to the Hidden Falls regional park, you’ll pass a few wineries and breweries that are family-friendly (maybe on the way back would be wiser if you plan on hiking to the waterfalls…)

The Hidden Falls Trail is a 5.3-kilometre loop trail. It’s suitable for all levels and it leads to the hidden falls. The earlier in the season, the more likely you are to see more powerful water flow.

The waterfalls may be a bit dried out by August. Once at the waterfalls, you can picnic on the rocks and maybe cool off in the natural pool. The kids will also like to search for crayfish.

18. Auburn

Recommended by Sarah from Tiny Trailblazers

Auburn is the perfect day trip from Sacramento. It’s a charming Gold Rush town only a short 30-minute drive north of Sacramento’s downtown.

More than just a stop-off on the way to Lake Tahoe, the town is full of history, beautiful trails, and delicious food. There are a few kid-friendly things to do in Auburn, CA

Take a stroll down Sacramento St. to the historic old town Auburn, where you will find unique stores like Backcountry Jewelry, Rocks and Minerals. Packed full of gems and rocks, this caught the attention of my seven-year-old, who is fascinated by rocks.

Enjoy lunch at a family-friendly old-town eatery such as The Pour Choice, Auburn Alehouse Craft Brewery and Restaurant, or Old Town Pizza.

Next, learn more about the history of California’s Gold Rush at the Gold Rush Museum. The interactive museum features an indoor panning stream and mining tunnel. It’s ideal for fourth-graders studying this fascinating period.

In the afternoon, take a hike on one of the town’s many beautiful trails. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, go white water river rafting on the American River.

So don’t drive by Auburn. Stay awhile, and appreciate this Sierra gem.

19. Araceli Farms (Dixon, California)

Recommended by Kristina of Million Miler Mom

Nestled on six acres in the city of Dixon, in the greater Sacramento area, is a lovely women-only lavender farm called Araceli Farms. Visitors can explore the pristine rows of 7 varieties in mid-May and June each year. On these days, expect to see a flurry of guests enjoying the picnic areas, playing lawn games, buying lavender-infused products in the store and taking photos with a jaw dropping backdrop.

What to know:

• Tickets must be purchased in advance and are per person. Children 10 and under are free.
• A short visit will be around 30-45 minutes. If you pack a picnic lunch or snacks, you can spend closer to 1.5-2 hours here.
• The property is pretty much full sun so bring a hat and sunscreen. 
• The shop sells charcuterie boxes, lavender lemonade and other beverages but picnics are also welcome.
• The farm is NOT u-pick, however, you can purchase bundles in the shop.

20. Coloma

Coloma is a little further away from Sacramento (about 50 minutes to 1 hour away, so consider it a half or full-day trip from Sacramento), but it is worth the drive.

Coloma is home to the James Marshall State Historic Park. Well, technically, the town of Coloma is included in the state park. 

In 1848, a man called James Wilson Marshall was on staff to build a water-powered sawmill. One day, on January 24, 1848, James made a historic discovery: He found flakes of gold in the American River.

“It made my heart thump, for I was certain it was gold.”

This outdoor living museum is perfect for kids, where they can get their junior ranger booklet and complete the scavenger hunt. There is also a blacksmith shop where they show off raw metals shaped into objects.

Final Thoughts: Things to Do With Kids in Sacramento

And that’s all for today! There have been 20 things to do with kids in Sacramento. We hope you found this post helpful and if you think we missed anything, let us know in the comments section below!

Related Article – Planning a Trip to California

If you’re planning a family trip to Californa, make sure to read those articles:

• 10 Day California Road Trip with Kids: San Diego to San Francisco
• Things to Do in California With Kids: Add Them to Your List
• A 2-Day Itinerary in Yosemite National Park With Kids
• 12 Things to do in Los Angeles with Kids