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Old Sacramento Waterfront
Step back in time where history meets modern charm along the Sacramento River.
4.8(5 reviews)
$$
retail-store
landmarks-and-historical-buildings
museums
Explore the California State Railroad Museum and other exhibits showcasing Sacramento's pioneer history with knowledgeable docents and interactive displays.
Browse a variety of stores offering nostalgic knickknacks, souvenirs, books, and unique items in a charming 19th-century setting.
Enjoy diverse culinary experiences, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants, featuring local flavors and seasonal specials.
Participate in festive activities like the Theater of Lights, holiday shows, horse-drawn carriage rides, and special performances throughout the year.
Take leisurely walks or bike rides along the Sacramento River, offering beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere for all ages.
Step back in time where history meets modern charm along the Sacramento River.
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Old Sacramento Waterfront is a vibrant historical district offering a unique blend of 19th-century charm and contemporary attractions. As a premier tourist destination, it features the renowned California State Railroad Museum, diverse shopping with nostalgic gift shops, and a variety of dining options from casual bites to sit-down restaurants. Visitors can enjoy seasonal events like the Theater of Lights, horse-drawn carriage rides, and scenic riverfront strolls. Perfect for families, history buffs, and tourists, this landmark provides an immersive experience into Sacramento's pioneer past with modern amenities and festive atmosphere year-round.
Engage in hands-on exhibits, model railroad displays, and interactive areas designed for children and families to enjoy together.
One of the best Railroad Museum around. The displays are top notch. The docents are very knowledgeable, friendly and professional. Don't forget to go up to the third floor and let the kids play with the hands on stuff. There is also a very nice display of the Model Railroad Hobby, and what the NMRA is all about. There is a lot to explore on the grounds outside too. This can be an all day trip just visiting all the things around area.
Old Sacramento is a charming step back in time—with a very modern talent for selling you fudge, souvenirs, and a surprisingly good meal. The gift shops are plentiful and delightfully varied, ranging from nostalgic knickknacks to items you didn’t know you needed but suddenly can’t live without. When hunger strikes, the restaurant options cover everything from casual bites to sit-down spots perfect for lingering over lunch. It’s a little kitschy, a little touristy, and fully aware of it—making Old Sac a fun, easygoing place to wander, snack, and smile.
On December 24, 2025, I headed down to the Old Town Sacramento waterfront planning to shoot a few street videos of the holiday atmosphere. I parked in a nearby garage without any trouble—there’s plenty of street parking and garages around the area. As I was walking toward the river, I unexpectedly ran into the Theater of Lights show just as it was getting started. The performance lasted about 20 minutes and blended ’Twas the Night Before Christmas with stories from Sacramento’s pioneer days in the 1850s. It was lightly raining, but that only added to the mood—lights reflecting off the wet pavement, food smells drifting in from nearby restaurants, and families sticking around despite the drizzle. It turned into one of those unplanned moments that made the night feel especially festive and very local.
From the state capital from outside our hotel window. This view was beautiful and relaxing. Nice stroll for avid walkers or bikers. It was a bit nippy but nothing to much hot coffee couldn't help with. A must see. Its literally a block from Old Sacramento area which was a nice walk as well.
We love love to come and walk here. The holidays is so cold and so nice to be walking around and enjoying people singing and playing instruments. Our favorite is to see all the low riders that hang around. Today we got to ride a horse carriage witch it was our first time and the kids love love it. Unfortunately our favorite store burn down so still under construction (EVANGELINES) but garden was opened for our favorite incense, rocks and books. A little walk throw the KINGS DALTA We did not know they have suits open where We found a replica of the QUEEN and KING DELTA. Old Sacramento is an must visit with the whole family spot specially in this holidays. Do not miss the XMAS special with SANTA and JACK FROST in the THEATER OF LIGHTS. For those who can afford it look into buying tickets for POLAR EXPRESS ,1 hour of traveling around sacramento special Xmas decorations spots, hot cocoa and cookie.
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