10 Best Fun Things to Do on Weekends in Sacramento

Weekends are the perfect time to explore the fun things to do in Sacramento. There is no shortage of activities that will make your weekend memorable. If you’re wondering how to spend your weekends in Sacramento, you’ve come to the right place! Here are the 10 best fun things to do on weekends in Sacramento.

Hiking Along the American River

The American River provides miles of picturesque trails that offer a much-needed retreat to nature enthusiasts. Here, you can immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the river and its surrounding landscapes. These trails are well-maintained and marked, making them suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Not only can experienced adventurers enjoy the challenging trails, but families with children and pets will also find plenty of easy-to-navigate routes. The American River trails truly cater to everyone, making it one of the most enjoyable and inclusive weekend activities in Sacramento.

Picnic Day at McKinley Park

McKinley Park serves as a verdant oasis in the heart of Sacramento, offering an inviting setting for a relaxing picnic day. The park is renowned for its beautifully maintained gardens, bursting with a variety of vibrant flowers and lush green spaces. The Rose Garden, in particular, is a must-visit, with its stunning array of roses creating a truly picturesque backdrop.

Beyond its natural beauty, McKinley Park is also a hub of community activity. Throughout the year, the park hosts an array of events – from concerts in the summer to holiday celebrations in the winter. These gatherings foster a strong sense of community and camaraderie among Sacramento locals. 

Visit the Crocker Art Museum

The Crocker Art Museum is a must-visit spot for art enthusiasts and tourists alike. Known for its diverse art collections, the museum houses a wealth of European, Asian, African, and American artworks, offering a comprehensive insight into the global art scene. From the early California and Western art pieces to contemporary works, the collections span various periods, styles, and cultures, ensuring a rich and enthralling experience for all visitors.

Special exhibitions are a significant feature of the museum, bringing together unique and rarely seen works from around the world. These exhibitions provide an opportunity to explore specific themes, artists, or periods in-depth, offering a fresh perspective and a deeper understanding of art.

The Crocker Art Museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. These include artist talks, workshops, educational programs, and family-friendly activities, creating an engaging and interactive environment. 

Attend a Local Theater Performance

Sacramento is home to a vibrant performing arts scene, making it an ideal destination for theatre enthusiasts. Its theatres offer a variety of performances, providing options for both classic and contemporary productions. Whether you are a fan of Shakespeare’s timeless classics or inclined towards fresh, modern plays, Sacramento’s local theatres have something to cater to every taste.

The captivating performances by talented actors, backed by innovative production techniques, create a truly immersive theatrical experience that leaves audiences spellbound. By attending a local theatre performance, you can witness the creativity and passion that the Sacramento artistic community brings to the stage. It’s a riveting weekend activity that showcases the city’s cultural prowess and provides an enriching experience.

Embark on a Sacramento Riverboat Cruise

One of the most distinctive experiences in Sacramento is a riverboat cruise along the stunning Sacramento River. As you gently glide down the river on a historic riverboat, you’ll be treated to some of the most scenic views of the city. The river, with its diverse wildlife and lush shoreline vegetation, paints a breathtaking panorama that can be enjoyed from the comfort of the riverboat’s deck.

A highlight of these cruises is undoubtedly the sunset view. As the day winds down, the setting sun drenches the river in a golden hue, creating a truly magical atmosphere. This is a spectacle you would not want to miss, making the sunset cruise a popular choice among visitors and locals alike.

Enjoy the Old Sacramento Waterfront

A trip to Sacramento would be incomplete without a visit to the Old Sacramento Waterfront. This historic district is a living testament to Sacramento’s rich past, boasting a collection of well-preserved buildings that date back to the Gold Rush era. As you stroll along the cobbled streets, you’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by the old-world charm that permeates this area.

The waterfront isn’t just about history, though. It’s also a vibrant hub of riverside attractions, offering a range of activities for visitors of all ages. You can enjoy a leisurely ride on a historic steam train, explore the fascinating exhibits at the Sacramento History Museum, or simply relax by the river and soak in the scenic views.

Attend a Sacramento Kings Game

The thrill of NBA action comes alive in Sacramento at the Golden 1 Center, home to the city’s beloved basketball team, the Sacramento Kings. Attending a Kings game is about more than just watching a basketball game; it’s about immersing yourself in a high-energy environment filled with passionate fans and palpable excitement.

From the moment you step into the state-of-the-art arena, you’re swept up in the electric atmosphere that defines NBA games. The fan engagement at Kings games is truly second to none. From cheering on the team with thunderous applause to participating in interactive games during breaks, fans are an integral part of the game experience.

Cycling Along the American River Bike Trail

For outdoor enthusiasts, Sacramento offers an incredible opportunity for exploration and recreation on the American River Bike Trail. This extensive trail spans over 32 miles, connecting Sacramento to Folsom, and serves as a perfect setting for a picturesque bike ride. As you cycle along the trail, you will be treated to the enchanting beauty of the American River, surrounded by a lush landscape teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

This vibrant natural environment offers a serene backdrop for your cycling adventure and allows for exciting nature exploration opportunities. The trail’s well-maintained, scenic bike paths make your riding experience smooth and pleasurable.

Along the trail, various recreational areas offer places to pause, rest, and soak in the natural beauty. These spots are perfect for picnicking, bird-watching, or simply immersing yourself in the tranquillity of the surroundings. For those who do not have their own bikes, multiple bike rental services are available near the trail.

Join the Sacramento Music Festival

The Sacramento Music Festival is a lively celebration of music that bears witness to an electrifying mix of diverse genres and performances. From soul-stirring blues to exhilarating rock, and from the rhythmic beats of jazz to the melodic flow of country music, this festival offers a platform for music lovers to indulge in their favourite tunes and explore new sounds.

Each year, the festival attracts a plethora of local and international artists, showcasing their talent and sharing their passion for music. These performances, whether on grand stages or in intimate venues, captivate audiences and create an atmosphere of shared joy and connection. The vibrancy of their music echoes across the city, adding a rhythmic undertone to Sacramento’s lively streets.

Beyond the music, the Sacramento Music Festival is also a grand community celebration. It’s not just about the melodies that fill the air but about the people who come together to enjoy them. The festivities extend beyond the music with a variety of communal activities, including food and craft fairs, art exhibitions, and interactive workshops.

Relax at William Land Park Retreat

For a tranquil urban retreat, visit the expansive William Land Park in Sacramento. This lush haven sprawls over 166 acres, boasting breathtaking landscapes and manicured gardens that provide a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park’s scenic beauty, characterized by verdant lawns, towering trees, and vibrant flower beds, offers a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls, picnics, or simply soaking in the tranquil ambience.

Within the park, you’ll find two major attractions that make a visit here even more enjoyable. The first is the Sacramento Zoo, a beloved city institution that houses over 140 different species of animals. Visitors can observe and learn about exotic wildlife from all over the world, including giraffes, zebras, reptiles, and a variety of rare and endangered species. 

Conclusion: Things to Do on Weekends in Sacramento

Sacramento is a city that seamlessly merges history, culture, nature, sports, and music into a vibrant fabric of experiences. Its historic charm, evident in the Old Sacramento Waterfront, blends smoothly with the high-energy spirit of NBA games at the Golden 1 Center. The city pushes the envelope of outdoor recreation with the expansive American River Bike Trail and captures the soul of music lovers through the electrifying Sacramento Music Festival. Finally, the tranquillity of William Land Park and the educational delight of the Sacramento Zoo offers a respite from the city’s energetic pace.