10 Amazing Things to Do With Kids in Sacramento
Sacramento is a vibrant and diverse city with exciting activities for families with kids. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there are plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. From exploring historic landmarks to indulging in delicious food, Sacramento has something for every family. In this post, we’ve rounded up 10 amazing things to do with your kids in Sacramento.
Explore the Sacramento Zoo
The Sacramento Zoo is a must-visit destination for families. Home to many animals worldwide, the zoo allows children and adults alike to get an up-close look at creatures they wouldn’t otherwise encounter. From African lions to Australian kangaroos, the variety of species will surely spark curiosity and awe in young minds.
The zoo isn’t just about observing animals; it’s also an educational experience. Children can learn about animal behaviour, biology, and conservation efforts with numerous programs for different age groups. Interactive exhibits dotted around the zoo further enhance this learning experience, turning a fun day into a valuable educational opportunity.
Enjoy Fairytale Town
A visit to Sacramento would be incomplete without a trip to Fairytale Town, a captivating park that brings children’s stories to life through immersive play areas. This magical destination features 26 playsets based on beloved tales, including Jack and Jill’s Hill and King Arthur’s Castle. The storybook-themed play areas are entertaining, stimulate imagination, and encourage creative play.
Fairytale Town isn’t just about play — it’s also a venue for entertaining shows and events tailored for young children. From puppet shows that enact classic fables to interactive storytelling sessions, the park offers a rich selection of activities that educate and entertain. Whether exploring the Crooked Mile or attending the annual Humpty Dumpty’s Egg-cellent Adventure, children are bound to create unforgettable memories at Fairytale Town.
Experience Discovery Museum Science & Space Center
Sacramento also hosts the Discovery Museum Science & Space Center, a haven for young science enthusiasts and aspiring astronauts. This museum focuses on interactive science exhibits which provide kids with hands-on educational experiences. These exhibits cover a wide range of scientific fields, including physics, chemistry, and biology, allowing children to experience the marvels of science truly.
The highlight of the centre is undoubtedly its planetarium. Regular shows within this dome-shaped theatre provide an immersive exploration of our universe, from outer space’s mysteries to our planet’s wonders. These shows are visually stunning and narrated in a way that is accessible and engaging for children of all ages.
Play at William Land Park
One of Sacramento’s most cherished treasures, William Land Park offers a vast expanse of playgrounds and attractions perfect for a family day out. The park is a vast green space and a hub of activity where children can run, laugh, and play to their heart’s content.
The park’s attractions include the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town, making it a one-stop destination for fun, education, and adventure. After exploring the zoo’s diverse wildlife and immersing in the magic of Fairytale Town, families can enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst the park’s tranquil greenery, or children can let their energy loose on the numerous playgrounds.
Take a Ride on the Sacramento River Train
Stepping into the Sacramento River Train is like stepping into a different era. This historic train takes families on a nostalgic journey through the scenic landscapes of Northern California, offering stunning riverside views and a fun-filled onboard experience. The train rides are not just a means of transportation but a unique entertainment form that resonates with kids and adults.
Each themed train ride is carefully crafted to captivate the imagination of its young passengers. From fun-filled rides with onboard magicians and musicians to thematic excursions like the Great Train Robbery or the Easter Egg Express, each journey promises an experience that transcends ordinary commute.
Visit the Aerospace Museum of California
Sacramento is also home to the Aerospace Museum of California, a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. The museum showcases a stunning collection of over 40 aircraft, ranging from historic warbirds to modern jets. Each exhibit is rich in detail, providing a deep insight into the history and technology behind these magnificent machines.
The museum’s aircraft displays are not just for viewing but also for interactive exploration. Many exhibits allow visitors to climb aboard, giving them a firsthand experience of the pilot’s seat. The museum’s Flight Zone is another highlight, providing hands-on flight simulators for young aviation enthusiasts. Here, they can experience the thrill of flying, learning about the principles of flight in a fun and engaging manner.
Splash Around at Raging Waters Sacramento
The fun and excitement in Sacramento continue with a visit to Raging Waters, the city’s largest water park. Offering a perfect blend of fun, thrill, and relaxation, Raging Waters is a must-visit spot for families, particularly during the hot summer months.
Renowned for its impressive array of water slides, the park caters to adrenaline seekers of all ages. From towering slides that provide heart-stopping descents to winding water coasters that offer exhilarating twists and turns, each slide promises a unique and thrilling experience.
For those seeking a gentler aquatic experience, the park also boasts a range of family-friendly attractions. The Calypso Cooler River, for instance, allows families to drift along a meandering river on inflatable tubes, providing a relaxing and enjoyable ride. The park’s Wave Cove is another favourite, featuring a large wave pool replicating the ocean’s swell, providing an ocean-like experience right in the city’s heart.
Explore the Effie Yeaw Nature Center
The Effie Yeaw Nature Center is another gem in Sacramento’s crown, offering a serene escape into nature. Nestled in the heart of the American River Parkway, the centre boasts an array of nature trails that wind through lush woodlands, riparian habitats, and scenic meadows, providing a refreshing retreat for nature lovers.
The trails offer a chance to encounter a rich diversity of wildlife. Whether it’s observing a herd of Columbian black-tailed deer grazing in the meadows, spotting wild turkeys rustling through the undergrowth, or catching a glimpse of a red-shouldered hawk soaring through the sky, wildlife enthusiasts are sure to enjoy these encounters with the natural world.
Attend Children’s Theater Performances in Sacramento
Introducing children to the world of live theatre can be an unforgettable experience, and Sacramento offers plenty of opportunities to do so. The city’s vibrant art scene includes numerous children’s theatres, where kid-friendly plays and performances are the norm.
These theatre companies specifically cater to young audiences, featuring age-appropriate storylines, colourful costumes and sets, and interactive elements that engage children’s imaginations. Whether it’s a classic fairy tale brought to life on stage or an original play with a valuable moral lesson at its heart, these performances can captivate children and foster an early appreciation for the performing arts.
Moreover, attending theatre performances can also benefit children in numerous ways. It can enhance their listening and comprehension skills, enrich their vocabulary, and stimulate creativity. It also provides a shared family experience that can spark meaningful conversations and create cherished memories.
Enjoy Outdoor Movies in the Park
Free outdoor movie screenings are another highlight of Sacramento’s family-friendly offerings. Nothing quite compares to watching your favourite film under the stars, with the soft glow of the evening sky as your backdrop. Parks across the city host these screenings, transforming into open-air cinemas where families can gather for a memorable movie night.
From animated classics to family-friendly blockbusters, the selection of films caters to all ages, ensuring an entertaining evening for everyone. Don’t forget to bring along blankets and snacks to create a cosy atmosphere. Whether spreading out a picnic blanket on the grass or munching on popcorn during the movie, these little additions make the experience all the more special.
Conclusion: 10 things to do with kids in Sacramento
Sacramento is a family-friendly city with exciting and educational activities for all ages. Whether your family enjoys heart-pounding rides at a water park, peaceful walks through nature, immersive theatre performances, or simply watching a film under the stars, this vibrant city has you covered. Every experience in Sacramento allows families to bond, learn, and create precious memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and prepare for a remarkable and unforgettable family getaway in the heart of California. Let the adventures in Sacramento begin!
