Sacramento, the capital city of California, often surprises visitors (and even locals) with all of its awesome cultural, historical, and unusual attractions. Beyond the paths of the State Capitol and Old Sacramento, the city has a whole host of unique experiences ranging from budget-friendly discoveries to splurge-worthy adventures.
Whether you’re a local seeking a new weekend activity or a tourist looking for a unique experience, Sacramento offers a range of delightful options. And, if you fall in love with this city and all the fun things it has to offer, there are plenty of affordable accommodation options available!
Here’s a list of the best unusual and fun things to do in Sacramento, whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge.
1. Explore the Secret Alleys of Midtown
Midtown Sacramento is known for its art, dining, and nightlife, but did you know about its network of secret alleys? These hidden gems are lined with colorful murals, quirky installations, and unexpected art pieces.
Grab a map from a local café or simply wander and let yourself be surprised. This self-guided tour is completely free and offers a unique perspective of the city for tourists and locals alike.
2. Try a Ghost Tour
For those intrigued by the paranormal, Sacramento’s ghost tours offer an eerie exploration of the city’s haunted history. These tours take you through Old Sacramento’s cobblestone streets, sharing tales of ghosts that linger in its historic buildings.
The cost varies depending on the tour, but it’s an affordable way to learn about the city’s past while possibly encountering its otherworldly residents.
3. Join a Bike Party
Sacramento is one of the most bike-friendly cities in California, and what better way to explore it than by joining a bike party? These community-led bike rides happen monthly, featuring themed routes that take cyclists through various neighborhoods, often ending with a gathering at a local park or bar.
It’s free to participate – just bring your bike and a sense of adventure.
4. Visit the Museum of Medical History
The Museum of Medical History is a must-visit for those interested in medical history. This unusual museum showcases medical equipment and artifacts from the past, including an iron lung and antique surgical tools.
Admission is free, making this a great budget-friendly activity.
5. Take a Dive Bar Tour
Sacramento’s dive bar scene is legendary, ranging from classic haunts with a storied past to newer establishments with a quirky twist. Create your own dive bar tour or join an organized group to explore these spots.
Depending on your drink choices, this can range from a moderate to a splurge-worthy adventure.
6. Experience the Underground City
Calling all history lovers! Beneath the streets of Old Sacramento lies a hidden world: the underground city. These below-ground spaces were created in the 19th century to raise the city above flood levels. Today, guided tours offer a fascinating look at these subterranean passages, revealing stories of resilience and innovation. The cost for these tours is moderate, providing a unique historical perspective of Sacramento.
7. Go on a Culinary Adventure in Little Saigon
Sacramento’s Little Saigon offers lots of different Vietnamese culinary delights. From steaming bowls of pho to fresh bánh mì sandwiches, exploring this area is a treat for the taste buds. The neighborhood is known for its affordability, letting foodies experience all that Vietnamese food has to offer without breaking the bank.
8. Discover the Fairytale Town
A whimsical adventure awaits at the Fairytale Town, a storybook-themed park that’s perfect for families or anyone young at heart. This outdoor museum brings fairy tales and nursery rhymes to life with over 25 playsets, friendly farm animals, and enchanting gardens.
Admission is budget-friendly at $8 on weekdays and $9 on weekends, making it a great outing for those looking to recapture the magic of childhood stories.
9. Attend an Experimental Theater Show
Sacramento’s theater scene is vibrant, with several venues offering experimental and avant-garde performances that push the boundaries of traditional theater. From immersive theater experiences to unconventional plays, attending one of these shows means you’ll experience a night of thought-provoking entertainment.
10. Kayak on the American River
Kayaking on the American River offers a fun and exciting perspective of Sacramento. Rental shops along the river provide all the gear you need for a day of paddling through calm landscapes or navigating mild rapids.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, you and your friends can tailor this activity to your adventure level.
11. Indulge in a Luxury Wine Tour
The Sacramento region is nestled near some of California’s premier wine countries. Indulging in a luxury wine tour to the nearby Napa or Amador County vineyards is a fantastic, splurge-worthy experience you’ll never forget. These tours often include private tastings, gourmet meals, and scenic views, offering an exquisite day of indulgence.
Wrapping Up
The unusual and fun activities in this list prove that Sacramento’s charm extends far beyond its historical landmarks and government buildings. From ghostly encounters and underground explorations to culinary adventures and artistic immersions, Sacramento invites curiosity and promises memorable experiences for every traveler and local alike.
Whether you’re tightening the purse strings or loosening them for a special occasion, Sacramento has something unique to offer.
