Sprawling to the west of the Downtown area, West Sacramento is a rapidly-growing community along the banks of the Sacramento River. It’s been an industrial hub since the 19th-century Gold Rush era and was once listed as the “Most Liveable City in America” by the United States Conference of Mayors.
Things to do in West Sacramento
Soak up the skyline views of Downtown Sacramento from River Walk Park, a thin strip of land that stretches between the Tower and I Street bridges. In addition to its waterfront promenade and grand staircase, it features several outdoor gathering spaces that include Veteran’s Plaza. If you’re travelling with kids, head to Bryte Park in the city’s north where you’ll find soccer fields, softball diamonds and a basketball court.
Want to experience West Sacramento’s sporting culture? Coincide your visit with a home game of the Sacramento River Cats, a Minor League Baseball team that plays at Sutter Health Park. There are plenty of concessions around the stadium where you can grab classic game-day snacks, as well as an ice creamery and a store selling Sacramento River Cats merchandise.
Just across the Sacramento River is the Crocker Art Museum, which boasts an outstanding collection of Californian art dating from the Gold Rush era to the present day. After touring its galleries, follow the Sacramento River Bike Trail north to explore the Old Sacramento Waterfront District or visit the California State Railroad Museum where vintage locomotives and railway artefacts are on display.
Getting around West Sacramento
West Sacramento is around 15 minutes’ drive from Sacramento International Airport or can be accessed by long-distance trains to the Sacramento Valley railway station. Several bus routes connect from the station to destinations throughout West Sacramento and taxis are readily available for getting around.