In West Sacramento, the California Indian Heritage Center Park Property is taking shape. It is located at the confluence of California’s two great rivers. It is becoming a powerful bridge between past and present Indigenous cultures. This 51‑acre riverfront site, just across from downtown Sacramento, is planned as a landmark gathering place for education, culture, and community.
What Makes This Park Property Unique
Unlike typical state parks focused on trails or wildlife, this evolving heritage center is unique. It is rooted in Native values. The center celebrates cultural preservation, land stewardship, and living traditions. The site is planned to include museum-quality exhibits, outdoor gathering plazas, interpretive trails, and community event space. It reflects decades of partnership with tribal governments. This partnership honors California’s original peoples and their ongoing presence.
Top Activities & Amenities
Museum Exhibits & Interpretive Signage
The future park will host indoor-outdoor exhibit galleries presenting tribal artifacts, contemporary art, basketry, and indigenous worldviews. Interpretive signage and shaded plazas along riverfront trails will guide visitors through cultural and natural histories.
Outdoor Amphitheater & Event Space
A generously sized open-air amphitheater is part of the design plan. It is created to host traditional dance performances and storytelling. Seasonal ceremonies and community gatherings are also hosted under the sky and riverside canopy.
Picnic Areas & Benches
Strategically placed picnic spots and bench seating will offer restful pauses amid native plant gardens. Visitors can also enjoy river views. These spots are ideal for family gatherings or serene solo breaks.
Walking Trails & Native Plant Garden
Riverside walking paths are designed to run through restored riparian habitat and native plantings. They offer both quiet reflection and educational interaction with California’s waterland ecosystems.
Cultural Demonstrations & Educational Programs
Community outreach and tribal-led workshops—including traditional weaving, storytelling, and food systems—are shaping the site’s programming. Public events have already begun gathering tribal input and connecting local residents to project planning.
Restrooms, Water Fountains & Parking
Plans include accessible restrooms, drinking fountains, and EV charging spots. There is also a spacious parking area. These facilities are configured to support visitors, school field trips, and community gatherings.
Visitor Tips
- No daily entry fee; parking is free once visitor services open.
- Dogs allowed on-leash on open site paths; temporary closures may occur during construction.
- Check the CIHC project website before visiting for access windows, guided tours, or ongoing events.
- Wear sun protection and bring water—shade structures are part of future buildout but currently limited.
- Nearby levee paths offer extra walking options outside the construction zone.
- Restroom facilities are currently portable units; full restrooms will come with the first phase build.
- Drone use is prohibited due to construction and cultural protocols.
- Consult local tribal event calendar—occasional open houses invite public participation and consultation.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Though still under development, the riverside levee transforms into a vibrant wildlife corridor in the spring. Look for nesting swallows and early wildflowers. Join a community workshop or guided nature walk for a chance to connect with Native artists and elders contributing to the heritage landscape. Visiting during these outreach gatherings offers a rare glimpse into the meaning behind each design choice and landscape feature.