Step back in time at the Locke Boarding House Museum Point of Interest. It is located in the heart of Locke, California—just south of Sacramento along the Sacramento River Delta. This historic boarding house, built in 1909, offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Japanese and Filipino farmworkers and the evolution of one of America’s only towns built by and for Chinese immigrants.
What Makes Locke Boarding House Museum Unique
The museum is housed in the former Kuramoto family boarding house, once known as “Sam’s Rooms.” It stands as a poignant symbol of the Delta’s multicultural labor history and is part of the National Historic Landmark–designated Locke Historic District. Visitors experience authentic restored interiors and exhibits that reveal stories of immigration, agriculture, internment, and community resilience.
Top Activities & Amenities
? Guided & Group Tours
The boarding house is open Friday through Sunday from 11 am–4 pm, free to visit. Docent-led group and Chinese-language tours are available for parties of ten or more, offering deeper context on the cultural and social history of Locke.
?️ Historical Exhibits
Inside, fifteen compact upstairs rooms reveal the personal quarters of early 20th-century farmworkers, complete with original artifacts and interpretive panels. The ground floor shares the story of founder Sam Kuramoto, 1942 internment, and the Kuramoto family’s legacy.
?️ Gift Shop & Community Role
A small museum store supports the Locke Foundation with archival materials, books, and keepsakes. The boarding house also serves as a visitor information center for the wider Locke Historic District—a living town of galleries, heritage shops, and cultural spaces.
? Picnic & Restroom Facilities
A public restroom adjacent to the boarding house serves both visitors and residents. Nearby benches provide a pleasant spot to pause while strolling Locke’s boardwalk streetscapes—though there’s no formal picnic zone on-site.
? Parking & Accessibility
A small parking lot nearby and street parking allow easy access. The museum is wheelchair-accessible via a lift, and restrooms are compliant with ADA standards.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Hours & Entry: Open Fri–Sun 11 am–4 pm; admission is free.
- Guided Tour Booking: Reserve in advance for groups of 10+ via the Locke Foundation or State Parks desk.
- Parking: Limited on-site; additional street parking available along Main Street.
- Pets: Only service animals permitted inside the museum; outdoor areas permit leashed dogs under control.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair lift provides second-floor access; accessible restroom nearby.
- Photography: Non-flash photos allowed inside; please be respectful of exhibits and visitors.
- Closures: Closed Mon–Thu and state holidays; double-check for special events or private rentals.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
For the most immersive experience, visit during one of Locke’s Asian Pacific Spring Festival weekends. You’ll find the boarding house buzzing with special exhibits, docent talks, and extended museum hours. Afterwards, explore nearby historic sites—such as the Dai Loy Gambling House and Jan Ying Chinese School—for a full cultural tour. Finish with a leisurely stroll down Main Street; its old-time storefronts, art galleries, and riverfront views make for a delightful post-museum wander.