Located in the heart of Sacramento, the Governor’s Mansion State Historic Park is a grand Second Empire–Italianate Victorian mansion. It was built in 1877 and once served as home to 14 California governors. It offers visitors a richly preserved slice of political and architectural history.
What Makes Governor’s Mansion State Historic Park Unique
California’s original executive residence, this 30-room mansion boasts marble fireplaces from Italy, French-imported décor, period furnishings, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Though last occupied by a governor in 2019, it continues to serve as a historic house museum and State Park, preserving the legacy of gubernatorial life at the turn of the 20th century.
Top Activities & Amenities
Guided & Self‑Guided Tours
Hourly guided tours run Wednesday through Sunday from around 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering deep insights into the daily lives of governors and their families. A self‑guided audio tour allows exploration at your own pace when timing doesn’t align with tour hours.
Historic Mansion & Gardens
Step through opulent parlors, dining rooms and bedrooms preserved with original period furnishings. Outside, formal gardens and a charming carriage house complement the mansion’s architecture and offer lush seasonal blooms ideal for photography.
Interpretive Exhibits & Educational Programs
Exhibits in the carriage house detail the mansion’s construction, historic residents, and restoration journey. Special lectures, themed events and educational programming deepen context for school groups and history enthusiasts.
Picnic Area & Outdoor Space
Shaded lawns and benches provide a peaceful spot for light refreshments. Though there isn’t a full picnic facility, the setting in a historic neighborhood makes enjoying a sack lunch feel specially refined.
Gift Shop & Restrooms
A small gift shop in the carriage house carries books, maps and locally made mementos. Restrooms are accessible and conveniently located near tour arrival areas.
Photography & Accessibility Features
The mansion and gardens provide elegant backdrops for architectural photography. Most areas are wheelchair-accessible, with ramps and smooth pathways, though some interior spaces have narrow doorways or uneven flooring.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Hours & Fees: Open Wednesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission is typically $5 for adults and $3 for children.
- Park Status: Currently closed indefinitely due to restoration—confirm reopening dates before visiting.
- Parking: On‑street metered parking is available in the neighborhood.
- Tours: Guided tours run on the hour; self-guided materials available off-tour hours.
- Pets: No pets allowed; service animals must remain on leash.
- Accessibility: Ramp access available; interior floors may present minor challenges.
- Photography: Non-commercial photography welcomed; professional shoots require a permit.
- Closures & Events: Watch for closures due to official functions or special events.
Local Insight & Hidden Gem
Visit early Wednesday after reopening—morning light illuminates the grand staircase and parlors, while gardens burst with seasonal blooms. Ask guides about President Reagan’s brief residence in 1967—his stay marks a unique chapter in the mansion’s story. Don’t miss the carriage house exhibit—a quiet highlight on mansion lore. After your tour, wander two blocks east to Capitol Park for a stroll among rose gardens and historic trees planted by California’s early leaders.