Step back in time along the banks of the Sacramento River. Discover the charm of Old Sacramento State Historic Park in Sacramento, California. This beautifully preserved 19th-century waterfront district captures the spirit of the Gold Rush era and offers a living tapestry of history, entertainment and modern hospitality.
What Makes Old Sacramento State Historic Park Unique
Old Sacramento isn’t your average park. It’s a vibrant National Historic Landmark District. It brims with more than 50 authentic and restored Gold Rush-era buildings. These include the iconic Pony Express terminal, the Eagle Theatre, and the Big Four Building. Railroad tycoons shaped California’s future there. With cobblestone streets, covered boardwalks and riverfront views, the park immerses you in the pulse of mid‑1800s life while offering today’s conveniences and festivities.
Top Activities & Amenities
Museums & Historic Buildings
Home to the California State Railroad Museum, Sacramento History Museum and Wells Fargo History Museum, the park brings history to life with immersive exhibits, underground tours, railroad dioramas and Gold Rush artifacts. Historic structures like the Eagle Theatre and Pony Express Terminal seriously add to the authenticity.
Guided Tours & Living History
Join guided walking tours to learn about levee-raising and Chamber of Commerce beginnings. Participate in living-history programs. Costumed docents reenact Gold Rush scenarios. These include Gold Rush Days celebrations. There are also gunfight shows and gold-panning demonstrations.
Horse‑Drawn Carriage Rides & Riverboat Cruises
Enjoy a nostalgic carriage ride through the district’s charming streets. You can also board a historic sternwheel riverboat cruise. This cruise is alongside the iconic Delta King floating hotel, providing views of the Tower Bridge and waterfront from the river.
Restaurants, Gift Shops & Galleries
Front Street features a lively mix of eateries. These range from riverside dining and ice cream parlors to upscale restaurants. It also offers gift shops, antique stores, art galleries, and boutiques. These sell local crafts and gold-themed treasures.
Live Entertainment & Festivals
Old Sacramento hosts a packed event calendar. Events include Jazz Jubilee, Mardi Gras, and Latin dance nights. There are also summer evening concerts, holiday parades, and themed festivals. Pop-up theater, art performances and family-friendly events enliven the streets year-round.
Picnic Areas & Public Restrooms
Scenic grassy spots along the riverfront and picnic tables offer sweet views of the water and the Tower Bridge. Comfort is never far off—with ample public restrooms and ADA-accessible pathways throughout the district.
Parking & Access
A covered parking deck sits at 3rd & J streets, and metered street parking is available for short visits. The area is easily walkable and accessible, with sidewalks and historic boardwalks that accommodate strollers and most mobility aids.
Visitor Tips
- Fees: Walking the district is free; museums and river cruises require ticket purchase, often discounted online or in combo bundles.
- Parking: Use the 3rd & J street parking structure; expect weekday and weekend rush—arrive early for events.
- Pets: Leashed pets are welcome outdoors; museums and riverboats generally prohibit them.
- Accessibility: Boardwalks and most historic buildings include ramps and wheelchair access; Delta King and riverboats are ADA-equipped.
- Guided Tours: Underground and living history tours are popular—reserve ahead, especially for weekend Gold Rush Days and holiday events.
- Dining: Popular restaurants fill quickly on event nights—reservations recommended.
- Safety: Cobblestone streets can be uneven; wear comfy shoes and watch for streetcar tracks and stepping over boardwalks.
- Restrooms: Located throughout the park and in museums; handy for families and senior visitors.
- Events: Visit the official calendar for Jazz Jubilee (May), Gold Rush Days (Labor Day weekend) and summer concerts—fun for all ages.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Arrive early on clear summer mornings for the best light. You will find easier parking. Then savor a midday river cruise aboard the Delta King. In spring and autumn, attend outdoor evening concerts along the waterfront. A hidden treat? Venture into the Sacramento History Museum’s underground tour to uncover the original 1860s street level—an atmospheric glimpse beneath the bustling district. Finally, pop into one of the art workshops or join a photo-scavenger tour through alleyways and historic saloons for a fresh perspective on this beloved urban treasure.