The Old Sacramento Waterfront (Old Sacramento State Historic Park) is home to over 125 attractions in a beautiful historic district — including shops and restaurants along the Sacramento River.

Tied to the development of Sutter’s Fort, Sacramento, and the Old Sacramento waterfront became a commerce hub through the goldrush. Historic buildings in the Old Sacramento Waterfront district include the B.F. Hastings Building, Big Four House, Eagle Theatre, and Morse Building.

The Best Things To Do: Old Sacramento Waterfront

  1. California Automobile Museum — The California Automobile Museum is full to the brim with an incredible collection of vintage and antique cars. All in one easy-to-access level in a warehouse setting.
  2. California State Railroad Museum — The California State Railroad Museum is filled with countless exhibits and displays showing an extensive view of locomotive history.
  3. Rio City Café — Rio City Café is perched right on the dock overlooking the Sacramento River. Enjoy dinner, a glass of wine, and beautiful views of the historic Tower Bridge and Ziggurat (pyramid) building.
  4. Firehouse Restaurant — The Firehouse Restaurant is a well-known dining and event space with a beautiful, charming courtyard and intimate interior setting.
  5. River City Saloon — If you want to feel like you’re on the set of an old Western, complete with an old-fashioned wallpaper and ceiling, then visit the River City Saloon for a drink and appetizers.
  6. Evangeline’s — A proper Old Sacramento iconic place, Evangeline’s offers the best in year-round costumes, enchanted gifts, and novelty items on multiple stories.
  7. Hornblower Cruises & Events — Hornblower Cruises are a great way to see the entire Old Sacramento Waterfront and enjoy the Sacramento River. Have a drink on board and enjoy a sunset happy hour cruise — you won’t be disappointed!
  8. Old Sacramento Underground Tours — The Historic Old Sacramento Foundation operates the Old Sacramento Underground Tours, and we had a chance to take part in the tour last summer. On tour, you see the uncovered foundations and pathways hidden for a century after Sacramento decided to raise its streets.
  9. The Delta King Riverboat — The Delta King Riverboat hosts a restaurant and hotel rooms, with the crowning jewel being the Captain’s Quarters luxury room.
  10. Old Sacramento Psychics — Long ago, I visited Sacramento’s Old Sacramento Psychics and had a fortune teller read my palm. She told of the man I would marry who would come from the food industry, and ultimately, what she foretold came true. I’ll always hold a nostalgic place in my heart for Old Sacramento Psychics!

Whether spending an evening out or a full day from top to bottom, exploring the Old Sacramento Waterfront is always a fun adventure — with a new shop, restaurant, or view to explore around every corner.