Old Sacramento Waterfront and Tower Bridge

#3 in Best Things To Do in Sacramento

All Things To Do

old-sacramento-waterfront-and-tower-bridge

Key Info

Price & Hours

Free
-

Details

Entertainment and Nightlife, Museums, Free, Cafes, Neighborhood/Area, Casinos, Shopping
Time to Spend: 1 to 2 hours

Insider Tips for Visiting the Old Sacramento Waterfront

Best Times to Visit

To avoid the crowds, consider visiting during weekdays in the day. Evenings, particularly on weekends, tend to be lively as people enjoy the nightlife. – Katie Joll

Discover Old Sacramento Waterfront

A Historic Gem

Located along the Sacramento River, the Old Sacramento Waterfront is a National Historic Landmark District that brings the past to life. Whether you find it charming or kitschy, it's a place you'll visit at least once on your Sacramento trip.

Highlights of the District

Spanning 28 acres, this district, which also functions as a State Historic Park, features numerous restored or recreated buildings from the Gold Rush era. Walking along the wooden sidewalks, you'll encounter horse-drawn carriages, wagons, and actors dressed in period attire, providing a vivid glimpse into the 19th century.

Things to See and Do

History enthusiasts can visit any of the five museums, including the renowned California State Railroad Museum. Food lovers will find a variety of eateries to satisfy their cravings. Don't forget to indulge in sweet treats from one of the nine candy stores offering old-fashioned candies and saltwater taffy. Enjoy your snack while strolling along the river or taking pictures at the historic Tower Bridge, a vertical lift bridge listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visitor Reviews

Overall Experience

Recent visitors have enjoyed the nostalgic atmosphere, diverse dining options, and the engaging museums. While some found the food prices to be on the higher side, most agreed that the experience is a must-do when in Sacramento.

For more details, visit the neighborhood’s official website.

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