Unveiling the Past: Exploring Old Sacramento’s Rich History on a Walking Tour

 

Old Sacramento, nestled along the banks of the mighty Sacramento River, is a living testament to the rich history of California‘s capital city. With its cobblestone streets, preserved buildings, and nostalgic ambiance, this historic district offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the past.

Embarking on a SacTown walking tour of Old Sacramento is a fascinating way to immerse yourself in the region’s history. We’ll explore historic sights on our walking tour, from Gold Rush-era landmarks to captivating museums and charming shops. Here are merely 8 of the many places you can visit with our Old Sacramento walking tour.

Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum

Step back in time at the Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum, the city’s oldest surviving school building. Immerse yourself in the 19th-century classroom experience as you browse through the authentic furnishings and learn about education during the Gold Rush era. Knowledgeable docents bring the history to life, providing insights into the challenges and triumphs of early education in California.

The B.F. Hastings Building

Admire the architectural splendor of the B.F. Hastings Building, an iconic structure that served as the western terminus of the Pony Express in the mid-1800s. Today, the building houses unique shops and boutiques, allowing visitors to explore its rich history while indulging in some retail therapy.

Experience the Gold Rush

Delve deeper into the city’s past at the Sacramento History Museum, where engaging exhibits and interactive displays shed light on Sacramento’s role as a commercial and cultural hub during the Gold Rush. Learn about the city’s diverse heritage, from the Native American presence to the arrival of European settlers, and discover the stories of the individuals who shaped Sacramento’s history.

Old Sacramento Waterfront

Stroll along the Old Sacramento Waterfront, where you can experience the charm of the past while enjoying modern amenities. Admire the beautifully preserved storefronts and take in the views of the Sacramento River. Indulge in delicious dining options, browse unique boutiques, and savor sweet treats from candy stores that evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Delta King

Marvel at the majestic Delta King, a historic riverboat-turned-hotel docked on the Sacramento River. Step aboard to explore its elegant interiors, filled with Art Deco accents and reminders of its glamorous past. Take a moment to imagine the bustling riverfront of the past as you soak in the stunning views from the deck.

California State Railroad Museum

At the California State Railroad Museum, you will visit a captivating institution dedicated to preserving the state’s railway history. Explore the exhibits showcasing beautifully restored locomotives and learn about the crucial role of the railroad during the Gold Rush and the development of California. You can later explore the opportunity to take a ride on the Sacramento Southern Railroad, a vintage steam train that offers scenic excursions along the riverfront.

Eagle Theatre

Make your way to the Eagle Theatre, one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in California. This small and intimate venue transports visitors to the era of melodramas and vaudeville performances. Catch a live show or simply admire the beautifully restored architecture of this historic gem.

Big Four House

Visit the Big Four House, a remarkable relic of Sacramento’s early days and once the residence of the “Big Four” railroad barons—Collis HuntingtonLeland StanfordMark Hopkins, and Charles Crocker. Learn about their influential role in shaping the development of California’s railway network, which propelled the state’s growth and prosperity.

SacTown Bites

With SacTown Bites, you will discover Old Sacramento with great photo opportunities over our 2-hour tour, learning about the Gold Rush and Sacramento’s history of fire and flood. You will also experience delicious food tastings at 5 to 6 stops and feel like you had a full meal by the end of the tour.

Each guest will walk approximately 1.1 miles, with periods of standing. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as Old Sacramento has cobblestone streets, wooden sidewalks, and uneven surfaces. This tour is not recommended for people with walkers or have difficulty with balance or walking. Of note, vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free and allergies can be accommodated. Please contact us before your tour.

If you’re ready to experience Old Sacramento like the locals, call us at (916) 905-0031 to speak with our guides or book your next tour online!

 
Duration
3 hours
Group Size
4 to 12

Festive Ornaments & Sparkling Delights Food Tour

Kick off your holiday season in style with our Festive Ornaments & Sparkling Delights Food Tour. This exclusive afternoon experience is filled with bubbly beverages, creative ornament painting, and indulgent desserts. Gather your friends and celebrate the season in a fun and memorable way, complete with a charming keepsake ornament to take home.

Your festive adventure begins in the heart of Old Sacramento, where you’ll enjoy small bites paired with a glass of sparkling wine or bubbly beverage. Next, let your creativity flow as you paint your very own holiday ornament. The experience wraps up with more libations and a delicious dessert, making it the perfect way to ring in the holidays with sparkle and cheer!

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$165$115
group smiling at the camera
Duration
3 hours
Group Size
4 to 10

Midtown Walking Food Tour

Discover Midtown’s unique blend of art, culture, and food on this guided walking food tour. Stroll through tree-lined streets and enjoy tastings at local spots, from Asian street eats to Spanish tapas. Along the way, explore Midtown’s murals, learn a bit of history, and uncover the area’s creative spirit. Perfect for food lovers and those looking to experience Sacramento’s vibrant food scene—join us for a taste of Midtown!

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$135$125
food on a plate
Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
4 to 15

Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour

Step back in time on our Historic Old Sacramento Food Tour, where history and flavor blend along the iconic cobblestone streets. Walk in the footsteps of figures like General Sherman, Ulysses S. Grant, and John Sutter as you hear captivating stories of fires, floods, and the Gold Rush that shaped California’s capital.

As you explore the Old Sacramento Waterfront, you’ll enjoy tastings at top local spots known for their delicious flavors and connection to Sacramento’s past. This tour offers the chance to experience Gold Rush-era buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and the charm of unique boutiques, antique shops, and old-fashioned candy stores.

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$105$95
Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
4 to 10

Vegan Delights Food Tour

Join us for an unforgettable eclectic, plant-based culinary journey through Midtown Sacramento.

From gourmet street food to innovative, chef-inspired dishes, each stop offers a unique and flavorful experience that will challenge your expectations of vegan cuisine. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or just curious about plant-based eating, this tour promises to surprise and delight every palate. Come hungry and get ready to savor the best vegan flavors Sacramento has to offer—all on foot!

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$130$120
people in front of mural
Duration
1 hour 30 minutes
Group Size
4 to 24

Downtown Mural and Art Walk

Explore Sacramento’s vibrant public art scene on this family-friendly guided walking tour. Discover stunning murals, street art, and sculptures created by both local and international artists as you stroll through Downtown Sacramento. Learn about the city’s renowned Wide Open Walls mural project, which has brought global attention to the city’s art scene.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close to the artwork, linger for photos, and hear the stories behind these captivating pieces. The tour concludes with a special sweet treat, making it a fun and memorable experience for all ages. Whether you're an art lover or simply looking for a unique way to explore the city, this tour is a perfect way to connect with Sacramento’s creative spirit.

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$55$45