East Sacramento is home to some of the most beautiful parks in all of Sacramento. With the city’s largest park, extensive trail network, and growing arts scene, there are so many reasons to visit East SAC. And with so many visitors flocking to this part of town, businesses have followed suit by opening their doors and welcoming travelers from near and far. For those looking for things to do in East Sacramento and environs, we’ve got you covered. This guide has everything you need to know about exploring East SAC like a local as well as where to go for some fantastic food, drinks, and sightseeing experiences. We also recommend a few hotels in case you want to extend your stay with us!
Hiking and Biking at CalEPA
Situated between Downtown, Midtown and the River District, the California State Ecology Center (CalEPA) is the perfect place to get some fresh air and take in some amazing views of the City. CalEPA is located on the site of the former State Fish Protection Station, and it’s easy to see how this part of town earned the “Ecology Center” part of its name. If you’re visiting the city between April and November, you can also get in some hiking and biking. The Ecology Center has more than 8 miles of trails for visitors of all ages and abilities to hike and bike. The Ecology Center’s trails are also part of the Sacramento Area Regional Trail system and connect to other trails in nearby parks, so you can hike or bike for miles in the area without having to do any backtracking. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can grab a snack or meal from their snack bar, which is open daily.
Art Escapism at Sacramento Art Museum
There are few things as relaxing as putting on headphones and getting lost in a beautiful piece of art. Luckily, Sacramento Art Museum (SAM) has an extensive collection of art and hosts rotating exhibitions of works from both international and local artists, including emerging and mid-career artists. While SAM has a wide-ranging collection, the museum is also known for its Asian art and architecture collections. Some of the most famous pieces in the collection include a massive Japanese calligraphy scroll that was hand-painted on silk, “The Great Wave off Kanagawa” by Katsushika Hokusai, and the “Sacramento Hojo” architecture model. The museum also hosts regular events, workshops, and other programming, so there’s always something new to see and do at SAM.
A Step Back in Time at Old Sacramento
Sacramento is a city rich in history, and no tour of the city would be complete without a visit to Old Sacramento, one of the most historically significant and architecturally beautiful areas in the city. Old Sacramento is a living museum, preserving the city’s rich history with a wide variety of shops and restaurants that sell goods and offer services with a 19th-century aesthetic, as well as re-enactments, tours and other interactive programming. Old Sacramento is also the location of the California State Railroad Museum, a must-see attraction for railroad enthusiasts, historians, and anyone looking for a chance to take a step back in time.
Cozy up with Comfort Food at Hop
No visit to East SAC is complete without experiencing Hop. This popular eatery is located in the heart of Midtown Sacramento and specializes in comforting and creative takes on comfort food. Hop also has a beautiful outdoor patio where guests can enjoy alfresco dining during warm months. Popular menu items include the signature Hop Burger, Hop Wings, and the Indulgence Burger. Hop also serves a number of salads and sandwiches, as well as a selection of beers and wine. If you’re planning to visit Hop during the winter, be sure to dress warmly, as the restaurant does not have heating. They also have a location on El Camino in San Carlos, where they also serve brunch on weekends.
Wrap Up
East Sacramento is home to many things, including some of the best parks and trails in the city, as well as a growing arts scene. And with so many visitors flocking to this part of town, businesses have followed suit by opening their doors and welcoming travelers from near and far. For those looking for things to do in East Sacramento and environs, we’ve got you covered. This guide has everything you need to know about exploring East SAC like a local as well as where to go for some fantastic food, drinks, and sightseeing experiences. And don’t forget to check out our list of nearby hotels in case you want to extend your stay!
