Old Sacramento State Historic Park

Step Back in Time

Established in 1965, this 28-acre National Historic Landmark District and State Historic Park takes you straight back to California's Gold Rush days, preserving a significant piece of Sacramento's colorful past.

Covering about a third of the Old Sacramento Historic District, the park is home to over 50 historic buildings, many dating back to the 1850s. This collection represents the largest concentration of historic structures in the western United States.

Architectural Treasures

Walk the streets and you'll come across meticulously restored or reconstructed buildings that capture the authentic feel of 19th-century Sacramento.

Keep an eye out for locations like the 1849 Eagle Theater (California's first permanent theater), the stately 1853 B.F. Hastings Building that once housed the California Supreme Court, and the historically significant 1855 Big Four Building.

The park also marks the western endpoint of the Pony Express postal system, the first transcontinental railroad, and the transcontinental telegraph - highlighting Sacramento's role in connecting America during its formative years.

Must-See Attractions

The California State Railroad Museum is a highlight you shouldn't miss. Housing an impressive collection of restored locomotives and train cars, it offers fascinating insights into how rail transportation shaped California's development. The beautifully refurbished steam trains are particularly striking, and you can actually step inside many of the historic train cars to get a feel for travel in a bygone era.

For something unique, check out the underground tours that take you beneath the streets to explore the raised roadways and hollow sidewalks built to protect the city from flooding in the 1800s.

Informative plaques scattered throughout the park help piece together California's rich history, making this an educational yet engaging experience.

Living History

Year-round, the park comes alive with living history events and reenactments that breathe life into the Gold Rush era. If you're visiting during winter, the Polar Express train ride has become something of a holiday tradition for many families.

These programs and exhibits preserve and share the story of Sacramento's founding and its place in California's history.

Beyond the History

Wandering the wooden boardwalks between historic buildings creates a distinctive Wild West atmosphere. When you need a break, the riverfront walkway offers peaceful views and a nice contrast to the bustling historic district.

You'll find plenty of shops, restaurants, and specialty stores housed in historic buildings - from souvenir shops to old-fashioned candy stores and ice cream parlors that feel right at home in the vintage setting.

Clean restrooms are available both in the museum and throughout the district, and there are pleasant picnic areas near the river that make perfect spots to rest and soak in the scenery.