Sacramento FAQ's

‘Tis the season for giving, so why not add those less fortunate to your holiday list?  The Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau is joining News 10’s Coats for Kids in partnership with Swansons Cleaners, Tri Counties Bank, The UPS Store and the Salvation Army in collecting coats for local children who may not be able to keep warm this winter without your generosity. 

With the community’s help, News 10 and Tri Counties Bank hope to donate over 20,000 coats to struggling families this year.   If you would like to help, we encourage you to stop by our office to drop off your donations by December 15, 2012. 

We know Sacramentans are a giving bunch and do so freely without the expectation of getting something in return, but we do want to show our appreciation.  So, to thank you for your generosity, each donor will have a chance of winning a $50 gift certificate to the Firehouse Restaurant in Old Sacramento.  For each coat dropped off at the Sacramento CVB, you’ll receive one entry into our raffle!  So come on down and bring in your coats.  We are ready for you!

What:  Coat donations for News 10’s Coats for Kids

             For more information on the program see news10.net

When:  Now through December 15, 2012

Where:  Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1608 I Street, Sacramento 95814; Monday-Friday, 8 am - 5 pm

Questions:  Call us at (916) 808-7777

We Sacramento locals tend to get a bit giddy when autumn weather finally decides to make an appearance in the valley.  After the typical long and hot summers, we are often tempted to stop the world (or at least our lives for a day) just for an opportunity to get out and enjoy those crisp, cool mornings and the changing scenery in the way of fall foliage. 

When happening upon a pumpkin farm our tires screech to a halt (because nothing says it's fall better than the pumpkin farm) and we find ourselves suddenly in the baking mood with pumpkin bread in the oven and hot apple cider simmering on the stove.  Ah, life is good in the fall.  That is, until your day starts moving again and the stresses of life can be put off no longer.  So, what's a person to do?  Well, we have come up with 7 family activities that will keep you in that comfy, cozy mind set all season long.

1. Take in a football game.  Whether it's your son's high school game, the Sacramento State Hornets, or the UFL's Sacramento Mountain Lions, snuggling up to your sweetie (or kiddos) at a football game eating nachos, drinking hot chocolate, and cheering on your home team is sure to bring some fall spirit and fun into your life.

2. Admire the fall foliage along the Sacramento River.  Cruising the river is fun at any time during the year, but gliding on the water aboard the Hornblower in the fall is by far the most scenic.  The river is flanked on each side by a variety of trees whose colors are at their peak in late fall.  Take in the view while sipping champagne during a weekend brunch or while enjoying a quiet dinner for two.  The Hornblower also offers a one hour river cruise, perfect for families with kids in tow. 

3. Visit a pumpkin farm.  The Sacramento area has an abundance of pumpkin farms.  It would seem that each family has their traditional favorite, but Bishop's Pumpkin Farm seems to be one of the best.  Located north on Hwy 70 in Wheatland, Bishop's entertains the whole family with train and wagon rides, a crazy corn maze, pig races, a petting farm, chicken show, a play fort, coyote mountain (think fun slides,) marble panning, food and crafts, and more.

4. Take a city walking tour.  Originating in Old Sacramento, walking history tours are especially wonderful in the fall.  The weather is perfect and the trees are turning color.  Take your pick from a gold rush legacy tour, an architectural history tour, the Old Sacramento underground tour or risk getting spooked on the Ghost tour, perfect around Halloween.

5. Pick apples at Apple Hill.  Most locals will say that it's not quite autumn until the pilgrimage to Apple Hill has been made.  The Apple Hill Growers Association, consisting of over 50 ranches provides a wonderful and unique country experience.  In the fall, pumpkins and apples are in abundance and ripe for the picking.  One of the best U-pick orchards is Denver Dan's where visitors can choose from over 50 varieties of apples.  Pick as many or as few as you like, eat them fresh or save them for a homemade apple pie. Either way you are sure to cherish the sweet taste and aroma of fresh fall apples. 

6. Get festive at the Delta Fall Harvest Festival.  Hosted by Scribner Bend Vineyards located a few miles south of the city along the Sacramento River, this free family festival is sure to bring the feel of autumn into your life.  On Sunday, October 14th, the festival offers barrel room tours, a grape stomp, pumpkin patch, hay rides, farmer's market, food and craft vendors and more.  A perfect event your whole family will enjoy.

7. Shop at Sacramento's Harvest Festival.  Get in the holiday spirit by stopping by "the original arts and crafts show" at Cal Expo.  Happening the weekend before Thanksgiving, this annual event claims to offer the best Sacramento area shopping with hundreds of vendors, plenty of music and entertainment, unique foods to inspire your Thanksgiving table and a kid's zone.  So come out, bring the whole family and get your shopping done early!

Whether it's a football game, apple picking, river cruising, or a ghost tour, there are plenty of activities for you and your family to enjoy in Sacramento all season long.  So get out there and have some fun! 

You've seen them around...you're on vacation, leisurely snapping photos in places like Disneyland or the Grand Canyon, when all of a sudden you are descended upon by a group of people ranging from toddler age to senior citizens.  You know who I'm talking about, those families who travel in packs.  With matching t-shirts.  Maybe you are one of those families, or maybe you would like to be one of those families (perhaps not the matching shirt part.)  Well, there is a lot to be said for traveling with extended family members. 

According to Road and Travel Magazine, multigenerational travel is the fastest growing travel trend in America.  Over 5 million family vacations each year include three generations.  Whether the intended destination is a relaxing exotic island far from home, or simply a weekend away in a nearby city, vacations that include extended family members are often some of the most enjoyable and memorable. 

Today's seniors are generally more energetic and adventurous than in generations past, and therefore crave spending quality time with their grandchildren.  When families live miles apart they often plan multigenerational vacations to bridge that distance gap.  It is during these family vacations, away from every day life, that experiences and memories are created that might not otherwise be possible.  Most seniors say that traveling with their grandchildren is more enjoyable because it helps them see things through "new" eyes, and offers a unique perspective.

Sacramento is an ideal city for multigenerational visits, and here is why.

Weather.  We have great weather here in Sacramento.  According to Climatezone.com, Sacramento enjoys sunshine nearly 78% of the time.  That's approximately 265 sunny days each year.  So, chances are, if you visit anytime between April and November, you'll enjoy great weather (albeit a tad warm in July and August.)  Although the typical rainy season runs December through March, you might want to note that some of the most beautiful days of the year come in between those rainy days.  So don't rule out visiting in the winter time!

Walkability.  Sacramento is one of the easiest cities I know of to navigate on foot.  Downtown streets are level (no killer hills) and organized in an easy grid system.  Restaurants, hotels and many attractions are located within just blocks of one another making it so easy for a family of both little children and mature adults to get around together.  One can stay in a downtown Sacramento hotel and easily spend several days sightseeing without having to get behind the wheel.  You can explore the museums, shops and restaurants within a few blocks of Old Town, or head a few blocks to the east where visitors will find the hustle and bustle of life around the California State Capitol including theater productions, shopping and dining.

Attractions.  There are plenty of things to do in the Sacramento area that appeal to a variety of ages and interests.  The California Gold Rush history alone is sure to peak the interests of both adults and children with the California State Railroad Museum, the Sacramento History Museum, the Old School House Museum and shops and restaurants galore.  Both excursion train rides, river cruises, as well as a variety of Sacramento walking tours originate in Old Town.  Located just a few blocks south of Old Town is the Crocker Art Museum with its fabulous permanent collection, always interesting exhibits and wonderful children's program. 

Head a few blocks east and visitors will find the California State Capitol Museum and grounds, the Wells Fargo Museum, the California Museum and Hall of Fame, the Leland Stanford Mansion, the Esquire IMAX Theater, Sacramento Convention Center and Community Theater. In Midtown, you'll find the very first settlement here in Sacramento - Sutter's Fort  - along with the California State Indian Museum, both open for daily tours. 

Hop on the freeway or navigate through beautiful old neighborhoods to one of the largest and oldest parks in the area, William Land Park. Here you'll find the Sacramento Zoo, local favorite Fairytale Town and a mini Disneyland called Funderland, perfect for kids ages 10 and under.

Affordability.  When planning for multiple families, cost is often a huge factor in determining where to go, how long to stay, and what to do on vacation.  Compared to some of the other large cities in California, Sacramento is really quite a deal....especially when families visit on the weekends.  Due to the weekday influx of business travelers and lawmakers, hotel rates in Sacramento actually drop on the weekends.  For instance, the Sheraton Grand which can run upwards of $300 per night during peak week nights, may drop by as much as half come Friday. (For a list of family friendly hotels in downtown Sacramento, click here.) Plus, if you request a Sacramento Gold Card when you check in to a Sacramento-area hotel, you'll gain access to discounts and savings at restaurants, shopping centers and attractions.

So, when planning your next vacation, consider bringing the whole family to Sacramento and taking advantage of all it has to offer families of all ages, generations and interests.  Memories are sure to be made, that will last a lifetime.

So you are coming into Sacramento for a few days, and you have kids in tow.  Where will you stay?  Do you book accommodations downtown near Old Sacramento for it's fabulous location near the waterfront, museums, good eats and shopping? Or do you compromise location for something a little more out of the way, but less expensive and more accommodating to families?

Well, you'll be delighted to know that you don't have to compromise!  Despite the influx of weekday convention attendees, state capitol workers and business travelers, Sacramento is also a very family-friendly city.  There are plenty of accommodation options to fit everyone's needs, wants and budgets, especially on the weekends when all those business travelers clear out.

Take a look at our recently compiled list of downtown Sacramento's most family-friendly hotels and you just might be surprised at what made the list. 

The Top Five:

1 - Embassy Suites Sacramento - Riverfront Promenade.  The Embassy tops our list due to a combination of factors.  Location, kid-friendly ammenities and cost.  First, location.  Literally steps away from Old Sacramento and the Sacramento River, guests can enjoy a variety of restaurants, shops and museums within walking distance, including the popular California State Railroad Museum.  Second, ammenities.  The obvious, is the signature room suites with 2 t.v.'s in each suite as well as refrigerators and microwaves.  Guests also enjoy a cook-to-order breakfast, an indoor pool and spa and DIY laundry facilities.  Third, cost.  Although the Embassy is not generally known for fitting a tight budget, in Sacramento visitors can take advantage of lower weekend rates as well as some great family packages like the River Cats Grand Slam and the Pizza Family package. $$$

2 - Vagabond Executive Inn Old Town.  Next on our list you'll find the Vagabond.  A far cry from the Embassy...or is it?  The Vagabond might be lacking the luxury and elegance you'll find at the Embassy (or Citizen which is mentioned later,) but  not lacking in ammenities or location.  Located as close as one can get to Old Sacramento without being in Old Sacramento, the Vagabond is a great choice for families on a budget.  Here you'll find modest, but clean rooms with microwaves and refrigerators, a complimentary hot breakfast, free parking and wifi, and a heated pool with patio area open year round. No frills here, just nice clean rooms and friendly and accommodating staff. $$

3 - Sacramento Hostel.  What?  An International hostel made the list?  Yep, and here's why.  What the hostel lacks in popular family ammenities you'd find at other hotels, it makes up for in location, cost, and well..."coolness."  The Sacramento Hostel is located just a few blocks from Old Sacramento, the Westfield Downtown Plaza and the California State Capitol.  Housed in a unique Victorian property with a very rich history, guests enjoy free parking, a beautiful outdoor garden, patio and barbecue area as well as complimentary breakfast (unique to the International Hostel industry.)  You won't find t.v.'s, wifi or a swimming pool, but you will find one guest room with a private bath, and plenty of other guest rooms of various sizes and sleeping accommodations to fit your needs.  And, of course, you have access to a fully stocked kitchen for meal preparation. And, you'll meet lots of interesting people from around the world.  And it's just really cool.  Did I already mention that?  $

4 - The Holiday Inn Capitol Plaza.  The Holiday Inn sits in yet another great location.  Across the street (through a tunnel under the freeway) from Old Sacramento, steps from the Downtown Plaza and just a few blocks from the capitol.  Choose from single rooms with two beds or a bed and a sofa sleeper, and refrigerators upon request.  Or upgrade to a suite with a kitchennette.  No complimentary breakfast here, however, kids always eat free in the restaurant with a paying adult. Kids will love the rooftop (sort of) swimming pool and large patio area. As with the Embassy, the Holiday Inn offers some great family packages (which is what tipped the scales to put it on our list,) so be sure to check them out before you book.  $$$$

5 - The Clarion Hotel Mansion Inn.  The Clarion is a bit further from Old Sacramento and the Capitol than those listed above, however it still sits in the downtown area and is within walking distance of our popular attractions (albeit a few more blocks.)  The benefit to being a bit further away, is that the Clarion feels a bit more secluded and quiet.  Here you'll find free parking, free wifi, complimentary breakfast, microwaves and refrigerators available upon request and an inner courtyard and swimming pool.  Wondering why it's called the "Mansion Inn?"  It's because right across the street you'll find the Governor's Mansion SHP, open to the public for tours.  You are also closer to the Convention Center, the Community Center Theater, the Wells Fargo Pavilion and Sutter's Fort SHP.  $$

Honorable Mentions:

Delta King Hotel.  If you are looking for a unique experience here in Sacramento, the Delta King is the place for you.  While not your typical family destination due to smaller than usual guest rooms and lack of ammenities such as swimming pool, spa, laundry facilities and gift shop, all those needs get pushed to the wayside when you realize that you are about to embark on a real, live New Orleans River Boat from the past.  How cool is that?  Guests also enjoy two restaurants, complimentary hot buffet breakfast, and free wifi.

While unfortunately lacking extra bed space, there is a Captain's Suite which can accommodate four, and a couple of additional rooms that can accommodate three guests.  I even heard from a good Delta King source that families are welcome to bring a sleeping bag or two if their kids don't mind setting up camp on the floor... $$$

Citizen Hotel.  While a bit pricey for families, the Citizen is housed in a uniquely historic building in a wonderfully central location.  You won't a find a pool, spa or complimentary breakfast, but you will find the award-winning Grange restaurant with a kids menu, and a fabulous "Real Family Values" package that includes a one-night stay, free valet parking, four Crocker Art Musuem tickets, and two daily passes for family admission to the California Railroad Museum, Sutter's Fort and the California Indian Museum. You will definitely want to check that out!  $$$$

Amtrak, where have you been all my life?  Seriously. 

If you have kids, you are well aware of how stressful car travel can be.  Even if you are only driving a couple of hours away, you've got to think about meals and snacks, bathroom breaks, and bringing along fun things to keep the kids occupied. And heaven forbid you get stuck in traffic, or have a flat tire.  So many issues to think about and prepare for.  Any one of these issues can make traveling with kids a nightmare.

Well, believe it or not, you can dial down travel-related stress by taking the train.  Yep, I'm talking about Amtrak.  For the first time ever, my family recently hopped on Amtrak in Sacramento for a day trip into San Francisco.  I can't believe we waited this long to do this!  It was comfortable, convenient, surprisingly easy and definitely stress-free. 

We boarded the Capitol Corridor right downtown at the Sacramento Amtrak Station next to Old Sacramento. We enjoyed a comfortable ride into Emeryville, at which point we made a quick and smooth transition to a clean and comfortable Amtrak bus, which then took us the rest of the way into the city.  Twenty minutes later the bus dropped us off right in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf.  No dodging pedestrians, circling the parking lot waiting for someone else to leave, and no parking fees. 

We spent the day learning about sharks at the Aquarium of the Bay, watching the famous Pier 39 sea lions soak in some sun, shopping (and eating) at Ghiradelli Square and enjoying the beautiful weather while playing on the beach at Aquatic Park.  After a fantastic dinner at the Fog Harbor Fish House at Pier 39, we headed back out to the Amtrak bus stop just a few steps away and boarded the bus for home.  It was all so very nice and easy.  We will definitely make this trip again and recommend that others do so as well.  Not only is it a perfect way for locals to travel to the Bay Area, but it's even more perfect for out of town visitors who don't have a car or who simply don't want to navigate the Sacramento to Bay Area traffic.

 Here's what we loved most about taking Amtrak with our kids:

1 - Freedom.  My boys, ages 8 and 11, were absolutely ecstatic about not having to wear seat belts.  They could stretch their legs, move around and even get up and walk around, whenever they wanted to.  They also loved sitting at a table where they could take out the Legos they brought (snuck into their backpacks without my knowledge) and spread them out for the duration of the ride.

2 - Restrooms.  No more making unexpected potty breaks!  It was so nice to have access to a bathroom whenever my boys needed one...especially considering all the water and soda they drank throughout the day.  Boy was I glad we didn't have to make all those stops while in the car!

3 - Meals and Snacks.  We brought our lunches with us, but it was nice to know that there was a snack car on board, just in case we got hungry on the way back. I absolutely loved having the option!

4 - Free Wifi.  Bring your laptop (ipad or iphone will do) along and your kids will be occupied for hours due to Amtrak's free wifi access for passengers.  Amtrak even has travel games for kids to play on their website at Amtrak Kids Depot.

5 - Relaxation.  We got to relax and have fun, too.  Yep, I know it's almost undeard of, but when you are letting someone else do the driving (so to speak) you don't have to worry about a traffic jam, accident, or car trouble, all of which we witnessed on the highway beside us somewhere along the way.  I have to admit that I felt just a little bit smug about being able to race on by all those "poor" people stuck on the freeway.  I just sat back, relaxed, and enjoyed spending some quality time with my family.

So, next time you are planning a vacation, whether you are going somewhere far away, or fairly close by, consider taking Amtrak.  Our Sacramento Amtrak station location can't get much more convenient.  Located just off I-5's J Street exit, with Historic Old Sacramento, Westfield's Downtown Plaza, the California State Capitol and plenty of shops, restaurants and hotels nearby, it's perfect for outbound and inbound travelers.

I'm already planning our next trip...and I think this time it will be aboard the Coast Starlight heading down to Southern California.  I hear the views are spectacular as it coasts alongside the Pacific Ocean.  I Can't wait!

Along with the musical programs at the Capitol on Wednesday, December 7, at 4:45, join Governor Brown as he lights the 40 ft. tall Christmas tree at the 80^th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.  The tree will be decorated with 900 hand-crafted ornaments created by children and adults with developmental disabilities who receive services and support from the state’s development centers and 21 nonprofit regional centers. - By Heather Crivellone

On display at the Old Schoolhouse  until December 18 will be dozens of gingerbread creations.  Houses, mansions, shacks and more made by children, bakery academy students and others will be on display for your viewing pleasure.  Study and marvel at the creativeness of our Sacramento area resident gingerbread bakers and vote for your favorite before you leave.

Prizes will be awarded and refreshments served at 2 pm on December 18.  Selected entries will be presented to the Receiving Home of Sacramento, Shriner’s Hospital and the Sacramento Children’s Home.

In all the years I have lived in Sacramento, I have noticed time and again my friends and neighbors making plans to get out of town for the Holidays.  I completely understand making plans for a ski vacation to the Sierras because, well...we don't actually have snow here in Sacramento.  Or traveling to visit family because being with loved ones is what Christmas is all about, right?  However, I'm consistently baffled by those who try to squeeze in a trip to say, Disneyland during the holidays.  If you haven't done that, you know you have thought about it!  You could not pay me to visit Disneyland at the holidays.  It's too crowded, overpriced...and there is plenty to do right here in our own backyard.  No traveling involved. 

Up until a few years ago we (myself, my husband and two kiddos) were right out on the road with the rest of you, heading out of town to spend Christmas with family.  Although the company was always fantastic, the traveling itself (with two active little boys) often turned into a stressful nightmare. One year we decided to do the unthinkable.  Stay home for Christmas.  Home is good old Sacramento.  And you know what?  We discovered that Sacramento during the holidays is a wonderfully fun and festive place to be!  Sure, the weather might be cold and rainy, but it just might be fabulously warm and sunny.  Regardless of the weather, Sacramento during the holidays is festive and downright jolly with an abundance of holiday activities, events and celebrations happening all season long. 

Do you love the theater?  Then you won't want to miss White Christmas at Runaway Stage Productions.  Music?  Home for the Holidays  with Sacramento Choral Society and Orchestra.  The ballet?  Then the Sacramento Ballet's The Nutcracker.  Craft Fairs?  We've got plenty of them.  Ice skating?  Yep!  Shopping?  Galore! Okay, okay.  You get the picture.  There are plenty of holiday activities for adults here in Sacramento, but what about for the little people in our lives?

There are more than enough kid-oriented, family-friendly activities for our special little kiddos, too.  Take them to see The Magic Toyshop at RSP.  Or to the Santa Parade downtown.  Are they animal lovers?  They'll love Holiday Magic at the Sacramento Zoo where they get to watch the animals open up their holiday gifts.  What little boy doesn't love trains?  Visit the California Railroad Museum during Small Train Holiday.  Then head up to Woodland to hop on the Sacramento River Train (pj's encouraged) for a fun-filled holiday trip along the Sacramento River.  How about sneaking in a bit of history?  Yep, you could do that at Sutter's Fort with Simple Emigrant Christmas and your kids won't even suspect they are being educated.  How's that for great parenting?

What about your annual family tour of Christmas lights?  First, take your pick of two lovely tree lightings.  The Capitol Tree lighting and the Old Sacramento Tree Lighting.  Then make your way to one of many fun and festive area neighborhoods to view lights and decorations.  For a complete list of displays worth a visit, click here. 

Want to cut down a real live Christmas tree this year?  Make the short and scenic drive into the Sierra foothills where you'll find plenty of tree farms near Apple Hill.  You might even run into some snow!  Then stop off in the picturesque town of Placerville (think painter Thomas Kinkade Christmas) for some lunch...maybe a little shopping.  If you happen to be in the area the first weekend in December, drop in for Placerville's 34th Annual Christmas Parade right there on main street. 

So, you see?  If you stick close to home this holiday season, you just might have the most relaxing and festive holiday yet.  You can go to Disneyland any old time...but Christmas in Sacramento comes around only once a year.  Enjoy it!