Where to Stay in Sacramento
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Our pick for families
Stay in Old Sacramento Waterfront
Provides historical attractions and a unique environment that appeals to various age groups.
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Sacramento
Old Sacramento Waterfront
Mid-rangeA historic district preserving the Gold Rush era with wooden sidewalks and period buildings.
- +Unique historical atmosphere
- +Family-friendly attractions and shops
- +Scenic riverfront location
- -Can feel touristy and somewhat commercialized
- -Limited hotel options directly within the historic core
🛡️ Safe and well-lit during the day and early evening, but can become very quiet and less inviting late at night.
East Sacramento
Mid-rangeA charming, established residential area with beautiful older homes and a popular commercial strip.
- +Quiet, residential streets with mature trees
- +Highly-rated restaurants and cafes along Folsom Blvd
- +Proximity to parks and the American River
- -Less central for major tourist attractions
- -Requires a car or rideshare for most off-neighborhood activities
🛡️ Very safe residential neighborhood; generally quiet and secure day and night.
Downtown
Mid-rangeThe bustling heart of the city, offering a mix of government, business, and entertainment.
- +Central location with easy access to attractions
- +Good public transport links
- +Variety of dining and entertainment options
- -Can feel quiet on weekends and evenings outside of event nights
- -Some areas can appear less maintained
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, but be aware of your surroundings at night, especially in less populated blocks.
Midtown
Mid-rangeEclectic and vibrant, known for its tree-lined streets, local boutiques, and lively dining scene.
- +Abundant independent restaurants, bars, and shops
- +Walkable with a strong local feel
- +Active community events
- -Parking can be very difficult
- -Can be noisy on weekend nights
🛡️ Generally safe and well-trafficked, but be mindful of personal belongings in crowded areas at night.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 250/day
Hidden Gems in Sacramento
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Crocker Art Museum
While it's a major museum, many tourists skip it for Old Sacramento. It boasts an incredible collection of California art, plus stunning Asian and European art, housed in a beautiful historic building with a modern wing.
Capitol Park
FREEMore than just the grounds around the Capitol building, this park features themed gardens, a rose garden, and a memorial grove with trees planted by dignitaries. It's a peaceful urban oasis perfect for a stroll.
East Portal Park
FREEThis expansive park is a beloved local spot featuring beautiful mature trees, playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths. It offers a genuine slice of Sacramento life away from the usual tourist crowds.
Safety in Sacramento
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise standard precautions; stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night. Downtown can be quiet outside of business hours or events.
At Night
Downtown and Old Sacramento can become quiet and feel less safe after dark. Midtown is generally more active and safer at night due to its vibrant bar and restaurant scene, but still requires awareness.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced souvenirs in tourist-heavy areas.
- 2Street vendors offering unsolicited 'help' or goods.
- 3Occasional panhandling, sometimes aggressive.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Sacramento