Just under an hour’s drive north of University of the Pacific’s Stockton campus lies California’s capital, Sacramento. The city is known for its food scene, but that’s far from all the city offers. You can also find also find a vibrant mixture of shopping, art and history. Here are some places you should check out, with a few insights from Sacramento-area native and Pacific Tiger Christian Nunn ’29.
Sutter’s Fort State Historical Park / State Indian Museum
Found in Midtown, Sutter’s Fort State Historical Park is the oldest piece of history the city has and serves as a museum. Pro-tip: Plan your visit for a Demonstration Day, which fall on the second Saturday of each month. On those days, you can find park staff and docents in most of the fort’s rooms to explain its history in depth.
Of course, there were people in and around Sacramento long before the city existed. The State Indian Museum, just outside the fort, shares the history, culture and traditions of California’s native peoples through today. And, if you go on Demonstration Day, a ticket to either park gets you admission to both.
World’s Worst Expo – Christian’s pick
Like many others, I love to try and find gems by thrifting. That’s why the World’s Worst Expo is such a great event. With over so many vendors that have various styles and aesthetics—and sometimes food venders, too— this bi-monthly event in Sacramento is a hotspot for thrifters.
Before I forget, did I mention that admission is free? For anyone that is craving thrifting in Sacramento, I would highly recommend visiting. Check out its Instagram @worldsworstexpo to find the next date and location.
Channel 24
A more recent addition to the Sactown music scene in Midtown, Channel 24 hosts musicians, comedians and other special events. The venue hosts a wide variety of artists, so no matter your genre, you’ll find someone you like here.
Plus, Channel 24 is very easy to access: There’s paid parking, bike/scooter parking racks and direct access to a SacRT light rail stop.
Ace of Spades
A staple of the Midtown music scene, Ace of Spades hosts musicians most days of the week. Located along the R Street Corridor, there’s also plenty of places to shop, eat and relax before a show. Plus, keep an eye out for its themed music nights.
The Dreamland Cinema
With a focus on indie, international and arthouse film, The Dreamland Cinema is a hub for film fanatics in Midtown. Be sure to check out its monthly schedule ahead of time, because it only shows each movie once or twice. Despite its small size, with just twenty-size seats, you can still get the full theater experience with fresh-popped popcorn, sweets and a drink.
Midtown Mural Trail – Christian’s pick
Stretched across Midtown are a variety of murals of many different styles and subjects. They’re impressive sights to accompany your visits businesses along the Midtown’s streets, especially record stores and a restaurants. Whether you have a particular plan in mind—like visiting 1-Up Retro Video Games and eating pizza at Chicago Fire—or just plan to walk the town and take in the sights, the murals dotted across Midtown are a sight to behold.
WAL Public Market
Another R Street Corridor favorite, the WAL Public Market is an indoor marketplace with coffee shops, restaurants, handmade goods and a record store. It’s a great place to stop for a break while you’re walking the city.
Very Good Video
A recent addition to Sacramento, just off the grid in Oak Park and not far from Pacific’s Sacramento campus. You can buy and rent VHS tapes and DVDs at Very Good Video, making it a must-stop location for lovers of physical media.
The Midtown Farmer’s Market – Christian’s pick
From fresh produce to baked goods, this Saturday morning market is an amazing spot to peruse. With over 200 vendors along five blocks, you can find any foodstuffs, goods or services you need.
Personally, I’m a regular at the honey and jam vendors to supplement my tea and sandwiches. But that’s just me. When you visit this farmer’s market, you’ll find something that improves your day.
Beers Books
Despite the name, Beers Books only sells half of what’s on the sign. This bookstore has been in Sacramento for nearly a century, offering both new and used books. It’s also directly attached to Kicksville Shop, a vinyl record store.
The Tower Theater
Part of Sacramento’s Land Park neighborhood for nearly 90 years, the Tower Theater is a great place to catch a mixture of new releases and old favorites. Directly attached to several restaurants, it’s a great place for dinner and a movie.