The 10 Best Tours in Sacramento

Sacramento, California’s pulsing heart, blends history with modern flair, offering a diverse mix of attractions. Known for its Gold Rush origins and as the Farm-to-Fork Capital, the city invites adventurers, food enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.

Dive into Sacramento’s essence with the top 10 tours, showcasing must-visit spots and exciting activities that highlight the city’s allure.

Downtown Historical Food Tour

Venture into the heart of Sacramento with the Downtown Historical Food Tour, where every dish tells the story of the city’s rich culinary heritage. This journey is a feast for the senses, offering a taste of local favorites like heirloom tomato and provolone on ciabatta, amidst the backdrop of historic Main Street. It’s an immersive experience that blends the fresh, farm-to-fork philosophy with the vibrant tales of Sacramento’s past.

As you wander through Sacramento’s bustling streets, you’ll discover the essence of its food scene, where locally-sourced ingredients are the stars of the show. This tour not only celebrates the city’s agricultural roots but also its culinary creativity, offering a glimpse into the local way of life. It’s a must-do for food lovers and history buffs alike, providing a deliciously insightful exploration of the Farm-to-Fork Capital.

• Tour Fee: From $98
• Schedule: 3 hours of gastronomic exploration
• Inclusions: Multiple food tastings at local eateries

Sacramento Urban Adventure Quest Scavenger Hunt

Dive into the Sacramento Urban Adventure Quest Scavenger Hunt, where you turn Sacramento into an exciting game. Using your smartphone, you’ll find clues and face challenges as you move from the iconic Capitol Building to the lively Old Sacramento. It’s a journey that tests your cleverness while guiding you through the city’s must-see spots.

This experience is more than just a walk; it’s a thrilling quest that mixes fun, learning, and adventure on the streets of Sacramento. As you solve puzzles and reach new landmarks, you’ll connect with the city’s history and charm, making every discovery a memorable part of your day. It’s a perfect way to explore Sacramento, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident looking for a new perspective.

• Tour Fee: From $45
• Schedule: Self-paced, approximately 3 hours
• Inclusions: A digital adventure through Sacramento’s landmarks

Sutter District Tour

Dive into the heart of Sacramento with the Sutter District Tour, where you’ll get a true taste of what makes this area special. This journey is all about celebrating the local, with stops to enjoy artisan meats, cheeses, and the kind of coffee that convinces you to take a moment and savor. Each bite and sip is a nod to Sacramento’s dedication to fresh, locally sourced food.

Wandering through the Sutter District, you’ll stumble upon culinary delights like the perfect croque monsieur or a chocolate crinkle cookie that’s just the right kind of indulgent. It’s more than just eating; it’s about connecting with the culture and community that thrives in this vibrant part of the city. This tour isn’t just about seeing Sacramento—it’s about tasting it, one delightful stop at a time.

• Tour Fee: From $98
• Schedule: A leisurely 3-hour walking tour
• Inclusions: Food tastings at five to six locations

Whitewater Rafting South Fork American River

Embark on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure down the South Fork of the American River, a journey perfect for both families and beginners. Experience the excitement of navigating through rapids while surrounded by California’s stunning landscapes. The river’s rush and the beauty of nature combine to create unforgettable moments filled with laughter and adrenaline.

After enjoying the exhilarating rapids, take a break with a riverside buffet to refuel and relax under the sky. Continue your adventure through the Gorge, where the river’s powerful flow offers a continuous thrill. This part of the river, with its scenic surroundings and the invigorating challenge of the rapids, highlights why whitewater rafting here is a top experience in Sacramento.

• Tour Fee: From $103
• Schedule: Full day of exhilarating water activity
• Inclusions: Rafting gear, buffet lunch, and guided adventure

Sacramento Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Dive into the Sacramento Scavenger Hunt Adventure, where the city’s rich history and vibrant scenes turn into an engaging game. As you solve clues and uncover the city’s secrets, iconic sites like the Capitol Building and Old Sacramento become more than just sights; they become stories, making your journey through Sacramento an interactive and enlightening experience.

This scavenger hunt is more than a simple tour; it’s a chance to explore Sacramento in a fun and inventive way. Whether you’re with family, or friends, or on a solo adventure, you’ll find joy in solving puzzles and discovering new aspects of the city. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with Sacramento’s spirit and its people, offering both entertainment and insight.

• Tour Fee: From $20
• Schedule: 2 to 3 hours of exploration
• Inclusions: A self-guided tour through Sacramento’s most interesting spots

Hot Air Balloon Ride over California’s Gold Country

Take off on a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque Gold Country of California, where you’ll be greeted by the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, lush vineyards, and historic ranches unfolding below. This peaceful flight at dawn offers a unique perspective of Sacramento’s natural beauty, making for unforgettable moments as the sun rises, illuminating the land in warm hues.

As you touch down, the journey ends with a traditional champagne toast, celebrating the experience with new friends. This isn’t just a ride; it’s an intimate embrace of the landscape’s majesty, offering a serene start to your day in the heart of California, where every glance is a postcard and every moment is a memory in the making.

• Tour Fee: From $195
• Schedule: 1 hour of flight, early morning departures
• Inclusions: Balloon ride, champagne ceremony

Sacramento Historic River Cruise

Set sail on the Sacramento River and travel back in time with the Sacramento Historic River Cruise. As you drift along, you’ll be treated to stories that span from the city’s Gold Rush beginnings to its current bustle. This leisurely cruise isn’t just relaxing—it’s a captivating history lesson set against the backdrop of Sacramento’s evolving skyline and scenic river edges.

Every twist in the river brings a new chapter of Sacramento’s story to life, blending the past with the present in an immersive experience. Witness the transition from the early days of pioneers to today’s vibrant city life, all from the unique vantage point of the river. With stunning views of nature and architecture alike, this cruise offers a serene yet enlightening journey through the heart of Sacramento.

• Tour Fee: From $20
• Schedule: 1-hour cruise
• Inclusions: Narrated history tour

Midtown Arts Tour

Explore the vibrant heart of Sacramento with the Midtown Arts Tour. Dive into a world where the city’s creativity is splashed across walls and showcased in galleries, each piece sharing its own unique story. This walking tour takes you on an adventure through Sacramento’s flourishing arts district, blending the joy of discovery with the intimate tales behind the street art.

As you wander through Midtown, the tour also treats you to tastes of the local cuisine, making it a perfect outing for both art lovers and food enthusiasts. Experience the rich tapestry of Sacramento’s culture as you enjoy both the visual and culinary arts. This tour is an engaging way to see and taste the city, offering a memorable journey through its artistic lanes.

• Tour Fee: From $98
• Schedule: 3 hours of cultural immersion
• Inclusions: Art tours, food tastings

Alive After Five Cruise

Set sail on the Alive After Five Cruise and see Sacramento light up at dusk. Watch as the setting sun casts a golden glow over Old Town, creating a picturesque view from the deck. This cruise offers more than just sightseeing; it’s a lively celebration of Sacramento, with each wave telling a tale of history and modernity mingling on the riverbanks.

As night falls, the atmosphere onboard comes alive with music from a DJ, matching the vibrant energy of Sacramento after dark. This river cruise isn’t just a trip; it’s an experience that captures the lively essence of the city’s nightlife. It’s the perfect way to experience Sacramento’s charm, offering a unique perspective and an unforgettable evening.

• Tour Fee: From $25
• Schedule: 1.5 hours of evening entertainment
• Inclusions: River cruise with DJ entertainment

Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise

Embark on the Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise along the Sacramento River as evening falls, transforming the city into a backdrop for a night of dancing and enjoyment. Under the glowing Tower Bridge and by the lit riverbanks, you’ll feel the music from a live DJ and enjoy your favorite drinks. This cruise mixes the beauty of Sacramento at night with the fun of a party on the water.

As you cruise, the gentle movements of the yacht and the cool evening air add to the experience. The city lights dance on the water’s surface, providing a captivating scene as you mingle, dance, and unwind. The Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise is the ideal way to experience Sacramento’s lively evening atmosphere from a unique perspective, making for a memorable night out.

• Tour Fee: From $30
• Schedule: 1.5-hour cruise
• Inclusions: Live DJ, cash bar

Sacramento beckons with its blend of history, culture, adventure, and culinary delights. Each tour offers a unique vantage point from which to appreciate the city’s charm. Whether you’re cruising down the river, soaring above the landscape, or delving into the culinary scene, Sacramento promises unforgettable experiences that resonate with the spirit of California.