The Capital City of the Great State of California, Sacramento for those who do not know,  is not a well known destination spot. It is not even the most well known destination spot in California. Despite many people not knowing it, Sacramento offers many great  activities for visitors and residents alike during the summer. From outdoor fun to cultural activities, Sacramento always offers something fun to do. The best part is that most of these activities are affordable and very family friendly.

Many do not know that Sacramento is home to great rivers and lakes including the American and Sacramento Rivers.  With so many water destinations, there are many great activities offered by these natural resources. There is amazing white water rafting and kayaking available in the North and South Forks of the American River that is a just a short drive from Downtown Sacramento.

Besides great water activities like rafting, these Rivers and Lakes also offer beautiful scenery for outdoor activities.  For example, for those that enjoy cycling, the American River Bike Trail runs from Old Sacramento to Folsom and offers beautiful views of the American River, shady areas to rest and relax.  The bike trail also offers restrooms, telephones and places to eat. And for those who just want to play in the water or relax in the shade, there are many Parks and Recreation areas along the rivers and at Folsom Lake to enjoy. Most of these areas provide clean beaches, picnic areas and access to water for a nominal admission price.

Sacramento also offers great weather during the summer months, but it can get hot at times. For those that want to escape the heat and enjoy fine art or historical facts, Sacramento offers some of the best museums in the State of California. 

California State Railroad Museum

The California State Railroad Museum is located in Old Sacramento and provides an educational experience for kids and adults alike. The Museum is dedicated to showcasing California's rich rail history and provides great information.  The California State Railroad Museum has guided tours, unique attractions including a working steam locomotive, and provides great history of the railroad industry in California. And the best part, admission is only $8 for adults; $3 for kids ages 6-17; and children 5 and under are free.

The Crocker Art Museum

The Crocker Art Museum was founded in 1885 and is the longest continuously operating art museum in the West. The Crocker Art Museum offers special exhibitions, events and programs in addition to its large collection of California, Asian and European artwork.

Discovery Museum of Sacramento - Science and Art Center

The Discovery Museum is fun for the whole family. The Discovery Museum offers many children activities including the Challenger Learning Center that brings space to life and includes a space mission simulator. There is also a planetarium, guided tours about animal life, and arts and crafts.

Sacramento also offers a National Historic Landmark District called Old Sacramento. Old Sacramento runs along the Sacramento River and provides historical attractions including a horse drawn stagecoach. Old Sacramento also has great museums, fine dining and great shopping.

In addition to its rivers and lakes, great museums and Old Sacramento, Sacramento offers many other great activities to do in the summer. You can catch a professional baseball game at Raleys Field and watch the Triple A Sacramento Rivercats take on its rivals. Or, you can enjoy one of the many great parks in the area and enjoy a picnic or nap on the grass. While Sacramento may not be well known, it offers many great things to do in the summer.