What is the best way to get around in Sacramento?

If you are planning to visit, work, or live in Sacramento, the capital of California in the United States, you will surely want to know the best ways to get around. This lively city, rich with history and modern attractions has many transportation options, ranging from buses and trains to light rail, bicycles, and even ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. This comprehensive guide will answer questions about how to navigate the most efficient routes both to attractions and to transportation hubs in Sacramento.

Buses and Light Rail

The Sacramento Regional Transit district (RT), administered by Sacramento Regional Transit District (RT) https://www.sacrt.com operated by SacRT, is the main public transportation system in Sacramento. It serves a variety of different routes ranging from West Sacramento to downtown Sacramento, and Folsom to Roseville. The Regional Transit District offer both buses and light rail that are frequent and affordable. RT buses serve over 50 million riders each year. Buses generally run from 5 am to 11 pm on weekdays and from 8 am to 8 pm on weekends. The fare for an adult one-way ticket is $2.50 and $1.25 for youth ages 6-18 as well for passengers with a valid Medicare card. Similarly senior citizens ages 65+ ride for free with an RT issued RT Reduced Fare identification card or a Medicare card. RT’s Light Rail is a three-stop subway line that runs from downtown Sacramento near the State Capitol to its eastern part. It started operations in 1987 and currently has 20 stations serving over hotel destinations, major attractions and over 30 shopping centers. It is one of the most convenient mode of transportation in the Sacramento area.

Taxis, Ride-Sharing Services and Other Modes of Transportation

Taxis are available in many parts of Sacramento but are more often used for short trips or getting people to/from airports. It’s important to note that the fare may be higher than public transportation costs since you are usually paying a fixed rate for the ride that is based on estimated arrival times. Additionally there are ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft which can be a great way to get around when public transportation is not available or desirable. These services allow you to arrange a ride from your home or business with just a few taps on your mobile device. The fares are generally lower than for taxis as well as fixed depending on your distance and estimated time/route. If you don’t have access to any of the above mentioned forms of transportation, Sacramento offers many other ways for getting around the city. You can rent a car or a bike near any of the major attractions like the Golden 1 Center or Capitol Park, or you can choose from a variety of options like scooter sharing apps or bike share programs like JUMP https://ridejump.com/cities/sacramento/. There are also ridesharing apps such as Via https://ridewithvia.com/sacramento/ that offer discounted rides within the city which can be helpful if you’re looking to save money on transportation.

The Insider’s Guide to Getting Around and Exploring Sacramento

If you’re planning a trip to Sacramento, you’re in for a treat. The capital of California is a city full of history, culture, and attractions that are well worth exploring. But with so much to see and do, it can be tough to know where to start, or the best way to get around. Fortunately, this insider’s guide is here to help you navigate Sacramento like a pro.

Getting Around in Sacramento

Getting around Sacramento is fairly easy, with plenty of options for transportation. The most convenient option is probably a car, especially if you plan on exploring some of the attractions outside of the city center. If you don’t have your own car, you can rent one from the Sacramento International Airport or one of the many car rental agencies in the city.

Sacramento also has a good public transportation system known as Regional Transit. The light rail system covers much of the city, and buses run frequently as well. Purchase a transit card or a day pass to save money on transportation.

If you’re looking for a more active way to get around, rent a bike from the many bike rental companies in the city. Take a leisurely ride along the scenic American River Bike Trail, or explore Sacramento’s many neighborhoods by bike.

Local Attractions

There is no shortage of things to do and see in Sacramento. Here are some of the must-see local attractions:

• Old Sacramento – A historic district with wooden sidewalks, horse-drawn carriages, and old-fashioned candy shops. Take a riverboat ride or visit the California State Railroad Museum.
• Crocker Art Museum – The oldest art museum in the western United States. Featuring American, European, and Asian art, this museum is a must-see for any art lover.
• California State Capitol and Museum – Located in downtown Sacramento, visit the Capitol building to learn about the state’s history and legislative process.
• Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park – A historic park and museum that recreates the first non-Native settlement in California, dating back to 1839.
• The California State Fair – Held annually in late summer, this fair includes carnival rides, food vendors, concerts, and much more.

Dining Spots

Sacramento is known for its incredible farm-to-table cuisine and craft beer scene. Here are some of the top dining spots in the city:

• The Waterboy – Fine dining with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients and Italian cuisine. Reservations recommended.
• Zocalo – A vibrant Mexican restaurant with an outdoor patio and extensive tequila selection.
• Burgers and Brew – A casual spot with gourmet burgers, craft beer, and a lively atmosphere.
• The Rind – A cheese-focused restaurant and bar with an extensive selection of local and imported cheeses and charcuterie.
• Andy’s Candy Apothecary – A classic candy shop with nostalgic treats and unique artisanal sweets.

Cultural Experiences

Sacramento is a diverse city with numerous cultural experiences to explore. Here are some of the top cultural attractions:

• The Crocker Art Museum – An art museum featuring American, European, and Asian art.
• The California State Indian Museum – Learn about California’s indigenous tribes and their history and culture.
• The B Street Theatre – A nonprofit theatre that produces contemporary plays and musicals.
• The Sacramento Ballet – See world-class ballet performances throughout the year.
• Sacramento Music Festival – Held annually over Memorial Day weekend, this festival features jazz, blues, and swing music.

Local History

Sacramento has a rich history that dates back to the Gold Rush era. Here are some of the top historical sites to visit:

• Old Sacramento State Historic Park – A historic district with museums, shops, and restaurants that recreate the city’s early days.
• California State Railroad Museum – Explore the history of railroads in California and beyond.
• Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park – A historic park and museum that recreates the first non-Native settlement in California, dating back to 1839.
• Sacramento History Museum – Discover Sacramento’s history, from the Gold Rush era to the present day.
• Crocker Art Museum – The museum’s original founders were patrons of the arts during the Gold Rush, helping to establish Sacramento’s cultural heritage.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

If you’re looking for something a little different, here are some off-the-beaten-path attractions to check out in Sacramento:

• The Sacramento Poetry Center – Attend readings or take part in workshops and classes at this literary institution.
• The Underground Tunnels – Underneath Sacramento’s historic buildings are tunnels that were once used for transportation and smuggling.
• Murals of Sacramento – Take a walking tour of Sacramento’s vibrant street art scene, featuring murals and installations by local artists.
• Cemetery Tours – Visit Sacramento’s historic cemeteries, such as the Old City Cemetery or East Lawn Memorial Park, to learn about the city’s history and notable residents.
• B Street Theatre Comedy Shows – Enjoy some laughs and drinks at the B Street Theatre’s comedy shows.

Now that you have an insider’s guide to Sacramento and the best ways to get around, you’re ready to explore this vibrant and diverse city. Have fun and don’t forget to share your experiences with us!