Dining, Family, Old Sacramento, Shopping, Tours

Old Sac Rainy Day Escape

Emily Bosh

After a record-long drought in California, wet weather is a welcomed sight. But rainy days don’t mean you have to hide indoors. Here’s a list of the best activities to enjoy in Old Sacramento on a rainy day!

Visit like normal

In all honesty, rain barely changes the operations of the district. Shops and restaurants are still open, parking garages run as usual and the whole district is just quieter than you may experience on a sunny day. Making it the perfect opportunity to experience something new or visit your favorites.

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Photo courtesy of @sureena24

Shop under the covered walkways

With the bulk of our boardwalks covered by awnings, you and all the treasures you find while you’re shopping can stay dry and protected. With the largest collection of locally owned businesses, Old Sacramento is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts for yourself or others. Get California made kid’s wear at Ana Apple, pick up some unique Olive Oil at Chef’s Olive Mix or a unique toys at Stage Nine.

Get a treat to stay warm

Grab a cup of coffee at Heavenly Brew Espresso, a delicious spiced cider from Steamers Café or even a sweet treat like Danny’s Mini Donuts. Rainy days are the best days to splurge a little and get that comfort food you’ve been craving.

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Enjoy the museums

While a lot of people stay away on a rainy day, you can take advantage of the quiet and step back into time at the Sacramento History Museum, send a telegraph at the Wells Fargo Museum, ride the rails at the California State Railroad Museum or even explore some old cars at the California Automobile Museum.

Cruise the river in the rain

Rain doesn’t stop the Hornblower River Cruises from rolling down the river. You can take an hour long historical cruise along the river and learn about our city and it’s colorful past. There’s something about watching the rainfall on the river that makes this a peaceful afternoon activity.

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Photo courtesy of Vanessa Mendoza @ddveedoza98

Pamper yourself

Get a massage at Chinese West Medical salon, get a slick new cut or straight razor shave at Sacramento Barbering Company, a new cut and color or even your nails done at Lace Salon. Let the amazing staff and all of our cosmetic and health shops treat you to a new rainy day look. You may just find your new stylist!

End the day with a delicious dinner

Whether you want a classy dinner at Ten22 or fries at Spud Shack, the variety of foods in Old Sac is unbeatable. Indonesian, seafood, Mexican, pizza and sandwiches are just some of your choices.

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