Find The Complete List of the 9 Best museums in Sacramento California
Sacramento, the vibrant capital of California, boasts a rich array of museums that beautifully capture the region’s diverse heritage, art, and culture. With its unique blend of historical significance and modern innovation, the city’s museums offer a fascinating journey through California’s storied past and its forward-thinking present, making them ideal for all who are passionate about history and culture.
These are the best venues to experience California’s rich history, especially for our visitors who love innovation art and creativity.
History enthusiasts can delve into Sacramento’s foundational role in the westward expansion at the Sacramento History Museum or explore the Golden State’s railroad legacy at the California State Railroad Museum. The State Capitol Museum provides insight into the workings of the California State Capitol, giving visitors a deeper understanding of government and its impact on the state’s progress.
Art lovers will find inspiration in the Crocker Art Museum, one of the oldest art museums in the West, renowned for its expansive collection spanning California art, European paintings, and global works.
The museum is also a leader in ideas, innovation, and creativity, offering programs, scholarships, and exhibitions that elevate the appreciation of California art and beyond.
The SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity beckons curious minds with its immersive exploration of STEM, while the California Automobile Museum and the Leland Stanford Mansion add depth to the city’s historical and cultural landscape.
They provide the best programs and field trips for students, offering enriching experiences and unique insight into history.
Further enriching Sacramento’s cultural scene, the Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum amplifies African American narratives, while The Red Museum serves as a hub for contemporary art and performance. Each museum offers unique stories and experiences, creating a mosaic that reflects Sacramento’s role as a crossroads of history, art, and innovation in California.
Sacramento area museums often provide museums free admission and virtual programs, scholarships, and more information for field trips.
Old Sacramento Underground tours provide yet another exciting opportunity to explore being the oldest part of the city, with all its preserved architecture and fascinating tales. Center for the Arts offers dynamic exhibitions and programs that continue to push the boundaries of ideas, innovation, art, and community engagement.
California Museum, the Center for the Arts, and other museums for all offer virtual programs, scholarships, and field trips, ensuring accessibility and engagement with all. For more information about these museums, visit their websites or check the state capitol visitor information page.
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Find Here The List of the 9 Best museums in Sacramento California
The list of the best museums in Sacramento California, start here:
Old Sacramento Waterfront
1014 2nd St Suite 200, Sacramento, CA 95814 Telephone
+1 916-970-5226 Schedule
Closed – (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday) Ratings
4.6 / 5.0 from more than 26379 reviews
California State Capitol Museum
1315 10th St, Sacramento, CA 95814 Telephone
+1 916-324-0333 Schedule
Closed – (Saturday, Sunday)
09:00-17:00 – (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Monday) Ratings
4.7 / 5.0 from more than 5267 reviews
California State Railroad Museum
125 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814 Telephone
+1 916-323-9280 Schedule
10:00-17:00 – (Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) Ratings
4.8 / 5.0 from more than 4535 reviews
The museum replicates the 1854 City Hall and Waterworks building, immediately setting a historical tone. Inside, visitors are greeted by a broad spectrum of exhibits that explore themes like river commerce, agriculture, the impact of the Gold Rush, and the development of local industries.
Notable displays include artifacts recovered from the original city streets, old photographs, and a fascinating collection of historical printing equipment that brings to life the lost art of print journalism. Visitors can even participate in guided underground tours that reveal the hidden history of Sacramento’s earliest settlements.
The museum’s dedication to preserving and celebrating local heritage extends to educational workshops and reenactments. Overall, it serves as a gateway to Sacramento’s storied past, providing context and a tangible connection to the formative events that shaped the region.
Crocker Art Museum
216 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814 Telephone
+1 916-808-7000 Schedule
10:00-17:00 – (Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday)
Closed – (Monday, Tuesday)
10:00-21:00 – (Thursday) Ratings
4.8 / 5.0 from more than 3117 reviews
SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity
400 Jibboom St, Sacramento, CA 95811 Telephone
+1 916-674-5000 Schedule
10:00-17:00 – (Saturday, Sunday)
10:00-16:00 – (Friday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) Ratings
4.4 / 5.0 from more than 1402 reviews
The museum’s distinctive blend of hands-on exhibits and immersive experiences allows visitors of all ages to explore the natural and scientific world. Among the main attractions is the Science on a Sphere® globe, a captivating 3D visualization tool that showcases Earth’s dynamic systems in real-time.
Interactive exhibits cover everything from physics and biology to sustainable energy and space exploration. The full-dome planetarium transports visitors to the outer reaches of the universe, offering a sensory adventure through astronomy.
Educational workshops, youth programs, and collaborative events ensure that MOSAC remains a vibrant hub for learning. By blending science with creativity and engagement, the museum nurtures the next generation of scientists and engineers, emphasizing sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Sacramento History Museum
101 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814 Telephone
+1 916-808-7059 Schedule
10:00-17:00 – (Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) Ratings
4.6 / 5.0 from more than 811 reviews
Its exhibits range from the influential journeys of the Gold Rush miners to contemporary issues like environmental sustainability. Key features include the California Hall of Fame, honoring influential Californians like Cesar Chavez, Steve Jobs, and Maya Angelou.
The “California Indians: The First People” exhibit explores the deep-rooted legacy of Native American tribes, while “Women Inspire” highlights trailblazing women who have made their mark on the state. The museum also addresses difficult chapters of California’s history, such as the Japanese-American internment during World War II.
Through immersive displays, engaging multimedia, and educational programs, the California Museum strives to cultivate a deeper understanding of the Golden State’s ongoing story.
California Museum
1020 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814 Telephone
+1 916-653-7524 Schedule
10:00-17:00 – (Friday, Saturday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday)
Closed – (Monday)
12:00-17:00 – (Sunday) Ratings
4.4 / 5.0 from more than 639 reviews
The museum is renowned for its extensive collection of California art, ranging from the Gold Rush era to contemporary works. Visitors can explore pieces by renowned Californian artists such as Wayne Thiebaud, Joan Brown, and Ansel Adams.
Beyond California art, the museum also boasts impressive European drawings, Asian ceramics, and African art, reflecting a rich diversity of styles and cultural narratives. The Crocker family’s original Victorian mansion, known as the Crocker Art Gallery, is an architectural marvel in itself and has been harmoniously expanded with a sleek, modern wing that blends old-world elegance with contemporary design.
The museum offers educational programs, film screenings, and studio art classes, making it a dynamic cultural hub. With its striking architecture and expansive collections, the Crocker Art Museum is a must-visit for art lovers and those interested in the creative spirit of California.
Stanford Mansion
800 N St, Sacramento, CA 95814 Telephone
+1 916-324-9266 Schedule
10:00-17:00 – (Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) Ratings
4.7 / 5.0 from more than 432 reviews
Today, the mansion operates as a state historic park and serves as California’s official reception center for foreign dignitaries. Visitors can marvel at the mansion’s beautifully restored 19th-century interiors, which include gilded moldings, plush Victorian furnishings, and intricate woodwork.
The house also reflects Stanford’s role as a political figure, with rooms that once hosted state officials and international guests. Guided tours offer a peek into the Stanford family’s life while also exploring the architectural significance and historical context of the period.
The mansion also serves an educational purpose, highlighting California’s social and economic transformations during the post-Gold Rush era. This historical gem offers a window into the life of one of the state’s most influential families while also shedding light on the broader cultural changes of the time.
California Automobile Museum
2200 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95818 Telephone
+1 916-442-6802 Schedule
10:00-17:00 – (Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday)
Closed – (Tuesday) Ratings
4.7 / 5.0 from more than 395 reviews
Its flexible interior layout allows it to function as a gallery, concert hall, or lecture room depending on the event, making it a hub for avant-garde culture. Local artists and musicians are regularly featured, showcasing the best of Sacramento’s thriving underground art scene.
Exhibitions range from visual art to experimental installations, while concerts span a variety of genres. The Red Museum fosters collaboration between different creative disciplines and encourages emerging artists to explore unconventional forms of expression.
By offering a space that is both accessible and inclusive, the museum has built a reputation as a cornerstone of Sacramento’s alternative art scene, where creativity knows no bounds.
State Indian Museum
2618 K St, Sacramento, CA 95816 Telephone
+1 916-324-0971 Schedule
10:00-17:00 – (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday) Ratings
4.5 / 5.0 from more than 371 reviews
.FAQ: Exploring Museums in Sacramento, California
This is a list of typical questions you may have about what you can experience and do in the museums of Sacramento, California, known for their rich history and innovative art.
Sacramento boasts free admission and a unique influence due to the diversity and innovation of its area museums. The museums across the Sacramento area are dedicated to promoting ideas, innovation, and accessibility for all.
1. What are some must-see museums in Sacramento?
Sacramento offers diverse museums like the California State Railroad Museum, Crocker Art Museum, SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity, and the Sacramento History Museum. Additionally, museums for kids include the Roseville Utility Exploration Center and other educational venues that provide interactive learning opportunities for all.
The Capitol Museum and the Governor’s Mansion are also highlights, showcasing California’s rich political and architectural heritage.
2. Do Sacramento museums offer guided tours?
Yes, many museums like the Leland Stanford Mansion and the California State Railroad Museum provide guided tours that offer in-depth insights into the exhibits, highlighting California’s rich cultural legacy and state capitol significance.
Explore the transcontinental railroad history board and the Capitol Museum for more fascinating information about this era.
3. Are there interactive exhibits for children?
The SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity and California State Railroad Museum feature interactive exhibits tailored to engage children in fun learning experiences. The Roseville Utility Exploration Center is also a great destination for field trips and hands-on utility exploration.
Check out the Sacramento Underground tours for a unique journey into the past.
4. What types of art can I expect to see at the Crocker Art Museum?
The Crocker Art Museum houses an extensive collection of California art, European paintings, Asian ceramics, and contemporary works. Its fine art collections offer something for all art enthusiasts. The Crocker embodies the innovation art spirit by hosting the 16th Annual Crocker-Kingsley Exhibition, providing a platform for artistic ideas and innovation.
5. Is photography allowed inside Sacramento museums?
Photography policies vary, but most museums allow non-flash photography for personal use. Check each museum’s specific guidelines before your visit, especially regarding museum admission policies. Be sure to consult their visitor information pages for accessibility statements and special conditions.
6. Can I attend special events or workshops at Sacramento museums?
Yes, museums often host workshops, educational programs, and special events. Check their event calendars to plan your visit around these activities, which may include field trips, public programs, scholarships, and more.
Events and programs can be found in all museums across the region, providing something for everyone.
7. Are there special programs for students and educators?
Museums like the California Museum and Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum offer educational programs and resources tailored to schools and educators. Their virtual programs provide new opportunities for all to explore and learn about California’s rich heritage.
Schools can also benefit from scholarships and our mission to offer programs for all.
8. Do Sacramento museums have food and dining options?
Many museums, such as the Crocker Art Museum, have on-site cafés or are conveniently located near restaurants and eateries in downtown Sacramento. Whether you’re at the Capitol Museum California State or one of the other cultural institutions, there are always delicious dining options nearby.
9. Are Sacramento museums accessible to visitors with disabilities?
Most museums in Sacramento are fully accessible, offering ramps, elevators, and other accommodations. Contact the museum for specific visitor information, ensuring that your field trip or family outing is enjoyable for everyone.
Accessibility statements are often available on museum websites for more detailed guidelines.
10. How can I get tickets or memberships for museums in Sacramento?
Tickets and memberships can often be purchased directly through museum websites, which may also offer discounts, memberships, and other benefits, including free for kids or families on certain days. Explore their virtual programs and field trips to discover more about their mission.
See the museums free on certain days to make the most of your visit.
