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Sacramento & the Central Valley

The Central Valley is visible from space – a vast expanse of green between the Sierra Nevada and Pacific Ocean. The area is divided in two parts: the Sacramento Valley in the north and the San Joaquin Valley in the south. For millennia, the rivers cutting through these valleys flooded seasonally, creating extremely fertile soil. Today, those waterways are tamed by mighty public works projects that support massive agricultural endeavors. Half the produce in the US is grown in these valleys – including almost every almond, olive and bulb of garlic.

Like the birds that commute overhead, most travelers are just passing through – zipping along the highway to more popular parts of the state. But those who linger are rewarded with stately Victorian-era mansions, uniquely scenic byways and quirky small towns.

Explore Sacramento & the Central Valley

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Sacramento & the Central Valley.

  • Stadium

    Golden 1 Center

    Welcome to the arena of the future. This gleaming home to the Sacramento Kings is one of the most advanced sports facilities in the country. Made with the…

  • Buddhist Temple

    Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple

    With elaborate grounds, brightly painted statues and a 50ft reclining Buddha, this is a vibrant home to the area's Cambodian population. The celebration…

  • Museum

    California Museum

    This modern museum is home to the California Hall of Fame and so the only place to simultaneously encounter César Chávez, Mark Zuckerberg and Amelia…

  • Lake

    Lake Oroville State Recreation Area

    This artificial lake was formed by the USA's tallest earth-filled dam, rising 770ft above the Feather River. There are boat-in, floating campsites…

  • Historic Site

    Cesar E Chavez National Monument

    This newly designated national monument, Nuestra Señora Reina de la Paz, is the national headquarters of the United Farmworkers of America and was the…

  • Brewery

    Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

    Hordes of beer fans gather at the birthplace of the nationally distributed Sierra Nevada Pale Ale and Schwarber, a Chico-only black ale. You can also…

  • Museum

    Chinese Temple & Museum Complex

    This restored temple and museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Oroville's Chinese legacy and is well worth exploring. Built in 1863, it served the…

  • Gardens

    Forestiere Underground Gardens

    If you see only one thing in Fresno, make it this intriguing historic landmark, two blocks east of Hwy 99. The gardens were built by Sicilian immigrant…

  • Museum

    California State Railroad Museum

    Train buffs will delight in this incredible collection of vintage locomotives (even if history buffs will question the candy-coated presentation about the…

  • Landmark

    Weber Point Events Center

    Downtown on the McLeod Lake waterfront, the modern white edifice standing in the middle of a grassy park looking rather like a pile of sailboats is the…

  • Science Center

    Sacramento River Discovery Center

    This kid-friendly center has exhibits on the river and the Diversion Dam just outside its doors, which has been permanently opened to allow endangered…

  • Museum

    Kern County Museum

    This museum brings local history to life with a pioneer village of more than 50 restored and replicated buildings (including Merle Haggard's childhood…

  • Historic Building

    Old Sugar Mill

    This old mill serves as a hub for a thriving community of local winemakers, featuring several local tasting rooms and nice outdoor spaces overlooking…

  • Winery

    Bogle

    A few miles southwest of Clarksburg via winding County Rds 141 and 144, the region's best-known winery is set among vineyard on a sixth-generation family…

  • Historic Building

    Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park

    Chico’s most prominent landmark, the opulent Victorian home was built for Chico’s founders, John and Annie Bidwell. The 26-room mansion was built between…

  • Historic Site

    Locke Historic District

    After a fire wiped out Walnut Grove’s Chinatown in 1912, the Chinese merchants, farmers and laborers who built the levees established Locke, a fascinating…

  • Museum

    Crocker Art Museum

    Housed in the ornate Victorian mansion (and sprawling additions) of a railroad baron, this museum has striking architecture and an excellent collection…

  • Museum

    Chico Children's Museum

    Housed in a bright yellow building downtown, this playful educational space hosts permanent and rotating hands-on exhibits about health, science and…

  • Winery

    Michael David

    These brothers have built an enthusiastic following with their oaky, fruity wines. Their renowned Zinfandel, '7 Deadly Zins,' is a standout. The cafe and…

  • Winery

    Cedar View Winery

    On the easternmost reaches of the Blossom Trail, Cedar View Winery is a comfy place to enjoy a glass of wine and Sierra views from the back patio. Known…

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Sacramento & the Central Valley.

  • Activities