John Natsoulas Center for the Arts

Sacramento & the Central Valley


Look out for the giant mosaic cat on the way into town; the ceramic calico guards one of the most vibrant small contemporary art galleries in the state, which also hosts Friday night jazz and poetry readings.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Sacramento & the Central Valley attractions

1. Pence Gallery

0.11 MILES

This community gallery exhibits contemporary art and hosts classes, lectures and films. It offers a free reception 6pm to 9pm on the second Friday of each…

2. UC Davis Arboretum

0.27 MILES

With well-marked botanical collections, picnic grounds and family tours, the 100-acre 'Arb' is a treasure. Follow the peaceful 3.5-mile loop along one of…

3. Crocker Art Museum

12.94 MILES

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

4. Old Sacramento State Historic Park

13.09 MILES

The historic river port next to Downtown, Old Sacramento remains the city's stalwart tourist draw. The old-fashioned Gold Rush-era atmosphere and the…

5. Sacramento History Museum

13.13 MILES

Exhibits, stories and artifacts of some of Sacramento's most fascinating citizens, though much of the information is focused on the Gold Rush. Get tickets…

6. California State Railroad Museum

13.18 MILES

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

7. Golden 1 Center

13.32 MILES

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…

8. California Museum

13.47 MILES

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…