There’s so much to love about Sacramento during the winter. With pleasant temperatures and the holidays on the horizon, plus bags of activities just waiting to be enjoyed, there’s little wonder that this is the favorite time of year for many Sacramento residents.
Whether you’re a long-term local or just visiting, check out some of the great ideas we’ve put together below so you can make the most of the season.
Stones Gambling Hall
Is there a better entertainment venue in Sacramento than Stones Gambling Hall? Here you’ll find a wide range of games, outstanding dining options, and unique experiences.
Stones Gambling Hall is well-known for being the best place to play poker in the city — in fact, it might just be one of the best in the state. You’ll find a host of variants on offer here, including Texas Hold’em and Omaha poker. And while anyone is welcome, there’s a professional, sophisticated air to the games, which include high-stake options that take place on professionally managed tables.
Looking to play a different game while visiting the leading Sacramento casino? You’ll find not only all of the classic games but also plenty of niche options too. California Blackjack, which offers a regional twist on one of the world’s most popular casino games, is available, as well as EZ Baccarat, a faster-paced version of Baccarat, ensuring that both newcomers and experienced players can have a lot of fun. Round off your time at the tables by playing Three Card Poker for the full Sacramento casino experience.
The fun extends beyond the casino. There’s also an awesome indoor golf simulator which allows players of all levels — from complete beginners to golf aficionados — to level up their skills in a fun environment.
You’ll have worked up an appetite after all that fun, so be sure to swing by Sammy’s Restaurant & Bar. It’s open late and has a deliciously diverse menu, ensuring you can find a dish that’ll hit the spot. The extensive drink selection provides the perfect way to wind down after an evening of gaming.
Cocktail Hour at The Shady Lady Saloon
Ever wondered what it was like during the prohibition era? Well, wonder no more! Swing by The Shady Lady Saloon to get a taste of days gone by. This magnificent saloon features vintage decor and expertly crafted cocktails, which combine to create an ambiance unlike anything else you’ll find in Sacramento.
It’s a cozy, inviting place that’s ideal for chilly winter nights. Order yourself a cocktail and enjoy a live jazz band all night long at the Shady Lady Saloon!
Bike Along the American River Parkway
There’s no better way to experience Sacramento’s extensive natural beauty than on two wheels. Hop on a bike and explore the American River Parkway, which is worthwhile traversing all year round, but especially during the winter. You can bask in the crisp air while enjoying the colorful foliage of the surrounding area.
If you’re visiting from out of town or don’t have a bike, don’t worry — there are plenty of bike rental options available!
Sacramento Antique Faire
Interested in picking up a unique souvenir or a new decoration for your home? Then swing by Sacramento Antique Faire! This wonderful fair takes place each month and features hundreds of vendors selling jewelry, decor, and collectibles.
Even if you don’t end up buying anything, you’ll definitely enjoy the atmosphere, though we think you’ll find plenty of things to purchase!
Sample Local Wines at Sacramento’s Urban Wineries
There’s a thriving wine scene in Sacramento. Head to Revolution Winery & Kitchen for a taste of the best urban wineries in the city as you enjoy some small bites or a main meal.
It’s also worthwhile swinging by Voluptuary & Lucid Wines, which have developed a reputation for producing dazzlingly delicious natural wines. Interested in sustainable consumption? Acheson Wine Company is a zero-carbon winery making waves in the industry.
Explore the Wide Open Walls Murals
Sacramento is famous for the quality of its street art. To see the best that the city has to offer, take a self-guided walking tour of the Wide Open Walls murals, which don’t just provide outstanding art but also offer a window into the culture of the city.
The Midtown Farmers Market
You can get a real taste of Sacramento — literally — by visiting the Midtown Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday. There’s no better way to start the weekend than by picking up local produce or buying an artisan souvenir.
Take a Day Trip to Sutter Creek
If you have a free day, get into your car and make the short drive out to Sutter Creek, a historic gold rush town that features period architecture, wineries, and antique shops. It’s an excellent place to spend a casual winter day, and you’ll definitely enjoy the scenic drive there and back. It’s a must-visit for residents and visitors alike.
Discover Sacramento’s Craft Beer Scene
Sacramento’s craft beer has been doing exceptional things recently, and you owe it to yourself to go check it out!
Whatever type of craft beer you enjoy, you’ll find that you’re well-served in the city, especially at Track 7 Brewing’s Curtis Park taproom, which has everything from double IPAs to coffee stouts, creative sours, and beyond.
If you’re feeling as hungry as you are thirsty, then point yourself in the direction of Urban Roots Brewery & Smokehouse, which has delicious beers and outstanding smoky BBQ dishes.
Explore the Crocker Art Museum
Sacramento is one of the best art cities in the country, and there’s no better way to see that for yourself than by visiting the Crocker Art Museum, where you’ll find outstanding examples of California art from the gold rush era right through to the present day.
You’ll also find works of art from other corners of the globe, including Asia, Africa, Oceania, and Europe. If the temperatures begin to dip, there’s no better place to stay warm — and fill up your cultural cup — than by exploring the permanent and rotating exhibitions of the Crocker Art Museum!
