Sacramento’s walking tours pack a wealth of California history and culture into manageable chunks. Old Sacramento’s historic district tours stand out as the best introduction to the city’s Gold Rush era, with knowledgeable guides bringing 1850s stories to life. Food tours through the Sutter District offer excellent value, combining local history with stops at family-run eateries – perfect for sampling regional specialties.
The self-guided ghost tour app works especially well for independent travelers, while the downtown mural walk reveals impressive contemporary artwork in the city center. All main tours accommodate wheelchairs and maintain small groups for better interaction.
These are our favorite Sacramento walking tours, ranked from most essential to optional:
Key Points
- The Sacramento Sutter District Food Walking Tour offers a personalized experience with an expert guide and diverse culinary delights.
- The Sacramento: Gold Rush & Ghosts Smartphone App Walking Tour provides a flexible and thrilling historical experience with location-aware technology.
- The Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour combines local history with a unique culinary journey, including 4-6 food stops and engaging tour guides.
- The Sacramento: Downtown Mural and Art Guided Walking Tour highlights world-class murals, street art, and sculptures with knowledgeable guides.
- The Sacramento: Historical Old Town and Food Walking Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Old Sacramento Waterfront, including key historical sites and local eatery tastings.
Sacramento Sutter District History and Food Walking Tour
The Sacramento Sutter District History and Food Walking Tour offers an immersive experience that delves into the rich history and vibrant culinary scene of this charming neighborhood.
Led by Dawnie, an expert guide with over 30 years of experience and an advanced degree in food science, this 4.9-rated tour takes visitors to five local restaurants, showcasing the area’s diverse food culture.
Guests can expect engaging storytelling, local specialties, and a chance to savor both non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages.
With a maximum group size of 14, this tour provides a personalized and intimate experience, making it a must-do for anyone seeking to explore Sacramento’s heritage and gastronomic delights.
Read our full review: Sacramento Sutter District History and Food Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sacramento: Gold Rush & Ghosts SmartPhone App Walking Tour
Offering a captivating alternative to the Sutter District tour, the Sacramento: Gold Rush & Ghosts SmartPhone App Walking Tour invites adventurous visitors to uncover the city’s haunted past.
Priced at just Kč 155 per person, this 50-minute self-guided tour brings the spookier side of Sacramento to life through high-quality narration and music.
Covering the history of Old Sacramento, including the Gold Rush and underground tunnels, the tour also delves into local ghost stories, allowing participants to explore at their own pace.
While some reviewers felt the ghost tales fell short, the tour’s flexibility, location-aware technology, and ability to revisit the content make it a unique option for those seeking a thrilling historical experience.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Gold Rush & Ghosts SmartPhone App Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour
Stepping into the vibrant heart of Old Sacramento, the Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour invites visitors on a delectable journey through the city’s rich culinary and historical landscape.
With a perfect 5-star rating and positive reviews highlighting engaging tour guides and enjoyable food sampling, this 2-hour walking tour offers an excellent value. Priced at $115 per person, the tour includes 4-6 food stops, all taxes, and gratuities, catering to a maximum of 8 travelers.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. Whether you’re seeking a taste of local history or a unique culinary experience, this walking tour promises an unforgettable adventure in Old Sacramento.
Read our full review: Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sacramento: Downtown Mural and Art Guided Walking Tour
Exploring Sacramento’s vibrant downtown, the Sacramento Downtown Mural and Art Guided Walking Tour invites visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s world-class murals, street art, and sculptures.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the 1.5-hour tour highlights the history and artists behind these impressive works, offering a sweet treat from a local bakery at the end.
Priced at €42.74 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and includes approximately 2 miles of walking with periods of standing.
Guests must sign a waiver prior to the tour, which operates rain or shine.
With an impressive 5/5 rating based on 4 reviews, this tour promises an enjoyable and informative experience for art enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Downtown Mural and Art Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sacramento: Historical Old Town and Food Walking Tour
Though steeped in Sacramento’s rich Gold Rush history, the Sacramento: Historical Old Town and Food Walking Tour transports guests through the city’s past while indulging their senses with a culinary journey.
Over 2.5 hours, participants explore the Old Sacramento Waterfront, learning about the region’s tumultuous history. The tour includes visits to key sites like the California State Railroad Museum and tastings at several local eateries, amounting to a full lunch.
With a maximum of 10 participants, the intimate group size allows for personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide.
Wheelchair accessible and offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a well-rounded experience showcasing Sacramento’s heritage and flavors.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Historical Old Town and Food Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Old Sacramento Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour
The Old Sacramento Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour invites visitors to discover the historic heart of California’s capital city through a unique and engaging experience.
This 50-minute tour allows guests to explore the charming streets of Old Sacramento at their own pace, following clues and solving puzzles to uncover the area’s rich history and hidden gems.
With an optional audio guide, the tour provides an interactive way to learn about the city’s Gold Rush roots, historic buildings, and cultural attractions.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this scavenger hunt offers an entertaining and educational way to experience the vibrant spirit of Old Sacramento.
Read our full review: Old Sacramento Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sacramento: Midtown Walking Food Tour
Stepping away from the historic charm of Old Sacramento, the Sacramento: Midtown Walking Food Tour invites visitors to enjoy the vibrant culinary scene of the city’s Midtown neighborhood.
Over 2.5-3 hours, a guided tour takes small groups of up to 10 participants to explore four local restaurants, offering food tastings and the option to sample craft cocktails, mocktails, beer, or wine.
Covering approximately 1.5 miles, the leisurely pace allows guests to soak in the neighborhood’s street art and gain insights from the knowledgeable guide.
With flexible dietary accommodations and a free cancellation policy, this tour provides a delectable introduction to Sacramento’s thriving Midtown district.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Midtown Walking Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sacramento: Gunslingers Ghosts and Ghouls Walking Tour
What better way to explore Sacramento’s haunted past than on the Gunslingers Ghosts and Ghouls Walking Tour? This 1-hour nighttime trek promises thrills and chills as you visit historic locations like the River City Saloon and Delta King riverboat.
You’ll learn about infamous deaths and the dark history of the railroad and 1861 flood, with spine-tingling tales at sites like the California Railway Museum and Sacramento History Museum.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and with a 4.3/5 rating, it’s a great choice for thrill-seekers and history enthusiasts alike.
Just be sure to arrive 15 minutes early and wear comfortable shoes – this mile-long journey through Sacramento’s haunted past isn’t to be missed.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Gunslingers Ghosts and Ghouls Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sacramento: Capitol Park Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour
Although the Gunslingers Ghosts and Ghouls Walking Tour promises thrills and chills, those seeking a more lighthearted exploration of Sacramento’s history would enjoy the Capitol Park Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour.
This 1.5-hour small group activity encourages participants to explore the beautiful Capitol Park while working together to solve clues and uncover the stories behind the park’s monuments and landscapes.
With a 5-star rating from 4 reviews, this tour offers an engaging and educational way to discover Sacramento’s rich cultural heritage.
Priced at $42.74 per person, the Capitol Park Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour provides a fun and affordable option for both locals and visitors alike.
Read our full review: Sacramento: Capitol Park Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dogs Allowed on the Walking Tours?
Dogs are generally allowed on walking tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may have restrictions or require pets to be leashed for the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
What Is the Average Duration of the Walking Tours?
The average duration of the walking tours is typically 1-2 hours, though some may vary in length. This allows participants to explore the area at a leisurely pace and take in the sights and attractions.
Do the Tour Guides Provide Umbrellas for Rainy Days?
Tour guides usually don’t provide umbrellas for rainy days, so participants should bring their own. It’s important to dress appropriately for the weather to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable walking tour experience.
Are the Tours Accessible for Individuals With Mobility Issues?
The tours generally accommodate individuals with mobility issues. Many provide wheelchair-accessible routes and offer assistance as needed. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility features when booking to ensure the tour meets the individual’s needs.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water on the Tours?
Yes, participants can typically bring their own snacks and water on walking tours. Many tour providers encourage this to keep guests hydrated and energized throughout the experience. However, it’s always best to check with the specific tour company beforehand.
The Sum Up
Sacramento offers an array of walking tours that showcase the city’s rich history, vibrant culinary scene, and captivating art. From exploring the Sutter District’s past to uncovering the city’s ghostly tales, these tours provide an engaging way to discover the diverse attractions that make Sacramento a unique destination. Whether you’re interested in food, art, or history, there’s a walking tour to suit your interests and enhance your exploration of California’s capital city.