6 Fun Things to Do in Sacramento in the Summer
California’s state capital is an exciting place to visit in the summer, thanks to a slew of planned events, a wide range of outdoor activities, and an always-lively downtown area. If you’ve got a trip to Sactown on the horizon, make sure to bookmark this blog post, which we created especially for guests of Lions Gate Hotel. Read on to learn about our favorite activities, events, and places to visit in Sacramento in summer.
Attend the Sacramento County Fair
Taking place over Memorial Day weekend, this county fair is one of the most anticipated Sacramento events for this coming summer. It’s a five-day extravaganza of music, entertainment, contests, and education, complete with carnival rides to help you feel like a kid again. Organizers promise a bigger-than-ever concert series taking place on the main stage, with scheduled artists including Ashley Barron, Ragdolls, Queen Nation, and The Outlaw Mariachi. From a monster truck rally to bull riding, entertainment at the fair pulls out all the stops. Be sure to stop by the concession stands to indulge in those guilty pleasures you can only find at fairs.
Check out the Taco & Margarita Festival
Another one to add to the list of can’t-miss Sacramento events this summer, The Taco & Margarita Festival is a foodie’s dream come true. Taking place on June 25 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., this taco-focused fest offers the opportunity to sample a variety of tacos. Sample the goods at several food trucks before checking out live music and a little pro wrestling. General admission is $15, but the VIP option includes a t-shirt, two margaritas, and early entry.
Take a Refreshing Dip in Our Pool
Balmy summer temperatures create the perfect environment for relaxing poolside. Luckily, Lions Gate Hotel has an inviting outdoor pool for guests to cool off in. The pool deck is surrounded by leafy, mature trees and lined with sun loungers where you can kick back with a cold drink and a good book. For those cool mornings or evening, warm up in the hot tub.
Cool Off with a Beer or Cocktail
Summer vacations are all about slowing down and appreciating the simple things. Why not gather with your companions and stop by the Officer’s Club, the hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar, for happy hour before you hit the town? On weekdays between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., you can enjoy special discounts on beer, wine, and cocktails. Try the No Worries IPA or Elysian Space Dust, or order a draft pitcher ($5 off!) to share among your friends.
Swing Your Club at Haggin Oaks Golf Complex
Though it may not have been the first thing to come to mind, golf is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Sacramento for adults. That’s especially true at Haggin Oaks Golf Course, which bills itself as “America’s most awarded golf facility.” With two championship courses, it offers private lesson programs for players at all levels, not to mention a huge golf shop and an on-site bar and grill. Looking for something a little more laid back? Check out The MacKenzie Putting Course, a challenging but fun course interspersed with palm trees, flowers, and a bubbling brook.
Hit the Water on a River Cruise
With a location on the banks of two different rivers, it’s no surprise that one of the most popular Sacramento activities for visiting tourists is a river cruise. City Cruises by Hornblower offers a variety of ways to see the cityscape from out on the water. Learn more about the city’s past on a historic river cruise or get the party going with happy hour. The tour company is offering both a 4th of July river cruise and a Labor Day river cruise for those who are visiting during those holidays.
When you stay at Lions Gate Hotel, the most popular things to do in Sacramento are easily within reach. We’re located between the bustling downtown area and expansive nature areas, and our free parking makes it easy to come and go as you please. Spend your days exploring the area and then return to spacious rooms and suites with modern décor and free WiFi.