Are you counting down the hours during a lengthy layover at Sacramento Airport, feeling the tedium seep into your bones? Does the thought of spending hours in a terminal make you wish for a quick escape?
Fear not, weary traveler! Right outside the doors of Sacramento Airport lies a treasure trove of activities waiting to be discovered. From nature escapes to cultural havens, there’s a world beyond the airport lounges, restaurants, and conveyor belts that promise to turn your layover into an unexpected adventure.
Whether you’re a solo explorer or someone traveling with family and friends, prepare to be enthralled by the top 10 things to do near Sacramento Airport that are sure to make every moment count.
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10 Popular Things To Do Near Sacramento Airport
Are you watching the clock, dreading every minute of a long layover at Sacramento Airport? Give a rest to your watch and read this instead! So here’s your list of the top 10 best things to do near Sacramento Airport. But first Let’s start with the best things to do inside Sacramento Airport.
1. Escape Lounges – The CenturionR Studio Partner SMF A
Location – 6850 Airport Blvd Terminal A, near Gate 1, Sacramento
If you are someone who does not wish to leave the airport and chill in your confined space then, the Escape Lounge at Sacramento Airport is your go-to place. It’s like a quiet, comfortable home away from home inside the busy airport.
Travelers don’t need to leave the airport to have a good time. Inside the Escape Lounge, they can unwind in soft chairs, eat delicious meals, and catch up on emails or social media.
The lounge has free internet, places to charge your devices, and a huge digital library with over 7,000 books and magazines for reading.
Whether you want to relax, do some work, or just enjoy a quiet moment, the Escape Lounge at Sacramento Airport is a great spot to spend your time.
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2. Escape Lounges – The Centurion® Studio Partner SMF B
Location: Terminal B – Upper Level | Post-Security
The Escape Lounges – The Centurion® Studio Partner is a special place at Sacramento International Airport, part of the American Express Centurion Network. It’s in Terminal B and offers a unique spot for travelers.
This lounge isn’t just a regular waiting area; it’s a place designed to feel welcoming and genuine. Here, you can enjoy food that’s freshly made by chefs, including both local dishes and various snacks, along with a wide selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
While waiting at the airport, travelers have plenty of options to make their time enjoyable without leaving the airport.
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3. Vino Volo
Location: Sacramento International Airport, Terminal A
Vino Volo found both as a standalone and airport wine bar, offers travelers a unique way to spend their time before a flight.
At Vino Volo, guests can enjoy lunch, dinner, or small plates, each thoughtfully paired with wines from around the world. This makes it an ideal spot for those looking to savor high-quality wines alongside delicious food in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
The combination of quality food, excellent wine, and quick service makes Vino Volo a must-visit for any traveler passing through the airport. It’s not just a dining spot; it’s a tradition among friends who value the joy of a pre-boarding snack and a glass of wine to set the tone for their journey.
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4. California State Railroad Museum
Location: 125 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814, United States
Distance from the Sacramento airport: 13 min (10.4 miles)
Hours –10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The California State Railroad Museum is a fun place where you can learn about trains and how important they were in shaping the Western United States.
Inside, you’ll find 21 beautiful old trains and cars, some that go way back to 1862! There’s a really cool exhibit called the “Sierra Scene” where you can see what it was like to build train tracks in the mountains around 1867.
The museum also teaches you how trains changed the way people live, from the way we travel to how we buy and sell things. Plus, you’ll learn about the different kinds of people who worked on the railroads.
If you’re a member, you get in free. You can pay with cash, checks, or a credit card. It’s a great place to visit if you’re curious about trains or history!
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5. Crocker Art Museum
Location:216 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814, United States
Hours : 10 am–9 pm
Distance from the Sacramento airport: 13 min (10.4 miles)
The Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon, whether you’re visiting the city or you live there. It’s much larger than it looks, and you might find yourself spending more than three hours exploring all it has to offer, yet still not seeing everything.
What makes this museum stand out are the detailed descriptions next to each artwork. These explanations offer insights into the artists’ lives, the historical and political background of the works, and what materials were used, making the art more meaningful.
With its wide variety of collections, including modern and classic art, ceramics, sculptures, glasswork, and even tapestries, there’s something for everyone.
The museum spans several buildings, all featuring tall ceilings and a peaceful atmosphere.
Aside from its impressive collections, the Crocker Art Museum is also known for its stunning architecture and has become a popular spot for photography, especially for special occasions like engagement photos.
Remember, there’s paid parking right across the street, making access easy for a day filled with culture, beauty, and art exploration.
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6. American River Bicycle Trail
Location: Address: Rancho Cordova, CA 95670, United States
Distance from the Sacramento airport: 31 min (26.5 miles)
The American River bicycle trail is also known as the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail. This is a renowned path in the Sacramento area that stretches from Folsom to Old Sacramento, following the scenic route along the American River.
This 32-mile trail starts at Discovery Park, winds through the American River Parkway, and ends at Beal’s Point in the Folsom State Recreation area.
It offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, horseback riding, cycling, inline skating, jogging, and strolling.
The trail not only serves as a popular route for commuting to work in an eco-friendly manner but also provides perfect spots for fishing, picnicking, or simply enjoying a break under the shade of a tree.
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7. Iron Horse Tavern
Location: Address: 1800 15th St, Sacramento, CA 95811, United States
Distance from the Sacramento airport: 15 min (11.6 miles)
If you are a foodie and wish to try something new and exciting while in Sacramento, Iron Horse Tavern is for you!
It stands out as a vibrant gastropub in the heart of the city, known for its creative American cuisine, chic ambiance with outdoor seating, and leather banquettes, making it a perfect spot for both casual diners and food enthusiasts.
Despite its bustling atmosphere, especially during events like concerts across the street, guests appreciate the prompt seating and service.
Patrons have lauded the innovative menu, highlighting dishes like the Croque Madame and Korean Fried Chicken for their exceptional taste profiles, suggesting these as must-try options.
The tavern’s vibe is warmly regarded, complemented by delicious food and drinks, including favorites like the shrimp appetizer, Asian Taco, and the prime rib sandwich. The drink selection, featuring the Mustang Sally and Walk the Line, adds to the overall experience with their tastefulness.
One of the highly recommended things to do near Sacramento Airport for those seeking to explore new flavors or simply enjoy a good meal in a lively setting.
8. Teal Bend Golf Club
Address: 7200 Garden Hwy, Sacramento, CA 95837, United States
Distance from the Sacramento airport: 8 min (5.0 miles)
Teal Bend Golf Club is a fantastic place to play golf, especially if you’re visiting town for business or pleasure. The staff, particularly at the pro shop, is very helpful, making sure you can enjoy a smooth round of golf.
The course itself is beautifully maintained, with well-kept fairways, greens, and sand traps, and it offers a serene environment filled with wildlife like turkeys and deer, which adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
Playing a round during twilight is highly recommended as the sunset views enhance the experience even more.
Whether you’re just landing in town or looking for a quality golf experience, Teal Bend Golf Club is a top choice that promises a memorable and enjoyable round of golf.
9. Fairytale Town
Address: 3901 Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822, United States
Distance from the Sacramento airport: 16 min (13.8 miles)
Traveling with kids is quite a ride, pulse with a layover of hours is surely going to be a headache if you don’t find a way to keep your kids happy and engaged!
Visiting the Fairytale Town is one of the best things to do near Sacramento airport if you have kids!
It is a beloved amusement park that captivates children with its enchanting storybook theme.
This unique destination offers a magical experience, featuring a variety of pet-friendly animals like Berry the Ball Python, pigs, goats, cows, ponies, rabbits, and birds, making it a delight for animal lovers.
The park is designed specifically with younger children in mind, providing an ideal environment for kids aged 1-8 years to play and learn.
The park hosts an array of children’s activities, including day and weekend camps, story times, and various play areas, all at very affordable prices.
Fairytale Town ensures a safe and engaging space for young kids to interact, with attractions like slides, playgrounds, a garden area where they can water plants, and an indoor area for crafts, catering to a wide range of interests.
One of the highlights is the crooked “mile” attraction, a favorite among visitors that promises endless entertainment.
This park is not just a place to play but a wonderful opportunity for kids to explore and engage in a whimsical world.
10. Sacramento Zoo
Address: 3930 W Land Park Dr, Sacramento, CA 95822, United States
Distance from the Sacramento airport:15 min (13.7 miles)
Here we go again, visiting the Sacramento Zoo is one of the best things to do near Sacramento airport if you have kids! The Sacramento Zoo is a captivating destination for visitors of all ages, housing nearly 400 animals from over 120 different species, including native, rare, and endangered animals.
Visitors can expect a variety of experiences, from seeing amazing animals like orangutans, lions, jaguars, snow leopards, cheetahs, red pandas, white rhinos, okapis, giraffes, otters, capybaras, meerkats, kangaroos, flamingos, lemurs, squirrel monkeys, and an array of birds and reptiles.
Overall, the Sacramento Zoo presents a fun and educational experience, highlighting the importance of conservation while offering an enjoyable day out for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Wrap It Up!
As your layover at Sacramento Airport comes to a close, and you reflect on the experiences gathered, it’s clear that what could have been hours of idle waiting transformed into an enriching journey of discovery.
The hidden gems around Sacramento Airport – from serene parks and fascinating museums to delightful dining spots – have not only occupied your time but enriched your spirit. With new stories to tell and memories made, the dread of layover lethargy is now a thing of the past. So the next time you find yourself with time to spare at Sacramento Airport, remember that an array of adventures is just a short distance away, waiting to turn your layover into a highlight of your travels. Safe journeys, and may your future layovers be just as fulfilling.