The Best Views In Sacramento To Experience Now

With its near-perfect climate, beautiful sceneries, and big-but-small city vibes, California’s state capital is a feast for the eyes. Plan a getaway that’s all about the aesthetics and you’ll be treated with sights of green gardens, historic landmarks, beautiful architecture, and rivers all around. If you’re in for a marvelous day of exploration with a side of unbelievable scenery, these are the best views in Sacramento you should add to your itinerary.   

Where to Go to Find Scenic Views in Sacramento

California State Capitol Park

In 1863, California’s then-Governor Leland Stanford envisioned a Victorian garden surrounding the Capitol, “with a beauty and luxuriousness that no other capitol can boast.” Today, over a century later, California’s Capitol Park is precisely that and more. Memorials, monuments, fragrant gardens, and other awesome points of interest cover the park, offering much to see and learn. Plus, the best view of the Sacramento skyline’s most popular building, the Capitol Building, can be accessed from this park.

California State Route 49

Up for a scenic drive near Sacramento? Pack the snacks, put on your favorite playlist, and cruise down Highway 49. You’ll be met with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada foothills and have the opportunity to drive across many historic Gold Rush era landmarks that teach you about the state’s history. Give yourself plenty of time to get out and snap photos of the scenic views near Sacramento—you’re going to want to stop and stare more than once.

Old Sacramento Waterfront

The Old Sacramento Waterfront is a national historic landmark overflowing with things to do and see. Visit during the afternoon, enjoy live entertainment, check out lively attractions, and grab a seat at a patio restaurant before sunset so you have one of the best night views in Sacramento. The sun paints the horizon in explosive colors and waters in glistening shades of pinks and blues, which makes for a magnificent sight to see.

Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park

History buffs will appreciate snooping around Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park. Comprising many unique sights—including a 19th-century fort that played a key role in the development of Sacramento—this open-air museum describes the lives and jobs of the early, non-indigenous pioneers of the state

If you’re after nature-oriented nice views in Sacramento, consider trekking The Sutter's Fort Loop Trail. The hike will provide you with a dose of history and greenery; you might even spot turtles and geese resting along the edges of the pond.

Folsom Lake

Folsom Lake and its surrounding beaches, campgrounds, and trails form the beautiful Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. Boasting some of the best views in Sacramento, this multi-use park at the base of the Sierra foothills is a perfect close-to-town escape into nature. With endless opportunities for outdoor fun, Folsom Lake is a great destination to decompress and enjoy scenic views in Sacramento.

Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament

If your idea of nice views in Sacramento involves jaw-dropping architecture, then check out the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. Located in Downtown Sacramento, this Roman Catholic Mother Cathedral is a thing of beauty from all angles. Don’t settle on only viewing the Italian Renaissance exterior of the cathedral—the Victorian interior is all the more awe-inspiring. With hand-painted ceilings, decorative mosaics, and symbolic details all around, the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament offers one of the best views in Sacramento from an architectural perspective.

Old Sacramento State Historic Park

Step back in time to the era of prosperity as you stroll through Old Sacramento State Historic Park. Occupying over one-third of the Old Sacramento Waterfront District, this historic area has been restored and developed, currently serving as a significant tourist attraction. Not only will you get awesome views of what Sacramento used to look like in the olden days, but you’ll also have the chance to peek into museums, eat delicious foods, and enjoy a variety of other fun activities.

Aerospace Museum of California

Right outside of Sacramento—on the grounds of the former McClellan Air Force Base—is a sight you won’t find anywhere else. Planes of various shapes and sizes are lined up on the Aerospace Museum’s grounds, making up what is essentially one of the best views in Sacramento. Get up close with the historic aircraft, learn about space exploration, and don’t forget to step back and admire the unique and scenic view in Sacramento.

WPA Rock Garden

Absolutely loved by photographers, the WPA Rock Garden is a gorgeous Sacramento gem to escape to if you want to be surrounded by natural beauty. Usually overlooked for the nearby Fairytale Town, this scenic spot is a maze of colorful flowers, greenery, and interesting geological formations that are bound to enchant anyone who wanders in. If you value colorful nature when looking for nice views in Sacramento, this garden should be at the top of your itinerary.

River Walk Park

Another popular destination on everyone’s Sacramento bucket list is River Walk Park. Located along the west bank of the Sacramento River, this scenic park offers one of the best views of the Sacramento skyline that you can’t find anywhere else. The park also features picnic tables, walking paths, and a levee top promenade with wheelchair accessibility. 

Lower American Wild and Scenic River

Flowing through California’s state capital, the Lower American is one of the few protected urban rivers in the state and federal systems. The protected segment of the river begins downstream of the Nimbus Dam and passes through the American River Parkway to the confluence with the Sacramento River. This river is also one of the most popular spots for fishing, rafting, canoeing, and kayaking—you can only imagine the views of Sacramento here.

There are several easy trails that give you perfect vantage points out to the river. However, if you’re up for an awesome workout challenge, consider trekking a portion of the Jedediah Smith National Recreation Trail, which follows the entire length of the wild and scenic river. You bet it has some of the most scenic views in Sacramento.