Many factors play into truly loving where you live. Affordability and career opportunities certainly contribute but the quality of life in Sacramento is full of history, things to do and great people.
Sacramento History, Facts, Things to do and Real Estate
Sacramento History and Location
Sacramento is a capital city of California. The city is located in Northern California’s Sacramento Valley, where two big rivers meet – Sacramento river and American river. Sacramento is 90 miles from the Bay Area – less than 2 hours drive by the car. Such a location creates a good option for people who want to move to Sacramento from the Bay Area, which is relatively more expansive. In addition, the proximity to Napa Valley and Lake Tahoe open up a possibility to have a great vacation.
The city’s location at the confluence of the Sacramento River and the American River enhanced the city’s ability to be a shipping and rail center for the Sacramento Valley. Food processing is among the major industries in the area. It has a deep-water port connected to the San Francisco Bay by a channel through the Sacramento River Delta.
Sacramento was noteworthy because it was the terminus of the first railroad in 1856 and the western terminus of the Pony Express in 1860.
Sacramento Housing Situation
Sacramento has a wide range of housing situations. The area has multimillion dollar custom estates to low income affordable housing areas. There are subdivisions to meet every price. The area has houses over a hundred years old and newly built neighborhoods. The style of home can be the common ranch, two story, small bungalows to 10,000 square feet mansions. There are urban condominiums and horse ranch properties to round out the mix of homes. There are river view, mountain view, city view and community view homes. Coffee Real Estate can help you find your dream home or affordable starter house.
The greater Sacramento area includes many adjacent towns and cities, such as Fair Oaks, Carmichael, Citrus Heights, Elk Grove, Folsom, Arden Arcade, Rancho Cordova, Roseville, Rocklin, Granite Bay, West Sacramento, Natomas, Strawberry Manors, Del Paso Heights, East Sacramento, Orangevale, and North Highlands to name a few.
Sacramento things to do
The things to do in the Sacramento region are wide ranging. They vary from walks on the American River to cheering on the Sacramento Kings. You can fish from the river bank or enter a fairy tale world at Fairytale town. See wild animals at the zoo or cheer on the River Cats baseball team.
Following is a short list of things to do in the greater Sacramento area. The spotlight of Old Sacramento or Old Sac is a unique opportunity that Sacramento offers. Old Sac is filled with unique shops, fun attractions and great special events. The web site will give all the details. Walking next to the river is an enjoyable recreation and discovering the interesting shops and restaurants makes for a great day.
The American River trail and other tails
The American River trail follows the American River for 32 miles, from the confluence of the American and Sacramento Rivers just north of downtown to Folsom Lake. Due to the varied nature and scenic points, this trail is also a great place for hiking and seeing wildlife. Bikers and runner love this trail.
Another trail runs along the Sacramento River, starting in Old Sacramento and continuing down the river (with a couple of places where cyclists have to get off and then back on the levee path). Much of this bike trail is quiet and offers nice river views.
The Sacramento – American River Trail undoubtedly has an impact on real estate values in the surrounding areas. Trails and green spaces like this can bring about several positive effects that influence property values and the overall desirability of a neighborhood. Here’s how the trail might be affecting real estate values:
- Increased Desirability: Properties located near or along the American River Trail tend to be more desirable due to the immediate access to recreational opportunities, outdoor activities, and beautiful natural surroundings. The trail enhances the overall lifestyle of the area’s residents, making it an attractive place to live.
- Health and Wellness Appeal: The presence of a scenic trail encourages an active lifestyle. People value having easy access to biking, jogging, and walking opportunities. As health and wellness become more important to individuals, properties near such trails gain value for offering these convenient options.
- Aesthetic Value: Homes with views of the river or trail can command higher prices due to the scenic beauty they provide. Natural elements like rivers, trees, and open spaces contribute to a sense of tranquility and aesthetic charm that can significantly influence property values.
- Community Engagement: Trails often foster a sense of community engagement and interaction. People walking or biking the trail can lead to increased social interactions among neighbors, contributing to a close-knit community atmosphere that can positively impact real estate values.
- Tourism and Visitor Attraction: Trails often attract visitors and tourists who want to experience the recreational offerings. This can have a positive effect on local businesses, which in turn can contribute to the economic stability of the area. Increased economic activity can have a trickle-down effect on property values.
- Economic Upside: The trail can drive new development and revitalization of neighborhoods along its route. As the trail becomes a local attraction, businesses may see opportunities to invest in the area, bringing in new restaurants, cafes, and shops. This revitalization can lead to increased property values.
- Limited Supply: Properties located directly adjacent to the trail are limited in number. This scarcity can lead to increased demand, driving up property values. As demand for such properties rises, sellers may have more negotiating power.
- Long-Term Investment: Trails tend to be permanent fixtures in a community. This long-term aspect can make properties adjacent to the trail appealing for investors who see the potential for sustained value growth over time.
It’s important to note that while the American River Trail can have a positive impact on real estate values, its effect can vary based on the specific location, neighborhood dynamics, and overall real estate market trends. Generally, though, proximity to well-maintained trails and green spaces tends to be a sought-after feature that can contribute to increased property values in the long run.
Sacramento Zoo
The Sacramento Zoo makes for a perfect family outing in Sacramento. Located in one of the city’s loveliest neighborhoods, Land Park, the zoo covers 14 acres and houses 140 native, rare, and endangered animal species. Highlights include lemurs, tigers, giraffes, orangutans, a reptile house that kids love, and highly endangered snow leopards.
The zoo’s mission is to inspire awareness of animals through education and recreational activities. For instance, the zoo hosts many annual events for families that celebrate the environment and teach kids about conservation.
Fairytale Town
Fairytale Town is a cute non-profit park across the street from the Sacramento Zoo. Kids love this place (mine included!). Nursery rhymes and fairy tales come alive here: there’s a giant shoe slide, a knights’ castle with roundtable, farm animals, a “crooked mile” that twists and turns through a tiny forest, an Owl’s tree house, Cinderella’s carriage, and much more.
Old Sacramento
Old Sacramento is a state historic park and national historic landmark covers 28 acres on the Sacramento River next to Downtown. The original plank sidewalks, 58 historic buildings, and 19th century architectural details remind us of the city’s origins as a hub of the California Gold Rush. Besides walking around Old Sacramento, you can learn more at the old schoolhouse, the Sacramento History Museum, and the California Train Museum.
California State Railroad Museum
In Old Sacramento the California State Railroad Museum is great fun for both children and adults. Explore the inside Georgia Northern No. 100 The Gold Coast private railcar once owned by the pioneers of railroad photography, Lucius Beebe and Charles Clegg. The Golden Spike Exhibit Gallery, what really happened at the Golden Spike ceremony on May 10, 1869? The event celebrated the completion of the nation’s first transcontinental railroad and so much more..
California State Capitol Museum and Park
This Neoclassical building from the mid-19th century stands at one end of a large urban park. The interior of the Capitol is worth a visit—its rotunda and historic rooms reflect the history of lawmaking and governing in this state. The small exhibits from every California county highlight the natural beauty and local specialties from all parts of the state. They line the downstairs addition, which is enhanced with Art Deco details and includes the governor’s office.
The Crocker Art Museum
The Crocker Art Museum recently underwent a renovation, and the results are stunning. The museum is the type you would expect to find in a big, thriving city like Sacramento, the capital of California. The permanent collection of paintings is housed in the old Crocker mansion, with beautiful details to be found in every room. The exhibitions as well as permanent collections of ceramics and Asian and African artworks are housed in the museum’s new modern wing. The light, airy space perfectly suits the purpose. There is also an inviting courtyard and cafe downstairs as well as exhibition spaces upstairs.
Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park
Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park is what remains of the first settlement in Sacramento. John Sutter was given a land grant from the Mexican government in 1839 (when California was still part of Mexico). He used this land to develop agriculture and set up the first non-Native American settlement in the Central Valley of California. Now Sutter’s Fort sits right in the center of Sacramento, surrounded by Midtown apartment buildings and restaurants, but offers a place to see a bit of California history.
The large white fort has been restored to look as it did in the 1840s. Original rooms include a kitchen, stables, store, carpenter’s shop, mill, doctor’s office, and other places that served the small local community at that time. A free audio tour is available. The grounds of the park include the California State Indian Museum and a small but nice area to walk with ponds, fountains, and heritage trees.
California State Military History
Californian State Military History educates the long and proud tradition of service that stretches back over two centuries when Alta California was a Spanish colony and later a Mexican province. Since joining the Union, California has provided more of its citizens to our common defense than any other state. Californians who have served our nation reads like a who’s who of American Military History. Generals William T. Sherman, Henry Halleck and Joseph Hooker all served in the California State Militia before the Civil War.
The California Automobile Museum
The California Automobile Museum has over 130 vehicles and rotating and special exhibits, our collection provides a truly unique automotive experience for our visitors. The California Automobile Museum offers a wide variety of classes; from Model T driving to muscle car tune ups. The museum has many events thought out the year.
Discovery Museum Science & Space Center
The Discovery Museum Science & Space Center inspire by being the place to experience science. Through unique, hands-on programs and exhibits, The Discovery creates learning experiences that range from simple curiosity to deep understanding, empowering a community of critical thinkers.
Folsom History Museum
The Folsom History Museum imagine it!: a portal into history Listen to stories of the Pioneer days at the Folsom History Museum. Enjoy tales of the past that can be found at our museum shop. After listening to our story, there will be a craft to go along with the story.
Nimbus Fish Hatchery
The Nimbus Fish Hatchery is Located in eastern Sacramento County, Nimbus Hatchery raises Chinook salmon and steel-head for release to the American River. The Nimbus Hatchery Visitor Center offers fun and educational activities for children and adults of all ages. Enjoy the on-site nature trail along the American River to view wildlife, as well as the American River Parkway trail directly adjacent to the Nimbus Hatchery.
Cosumnes River Preserve
The Cosumnes River Preserve is centered along the Cosumnes River, with opportunities for paddling, hiking, and nature viewing. The Preserve Visitor Center has an interpretive room so you can learn more about the history, flora, and fauna. Located just southwest of the Visitor Center is a boat launch so you can paddle the Cosumnes River and its sloughs. North of the Visitor Center is a trailhead with access to the Wetlands Walk and River Walk Trails.
The Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings is our professional basketball team. The Kings are the oldest team in the NBA, and the first and only team in the major professional North American sports leagues located in Sacramento.
The Sacramento River Cats
The Sacramento River Cats is our Triple-A Affiliate professional baseball team. The Sacramento River Cats are a Minor League Baseball team of the Pacific Coast League and are the Triple-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants.
The Sacramento Republic FC
The Sacramento Republic FC is one of the premier clubs in USL Championship. Over the course of eight seasons, Republic FC has reflected the Indomitable nature of California’s Capitol City, breaking league records year over year, winning the 2014 Championship in its inaugural season, and sparking a regional passion for soccer.
Apple Hill
Apple Hill has a history Over 50 Years The Apple Hill Growers Has Grown From 16 Original Ranchers To Over 50 Ranchers, Including Christmas Tree Growers And Wineries, Vineyards And A Bed & Breakfast Inn. Apple Hill is a great day out in the country.
Sacramento Music Festival
The Sacramento Music Festival is a one-of-a-kind music experience in the festive streets of Old Sacramento on Memorial Day weekend! The Sacramento Music Festival is a safe, four-day, all-day party featuring LIVE music, 100 unique performances, street dancing, animated parades, instruments booming, and great food and drink in an energetic atmosphere.
Sacramento’s Regional Parks
Sacramento has many Regional Parks. Just to name a few parks Gibson Ranch Regional Park; Dry Creek Parkway; Elk Grove Regional Park; Mather Regional Park.
What is the weather like in Sacramento?
Sacramento has a Mediterranean climate. The California experiences most of its precipitation in the winter months. Sacramento is hot in the summer and cool and wet in the winter. Sacramento has an average of 270 sunny days per year, and local residents love to take advantage of the nice weather. Sacramento has a rich history, fertile culture, vibrant art community and amazing climate. Living in the Greater Sacramento area is living a good life. Growing a garden in Sacramento take special insights learn more at: Sacramento can be a hard place to grow garden.
Sacramento education System
Sacramento has a fully developed the education system. The Sacramento City Unified District has more than 70 educational facilities which are spread all over the place. The highest rated colleges are California State College, Sacramento City College and Consumnes River College. California State University in Sacramento has many top quality degrees programs. Ok I am bias Sac State is where I got my BA.
What is the real estate market in Sacramento?
The greater Sacramento real estate market continues to grow. Existing housing offers diversity ranging from ranch style to historic Victorian houses. Sacramento has many affordable housing options to modern condominiums and in-town apartments.
Are you looking to sell your Sacramento house?
What to do if you inherit a property in Sacramento?
Coffee Real Estate would be a great place to start understanding the process in Sacramento. Dan Parisi is Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist (CPRES). Find out more info on selling a probate house or living trust home here…
How to begin looking for a home can create problems. Each person has their own priority of what is important. For some it is where to buy a home in Sacramento or in Placer County. Others, it is the must haves of the house the wants, needs and must have list. Coffee Real Estate works with home buyers to find the right home for them. Let’s begin the process today.
