Cruising up the Sacramento River

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One of the things that is always a challenge for me when I go home is not falling into a rut. I usually go back to Sacramento for three to five days: just enough time to see my family, catch up with friends and squeeze in at least one lazy afternoon by the pool. There are only so many meals and so many happy hours and so many spare hours, and always too many people to see. I usually insist on going back to my tried-and-true favorites (helllooo tacos and IPAs at Golden Bear!), but every once in a while, friends convince me it’s worth trying something new.

And this time, I had someone new to show around. I was stressing out over planning the perfect itinerary: it’s been a while since I played tour guide in Sacramento! My mom suggested that we take a cruise up the Sacramento River, something that I hadn’t done in years–I actually still don’t remember ever doing it, but my mom insists that I went as a child (and so I believe her!). It was only $20 for an hourlong cruise, and the weather was predicted to be low 80s and sunny (aka PERFECT)–so I purchased tickets the night before and off we went! It was a gorgeous day to be out on the water, there were drinks sold on board, and the historical commentary was limited to fun facts and a couple of cheesy jokes. Whether you’re a Sacramento native or have never been to the River City before: highly recommend for a fun little intro to the area, or a refresher if it’s been a while since you took a field trip to the Capitol.

The beach at Discovery Park, with plenty of fishermen out on the river.

The famous Tower Bridge! Gives Brooklyn Bridge a run for its money, doesn’t it? [Side note: I said that completely seriously to my boyfriend and he burst out laughing AS IF I WAS JOKING. I’m telling you, I love that little draw bridge!]Surprisingly, not a lighthouse: it’s part of the Sacramento water treatment plant!

The Delta King Hotel, which is actually still a fully operational restaurant and hotel. I always think that it would be so fun to stay here for a night on my next visit home!

I’ve eaten at Rio City Cafe dozens of times and even celebrated my 21st birthday with my very first legal drink there: it’s one of my family’s favorite places for birthday lunches, since it’s such a gorgeous location on the water. Bonus since the weather is always nice with family birthdays in April, May and June! Duck crossing! The view looking south on Sacramento, including the I Street drawbridge: it takes three minutes to lift up, and total 10 minutes to go up and down. Luckily, it’s high enough that most of Sacramento’s river traffic these days can go underneath it. Sacramento, you subtle stunner, you! Again, totally wasn’t sponsored to say this AT ALL, but highly recommend Hornblower Cruises if you’re looking for a fun activity to do in Sacramento. We really had a great time!