Thousands of people migrated to the Sacramento area in the 1850s because of the California Gold Rush. That's one of the reasons why Sacramento is now the state's capital. Many historic buildings and artifacts from this early time are on display in Old Town Sacramento. Most of the historic attractions are also near Capitol Park, which is the heart of the city. If you want to be near all the action, find a hotel in the downtown area.
One thing that sets Sacramento apart is the range of restaurant offerings. You can get a taco or scone from a food truck or sit down to fine dining at a top-rated restaurant. Additionally, Sacramento produces more agricultural products than anywhere else in the U.S. and the city has one of the largest farmers markets. If you want fresh produce, Sacramento is the place to go. Many local restaurants incorporate food from the farmers market into their menus, too.
When to Visit Sacramento, CA
The best time to visit Sacramento is when all the festivals are happening between April and June. Some of the best festivals are the Sacramento Music Festival, Sacramento Pride, Juneteenth, and Farm-to-Fork Taste of Summer. May is also when the city experiences the best weather with temperatures in the 70s and 80s, so book your hotel as early as possible. You can enjoy water sports and a multitude of other outdoor activities in addition to the festivals.
During summer, Sacramento frequently sees temperatures in the 90s. However, there is still plenty to do if you want to visit at this time, such as a trip to the California State Fair. Summer is the best time to look for discounted hotel prices in Sacramento because people typically choose other popular destinations in California, such as LA and San Diego, when it's hot. Just remember that if you decide to visit Sacramento in the heat of summer, you need to wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water, especially if you plan on staying in the downtown area and walking to attractions.
September to November brings another rush of visitors to Sacramento because of Gold Rush Days and the California Capital Airshow. The temperatures are refreshingly low in the 60s, which is the perfect temperature to enjoy the hiking trails with a light jacket. You can still find discounts on hotels in the Fall, but don't wait until the last minute to book your stay because some weekends fill up fast.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Sacramento, CA:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average nightly cost trends by star rating class in Sacramento, CA. Analyze these illustrations to evaluate the least expensive months to stay in Sacramento for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Sacramento, CA
4 Star Average Prices: $200.17
One of the most luxurious hotels in Sacramento is the Citizen Hotel. It's situated in the middle of downtown Sacramento and is within walking distance to several restaurants, the state capitol, and the convention center. This upscale hotel also overlooks Cesar Chavez Plaza and exudes a luxurious ambiance from the moment you walk through the door. Guests enjoy a complimentary wine hour, Wi-Fi access, modern fitness center, and in-room entertainment system, as well as a service staff that's willing to go the extra mile to make your stay comfortable.
The Sterling Hotel is another luxurious hotel located in downtown Sacramento. It is a smaller hotel that only has 16 rooms, but they are elegantly designed with Jacuzzi tubs and Italian marble tiles in the bathrooms. What makes this hotel a great value is that each room is supplied with bathrobes and other amenities so you don't have to pack as much for your trip. Additionally, complimentary coffee is served in the hotel's lobby every morning, or you can make it yourself in your room.
Some other top-rated hotels in Sacramento include the Red Lion Hotel Woodlake and Lexington Inn & Suites. Check these hotels out if the Sterling Hotel and Citizen Hotel have no availability.
Affordable Hotel Options in Sacramento, CA
3 Star Average Prices: $122.97
The Hyatt Regency hotel is one of the most affordable hotels in the downtown area of Sacramento. It is popular with business travelers because of its proximity to the convention center and three on-site restaurants. Hyatt Gold Passport members can shave even more dollars off their stay.
You can find more affordable hotels if you're willing to stay a couple of miles outside of downtown Sacramento. For instance, the Westin Sacramento hotel is five miles south of downtown and has excellent prices. The best part of staying at the Westin Sacramento is that the hotel feels upscale without the high cost. There is an on-site spa service and contemporary decor.
Another affordable hotel that services Sacramento is the Marriott Rancho Cordova. Located just east of downtown, the rooms at this hotel have standard amenities, but the pool and fitness center are a nice added bonus. If you don't plan on spending much time at your hotel, there's no need to pay a luxury price. You'll find everything you need at this Marriott hotel without a huge price tag.
One of the lowest-cost hotel options in Sacramento is Good Nite Inn Sacramento. It's located close to California State University. Other hotels with rates on the low end are Travelodge Sacramento, Canterbury Village Hotel and Suites, and America's Best Value Inn Sacramento/Old Town. Map each one before you book so you are close to the attractions you want to see. Also, look for special discounts for seniors and large groups.
2 Star Average Prices: $85.61
Best Discounts in Sacramento, CA
Several hotels in Sacramento offer special discounts to AAA members, seniors, veterans, and large groups. For instance, you may be eligible for a discount if you mention you are an AAA member to The Sterling Hotel, Hyatt Regency Sacramento, Delta King Hotel, and Vagabond Inn Executive Old Town hotel. As you search through the listings on HotelPlanner, you can toggle between hotel options that offer these discounts.
The Econo Lodge near the Sacramento Convention Center offers some of the best discounts if you're looking to stay close to downtown. It has competitively low rates and offers Wi-Fi access and continental breakfast to save you even more money. Both AAA members and AARP members can get discounted rates at this hotel, too.
Best Value Options in Sacramento, CA
If you're looking for a best value hotel that puts you in the heart of downtown Sacramento, the Sheraton Grand Sacramento hotel is a great option. The rooms feature Sweet Sleeper beds and are extra spacious for you and your traveling companions to spread out. This makes the Sheraton Grand great for families. One of the best features is the hotel's location across the street from the convention center. There is also an outdoor pool and 24-hour fitness center. The Sheraton Grand Sacramento hotel also participates in Starwood Group's Preferred Guest program.
Another hotel that offers one of the best values in Sacramento is Residence Inn. Like many other hotels, it is located near Capitol Park and downtown Sacramento. Many of the rooms have full kitchens, which can save you a lot of money on food if you plan on staying in Sacramento for an extended time. Additionally, a full continental breakfast is available to guests. Add high-speed Internet and discounts for AAA and AARP members, and it's hard to find a better value in the city.
Top Sacramento, CA, Destinations
Old Town Sacramento hosts the majority of visitor attractions, such as the California State Railroad Museum and several other museums and eateries. However, you wouldn't want to miss a visit to the Midtown neighborhood if you're looking for a happening nightlife with theaters, restaurants, and more. Young families will appreciate the attractions in the southern part of the city, such as Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town. Of course, you can always check to see if the Sacramento Kings are playing during your visit, too.
Capital Park is another popular stop for tourists in Sacramento. The Capitol building has a museum with artwork, antiques, and more, that you can tour for free. Then you can visit several memorials in the area, such as Civil War Memorial Grove, the California Veterans Memorial, and the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Don't forget to check out Sutter's Fort, too.
Whether you're coming to Sacramento for business or recreation, you can find the perfect hotel to meet your needs. Stay in Old Town, find a hotel in the heart of downtown Sacramento, or head to West Sacramento for a little less traffic. Just remember to position yourself near the attractions you want to see and the restaurants you want to try for convenience. There are lots of great hotel options in Sacramento and you're sure to have a good time.
Sacramento, CA in a nutshell
California is home to San Francisco, San Diego, and Los Angeles, cities that brought Hollywood, iconic bridges, and world-famous theme parks to the world. With the stellar choices, California's capital city comes as a surprise. Sacramento is California's capital city. Though it lacks much of its brothers' tourist appeal, Sacramento is California's economic and cultural center. The city has been proclaimed as the most racially and ethnically integrated city across all of America. The bustling economic hub is home to a lot of the world's best universities. Sacramento is home to the California State University, the University of California Davis, and the research hub of the US Davis Medical Center. Sacramento perhaps owes its status because of California's Gold Rush, which propelled the state into one of the world's most desired destinations 150 years after discovery. Though striking gold may be an almost impossible ordeal, Sacramento's treasures lies in its first class hotels, Broadway musicals, four-star restaurants, museums, gardens, and parks.
'I truly believe that every person is an artist or storyteller - the actress Brie Larson, born in Sacramento is quoted as saying.
The old part of this city is bursting with cultural attractions, cobbled streets, and has many historical buildings to explore. It also has several museums, including the large Crocker Art Museum. For those who love the outdoors Sacramento has many parks to choose from too. This capital city of California boasts endless hotel options for visitors, ranging from cheap hotels to more luxurious ones.
Staying for Cheap
In terms of cheap hotels there are many chain hotels in Sacramento. Comfort Inn & Suites offers good prices, and an ideal location close to the airport and university. It is also relatively close to Sacramento Zoo and Old Sacramento, both of which are popular with tourists. There is also the Best Western Sandman Motel, which has easy access to the freeway. Staying here comes with free breakfast and also a convenient airport shuttle bus. Americas Best Value Inn Downtown Sacramento is another option. They have a twenty-four hour reception, free breakfast and on-site parking. This hotel has been recently renovated, meaning everything is fresh and modern. All in all there is a lot of choice when it comes to Sacramento hotels for those on a budget.
Four Star Accommodation
For those who want four star accommodation then look no further than The Hyatt Regency Sacramento. It is close to the Old Sacramento State Historic Park, and is across from the California State Capitol. They offer luxury rooms and suites all complete with modern fixtures. Another four star accommodation is The Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel, which is in the middle of the city. It provides sophisticated, contemporary accommodation complete with all the amenities and conveniences a traveler could need. Another upscale hotel in a great location is The Westin Sacramento, which is set along the banks of the Sacramento River, and some of the 101 rooms have balconies overlooking it. No luxury is skipped when it comes to the bathrooms, which have rainfall shower heads and large bathtubs. The hotel also has a spa where guests can indulge in award-winning treatments.
Alternative Accommodation
Those looking for alternative Sacramento hotels have a few options to choose from. Amber House Bed and Breakfast is perfect for guests seeking elegant and comfortable accommodation in the heart of the Midtown. It is set in two buildings, both of which are within walking distance of many restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. Rooms come with ensuite bathrooms and luxurious marble-tiled baths, making it the perfect place to relax. They also serve a gourmet breakfast, and aim to create a home away from home for visitors. Another one of the hotels in Sacramento offering something a little bit different is Parkside Inn and Spa. Their luxury spa offers facials, massages and other treatments. When booking a room guests get a multi course breakfast included in the price, which is served in the Mansion dining room.
FAQs about hotels in Sacramento
How much does a cheap hotel in Sacramento cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Sacramento can be as cheap as $85.61 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Sacramento cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Sacramento has been $122.97 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a higher-end hotel in Sacramento cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Sacramento has been $200.17 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)