For meeting planners who are preparing for a gathering, there's tons of meeting and exhibit space. The dedicated staff at the Sacramento Convention Center Complex can easily meet your needs, whatever they may be. The Complex's exhibition space can be easily adjusted and can offer as much as 134,000 square feet of space. This space includes 12 loading bays, making it easy to set up and break down the room. The Sacramento Convention Center Complex does much more than accommodate business professionals, too. There are also tons of cultural and entertaining events held at the Complex, including professional sports games and family activities.
There are multiple venues included in the Sacramento Convention Center Complex. There are 31 meeting rooms and a ballroom that measures 24,000-square feet. The outdoor garden terrace, near to the ballroom, makes for a serene space. The registration and pre-function area is even breathtaking at 10,000- square feet. Theatrical presentations and other types of exhibits are carried out in either the Community Center Theater, which seats 2,422 people; the Memorial Auditorium, which seats 3,800 people; or the Jean Runyon Little Theater, which can accommodate 272 people.
The Convention Center also runs a Green Program along with Classique Catering. The Complex shows its sustainability by using recycled products and also enforcing recycling on-site. The Complex also utilizes renewable energy sources and limits harmful emissions.
Attractions
California State Capitol Museum
Opened in 1874 after much controversy and discussion about the planned site and construction, the California State Capitol building was finally opened to the public. The construction costs ran to $2.5 million, far exceeding the original budget of $100,000. Today the Capitol building is a landmark of the States history and dedication. Just a few blocks from the Convention Center, the Capitol offers daily tours of this majestic structure.
Old Town Sacramento
Visit Sacramento the way it used to be during the gold rush days. Old Sacramento is just a few minutes from the Convention Center on the Western Side of the Sacramento River. Designated as a National Park, the town includes historic buildings as well as special events and restaurants that make you feel like you are back in the 19th Century.
California State Railroad Museum
Just a couple minutes from the Convention Center, the California State Railroad Museum is a testimony to the engineering and production of the railroad men. With displays of railroad trains dating back to 1862, this museum is a great place to learn about how trains have been designed through the years. Their is also an excursion train to give you a feel for the earlier trains and how it felt to ride in one of these vintage models. The museum is open daily and excursion trains are available on the weekend.
Governor's Mansion
This amazing state landmark is just a couple of blocks from the Convention Center and offers a glimpse into the personal lives of California's Governors. Originally built in 1877 by Albert Gallatin, a Sacramento hardware store owner, for his wife Clemenza, the mansion was purchased in 1903 for use as the executive home of the Governor of California. The purchase price in 1903 was $32,500 and it has served many Governors including Earl Warren and Ronald Reagan.
Sutter's Fort
Visit the site where the gold rush began when you enter the grounds of Sutters Fort. Just a couple minutes east of the Convention Center, Sutters Fort is a historic landmark and an important part of California's history. Built by pioneer John Sutter in 1839, the fort was originally known as "New Helvetia", Swiss for New Switzerland, Sutters native country. Tours of the fort are given daily and educational classes are offered to provide children with more information about the fort.
Getting Around
Located in the downtown district of California's capital city, the Sacramento Convention Center is surrounded by Sacramento's best transportation options. To avoid confusion while searching for directions, visitors should be aware that the Sacramento Convention Center Complex also includes other major venues such as Community Center Theater, Jean Runyon Little Theater, and Memorial Auditorium. Visitors can orient themselves when searching for the Convention Center by looking for the nearby California State Capitol building along L Street. Driving to the convention center complex should be fairly easy because traffic congestion is not a problem in Sacramento, and there are plenty of parking spaces available at nearby municipal lots such as the Capitol Garage and Memorial Garage. With many of the city's hotels in the Downtown District, free courtesy shuttle services to the convention center complex may be offered by the hotels.
The Sacramento Regional Transit District offers bus and light rail services that lead directly to the Sacramento Convention Center Complex. The light rail system consists of the Blue Line and Gold Line, which run through the most important districts of Sacramento. The Blue Line's K Street & 11 Street and 12 Street & I Street stops are located only a block away from the Sacramento Convention Center. The nearest Gold Line light rail stop is the 8 Street & K Street station, which is about five blocks away from the convention center.
Sacramento Regional Transit District also operates several bus routes that drop and pick up passengers at the Sacramento Convention Center Complex. For example, bus routes 30,31, and 62 make multiple stops around the convention center site. Transfers can be made to the dozens of other bus routes that circulate throughout Sacramento and the surrounding suburban communities. There are also other local bus companies such as Amador Transit, Yolo Bus, Yuba Sutter Transit, and Roseville Transit that provide service to the convention center.
The Sacramento Amtrak Station is within a reasonable half a mile walking distance from the Sacramento Convention Center. The rail station is served by the California Zephyr, Capitol Corridor, Coast Starlight, and San Joaquins. These long distance trains link Sacramento with all of California and other neighboring states. From the Amtrak Station, riders can also transfer to the Gold Line at the H & 5th stop and reach the convention center in a few minutes. Additionally, several local bus routes such as 30,31, and 15 also stop near the Amtrak Station.
Shopping Near By
Sock City
This fun little shop sells hundreds of quirky and interesting socks. Whether you love wool socks or soft cotton, Sock City has it all. They are located close to the convention center and are sure to put a smile on your face. Once you see all of the interesting socks they have, you will leave with a new interest in collecting them.
California State Railroad Museum Store
This shop is filled with tons of souvenirs that celebrate the California railroad history. From train whistles to hats and t-shirts, this shop is an interesting place to explore. You may find the perfect gift for a train enthusiast, or leave empty handed. Visiting this store is sure to be a great learning experience no matter what.
Discovery Museum Store
This store is chock full of great science toys and projects for children and adults. Cool kinetic toys line the shelves. There are books and other gadgets too. Everyone will love this science store and what it has to offer.
G. Wilikers Toy Emporium
Visiting this toy store isn't just another shopping excursion. It's a visual delight and thrill to experience. G.W. Toy Emporium has a massive collection of all kinds of toys. They are one of the rare toy stores that still stocks toys that don't require microchips or batteries. These toys are hard to find, engaging and beautiful to look at too. Children and even adults will enjoy playing here and maybe going home with a few goodies.
Evangeline's
Evangeline's is a whimsical store of silliness and fun that has been open since 1974. The store is located inside a Victorian-era mansion, and is filled with countless objects and costumes that will delight visitors of all ages. Evangeline's is close to the convention center, and is a must-see if you are in the area.
Macy's
This high-end department store has everything you need while staying in Sacramento. Whether you forgot a bathing suit, or just want to browse, Macy's will meet your every need. The large department store is filled with a wide variety of things to see and buy. There is always a good deal to be had at Macy's too.
Capitol Mall Shopping Center
This large shopping center has everything from apparel to jewelry. Whether you are just browsing or intending to buy, Capitol Mall will surely be a great place to visit and shop around.
Dining
Pizza Guys
For a fast bite to eat, Pizza Guys can serve you a great meal. They offer wings, salads, sides and pizzas. You can dine in or take out. Pizza guys is very close to the convention center, and also near hotels in the surrounding area. They frequently run promotions, so be sure to check coupons before ordering.
Republic Bar & Grill
This bar and grill dine-in restaurant offers up pub food at a great price. You can have a drink and order a big burger while watching a game. Republic Bar & Grill is a great place to dine if you are on a budget. Be sure to come during happy hour for discount drinks. This establishment does allow children, but it isn't recommended.
Sky Bar Cafe
This cafe has a chic and urban appearance, as well as delicious food outside of standard cafe meals. It is moderately priced and catered towards a more hipster crowd. Sky Bar Cafe serves tons of delicious drinks that they are famous for.
Mikuni Japanese Restaurant And Sushi
If you want to splurge a little, then visit Mikuni. This Japanese restaurant serves traditional food as well as more modern takes on Japanese dishes. Sushi lovers will enjoy their extensive menu of fish options. Mikuni has high ratings, and it is a well-loved establishment amongst locals and travelers.
Goji's Korean BBQ
Korean BBQ food is gaining a lot of attention, and if you want to try this culinary favorite then Goji's is a great place to start. Affordable meals and large portion sizes make it a great value. They also have vegan options on their menu, which is mostly unheard of in Korean and other Asian restaurants.
Capitol Garage
This moderately priced restaurant that serves dinner, dessert and brunch. They serve gourmet French fries, pizza, nachos and burgers. They even have a house-made veggie burger for vegetarian or vegan guests. This is a fast and fun environment for those that want quality food without spending too much.
The Melting Pot
This high-end chain restaurant is located in close proximity to the convention center. Expect to spend a bit more here than other eateries. Fondue is their specialty, and they offer tons of different options for all palettes. Be sure to make reservations if you decide to eat here. It can get quite full when conventions are being held.