Once the original, thriving riverfront pioneer town, Old Sacramento is now primarily a living historic district and tourist destination. The boardwalk style sidewalks and horse-drawn stagecoaches give this small section of town a unique Western flavor. Old Sacramento contains several museums, restaurants, and the usual assortment of souvenir shops and ice cream parlors, all within walking distance of each other. Most things are only as historical as the fact that they're placed in a building that's been there for a while. Attractions in the Old Town area also include the Delta King Riverboat, a working hotel with restaurant. The California State Railroad Museum's Sacramento Southern Railroad is a private line extension providing riverside rides on a steam locomotive that departs from the Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot, carriage rides as well as annual city event and functions. Best of all, it's a five-minute walk from the Amtrak station. It's best visited in the morning and early evenings, especially during the hot summers. Parking can be scarce, so be sure to utilize the reasonably priced parking structures in the K Street Mall. There's a nice, short, safe walkway between K Street Mall and Old Sacramento.
For fine dining, the Firehouse Restaurant is an old and well-established city favorite known for its food and ambiance. Also of note is the Pilothouse Restaurant aboard the Delta King Riverboat with its grand staircase, river views and fine food. A newer selection for fine dining is Ten22. Locally owned Frank Fat's Fat City Bar & Cafe is one several eateries in the mid- to high-end pricing, but a family can also find the Round Table Pizza buffet with salad bar for an affordable price while visiting. Locals and tourist enjoy Fanny Ann's Saloon and restaurant for the rustic interior with mid-range pricing.
- 11 Steam train rides, Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot (just south of the Railroad Museum). Hourly, on weekends April through September. Operated by the Railroad Museum, these 40-minute excursions are pulled by a historic steam locomotive along the nearby river levees. $8 adults, $3 ages 6–17, 5 and under free.
- 13 B. F. Hastings Building (Pony Express Terminus), 1006 2nd St. Was the western endpoint of the Pony Express. The building is a National Historic Landmark and now contains the visitor center. (updated Jan 2018)
