Two weeks ago, I got to visit Sacramento, California. It was my first-time visiting California. To be honest, I had never heard great things about the West Coast. And for that reason, I never had a great desire to visit. But, after spending a weekend in California’s capital city, I finally understood why it is adored by so many.
I was most surprised by the variety of regional landscapes in California. Even though I did not get to see the entire state, I got to experience the many climates within one region. Driving just one hour out of the city brings a completely different climate! It was quite cool.
In many ways, California is similar to Moldova. The dry air and balmy weather emulated what I had experienced in Moldova. Even some of the buildings and overall city layout in Sacramento felt nostalgic to my Moldovan home. And maybe that’s why I left Sacramento with such a positive experience.
I hope to explore the rest of California in the future, but for now, I’ll share the coolest and not-so-coolest spots to visit when in/near Sacramento.
FOOD & DRINK
Dutch Bros Coffee: Aggressively underwhelming. When I asked what to order, “Don’t get the coffee” was the first thing said which is ironic considering its called “Dutch Bros Coffee.” I tried various teas and the banana bread Dutch Cocoa which were yummy overall, but not necessarily something I would go out of my way for.
In-N-Out: Incredibly overrated fast food joint. The burgers are just okay, but possibly better than some of the fast food burger places we have in NC. In-N-Out Fries are not good by any standard. Overall, there are better places to eat, however the experience itself is worth it and it was intriguing to experience the hype.
Cafeteria 15L: For brunch, this place is a move. There were so many options on the menu and the food was excellent (especially their truffle tots!). It’s located right in the middle of downtown Sacramento, so I give bonus points for location. Cafeteria 15L felt like a mix of a café and bar. It’s half-indoor, half-outdoor venue set such a nice ambiance. 11/10 for the coolest bathroom I’ve ever been in.
Yard House (Sacramento- Downtown Commons): Ok ok, we didn’t actually get to go to this one… BUT everybody and their mom was raving about Yard House. It’s also located downtown, so eating there gives you that larger-than-life, big-city feeling. Yard House also has several locations across the U.S.
The Pour Choice: Located in Auburn, CA (about a 40-minute drive from Sacramento), The Pour Choice is one of the most endearing coffee spots I’ve been to. The shop is nestled in the hills of a cute, old-timey town. The Pour Choice is aesthetically unique and inviting. It’s California’s first and only craft coffee bar and tap room. I imagine it’s a great place to study. Bonus points for the creative name!
Burger & Cream: Above and beyond my In-N-Out experience, Burger & Cream is a classic, family-owned burger joint. The burgers, fries, and onion rings were fantastic. It’s location and atmosphere is charmingly quaint. As the name suggests, Burger & Cream has amazing sweet treats like milkshakes, ice cream, and floats.
PLACES
San Francisco is only 1.5 hours from Sacramento while Lake Tahoe is just under 2 hours away. The diversity of landscapes is truly astounding!
Foresthill Bridge: Want an easy hike with a beautiful view? Foresthill Bridge is a wonder to see and it’s the highest bridge in California! There is also a trail with stairs leading to a secret spot under the bridge where you can sit and view the vast landscape.
Capitol Park: Also located downtown, this park is in close proximity to many restaurants and cafés. It features a beautiful rose garden and lovely walking paths in view of the capital building. The trees here are amazing!!
CHURCHES
Of course, no stop is complete without a lovely, spirit-filled community to fellowship with.
