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Here are some fun things to do with the kids when you want to stay indoors!  From Animals to Museums to Theatres…this list has something for everyone!  You can click on any of the listed venues to be linked to their website.

ANIMALS

CAPITOL AQUARIUM

1920 29th Street, Sacramento, CA
(916) 452-5556

Open Daily 10-6
FREE

Click here for our experience at Capitol Aquarium.

Capitol Aquarium is a family-owned and operated business, serving the Sacramento area for over 40 years.  They feature over 500 sparkling aquariums with a wide variety of fresh and saltwater fish.  They have a small pond with Koi fish upon entering, where visitors can sit on a bench and feed the fish with food from their coin-operated machine.

DISCOVERY SCIENCE/SPACE MUSEUM

3615 Auburn Blvd., Sacramento, CA
(916) 575-3942

Winter hours (September – June) Tues. – Fri. 12 noon – 4:30 pm, Sat. – Sun. 10 am – 4:30 pm
Summer hours (July – August) Daily 10 – 5
Weekday admission: Adults $5.00, Youth 13-17 $4.00, Kids 4-12 $3.00, Kids 3 and under FREE
Weekend admission: Adults $6.00, Youth 13-17 $5.00, Kids 4-12 $4.00, Kids 3 and under FREE

Wild Life Shows!
Visit live animals in the Nature Discovery Hall. Birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects are here waiting to help you learn about their fascinating lives and habitats. Wildlife shows are included in your general admission.
All year: 12:00pm and 2:00pm on Saturday and Sunday
Additional shows in July and August: 2:00pm Monday-Friday

STAR ECO STATION

4465 Granite Drive, Suite 700, Rocklin, CA
(916) 632-8347

Open Fri. 1-5, Sat. 10-4, Sun. 12-4
General Admission $5.00, Infants in strollers FREE
Tours start every hour on the hour.  Last tour starts one hour before closing.

Working in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other government and environmental organizations, STAR ECO Station provides a last chance for illegal or abandoned at-risk exotic wildlife.  Visitors to the STAR ECO Station experience incredible hands-on lessons of ecology and environmentalism on breathtaking encounter with beautiful tropical birds, exotic reptiles, wildcats and ocean life in a tropical jungle setting.  Environmental partnerships enhance the station with 15 discovery exhibits from organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund, US Fish and Wildlife, Surfrider, and Santa Monica BayKeeper’s unique Storm Drain display and walk-thru Kelp Forest.

ART

ART BEAST STUDIO

2226 K Street, Sacramento, CA
(916) 441-1233

Open Daily 9am-6pm
Admission $8 per person.
Children under 1 and extra adults in same family are FREE

Click here for our experience at Art Beast.

The open studio features tables, easels, and clay mounds where young artists can work. Surrounding shelves are stocked with paint, papers, nature findings, recycled tidbits, glues, crayons, and offerings from which to make art. Children gain confidence in expressing and messing as they create pieces that speak their sense of the world.

ArtBeast classes emphasize exploration over specialization. Classes include dance, yoga, storytelling, singing, Spanish, visual arts, music, movement, and dramatic arts. Our memberships allow children to sample the arts affordably so that they needn’t pick a single discipline or limit exploration to 45 minutes a week.

Play Spaces:

* Dramatic Play: Features puppet theatres, costumes, props, sets, and a stage to perform stories, songs and dances.
* The Loft: Provides nooks, ramp, and bridge to create tiny worlds using fabric, props, new friends, and strong imaginations.
* The Nest:  Reserved for those still finding their feet, the nest offers a soft play river walk and tummy time space for babies to a claim a variety of adventures.
* Music: Guitars and drums. Jingles, songs and percussion galore!  An outside bang wall of pots and pans allows children to create music.  Weekly song circles brings beasities together to sing and dance.
* The Courtyard:  The wildest messes will happen in the courtyard where your family will enjoy sand, gravel and water play, chalk work, and art that spills.
* Movement Room: Build paths and obstacle courses, twirl, tap dance, and mirror yoga poses as children learn to balance and move.

BOUNCE HOUSES

Tip:  Remember that most Bounce Houses require the kids to wear socks and will not let them play without them.

BOUNCE O PALACE

291 Iron Point Rd., Folsom, CA
(916) 933-9493

Open Mon.–Thurs. 10:30-7, Fri.- Sun. Times vary - see website
Kids $8.00, 2 and under $5.00, Adults FREE
$28.00/ 4 sessions
Sibling Discount: $7.00 for 2nd child

BounceOPalace Indoor Children’s Play Center offers drop-in play sessions that are open to the public. You can enjoy the over 6,500 square feet of interactive inflatables year round for as long as you want. There is a separate area for children under 2 to play.  They now offer unlimited time so you can enjoy the facility until your child is ready to go home. Comfortable viewing room for adults, or you can join in for free.  Socks required for all.

BOUNCETOWN

9844 Business Park Dr., Sacramento, CA
(916) 366-9999

Open Mon & Wed 10am - 6pm
Kids $7.00/per child
No time limit.

Family Bounce Night:
Wed 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Autism Family Bounce Night:
First Monday of every month
6:30pm - 8:30pm

BOUNCE SPOT

2939 Promenade St., West Sacramento, CA
(916) 371-2386

Open Wed.-Fri. 10-6, Summer Mon.-Fri. 10-6
Kids $7.00, Adults FREE

Click here to see our experience at Bounce Spot.

Open Play Sessions:
Our Public Play Times are Mon-Fri 10-4 for the summer months beginning on June 14th. Please visit our calendar for weekend hours, they are usually posted on Friday. Cost is $7 for all ages (crawlers count). Two adults free per family, additional adults are $5 each. Our open play room has a huge 18 ft. slide, 65 ft. long obstacle course, a bouncer with boxing, jousting, volleyball and basketball, plus a fenced in toddler area (inflatable ball pit, toys, books, and so much more) We only allow 40 children during any open play session, it is first come first serve, if we see an issue arise we may break open play sessions into 2 hour blocks.  DON’T FORGET SOCKS!

Family Nights:
3rd Friday of each month:  $8.00 per person.  Includes 3 hours of  bounce time, pizza, salad, drinks, and ice cream.  Reservations are required with full payment. Spots are limited, so call early.

BOUNCE U

7611 Galilee Road, Roseville, CA
(800) 640-1385

Summer Open Bounce Schedule (June 5th – Aug. 17th):
Mondays: 9:30 (ages 7 and under),
11:00, 1:30, 3:00 (all ages)
Tuesdays: 1:30, 3:00 (all ages)
Wednesdays: 9:30 (ages 7 and under), 1:30 & 3:00 (all ages)
Thursdays: 9:30 (ages 7 and under), 1:30& 3:00 (all ages)
Fridays: 10:00 (all ages), 12:30 (ages 7 and under), 2:00 (all ages)
hey are sometimes open on the weekend if there are no parties.
Sessions are 75 minutes long.
Kids $6.00, 2 and under FREE
Family Night: Wed. 6:10 - 8 PM
$8.95/child, $7.95/sibling

At Bounce U, Children and grown-ups alike almost always experience the “wow factor” when they first get a look at the incredibly cool bounce houses. With their amazing kids’ party inflatables, interactive activities, knowledgeable staff, and one-of-a-kind environment, this place really is all about having stress-free fun. Their bounce stadiums are packed with cutting-edge play structures and games that are appropriate for kids from age 2 to 65.

FUNTASTIC!

Natomas Location
4421 Gateway Park Blvd. #130, Sacramento, CA
(916) 263-9900

Open Mon.-Thurs. 9:30-5, Friday 10 - 8, Sat. Reserved for parties, Sun. 12 - 4
Kids crawling – age 8 $8.00

Click here to see our experience at Funtastic.

The Funtastic Play Center features an innovative mixture of custom designed and self-contained modular soft play equipment that encourages children’s freedom of movement, exploration, and creativity in a playful and carefree setting.  They have a separate area for crawlers and toddlers as well as an area for parents to relax and enjoy refreshments  overlooking the play area.  No outside food or drink permitted.
Unlimited play time all day.

LAGUNA’S AWESOME PARTY PALACE

3147 Dwight Rd., Elk Grove, CA
(916) 422-4244

Open Mon. & Wed. 9-6, Tues. & Thurs. 11-6, Fri. & Weekends – call or see website
Kids walking – 17 $6.00 weekdays, $7.00 weekends & Holidays, Adults FREE
Coupon offered on website and inside the Elk Grove Laguna Shopper

Laguna’s Awesome Party Palace offers drop-in play sessions that are open to the public.  Their interactive inflatables include a castle, a monster truck, a humungous slide, and an obstacle course.   Benches in the center of the room for adults to view (not encouraged to participate).  Socks required.  They are sometimes open on Saturdays if there are no parties.   This bounce house is the best bargain, especially if you use a 2-for-1 coupon from the Elk Grove Laguna Shopper.

BOWLING

ALPINE VALLEY LANES

2326 Florin Rd.
Sacramento, CA 95822
(916) 428-0108

Open Mon-Tues 9am - 11pm, Wed 11am - 11pm, Thurs 9am - 11pm, Fri 2pm - 1am, Sat 9am - 1am, Sun 9am - 11pm

CAPITOL BOWL

900 West Capitol Avenue,  West Sacramento, CA
916-371-4200

Open Monday- Thursday 11am-11pm, Friday 11am-1am, Saturday 10am-1am, Sunday 10am-11pm
Weeknights, Weekends, Holidays $22 an hour, up to 6 people OR $4 per game.  Shoes $3 a pair.
Before 5:00 Monday - Friday $15 an hour, up to 6 people OR $3 per game.  Shoes $3 a pair.

COUNTRY CLUB LANES

2600 Watt Avenue, Sacramento, CA
(916) 483-5105

Prices are per hour, per lane and pro rated to the minute. Up to 8 people max per lane. $27-$42 per hour per lane.  Check website for daily rates.
Discount on Sunday, 5-10pm - $3.00 Per Game $3.00, Shoe Rental, 50 Cent Food Specials

Family Fun Night:
Monday - Thursday 4pm to 8pm
(Up to 4 people)
Only $50 - 2 games of Laser Tag, 4 tokens per person, 2 Pizzas, 2 pitchers of soda

Specializing in fun for the whole family, they offer new automatic bumper bowling on all 48 lanes.  They also proudly boast two of the best arcades that Sacramento has to offer. Come play all the Latest and greatest video games such as DDR, and Time Crisis 4.  For the younger kids, and the young at heart, shoot hoops, play Deal or No Deal, Skee Ball or other different ticket dispensing games and redeem tickets for cool prizes at our extensive prize counter.

FIRESIDE LANES

7901 Auburn Blvd., Citrus Heights, CA
(916) 725-2101

$2.00 - $3.50 per game, $3.00 Shoe Rental.  See website for price schedule.

Discount Sundays:
9:00AM-12:00PM
$0.75 per Game per Person
$3.00 Shoe Rental

$1.00 days:
Monday-Friday 3:00PM - 6:00PM
$1.00 per Game per Person
$3.00 Shoe Rental

LAND PARK LANES

5850 Freeport Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95822
(916) 421-3671

Mon-Wed 9am - 11pm, Thurs 9am - 11am, Fri 9am - 1am, Sat 10am - 1am, Sun 10am - 11pm

MARDI GRAS LANES

4800 Madison Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95841
(916) 332-7150

Mon-Thurs 11am - 11pm
Fri 11am - 1am
Sat 9am - 1am
Sun 9am - 11pm

STRIKES

2 locations:
5681 Lonetree Blvd., Rocklin, CA 95765
(916) 632-8200

3443 Laguna Blvd., Elk Grove, CA 95758
(916) 226-2695

Open Sunday - Thursday 9am-midnight, Friday & Saturday 9am-2am
$1.50 per game on weekend mornings to $7.00 per game.  See website for price list.

Automatic bumpers for kids, video games, snack bar, laser tag, rock wall.

CLIMBING

ROCKNASIUM

720 Olive Dr., Suite Z, Davis, CA
(530) 757-2902

Open Mon. – Fri. 11-11, Sat. 10-9, Sun. 10-6, Closed Holidays
Public Day Pass is $12.00
Public Equipment Rental is $8.00
Total = $20.00
Student Day Pass is $10.00
Student Equipment Rental is $6.00
Total = $16.00
Children 12 and Under Day Pass is $8.00
Children 12 and Under Equipment Rental is $6.00
Total = $14.00
Children 5 and Under Day Pass* is $5.00
Children 5 and Under Equipment Rental is $3 (harness only- tennis shoes are OK)
Total = $8.00
10-15 minute climbing/safety instruction is $10.00

Rocknasium is an indoor rock climbing facility located 10 miles west of Sacramento in Davis, California. We pride ourselves on making our facility welcoming to people of all ages, abilities and motivations-from a toddler starting to experiment with coordination, to a ten year old’s climbing birthday party, to a college student looking for a fun way to exercise, to a hard core climber training for serious competition, to even a married couple preparing for an assault on Yosemite’s El Capitan! One of the earliest climbing gyms to open in the country, Rocknasium has 8,000 square feet of climbable terrain in a 3,600 square foot facility. Their climbing ranges in difficulty from super easy to super hard. The facility is fully climate controlled for the scorching 100-degree days of summer and also for the damp, chilly, fog laden weeks of winter.

SACRAMENTO PIPEWORKS

116 N. 16th Street, Sacramento, CA
(916) 341-0100

Open Mon. – Fri. 6am – 10pm, Sat. & Sun. 9am – 6pm
Weekdays after 3 pm and weekends: Adults $16.00, Kids $9.00 (Day Pass)
Weekdays before 3 pm: Adults & Kids $9.00 (Day Pass)
Equipment Rental $6.00
Age 4 and up

Sacramento Pipeworks has some of the most phenomenal climbing terrain that you will ever grab hold of. The main structure offers routes that start at moderate and range toward incredibly challenging. But not to fear, we have a whole wall designed specifically for beginners as well. The bouldering area is large and spacious with tons of impressive terrain.

Friday Night Frenzy:
3:00 – 10:00 PM
$9 to get in
$6 for gear
$5 Intro to Climbing class

Intro to Climbing Class:
(Walk-in registration daily)
Enjoy an immediate climbing experience with our instructors as they guide you through the proper use of belay equipment, knot tying and basic top rope climbing. Personal responsibility and safe climbing practices are emphasized. Recommended for first-time climbers, minimum age 14. Please arrive 15 minutes before the schedule class start time.
Monday-Friday         4:30pm, 6pm, 7:30pm
Saturday-Sunday     11:30am, 1pm, 3pm
Length of class will depend on number of students.
Cost: $27.00
(Includes day pass, equipment rental, and class fee.)

LIBRARIES

Sacramento Public Library

Folsom Public Library

Roseville Public Library

Click here for storytime information.

MOVIE THEATRES

Esquire IMAX Theatre

1211 K Street, Sacramento, CA
(916) 443-IMAX

Kids 12 and under $8.00, Adult $10.00, Kids 2 and under that are sitting on an adult lap and not taking a seat are free.

MUSEUMS

AEROSPACE MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA

3200 Freedom Park Dr., McClellan, CA  95652
(916) 643-0389

Open Mon. – Sat. 9 – 5, Sun. 10 – 5
Adults $8.00, Youth 13-18 $6.00, Kids 6-12 $5.00, Kids 5 and under FREE

The Aerospace Museum has on display a wide range of aircraft types, both military and civilian.  These include fighters, trainers, transport and specialized types flown by the USAF and Navy from 1940 to 2000.  Added exhibits include aircraft and rocket engines, original aviation art, interactive displays, and a motion-ride simulator (additional $5.00 per person fee).  Most of the 20 plus aircrafts are on display outside so it is suggested to go during good weather.  Two to three times a year, they host an open cockpit day when you can climb inside some of the aircrafts.  Contact the museum for the current dates.

CALIFORNIA AUTO MUSEUM

(formerly TOWE AUTO MUSEUM)

2200 Front Street, Sacramento, CA
(916) 442-6802

Open Daily 10 – 6
Adults $6.00, Kids 6-17 $3.00, Kids 5 and under FREE

Explore the history of the automobile and its influence on our lives – past, present & future.  Enjoy the Towe Auto Museum’s exciting collection of over 160 classic cars, race cars, muscle cars, hot rods and early models displayed throughout 72,000 square feet of museum space.  Buy an auto-related souvenir in our gift shop, enjoy a soda in our 50’s style Vic’s Ice Cream vignette and take a few pictures next to your favorite cars!

THE CALIFORNIA MUSEUM

1020 O Street, Sacramento, CA
(916) 653-7524

Open Mon. – Sat. 10 – 5, Sun. 12 – 5
Adults $8.50, Kids 6-13 $6.00, Kids 5 and under FREE

California is an amazing state where options are limitless and dreams become reality.  The California Museum fosters this concept as new educational programs are created, exhibits are crafted and cultural events are opened to the public. We fulfill this mission by creating a unique learning space where children, adults, and visitors from around the globe can be inspired by this great state’s rich history and stories of its innovative people. All visitors are encouraged to make their own mark on history.
The California Museum is the ONLY museum that provides insight into California’s legacy by uniquely showcasing the stories of inspirational people and events. These people include Sally Ride, Ronald Reagan, Rita Moreno and Jackie Robinson. These events include the birth of Hollywood, the discovery of gold, the earthquake of 1906 and the table grape boycott.

CALIFORNIA STATE INDIAN MUSEUM

2628 K Street, Sacramento, CA
Located next to Sutter’s Fort
(916) 324-0971

Open 10 – 5 Daily; Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day
$2.00 Adults, $1.00 Kids 6-17, Kids 5 and under FREE
Parking tip:  Metered parking on K and 26th streets.  Meters free on Sundays.

The museum displays exhibits and artifacts illustrating the cultures of the state’s first inhabitants.
California Indian cultural artifacts in the museum include basketry, beadwork, clothing and exhibits about the ongoing traditions of various California Indian tribes.   A section of the museum features a hands-on area, where visitors can try their hand at using Indian tools, such as the pump drill, used for making holes in shell beads and other materials; the mortar and pestle and soap root brush, made from the soap root plant, all used for grinding acorns.

CALIFORNIA STATE RAILROAD MUSEUM

Old Sacramento, 111 I Street, Sacramento, CA
(916) 445-6645

Open Daily 10 – 5
$8.00 Adults, $3.00 Kids 6-17, Kids 5 and under FREE
Parking tip: 90 minutes at metered parking on the streets of Old Sac or parking garage at entrance to Old Sacramento for nominal fee.

Click here for our experience at The California State Railroad Museum.

The California State Railroad Museum is the largest interpretive railroad museum in North America.  The first floor is packed full of a variety of real trains, including a freight train and a postal train that you can climb inside of.  The second floor is toy train heaven with running electric train sets and window after window of every old and new train set imaginable.

Steam Train Rides:
Fun 40 minute train rides along the river are offered April through September, every weekend, every hour on the hour.  11 am - 5 pm.
$8.00 Adults, $3.00 Kids 6-17, Kids 5 and under FREE

CAPITOL MUSEUM

1315 10th Street Room B-27, Sacramento
(916) 324-0333

Mon.  – Fri. 8 – 5, Sat. – Sun. 9 – 5
FREE for all ages

Click here for our experience at the Capitol Museum.

Public tours are conducted daily, on the hour, from 9-4.  Films are shown daily in the Basement Theater from 9-5.
Capitol Park surrounds the building and is comprised of 40 acres and spans twelve city blocks. The park includes hundreds of species of trees, shrubs, and flowers and numerous monuments and memorials.

CROCKER ART MUSEUM [currently closed/Grand re-opening October 10]

216 O Street, Sacramento, CA
(916) 264-5423

Tues. – Sun. 10 – 5, 1st and 3rd Thursdays 10 – 9
Adults $6.00, Students (w/ID) $3.00), Kids 6 and under FREE
FREE for all ages Sundays 10 – 1
Parking tip:  On-street parking meters bordering the Museum and Crocker Park require quarters. A parking lot is available on Second Street and costs $3 per two hours.  Meters free on Sundays.

Click here for our experience at the Crocker Museum.

Founded in 1885, this is known as the first art museum in the West.  The historical building with hand-carved doors, ornate walls and parquet floors, creates a gorgeous backdrop as impressive as the art.  The art includes the Californian, European, and Asian artworks and International ceramics.  The mission of the museum is to promote and awareness of and enthusiasm for human experience through art.  Tours are available 1st and 3rd Thursdays as well as weekends at 12 noon and 1:00.

Second Saturday for Families:
Second Saturday for Families is held from 12 noon – 3 pm each month and features a fun craft project related to a featured exhibit, plus a family-friendly tour of the museum.  Arts & crafts from 12 to 3 pm, tour at 2 pm.

Wee Wednesday:
Wee Wednesdays are designed for children ages 3-5 and the special adult in their lives. Encourage your early learner’s development through multi-sensory activities inspired by art, storytelling and songs. See the website for an event calendar.  Reservations are required.

DISCOVERY MUSEUM SCIENCE & SPACE CENTER

3615 Auburn Blvd., Sacramento, CA
(916) 575-3942

Winter hours (September – June):  Tues. – Fri. 12 noon – 4:30 pm, Sat. – Sun. 10 am – 4:30 pm
Summer hours (July – August):  Daily 10 – 5
Weekday admission:  Adults $5.00, Youth 13-17 $4.00, Kids 4-12 $3.00, Kids 3 and under FREE
Weekend admission:  Adults $6.00, Youth 13-17 $5.00, Kids 4-12 $4.00, Kids 3 and under FREE

Come see the exciting exhibits and participate in fun activities. This Discovery Museum is home to Sacramento’s only public planetarium. You can see the stars every weekend at 1:00 and 3:00pm. They also have animal shows, and free kids crafts every weekend. Every year is a different interactive theme. This year is Bone Zone and Tree Life, the animals that live in them. See the Dr’s office to see bones, and learn about skeletons and your body. See the kitchen and fake food to learn what to eat to stay healthy. This museum also has the Challenger Learning Center where you can come with your school, birthday party or office to learn to succeed. Go outside along the trails and learn about trees, habitats and the outdoor ampitheatre. It is great fun in the fall to rustle through the leaves! Don’t forget to look in the parking lot to see the life size of a whale and other animals! There is Renfree Park next to this museum

Family Craft Time:
The Discovery Museum Science & Space Center offers make-and-take crafts every Saturday and Sunday. While the activities are designed for children ten years old and under, the whole family can enjoy learning and working together. Visit the classroom from 12:30pm to 3:00pm, and see what you can create!

Planetarium:
Learn about the local night sky in Northern California’s only public planetarium. 20-minute star shows introduce you to our celestial neighborhood. All shows feature heavenly bodies locally visible to the unaided eye, and include current celestial events. Planetarium shows are included in your general admission. (Children over 4 years of age only, please.)
All year: 1:00pm and 3:00pm Saturday and Sunday
Additional shows in July and August: 3:00pm Monday-Friday

Wild Life Shows:
Visit live animals in the Nature Discovery Hall. Birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects are here waiting to help you learn about their fascinating lives and habitats. Wildlife shows are included in your general admission.
All year: 12:00pm and 2:00pm on Saturday and Sunday
Additional shows in July and August: 2:00pm Monday-Friday

Discover Nature:
The Space and Science Center is surrounded by 14 beautiful acres of Arcade Creek woodlands. Pick up a guide sheet and take an easy hike around the grounds. You’ll become better acquainted with the local flora and fauna. Inviting benches and wide pathways make this an enjoyable outing for all. Don’t forget to visit the Butterfly Garden! There are also shaded picnic areas if you wish to bring a snack or lunch. Cold beverages are available in the museum store.
Open all year during museum hours.

EXPLORIT SCIENCE CENTER

2801 2nd St.,  Davis, CA
530-756-0191

Open Tues. 10-5 (first floor 10-2, both floors 2-5), Sat.-Sun. 11am-5pm (both floors)
Adults & Kids 4 and over $4.00, Kids 3 and under FREE
*FREE Admission Day is the 3rd Tuesday of each month!
*Admission is FREE on the first weekend of each month to individuals with Bank of America credit or debit cards through the bank’s “Museums on Us” program.

Challenge your child’s mind at this fascinating science center for all ages.  School age children interested in science will enjoy the hands-on activities.  Check out their website for a calendar of current exhibits.   Click here for their Top 10 Reasons to visit.

SACRAMENTO HISTORY MUSEUM

(formerly DISCOVERY MUSEUM GOLD RUSH HISTORY CENTER)

Old Sacramento, 101 I Street, Sacramento, CA
Located next to the Railroad Museum
(916) 264-7057

Winter Hours (September thru June):  Tues. – Sun. 10 - 5
Summer Hours (July and August):  Daily 10 - 5
Adults $5.00, Youth 13-17 $4.00, Kids 4-12 $3.00, Kids 3 and under FREE
Parking tip: 90 minutes at metered parking on the streets of Old Sac or parking garage at I street entrance to Old Sacramento for between $5.00 and $9.00.

This museum is housed in a replica of the first city hall. Changing exhibits emphasize the city’s commercial, governmental and family history, including relics from the gold-rush era. The hands-on print shop is a hit with children.
The Gold Rush History Museum is about the days when gold was being discovered and became discovered and the impact on the Sacramento region and people. Right in the entrance (after you pay) is a glass floor where you can see treasures excavated from the streets of Sacramento. It is really cool to look down through the floor. Upstairs are articfacts about clothes, rooms, and treasures from people of this time. Don’t forget to try on clothes from this area and take old pictures! Downstairs is agriculture tools and canned food they used in this time period. The 1928 kitchen is really modern (for its time!). Kids will love the puzzles, fake food, and tractor and animal toys here.

SUTTER’S FORT STATE HISTORIC PARK

2701 L Street, Sacramento, CA
Located next to California State Indian Museum
(916) 445-4422

Open Daily 10 – 5
Adults $4.00, Kids 6-17 $2.00, Kids 5 and under FREE
Parking tip:  Metered parking between K and L streets and 26th and 28th streets.  Meters free on Sundays.

In 1839 a Swiss immigrant named John Sutter received a land grant in the Sacramento Valley from the Mexican government.   He used the land to create a flourishing agricultural empire and named it New Helvetia (New Switzerland.)   This empire established Sacramento’s earliest settlement and the first non-Indian settlement in California’s Central Valley. His reputation as a hospitable host who provided a temporary refuge to travelers made New Helvetia the destination for early immigrants to California.  Less than a decade after they were established, Sutter’s properties were overrun by gold seekers and the fort is all that remains of New Helvetia.  It has been restored to its former state based on an 1847 map published in Darmstadt, Germany.  It is open daily for tours of the park and to view the collection of pioneer and early California artifacts.

Sutter’s Fort Living History and Pioneer Demonstration Days:
These are outstanding theatre and interpretive programs at the state historic park that re-create the everyday life and times at “Fort New Helvetia,” Sutter’s original name for the Fort.   Admission Fees for these days are as follows:  FREE for Kids 5 and under, $3.00 Kids 6 – 17, $6.00 Adults.

SKATING RINKS

FOOTHILL SKATE INN

4700 Auburn Blvd., Sacramento, CA
(916) 488-4700

Hours and prices vary depending on the day – check website for schedule
Session $3.00 - $6.00 Skate Rental $2.00, In-line Rental $3.00

Beautiful hardwood floors, adult supervision, popular music, air-conditioned building, clean environment, complete snack bar, birthday parties available.  Holiday events and specials. Classes offered.

Tiny tots & Beginners Class: Group Instruction $6.00, includes Regular Skate Rental.  Discount Pass Includes 4 lessons & hour and a half session following class for $20.00.

ICELAND SKATING RINK

1430 Del Paso Bl., 1/2 Block west of Arden way, Sacramento, CA
(916) 925-3121 or (916) 925-1240

Sessions: Monday Through Friday 12pm-5pm, Saturday 1:30pm-5pm and 7pm-10pm, Sunday 1:30pm-3:30pm and 6pm-8pm, Tuesday night 8pm-10pm, Thursday night 8pm-10pm, Friday night 8pm-10pm.
Adults $7.00, Kids (12 and under) $6.00
Skate Rental is $2.00

KINGS SKATE COUNTRY

2 locations:
2900 Bradshaw Road, Sacramento, CA
(916 )363-3979
10408 Franklin Blvd., Elk Grove, CA
(916) 684-7132

Session Times 1:00pm - 4:00pm, 3:00pm - 6:00pm, 6:00pm - 8:30pm, 8:00pm - 10:30pm
Admission: $6.50 Extra Session: $2.50
Skate Rental: $2.50 Inline Rental: $4.50
Coupon offered on website

Popular music, full snack bar, birthday parties available. Check website for special discounts and events.

Family Classics Night (Sac location): Every Thursday evening from 6:00pm - 8:30pm. Come listen to some of the classic hits from previous generations! Admission: $6.50 Skate Rental: $2.50 Inline Rental: $4.50 Special Family Rate! $7.00 for the first parent & $3.00 for each additional family member. Total of 6 family members. Family rate is given to mom and/or dad and their children.

Tiny Tot Session: Public session for children 8 years old and younger and their parents only. Admission: $6.50 Skate Rental: $2.50 Inline Rental: $4.50 ***Children under 40 inches tall receive half off Admission***

Parents bring your wireless G enabled (and fully charged) laptop to King’s Skate Country for free internet access while you watch your kids! Just ask the front counter after you come in what the password is and you’re well on your way to being connected. (elk grove location) Come and see us Wednesday nights from 6pm - 9pm for discounts on several snackbar items!

STORYTIMES

Click here for a complete list of storytimes in the Sacramento area. It includes Barnes & Noble, the Public Libraries and more.

THEATRES

We have included upcoming productions from these theatres on our events calendar found on our home page.

B STREET THEATRE

2711 B Street, Sacramento, CA
(916) 443-5300

Adults $22.00, Kids $15.00

Click here to see our experience at the B Street Theatre.

B Street Theater is known for its innovative productions of new plays. The company was originally founded in 1986 for the purpose of bringing theater to children. Fantasy Theatre, the company’s touring group, now reaches 200,000 students in Northern California annually. The theater presents an annual Family
Series; see the website for upcoming productions.

CHAUTAUQUA PLAYHOUSE

5235 Engle Road, Carmichael, CA
(916) 489-7529

General Admission $7.00 all ages

The Chautauqua Playhouse has been providing quality theatre for 33 seasons.  Several months out of the year their delightful Children’s Theater performs on Saturday Afternoons.

CITY THEATRE

Sacramento City College, 3835 Freeport Blvd., Sacramento, CA
(916) 558-2228

General Admission $5.00 (cash or check only), Kids 2 and under FREE

City Theatre is the performing arts program at Sacramento City College, part of the Los Rios Community College District.  They perform Storytime Theatre several months throughout the year.  City Theatre at Sacramento City College aims to bring to the Sacramento community a unified theatre experience, beginning with the best training available for anyone interested, put to the test in fine professional productions from the old to the new, which will, in turn, strive to speak as much as they can to all of Sacramento’s diverse communities.  Please see website for upcoming productions.

DAVIS MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY

Hoblit Performing Arts Center, 607 Pena Drive, Davis, CA
(530) 756-3682

General Admission $7.00 for Storybook Theater productions

DMTC will endeavor to produce quality, affordable, family-oriented theatrical musicals open to all peoples. DMTC will provide a proving and training ground for amateur theatrical performers, directors, choreographers, musicians and technicians. DMTC will strive to involve a multitude of people and families seeking to make a contribution toward the preservation of the musical theatre art form.  See website for upcoming Storybook Theater productions.

THE MAGIC CIRCLE THEATRE

241 Vernon Street and 421 Vernon Street, Roseville, CA
(916) 782-1777

General Admission $13.00  for Fairytale Productions , Kids 2 and under FREE
Tickets are available starting 45 minutes before the show begins.

A series of classic children’s stories dramatized and brought to life by the adult members of their Children’s Theatre Company.   The Company has brought such children’s classics as Peter Rabbit, Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, and Snow White.  See website for upcoming productions.

PUPPET FESTIVAL

Fairytale Town, William Land Park, 3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento, CA
(916) 264-7462

Admission to park: $4.00 Weekdays/$4.50 Weekends Adults and Kids
FREE for Kids 2 and under
Puppet Show admission (in addition to park admission): $2.00 for 3 and over, $1.00 for annual pass holders

Every year, the renowned Puppet Art Theater brings a magical two-month run of original shows to their Children’s Theater.  This year’s shows include: Jack and the Beanstalk, The Tale of the Dragon’s Tail, Tommy’s Pirate Adventure, and Three Billy Goats Gruff.

RUNAWAY STAGE PRODUCTIONS

24th Street Theatre,  2791 24th Street, Sacramento, CA
(916) 207-1226

General Admission $5.00 for Storybook Theatre (Cash only)
* 2 for 1 coupon in Entertainment Book

Click here to see our experience at the 24th Street Theatre.

Runaway Stage Productions performs Storybook Theatre every other month of the year.   They have the best prices around for quality children’s theatre.  Refreshments are sold during intermission.  See website for upcoming productions.

WEST SACRAMENTO COMMUNITY THEATER

PO Box 2000, West Sacramento, CA
(916) 491-1085

Admission FREE
Plays are performed at various locations and are geared for the entire family.

West Sacramento Community Theater, Inc. a California Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation invites you to experience the magic of live theater right here in our community. Established in 2004, WSCT is dedicated to providing high quality family entertainment through theatrical productions ranging from well-known favorites and classic stage plays and musicals to “World Premiere” plays from local talent.  See website for upcoming family productions.