Capitol Park
A historic urban oasis featuring diverse gardens, impressive trees, and poignant memorials surrounding the California State Capitol.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Capitol Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic urban oasis featuring diverse gardens, impressive trees, and poignant memorials surrounding the California State Capitol.
"Beautiful grounds for a walk or sit with your thoughts, with impressive specimen trees and a lovely rose garden."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore the extensive gardens and memorials, so comfy footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the Capitol building, the rose garden, and the diverse trees. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World Peace Rose Garden
Center of the park
A fragrant oasis with over 153 varieties of roses and a charming central fountain.
California Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Near the Capitol building
A solemn and impressive tribute honoring those who served in the Vietnam War.
Arboretum's Specimen Trees
Various sections
Discover impressive century-old trees like elms, eucalyptus, and redwoods.
Cactus Garden
Near the Rose Garden
A unique collection showcasing diverse cacti, including specimens from the Mojave Desert.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Construction & Crowds
Best Footwear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore the extensive gardens and memorials, so comfy footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the Capitol building, the rose garden, and the diverse trees. :camerawithflash:
💧 Check Water Fountains
Some visitors noted that water fountains could use improvement. Bring your own water bottle. :water_wave:
📍 Street Parking Available
Parking is typically available along the surrounding streets. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore the extensive gardens and memorials, so comfy footwear is key! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the Capitol building, the rose garden, and the diverse trees. :camerawithflash:
💧 Check Water Fountains
Some visitors noted that water fountains could use improvement. Bring your own water bottle. :water_wave:
📍 Street Parking Available
Parking is typically available along the surrounding streets. :car:
🌳 Explore the Arboretum
Don't miss the impressive collection of mature trees, some over a century old. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Capitol Park for its beautiful grounds, diverse tree collection, and serene atmosphere. The World Peace Rose Garden and Vietnam Veterans Memorial are frequently highlighted as must-see attractions. Some minor drawbacks include ongoing construction that can limit access and a desire for improved signage and water fountains.
"Beautiful grounds for a walk or sit with your thoughts. There is construction, but it was not oppressive. Smell the roses, see the reproduction of the Liberty Bell, and pay respect to our first responders."
Joe Ousley
"Very impressive specimen trees in the Arboretum, some around a hundred years ago. Really nice elms, eucalyptus, and camphor in particular. The rose garden was lovely and well tended. Fixing the water fountains and improving plant signage would elevate the experience."
Matt Borden
"I haven't been since I was a kid in the 80s. I remembered very little, and it was truly beautiful. Most of the monuments are amazing, and the rest are great. The only downside when we went is that there is a huge Capitol Annex construction project going on, and a good chunk of the park closest to the Capitol Bldg is off limits. Thankfully, you don't really know what you're missing unless you explore it online, too. We did this as a field trip for our homeschooled 12 year old, and we all had a great time."
Erik Pace
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Capitol Park is located in downtown Sacramento, California. It's easily accessible by car, public transportation, or even on foot if you're staying nearby. Street parking is available around the park's perimeter. :car: :bus:
Yes, street parking is generally available along the streets surrounding Capitol Park. Be mindful of any posted restrictions or meters. :parking:
Absolutely! Sacramento has a robust public transit system. Several bus lines and the light rail stop near the Capitol building, making it convenient to reach the park. :train: :bus:
The park features paved walking paths throughout, making it largely accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. :wheelchair:
The most prominent landmark is the California State Capitol Building itself, which borders the park. Other nearby points of interest include the Sacramento Convention Center and various government buildings. :building_construction:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Capitol Park is a public space and is free to enter. You can wander through its beautiful grounds without any admission fee. :ticket:
Capitol Park is generally open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures or event-related hours. :clock1:
There are no entrance fees for Capitol Park. It's a free public park for everyone to enjoy. :moneywithwings:
Typically, dogs are allowed in Capitol Park but must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check local regulations for the most current pet policies. :dog:
While there isn't a dedicated visitor center for the park itself, the California State Capitol Museum offers information about the building and its surroundings, which includes the park. :information_desk:
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the World Peace Rose Garden, the California Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Arboretum with its impressive trees, and the unique Cactus Garden. :rose: :militarymedal: :evergreentree: :cactus:
Absolutely! Capitol Park is perfect for a leisurely stroll with its well-maintained paths, diverse flora, and numerous monuments and memorials. :walking:
Yes, restrooms are available within the park, typically located in the central areas. :restroom:
The park boasts an incredible variety of trees, including redwoods, giant sequoias, magnolias, orange trees, palms, elms, eucalyptus, and camphor trees. :tree:
Yes, families can enjoy the open spaces, beautiful gardens, and educational aspects of the memorials. It's a great spot for a picnic or a relaxed outing. :family_mm:
📸 📸 Photography
The World Peace Rose Garden offers vibrant colors, the Capitol building provides a grand backdrop, and the diverse trees create beautiful natural settings. The memorials also offer poignant photographic opportunities. :camera:
Yes, the beautiful gardens, mature trees, and the iconic Capitol building make Capitol Park a very popular and picturesque location for engagement photos. :ring:
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around government buildings and public parks for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to assume drones are not permitted. :noentrysign:
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shade from the trees can help. :sunrise: :sunset:
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or large-scale photo shoots might require permits. Always respect signage and park rules. :memo:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Arboretum: A Living Collection
Walking through the Arboretum feels like a journey through different climates and landscapes. The sheer size and age of some of these trees are awe-inspiring. It’s a testament to the park's careful curation and dedication to preserving these natural wonders. Many visitors find it a peaceful escape from the urban bustle, offering shade and a sense of tranquility. :evergreentree: :deciduoustree:
For those interested in identifying the trees, look for signage that may be present. Even without specific labels, the variety is evident. It’s a living museum, constantly evolving and offering new discoveries with each visit. The park's commitment to maintaining this collection ensures it remains a valuable green space for generations to come. :seedling:
Monuments and Memorials: A Place of Reflection
These solemn sites are integrated thoughtfully within the park's beauty, creating a space that balances natural serenity with civic commemoration. Visitors often take time to pause, read the inscriptions, and reflect on the history and the individuals being honored. The presence of these memorials adds a significant layer of depth to the park experience, making it more than just a green space but a place of historical significance. :militarymedal: :statueof_liberty:
While the construction may temporarily affect access to some areas, the existing memorials remain accessible and are a crucial part of understanding the park's role in the community. They serve as constant reminders of important events and the people who shaped the region. :scroll:
The World Peace Rose Garden: A Fragrant Haven
Visitors consistently praise the beauty and meticulous care of the rose garden. It's a popular spot for photographers and anyone seeking a moment of peace amidst the city. The sheer diversity of roses ensures there's always something new to admire, from classic blooms to more exotic varieties. :rose: :sparkling_heart:
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the garden embodies a message of peace and harmony, living up to its name. It's a place where the beauty of nature inspires a sense of calm and well-being. Even outside of peak blooming season, the structure and design of the garden are captivating. :dove:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit