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Things to Do and Places to Go in Sacramento
By
Michael A. Piekarz
Staff Writer
As
the Sacramento area grows, there is a variety of options from which
to choose as you plan your summer season activities.
Here are just a few ideas to get you thinking.
1. Play golf. Whether you’re a “duffer” or an experienced pro,
Sacramento and the surrounding environs have many courses within a short drive.
If your game isn’t up to par for a full size course, consider miniature
golf at one of the local fun centers. Watch out for the windmill though!
2. Dine out. Sacramento has some world class restaurants and is one of the most
ethnically diverse cities in America. From the classic steakhouse to tastes from
foreign shores, many new eating establishments are springing up all over town.
Try one that’s new to you ... and see if you can get a table outside.
3. Invite the grandkids over to spend the day. Who doesn’t relish the opportunity
to bring over the grandkids, get them wound up and send them back home to Mom
and Dad?
4. Go swimming or boating. This area is packed with rivers, streams and lakes.
Take out the boat or a jet ski and make a few waves.
5. Enjoy the Second Saturday art walk in midtown. Galleries and many other venues
display the work of local artists. Art, music, food, community — a great
way to spend a summer evening. June 14, July 12 and August 9.
6. Go river rafting. From shooting the rapids to lazily floating downstream,
the American River has some great natural experiences. Set a day aside and go
for a float. Just remember to pack the sunscreen.
7. Live music. The Jazz Jubilee should be a tip off: Sacramento is a musical
town. Whatever your taste, check out the local music scene. Most of the parks
have free concerts during the warm weather.
8. Live Theater. Inexpensive quality theater abounds in this area. Make it a
night on the town or catch a matinee. Many theaters offer senior discounts. See
what’s on stage in Sacramento.
9. Visit a landmark building. The Crest Theater, the Elks building on 11th Street,
the Senator Hotel and the Capitol are all examples of some of the area’s
impressive architecture. Big pluses include the low cost and the air conditioning
in places that allow inside visitors.
10. Go to a farmers market. Enjoy shopping, fresh fruit and veggies along with
the chance to exercise and people watch.
11. Take a day trip to a nearby town — Sutter Creek, Lake Tahoe, Nevada
City, Napa and many more. Even if you don’t drive, many companies provide
senior charter groups on a regular basis for a nominal fee.
12. Auto/motorcycle/tractor (you name it) shows or museums are a great place
to visit. Whether you enjoy seeing something built before you were born or admiring
the work somebody has put into modifying a car or motorcycle to reflect themselves,
these shows can be a lot of fun. Many of them are free.
13. Take classes to learn a new skill. The Learning Exchange offers many low
cost “how to do” courses that are fun and easy. Local community colleges
also encourage older students to come and learn new things. Several local area
clubs also offer courses or educational opportunities.
14. Become a volunteer. Many local groups such as Sertoma, Lions, museums, parks,
foster grandparents, etc. can always use your help. Unlike simply making a cash
donation, you can get the chance to get back a lot more than you give by working
with others.
15. Go to the fair or festivals that seem synonymous with summer. County fairs,
renaissance fairs, the state fair, the Crawdad Festival. Watch the calendar to
see what’s happening when.
16. Join a club. From woodworking and juggling to quilting and gardening, there
is sure to be a club for whatever interests you. Go to a meeting and meet some
new people.
17. Go fishing. Lazy days by the river, pond or slough are always good. Remember
to pack your license along with your fishing pole. Most county parks have a fishing
pond.
18. Take a drive. Gas prices are up, but a road trip along the Garden Highway
or another scenic roadway is still a pretty good deal. Combine it with a stop
at a new restaurant, a historical site, or as part of a planned trip to somewhere
else, and you’ve got an adventure.
19. Visit a library. You’ll find lots of books, lots of air-conditioning
and lots of peace and quiet.
20. Take up a new sport. Physical activity is always a good thing, regardless
of your age. Whatever your interest, be it baseball, martial arts, tai chi, dance,
etc, chances are you can still do it. Give it a try and surprise yourself.
This page and its contents ©2008
Metropolitan News Company, Inc.
