Fun Family Activities in Sacramento on Father's Day

How do you want to honor the dad in your life on Father's Day? A meal at his favorite restaurant? Tickets to an anticipated sporting event? A unique outing for the whole family? Sacramento residents can make this Father's Day count with these unique but budget-friendly suggestions.

1- California Automobile Museum

Located on Front Street in downtown Sacramento, the California Automobile Museum is the perfect destination for dads who covet machines on four wheels. This year the American Muscle Exhibit will be open on Father's Day, and dads get in free. Adult tickets are only $8, and children under four enjoy free admission. There are also discounts for AAA members.

2- The Discovery Museum

Kids love exploring space, and dads will get a kick out of watching their children play and learn at the Discover Museum. Ticket prices range from $4 to $6 on weekends and holidays, with children under three admitted free. Because it is such a large facility with a significant number of exhibits, this museum can easily occupy an entire Father's Day in Sacramento.

3- Sacramento River

Some of the best Father's Day activities don't cost any money at all. The Sacramento River, specifically the Discovery Park area, is a popular destination for families who want to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Picnic areas, hiking trails, and water activities abound, and there is playground equipment for the little ones.

4- SCUBA Experience

Lots of dads would love to try their hands at SCUBA diving, but haven't yet found the opportunity. SCUBA certification classes typically are not cheap, especially if the whole family wants to participate. Fortunately for the aquatically-inclined Dad, you can try it out for only $10 per person at the Dolphin SCUBA Center's SCUBA Experience. It isn't a real certification class, but the whole family can try out the equipment and see if it might be something you want to pursue in the future. Plus, it's fun.

5- Old Sacramento

It's easy to neglect the culture and history of a place when you live there 24/7. This Father's Day, take Dad on a tour of Old Sacramento, stopping in antique shops, gift stores, and other events and attractions along the way. Simply walking through this area of town can be an enjoyable experience for the whole family, providing a full day of quality time together. What better way to celebrate Dad?

6- California Delta

Father's Day is the perfect time of year for outdoor activities, especially in a city as beautiful as Sacramento. The California Delta is the perfect place for an afternoon of fishing, boating, and other outdoor waterway activities. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants when you need a break from the sun.

7- Governor's Mansion

A slice of Sacramento history combined with the beauty of the great outdoors make the Governor's Mansion a popular destination for Father's Day. Dads interested in architecture will be intrigued by the building itself, which was erected in 1877. Admission is only $5 for adults and $3 for children, and guided tours of the mansion are available.

8- Sutter Gold Mine

Although a bit pricier than other suggestions on this list, Sutter Gold Mine is an exciting underground adventure that is worthy of your consideration on Father's Day. Not only is there a one-hour tour of the mine, but there are also plenty of activities above ground, including gemstone mining and free movies.