We’re not kiddin’ around when it comes to having fun in town. From major attractions like the Wake Island Waterpark to gems like the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary, there’s something in River City for children of all ages.
You’ll have no trouble entertaining the youngsters with this list of 24 kid-friendly activities around the 916.
Splash around
Wake Island Waterpark | Memberships available | This huge waterpark boasts tons of activities for kids + adults, including an aquatic obstacle course, hamster wheels, and cable wakeboarding without a boat. We hear kids will love the new Ninja Race Course opening on June 20, 2025.
American River Raft Rentals | Summer in the River City means rafting down the American River. The 2025 rafting season is officially open, so make reservations and take the family out on a raft, kayak, or tube. Kids will remember dipping their feet in the water — the float lasts 4-5 hours, so bring snacks, water + sunscreen.
Spray parks | The city operates 12 spray parks between Memorial Day and Labor Day that are free + open to the public daily, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. The kids will remember running around and trying to get the most water possible in their faces.
Swimming holes | Tried and true spots like Sand Cove Park + Sutter’s Landing River Access are the perfect spots to enjoy a fun summer dip with the family. Kids will remember the long, relaxed days playing on the sandy shores or wading + swimming in the cool waters of the Sacramento or American rivers.
All about the arts
Crocker Art Museum | Family memberships available | Since 1885, the Crocker has given visitors a chance to browse through the history of California artwork and pieces from around the world. Kids will remember the family programs like Wee Wednesdays for kids ages 3-5 or Kids & Co. Gallery Adventures for those who are over 5.
Drawcademy | Memberships available | Is your kiddo into doodling? This studio offers live illustration classes for both adults + kids of all skill levels starting at age 5. Kids will remember the family classes on Tuesday + Wednesday nights.
Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum | Memberships available | This museum pays homage to women’s + civil rights activist Sojourner Truth by promoting art that represents Black history and culture. Kids will remember the museum’s Youth Docent Program — whether they’re learning from fellow kids or sharpening their skills to one day become docents themselves.
Sacramento Children’s Museum | Family membership available | This hands-on, educational museum caters to children ages 8 and younger, but is a delight for visitors of all ages. Kids will remember putting on a show at the Story Factory Stage.
The enchanted world of Fairytale Town is perfect for little ones with big imaginations.
Photo via Fairytale Town
Amusement parks
Funderland Amusement Park | Season passes available | Located within William Land Park, this attraction has been making little Sacramentans happy since 1946. The theme park features 10 rides, and a day spent here will tucker out even the most energetic little ones. Kids will remember the rides on the Funderland Express Train, the park’s beloved mini train.
Fairytale Town | Memberships available | Since 1959, this Land Park attraction has welcomed local little ones to its enchanted learning gardens, performing arts stages, playsets, and storytime activities. Kids will remember playing at King Arthur’s Castle.
Quarry Park Adventures | If you’ve got an adventurous kiddo on your hands, they’ll love this outdoor experience in Rocklin’s historic Quarry District. The park features thrilling activities like zip lines, free fall jumping, and rock climbing. Kids ages 3-13 will remember the Kidz Kove — a climbing area where they can really hang loose.
Your kiddo will go wild over the animals at the Sacramento Zoo.
Photo via Sacramento Zoo
Animal encounters
Sacramento Zoo | Memberships available | With more than 300 native, rare, and endangered animals representing 90+ species, kids could easily spend the whole day exploring the 14-acre Sacramento Zoo. Visit in the morning when it’s cooler — kids will remember how active the animals are at the beginning of the day.
Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary | Take a stroll on the pathways that weave through this sanctuary’s wooded landscape to spot dozens of rescued wild and domestic animals. The kids will remember riding the Folsom Valley Railway through Folsom City Lions Park, which runs as long as temps don’t exceed 100°.
Effie Yeaw Nature Center | Memberships available | Located inside Ancil Hoffman Park in Carmichael, this center is perfect for little nature enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and science. Kids will love wandering through the Pollinator + Butterfly Garden.
Hit the trails
Lake Natoma Loop Trail | This 11.5-mile trail may be a tad long for the tykes, but even a couple of miles will give them a chance to check out oak woodlands, relics of Gold Rush history, and marshes teeming with wildlife. Kids will remember watching the water just in case the otters want to make an appearance.
American River Bike Trail and Levee Path Loop | This paved trail makes for an easy family hike with nice views from the bridges. Kids will remember the peaceful sounds of the river.
William Land Park Loop | If you’re near the Sacramento Zoo or Fairytale Town and still need to tucker out the kids, try this 2-mile loop trail with pretty ponds along the way. Kids will remember the rock garden — pack a little snack and take a breather there.
Foodie families
Gunther’s Ice Cream | Nothing is sweeter than a treat from this iconic local spot beloved by kids + adults alike. Kids will love the Kiddie Cone but if you’re feeling generous and they can’t decide on just one flavor, splurge for the Double Kiddie Cone.
Tower Café | Take the kids on a culinary trip around the world at this quirky cafe that serves breakfast dishes with a global twist. Kids will remember the Churro French Toast.
John’s Incredible Pizza | Let the kids run wild at this all-you-can-eat pizza spot that features arcade games, bumper cars, and rides. Kids will remember the prize display and snagging a tiny toy because, kids.
Republic FC Fan Fest returns to Heart Health Park on Saturday, Feb. 22.
Photo via Sacramento Republic FC
Young sports fans
Republic KC | Memberships available | If your kid is a Republic FC fan who is 12 or younger, this might be the fan club for them. Membership is free and includes a chance to win monthly prizes, discounts on gear, and fun Kids Club activities.
Dinger’s Kids Club | Memberships available | This club for Sacramento River Cats fans age 12 or under includes a Toyota Home Run Hill game ticket for every Sunday home game of the season, an official T-shirt, and fun giveaways. Kids will remember having the express pass to run the bases postgame every Sunday.
Sacramento Kings Kids Club | Memberships available | This free kids club gives young Kings fans a chance to win prizes at games and participate in fun activities. If you splurge for an All-Star membership, your kid will score all kinds of extra Kings swag. Kids will remember feeling like royalty as they watch their favorite team light the beam.
Be prepared
Shop some of our favorite kid-friendly essentials to keep the whole family happy, hydrated, and ready to make memories.
- Owala Kids Insulated Stainless Steel Tumbler | This tumbler has a spill-resistant straw (yes, that’s a thing) and is top-rack dishwasher safe.
- Bentgo Kids 5-Compartment Lunch Box | Pack snacks for kids in a popular Bentgo box that’s BPA-free and dishwasher safe.
- Nintendo Switch | You just can’t beat a handheld gaming device for keeping kids quiet, happy, and entertained during car rides around town.
- Hap Tim Travel Backpack | Keep everything in a backpack that’s got good padding on the straps, plenty of compartments, a wide mouth opening, and a rain-resistant exterior.
- Kids sketch pad | Kids can sketch, take notes, and feel connected to your adventures with a sketchbook meant to inspire creativity.
- Disposable cameras | Kids will have a ton of fun + stay entertained by taking their own pictures of what they see during your adventures.
- KeepGoing Travel First Aid Kit for Kids | Be prepared for minor scrapes or bruises that could slow your day down — this kit contains 60 pieces of essential first aid supplies.
- Sunscreen stick | Have a portable sunscreen stick handy for outdoor adventures.
