The capital city of California is the heart of the 4th largest metropolitan area in the state, home to over 2 million residents. The city first rose to prominence as a center of travel and trade resources during the California gold rush. Now the area is known for its high quality of living and cultural diversity.
Living in Sacramento
Busy trade routes led to the region's success in the 1800's. They also laid the foundations that created the city's modern identity. Many immigrant workers who labored on the docks and railroads eventually settled in the area. They started the roots of the culturally integrated community that exists there today.
Sacramento has grown steadily since the 1970's and continues to expand today. Whether it's affluent Arden Park or historic Carmichael, sprawling suburban Vineyard or rural Rio Linda, the neighborhoods of metropolitan Sacramento cater to every taste, income, and lifestyle.
Things to Do
Sacramento is a modern city of the arts. In addition to several art and history museums, the city is home to an expansive live theater community. The city has a long-time association with Dixieland style jazz, so the summer music festival is not to be missed. Several film festivals take place annually, including a French film festival and the 'Trash Film' festival devoted to classic 'b-movie' monster films.
Getting Around Sacramento
New arrivals will have no trouble learning their way around Sacramento. The city and surrounding suburbs are divided into clearly designated neighborhoods regions. Downtown Sacramento features a core of lettered and numbered streets that dates back to the founding of the city.
There are several freeways connecting different parts of the metropolitan area. The population has more than doubled since any major freeway expansion, so congestion on the roads is common. Luckily, the public transportation system is constantly expanding. Bus and rail service extends throughout the metropolitan area into many suburbs, and the downtown area is very pedestrian friendly.