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Where to Stay in Sacramento

Where to Stay in Sacramento

Sacramento California, USA Travel Guide

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

Hotel Types

  • Luxury Hotels

    High-end amenities, premium services, refined experiences. Often in prime Downtown or Midtown.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    Comfortable rooms, standard amenities, good value. Major chains across neighborhoods.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Unique design, personalized service, independent ownership. Distinct and memorable stays.

  • Budget Hotels/Motels

    Basic accommodations with fewer amenities. Cost-effective option, often near freeways.

Alternative Stays

  • Vacation Rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo)

    Apartments, houses, or rooms for short-term rent. More space, kitchens, local living. Vrbo

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    Charming, often historic homes. Intimate stays, personalized service, breakfast included.

  • Hostels

    Budget-friendly shared accommodations. Limited options. Hostelworld

  • Extended Stay Hotels

    Kitchenettes, spacious layouts, amenities for longer visits.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area displays a distinct character.

Downtown Sacramento

Pros
  • Near major attractions, entertainment, public transportation.
  • Many dining choices.
  • Generally safe during the day and event nights.
Cons
  • Quieter at night outside of event nights.
  • Parking challenging and expensive.
  • Urban precautions at night are advised.

Old Sacramento Waterfront

Pros
  • Unique historical ambiance.
  • Walkable, direct river access.
  • Very safe during operating hours.
Cons
  • Can get touristy and crowded.
  • Limited direct accommodation.
  • Quieter after dark.

Midtown Sacramento

Pros
  • Excellent dining and entertainment.
  • Walkable and bike-friendly.
  • Strong local character and artistic flair. Generally safe and lively.
Cons
  • Can be noisy on weekends.
  • Parking difficult.

Additional Neighborhoods

East Sacramento (Fabulous Forties)

Upscale, historic residential area with beautiful homes. Picturesque and peaceful. Very safe. Mainly residential, fewer hotel choices.

Land Park

Family-friendly residential area. Home to Sacramento Zoo, Fairytale Town, Funderland. Very safe. Limited hotel choices, travel to reach other areas.

Booking Strategies

Review specific terms before confirming your reservation.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (Summer) & Major Events: Book 3-6 months ahead.
  • Shoulder Season (Spring/Fall): Book 1-3 months ahead.
  • Low Season (Winter): 2-4 weeks ahead.
  • Online booking in advance almost always yields better rates.

Trusted Platforms

Important Information

Negotiation Customs for Walk-in Rates
  • Not common practice in U.S. Hotels.
  • Chain properties rarely negotiate.
  • Small, independent motels during off-peak times might offer slight discounts if vacancy is high.
Deposit and Cancellation Policies
  • Policies vary by hotel and platform.
  • Credit card authorization for incidentals common upon check-in.
  • Free cancellation typically 24-72 hours before check-in.
  • Non-refundable rates are often cheaper.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Peak Prices

Highest in summer (June-August) and during major conventions or Golden 1 Center events.

Lower Prices

Generally lower in winter (December-February), excluding holiday periods.

Weekend Rates

Weekends are often more expensive than weekdays for leisure traveler hotels.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here is a guide to choose accommodation for your budget and travel style.

Budget Levels & Top Picks

Budget

Typical Price Range: $70 - $120 per night

  • Motel 6 Sacramento Downtown: Basic, clean, centrally located.
  • Pros: Most affordable, basic lodging.
  • Cons: Limited amenities, can be on outskirts, variable quality.
Mid-range

Typical Price Range: $120 - $250 per night

  • The Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection: Historic building, stylish rooms, central.
  • Hyatt Centric Downtown Sacramento: Modern, near DOCO and Golden 1 Center.
  • Pros: Good value, comfortable, reliable amenities, often includes breakfast.
  • Cons: Can be generic, less unique character.

Luxury & Specific Traveler Types

Luxury

Typical Price Range: $250 - $400+ per night

  • The Sawyer, A Kimpton Hotel: Upscale, modern, connected to Golden 1 Center, rooftop pool.
  • The Exchange Sacramento, Curio Collection by Hilton: Historic building, blends modern elegance.
  • Pros: Premium amenities, central locations, high service level.
  • Cons: Highest cost.
Solo Traveler Recommendations

For independent exploration or social interaction.

  • Downtown Hotels: Hyatt Centric or The Citizen Hotel for central access.
  • Hostels (limited options): For budget-conscious social travelers.

Family-Friendly Options

  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade

    Spacious two-room suites, complimentary breakfast, indoor pool. Near Old Sacramento.

  • Holiday Inn Express Sacramento Downtown-Arena

    Good value, includes breakfast, walking distance to attractions.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Multiple bedrooms and kitchen facilities, ideal for families needing more space.

Long-Stay Accommodations

  • Extended Stay America

    Properties throughout Sacramento offer kitchenettes and weekly rates.

  • Homewood Suites by Hilton / Residence Inn by Marriott

    Apartment-style rooms with kitchens, complimentary breakfast, evening socials.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Ideal for stays of a week or more; many hosts give discounts for longer bookings.

Properties with Exceptional Cultural or Historical Significance

The Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection

Housed in the historic California Mutual Life Insurance Building, blending classic architecture with modern design.

The Delta King Hotel

A historic paddlewheel steamboat permanently moored in Old Sacramento. Unique rooms, dining, river history.

The Exchange Sacramento, Curio Collection by Hilton

Located in the former Sacramento Stock Exchange building. Preserves historical elements with modern comforts.

fungicide and insecticide.

Comparison Table: Accommodation Options in Sacramento

Luxury Hotel

Typical Price: $250 - $400+. Premium amenities, central locations. Highest cost.

Mid-range Hotel

Typical Price: $120 - $250. Good value, comfortable. Can be generic.

Vacation Rental

Typical Price: $100 - $300+. More space, kitchen. Less service, cleaning fees.

Budget Motel

Typical Price: $70 - $120. Most affordable, basic. Limited amenities, variable quality.

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