The capital of California, Sacramento, rests on the banks of the Sacramento River and is a thriving cultural and economic city that draws in the tourists' year on end. Although California is most popularly known as the home state of Los Angeles, Sacramento offers a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle and is a tourist magnet in its own right.

Sacramento is ideal for a driving holiday as the abundance of activities on offer, span the entirety of the city and many of the surrounding areas. Choosing to hire a car is the simplest option, and the availability of local pick-up points allows you to pick up your vehicle from wherever suits you best! The essential driving destinations in the Sacramento area include:

1. Fairytale Town

Treat the kids to a fun-filled day at Fairytale Town, which is located in the William Land Park, just 11 minutes from the centre of Sacramento. This family park is home to over 20 3D, child-size play-sets, which are based on traditional fairytales and nursery rhymes. The park also features picture-perfect gardens along with a menagerie of placid animals. Let their (and your own) imaginations run wild, while you discover everything from Cinderella's Coach to Jack and Jill's Hill!

2. The Sacramento Zoo

This animal wonderland is located right near Fairytale Town, so after you have explored all that there is as see here, head next door and discover one of the most animal-abundant destinations in the country. At the Sacramento Zoo, you will find almost every animal imaginable (I'm not kidding!). The zoo used to pride itself on this vast variety of animals, but these days its main purpose is to preserve animal life, while offering a recreational and educational experience for all. This is essentially what makes a visit here such a fun experience for the whole family and keeps you wanting to see and learn more.

3. Sacramento Marina

Nestled amongst a riverfront park on the banks of the Sacramento River, rests the city's marina. With easy vehicle access via any of the freeway systems, it is easy for you to discover the natural serene setting of this boating abode. Enjoy recreational water activities, such as boating and water sports on the lakes and rivers that house this spectacular marina.

4. Old Sacramento

To get a taste of some of the history of Sacramento, a visit to "Old Sacramento' is a must-do. This State Historic Park is located right in the heart of the city and can also be accessed via any of the freeway systems. For those Australian readers out there, you may say this is Sacramento's equivalent of Sydney's "Old Sydney Town". The park is home to historic museums, ancient mansions and indestructible forts. Here, you can gain an understanding of how the city of Sacramento was founded and how it has grown from its humble beginnings. This is a true cultural experience and one that is guaranteed to please!

5. The Nightlife

All the excitement of this incredible city doesn't end as the sun goes down! Unwind, kickback and leave the day behind as you explore what the Sacramento nightlife has to offer. There is something here to please every taste, from quiet venues to uncovered hip bars and contemporary restaurants and dinner theatres, to the club scene for those still young or young at heart! Relax, explore and get in touch with your inner self once again!

6. The Museums

Sacramento is also home to an abundance of historical museums and cultural centres. Gain a further understanding of times gone by, as you explore such destinations as the California State Railroad Museum, the Towe Auto Museum and the Crocker Art Museum. All within short driving distances inside the city makes these places of interest popular for tourists and families of all walks of life!

7. The Parks

The city of Sacramento, like many American cities, is scattered with natural playgrounds and gardens. Driving around the city streets will bring you to quaint natural wonderlands with ample opportunities to stop and have a look around. The McKinley Park is perhaps the most photographic park in the city and is the perfect place for a family picnic or BBQ! These parks offer a nice contrast to the metropolitan feel of the city and make your holiday experience an enjoyable and rememberable one!

A visit to Sacramento is essential while exploring the great state of California. The Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal destination to explore all year round and the best way to do this of course is with your very own rental car!

Christine Barton