Sacramento, California Top 10 Stays
/ Shellie Bailey-ShahSacramento, California
TOP 10 STAYS
Best hotels for families visiting California’s capital

As California’s capital city, Sacramento is a popular tourist spot for families from within the state and beyond. It’s also a major city along the Interstate-5 corridor and visited by travelers just passing through for the night on their way to other destinations. There’s no shortage of family-friendly accommodations to fit every desired location, budget, and prioritized amenities.

926 J St.
Standing proud in the heart of downtown Sacramento, The Citizen Hotel is a sight to behold even before you walk through its historic doors. Constructed in 1925, the building was California’s first skyscraper. These days, The Citizen offers unique accommodations for out-of-towners and staycationing families wanting a truly unparalleled experience in the state’s capital city. Floor-to-ceiling, ornate architectural design details draw visitors through the lobby. Common areas near the front desk are decked with shelves upon shelves of books, and there’s plenty of nooks where guests can sit and enjoy some quiet reading time with their morning coffee. The Citizen is as welcoming as it is luxurious. Its staff is friendly, professional, and attentive to guests’ needs. The hotel boasts that no two of its nearly 200 rooms are exactly alike, yet each offers a pleasing mix of modern amenities and irresistible charm. Just try not to smile when you see the vintage political cartoons adorning the walls!
The Citizen’s on-site eatery, Grange Restaurant and Bar is a must-experience culinary gem (and one of KidTripster’s Top 10 Eats). Like The Citizen itself, Grange oozes character and offers second-to-none customer service.
Walking distance to dozens of Sacramento’s landmarks, local attractions, cultural hotspots and Golden 1 Center, The Citizen is an ideal location for families that want to take in all the city has to offer. Starts at $149/night.

1230 J St., Downtown
The Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel puts you smack dab in the middle of all the sights you could possibly want to see. Rooms are clean, comfy, and newly renovated. The on-site, top-notch gym will have you eager to exercise while on vacation. The hotel’s outdoor pool is on the smaller side, but perfectly refreshing in the heat of a Sacramento summer. Starts at $184/night.

100 Capitol Mall, Riverfront Promenade
Ohhhh… ahhhhh… a view that’s second to none! The Embassy Suites Riverfront Promenade is located just a hop, skip, and jump from Old Sacramento along the Sacramento River. Two-room suites offer the perfect place for families to rest and recharge after a visit to the numerous local sights and attractions. The iconic Tower Bridge is right in view, and it looks particularly breathtaking at night. A heated, indoor pool is a bonus for families. The hotel also boasts a free, cooked-to-order breakfast which means you’ll head out the door well fed! Starts at $199/night.

1100 H St.
The Best Western Plus Sutter House is an ideal spot to stay, if you want to be close to the Capitol yet don’t want to shell out top dollar for a hotel with more bells and whistles. The cool courtyard area with outdoor pool gives it a community feel. And there’s a free, hot breakfast for guests. Starts at $144/night.

2540 Venture Oaks Way, South Natomas
Visiting the region to see the NBA’s Sacramento Kings play? Then shoot for a stay at the Hilton Garden Inn. It’s just three miles away from the Kings’ new home, Golden 1 Center. Discovery Park, where the American and Sacramento Rivers meet, is within walking distance of the hotel. This location offers all the comfort and cleanliness you’d expect out of a Hilton hotel, plus amenities like a lovely outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center. The staff also gets super high marks for being friendly, helpful, and informative. Starts at $189/night

3021 Advantage Way, Natomas
Sometimes your vacation plans call for staying close to the airport. If that’s the case, the Hampton Inn and Suites is a good option for families flying into the Sacramento area for a visit. The hotel is also close to all the tourist destinations that you’ll want to check out while in town. It features nice, clean, updated rooms with comfortable beds; cribs and high chairs available upon request. The kids will be happy to see an outdoor pool. And a free, hot breakfast is always a plus! Starts at $179/night.

909 3rd St., Old Sacramento
The affordable Vagabond Inn Executive Suites is cozied up near Old Sacramento for easy access to a slice of Gold Rush history or a visit to the Sacramento California State Railroad Museum. Families can take a dip in the pool or soak in the jacuzzi. Clean, rooms come equipped with microwave units for late night snacks. Starts at $110/night.

3001 Advantage Way, Natomas
Staying for several days in Sacramento? The Homewood Suites near the Sacramento Airport may be just what you’re looking for. Feel right at home with full, in-room kitchens where you can cook and save money on meals out. Enjoy daily free breakfasts and evening dinners and drinks Monday through Thursday. Suites are ideal for larger families that want to relax together after a full day of exploring the sights. Older kids will love the tennis court, basketball hoop, and pool. It’s a decent value for all that you get. Starts at $167/night.

1398 East Roseville Parkway, Roseville
The Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites is a great option for families visiting the region but not wanting to pay higher room rates that they’ll encounter downtown. Families will appreciate the outdoor pool and on-site exercise room. You won’t want to miss visiting the nearby Roseville Galleria, the region’s premier shopping experience. The free, hot breakfast boasts gooey cinnamon rolls. (Worth waking up for, if you ask me!) Starts at $131/night.

1121 15th St.
Stay in the heart of downtown Sacramento within walking distance to the city’s main tourist attractions, cultural hot spots, events, and restaurants. Rooms at the Residence Inn Downton at Capitol Park feature kitchens and living spaces that make it easy to relax after a day of sightseeing. Kids will love the pool; parents will love the free breakfast. Starts at $245/night.
For KidTripster’s Top 10 Plays in Sacramento, click here.
For KidTripster’s Top 10 Eats in Sacramento, click here.
Sacramento-based writer Melanie Jensen is the mother of three kids. She enjoys being a tourist in her own town and driving to the thrilling history, culture, and natural beauty that Central California has to offer.