Showing posts with label California. Show all posts
Showing posts with label California. Show all posts

Romantic things to do in Sacramento

 California's capital lies in the Sacramento Valley with downtown Sacramento, located by the State's largest river, the Sacramento River. Besides cool Riverwalk, the city offers numerous parks for romantic walks, diverse cultural offers, plenty of attractions, and top-rated restaurants for a couple’s night out. Sacramento is known as "America's most diverse city" and is also called the most hipster city.




You will need visa usa esta approval for foreign visitors who want to explore Sacramento, the broad valley, or the nearby Sierra Nevada Mountains. The permit to enter the US is for travelers from countries in the Visa Waiver program. Candidates must fill out a detailed online form, and the administration requires around 72 hours to process the application. Once you get ESTA approval, there is a two-year period for visiting the US.

Date ideas Sacramento

Sacramento River caused numerous floods in the past, and it is one reason city orientation is almost entirely on one side. The city's waterfront is a vibrant place with more than 120 restaurants, bars, and shops along the Old Sacramento Waterfront historic district. The Old Town will bring you back to the beginning of Sacramento. Well- preserved buildings from the gold rush era, cobbled stones, and driving in horse-drawn carriages will enhance your romance. If you're a culture buff, go to the Sacramento History Museum and State Railroad Museum, where you can even catch a train ride from the last stop of the Pony Express route and first station for the transcontinental railroad.

While at the river, book a Sacramento Dinner Cruise. You can enjoy a sunset, try various great meals, and showcase your dance moves. For those who are reluctant to sail out, you can get dinner and show on the Delta King.

Another excellent dining experience is the Mystique Dining Show in a classic manor setting with full service, several course meals followed by a magic show. If you are looking for something less pretentious, you can head to Devine Gelateria to debunk or confirm the best gelato claims in the world in comments.

Best parks in Sacramento

For couples that explore a destination on foot, Sacramento has excellent parks, which is not a surprise if we know the city's nickname- the City of Trees. McKinley Park is a popular place in East Sacramento with a beautiful rose garden, several trails, and ponds.

Capitol Park along with the International World Peace Gardens. You can explore the Capitol Building, a significant historic landmark and one of the oldest best-preserved government buildings in the US. The Park is essentially a botanical garden, and close by is the American River.

Southside Park has a lake with a fishing location and a big playground. Cameron Park is in Christa McAuliffe Park. North Natomas regional Park hosts a farmers' market, bike trails, and other amenities. 

Waterfalls in Sacramento

California has stunning natural beauty and remarkably diverse landscapes, and the Sacramento surroundings are no different. The closest waterfall near Sacramento Is in Hidden Falls Regional Park. The area has more than 30 miles of trails and an excellent viewpoint to observe waterfalls.

The Dutch Creek Falls are around one-hour drive from Sacramento. There is a four-mile route to the waterfall at the place where Dutch Creek and Johnston Falls meet.

Sly Park recreation area has Parc Creek human-made waterfall and plenty of other lake activities like swimming, picnics, and trails. Bassi Falls in El Dorado County falls 109 feet over the granite cliff. Lower  

Eagle Falls is in Emerald State Park with the most stunning views in the spring. Other incredible waterfalls near Sacramento include Cascade Falls overlooking Lake Tahoe, Rattlesnake Falls, and Upper Glen Alpine Falls.

Fun things to do in Sacramento at night

Why not start a night with a little laughter. Sacramento Comedy Spot is the largest comedy school in the region, with shows six-nights a week.

You can go back on the water on Alive After Five Cruise with cocktails, DJ, and dance floor with plenty of time for taking great pictures.

Explore something different at Badlands LGBT club with a huge dance floor, the best DJs, and various themed nights.

Go to the Melting Pot, a romantic place where you can dip strawberries in chocolate or enjoy other romantic sweets from the inventive menu. Pizza Rock is a place to go if you want a slice of a large variety of traditional and unique pizzas, with rich beer and wine offerings.

Fine wine, homemade cocktails, and diverse cuisine with Italian and French influences make dining at The Waterboy an excellent choice for couples.

Before buying airline tickets, check ESTA status. It is advised to get travel authorization first and make a reservation later. With ESTA approval, you can explore the US for up to 90 days.

Bottom line

Sacramento is a perfect blend of modern American cities, historic neighborhoods, many Park, waterfront, and numerous attractions in and around the city. Rich restaurant and nightlife scene will satisfy even the most demanding couples.


Better Than Home : The Hampton Inn Bakersfield

When I travel, I look for a hotel that is going to be like a home away from home, someplace I can relax, rest and recharge. In my adventures I have stayed in a variety of places, but there is one place I know I will always have a great stay and that is the Hampton Inn.

When I was in Bakersfield, I had the chance to stay at the Hampton Inn Central. This hotel was lovely. From the second I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile. I was impressed with the lay out of the lobby. I was pleased with how clean everything was.

When I made my way to my room, I sighed in delight. Not only was the room spacious, well appointed and squeaky clean, but also there was a King Sized Bed, just for me! Sigh, whimper, sigh!

As you can see, I hopped right on the fresh, clean king size bed and made myself comfy. Pics were an after thought.


I couldn't have been happier with the room. It met every expectation I had and even exceeded a few!



I can't say enough nice things about the staff at The Hampton Inn Central. From the smiling clerks on duty upon arrival, to the kind clerk in the wee hours of the morning that gave me a new room card after I locked myself out at 4 am.

The free breakfast was also great. From the impressive selection of offerings, to the quality of the offerings. I think this is your winner winner chicken dinner of a place to stay in Bakersfield California. The next time I am in town, this will be my go to place. It was better than a home away from home!

Please note, the Hampton Inn didn't compensate me in any way to write this travel piece. I am sharing my personal experience. However, if anyone from The Hampton Inn wants to talk about inviting me back to one of their hotels... {wink} I am always up for a visit!