Arden Hills: A Wellness Resort

Waltz on over to the Strauss Festival of Elk Grove. Sit on the grassy knoll near the river's edge and enjoy the beautifully costumed waltz and polka dancers perform to symphonic sounds of the 32-piece Johann Strauss Jr. and family orchestra. The annual event draws an audience of 30,000, so call ahead and reserve your spot on the lawn.

Pay homage to the first American transcontinental railroad at Sacramento's California State Railroad Museum. Discover vintage railroad locomotives, cars and other equipment. Peek over the counter at the Station Master's ticket office and stand in the waiting area where you'll think you're boarding the next steam horse.

Spend some time outdoors and enjoy a nature walk at Effie Yeaw Nature Center located where the Sacramento and American rivers meet. You'll want to bring your binoculars, camera or artist pad to capture the "watchable wildlife" in the area, including wild turkeys, wild birds, deer and snakes. You're sure to appreciate nature even more at this award-winning, 77-acre environmental and cultural education center.