Patch Draywall

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.

Raley Field is home to the Sacramento River Cats, a Triple-A affiliate of Major League Baseball's Oakland Athletics and Pacific Coast league champs. The Sacramento Mountain Lion Cheerleaders and Dinger the mascot get the crowd pumped up and ready to cheer the sports team on. Attending a Sacramento River Cats baseball game is fun for the entire family.

Amazing architectural grace is found at Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. Step inside one of the most breathtaking buildings in the city. The soaring 1889 Roman Catholic structure, reconstructed dome, exquisite stained glass and the 2,000-pound crucifix suspended over the altar by airplane cables will leave you awe-inspired.

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.