Patricia Sparks

History lives on at the California State Capitol Museum, Sacramento's architectural masterpiece and symbolic story teller of the great state. History buffs and the politically inclined can watch the legislative process in action and view famous Hollywood governors' portraits and their historic chambers. History buffs will appreciate this attraction.

It's Calienté time at the Sacramento Festival de la Familia at Cal Expo. Celebrate nearly two dozen Latino cultures offering a spicy mix of children's activities, music, and shopping. Make a piñata, dance to Latin jazz, feast on warm Latin flavors and shop at the open-air market.

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.

Run, bike and walk outdoors along the American River Parkway, aka Jedediah Smith Memorial Bicycle Trail. You'll travel a spectacularly scenic 3.2 mile trail that runs from Old Sacramento to Folsom Lake offering many entry and exit points along the way.