Movies and Books Set in Sacramento

Sacramento, the capital city of California, is not just known for its farm-to-fork movement, rich history, and diverse culture. It is also a popular filming location for both Hollywood and independent filmmakers, serving as the backdrop for numerous famous films, TV shows, and books. Let’s embark on a cinematic journey through Sacramento, exploring its unique allure from a film and travel perspective.

10 Famous Films Shot in Sacramento

From the bustling downtown to the serene landscapes, Sacramento’s captivating scenery has been beautifully captured in these ten famous films:

1. “American Beauty” (1999)  – This Academy Award-winning film, directed by Sam Mendes, features scenes shot in various Sacramento locations.
2. “Memoirs of a Geisha” (2005)  – Although set in Japan, this film used the Sacramento River to replicate the scenic beauty of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine.
3. “Lady Bird” (2017)  – This critically acclaimed film, directed by Sacramento-native Greta Gerwig, is a love letter to the city, showcasing various local landmarks.
4. “The 15:17 to Paris” (2018)  – Directed by Clint Eastwood, this biographical film about the 2015 Thalys train attack includes scenes set in Sacramento, the hometown of the heroes.
5. “Little Pink House” (2018)  – This drama film about eminent domain abuse features scenes shot in the charming neighborhood of East Sacramento.
6. “Ball Busters” (2019)  – This sports comedy was filmed in various locations in Sacramento County.
7. “Always Be My Maybe” (2019)  – While most of the film is set in San Francisco, a key scene of this romantic comedy was filmed in Sacramento.
8. “Palm Swings” (2019)  – This romantic comedy-drama showcases the delightful suburbs of Sacramento.
9. “Decoding Annie Parker” (2013)  – Many scenes of this drama film were shot in different parts of Sacramento.
10. “The Story of Us” (2019)  – This romantic comedy features some of Sacramento’s beautiful neighborhoods.

These films not only use Sacramento as a scenic backdrop but also incorporate the city’s essence into their narratives, showcasing the city’s unique charm and character.

5 TV Shows Set in Sacramento

Sacramento’s appeal extends beyond the big screen to the small screen. Here are five popular TV shows set in Sacramento:

1. “The Mentalist” (2008-2015)  – While most of the series was filmed in Los Angeles, the storyline is based in Sacramento, where the fictional California Bureau of Investigation is located.
2. “Born and Raised” (2021-present)  – This sitcom about a local politician is set and filmed in Sacramento.
3. “10-8: Officers on Duty” (2003-2004)  – This short-lived police drama was set in fictional Los Angeles suburb, but many scenes were filmed in Sacramento.
4. “King of the Hill” (1997-2010)  – In this long-running animated sitcom, the character Kahn reveals in one episode that he commutes to Sacramento for work.
5. “American River Renegades” (2014)  – This reality series follows the lives of people living off the grid along America’s rivers, including the American River in Sacramento.

These shows bring to life the vibrant cityscape and diverse culture of Sacramento, making it a star in its own right.

5 Animated Films Set in Sacramento

Sacramento’s charm is not limited to live-action films and TV shows. The city also serves as a picturesque setting for animated films, offering a unique blend of urban and rural landscapes. Here are five animated films set in Sacramento:

1. “Inside Out” (2015)  – While the main setting of this Pixar film is San Francisco, the protagonist’s family is originally from Minnesota and moves to San Francisco via Sacramento.
2. “Coco” (2017)  – This award-winning Pixar film about the Day of the Dead includes scenes set in Sacramento.
3. “Onward” (2020)  – In this Pixar fantasy film, the city of New Mushroomton is inspired by Sacramento’s suburbs.
4. “Soul” (2020)  – Although primarily set in New York City, there’s a brief scene in this Pixar film where a character is teleported to a leafy neighborhood resembling East Sacramento.
5. “Turning Red” (2022)  – In this upcoming Pixar film, the protagonist’s journey takes her to various locations, including Sacramento.

These animated films present Sacramento in a colorful and imaginative light, introducing children and adults alike to the city’s charm.

Famous Books Set in Sacramento: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary

Sacramento’s rich history and vibrant culture have also inspired many authors. Here’s a mix of classic and contemporary novels set in Sacramento:

Classic:

1. “Ramona” by Helen Hunt Jackson  – This classic novel features Sacramento during the early Californian settlement period.
2. “The Human Comedy” by William Saroyan  – While largely set in a fictional California town, some parts of this classic novel take place in Sacramento.
3. “Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore” by Robin Sloan  – This novel features Sacramento as the hometown of the protagonist, Clay Jannon.

Contemporary:

1. “The Jane Austen Book Club” by Karen Joy Fowler  – This contemporary novel about six people who form a book club is set in Sacramento.
2. “We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves” by Karen Joy Fowler  – This novel, set in Davis and Sacramento, is about a girl raised with a chimpanzee for a “twin sister.”
3. “Patty’s Got a Gun” by William Graebner  – This non-fiction book explores the case of Patty Hearst, a newspaper heiress who was kidnapped in Sacramento.

These novels showcase the diverse aspects of Sacramento, from its historical roots to its contemporary scenes, providing readers with a literary journey through the city.

Exploring Sacramento’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

If you’re a film or TV enthusiast planning a trip to Sacramento, here are some notable filming locations to visit:

1. Tower Bridge  – An iconic Sacramento landmark, the Tower Bridge has been featured in several films and TV shows.
2. Capitol Park  – With its beautiful gardens and the impressive California State Capitol building, this park is a popular filming location.
3. Old Sacramento  – This historic area, with its Gold Rush-era buildings and cobblestone streets, provides a unique backdrop for period films.
4. Sutter’s Fort  – This historic fort in Sacramento has been used in many Western films.
5. American River  – The scenic river and its surrounding park areas have been used in several films and TV shows.

These locations offer a cinematic tour of Sacramento, allowing visitors to relive their favorite scenes and appreciate the city’s rich history and natural beauty.

Where to Sleep in Sacramento: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Sacramento has a wide range of places to stay:

Luxury:

1. The Citizen Hotel  – This luxury boutique hotel, located downtown, offers stylish rooms and a fine-dining restaurant.
2. Kimpton Sawyer Hotel  – Overlooking the Golden 1 Center, this upscale hotel offers chic accommodations and a rooftop pool.
3. Hyatt Regency Sacramento  – This high-end hotel, located across from the State Capitol, features spacious rooms and an outdoor pool.

Budget:

1. HI Sacramento Hostel  – Housed in an old Victorian mansion, this hostel offers budget-friendly accommodations in a unique setting.
2. Motel 6 Sacramento Downtown  – This budget motel offers basic amenities and is located close to major attractions.
3. Good Nite Inn Sacramento  – This affordable inn offers comfortable accommodation and is located near Sacramento State University.

From luxurious to budget-friendly, these accommodations cater to different travel preferences, offering comfort and convenience during your cinematic journey through Sacramento.

Where to Eat in Sacramento: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options

Sacramento’s farm-to-fork movement has led to a thriving food scene, with a variety of dining options to suit all budgets:

Budget:

1. Mother  – Known for its vegetarian comfort food, Mother offers delicious meals at reasonable prices.
2. Chando’s Tacos  – This local favorite serves up authentic Mexican street food at budget-friendly prices.
3. Jim-Denny’s  – This tiny diner is a Sacramento institution, known for its hearty breakfasts and lunches.

Luxury:

1. The Kitchen  – This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a multi-course meal prepared in an open kitchen.
2. Mulvaney’s B&L  – Located in a historic firehouse, this restaurant is known for its farm-to-fork cuisine and fine dining experience.
3. Ella Dining Room and Bar  – This upscale restaurant offers New American and French dishes in a stylish setting.

From gourmet dining to cheap eats, Sacramento’s food scene offers a range of culinary delights that cater to foodies of all budgets.

SacTown’s Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Sacramento, with its rich history, is also known for its legends and tales. One famous cryptid legend is the “Sacramento Slither,” a creature rumored to lurk in the American River. The story has inspired local folklore and even a few indie films.

Another curiosity is the “Underground Tunnels Mystery.” Sacramento raised its street level in the 1860s and 1870s to avoid flooding, resulting in a network of underground tunnels. These tunnels have sparked numerous ghost stories and legends, adding a layer of mystery to the city’s historic charm.

These tales add an intriguing dimension to Sacramento, offering fascinating stories for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike.

Hidden Gems in Sacramento

Apart from its famous landmarks, Sacramento also has several lesser-known attractions that deserve a visit:

1. Fairytale Town  – This children’s play park and outdoor museum, inspired by fairy tales and nursery rhymes, is a hidden gem for families.
2. The National Historic Lighthouse  – Located at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers, this lighthouse is a piece of Sacramento’s river history.
3. Effie Yeaw Nature Center  – This nature preserve in Carmichael, just outside Sacramento, offers beautiful trails and wildlife viewing.

These hidden gems offer unique experiences, allowing visitors to explore Sacramento beyond the typical tourist spots.

What to Pack for a Trip to Sacramento

When packing for a trip to Sacramento, consider the city’s Mediterranean climate and casual atmosphere:

1. Comfortable shoes  – Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic districts or nature trails, comfortable shoes are a must.
2. Light clothing  – Summers in Sacramento can get quite hot, so pack light clothing for daytime. Don’t forget a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
3. Sun protection  – Don’t forget your sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen to protect against the California sun.
4. Camera  – You’ll want to capture the beautiful landscapes and iconic landmarks, so don’t forget your camera.
5. Reusable water bottle  – Stay hydrated while exploring. Sacramento is committed to sustainability, and you’ll find numerous water refill stations throughout the city.

These packing tips will help you prepare for your cinematic journey through Sacramento.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Sacramento

Sacramento offers several transportation options for getting around the city:

Light Rail and Bus – Sacramento Regional Transit operates a network of light rail and bus lines covering the city and its suburbs.

Bike – With its flat terrain and numerous bike lanes, Sacramento is a bike-friendly city.

Car – If you plan to venture outside the city or visit nearby towns, renting a car can be a convenient option.

On foot – Downtown Sacramento and Old Sacramento are both very walkable, with numerous attractions within a short distance.

These transportation options make it easy to explore Sacramento and its cinematic locations.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Sacramento

If you’re planning a trip to Sacramento from outside the U.S., here are the necessary travel documents:

1. Passport  – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of departure from the U.S.
2. Visa or ESTA  – Depending on your country of residence, you may need a visa to enter the U.S. Visa waiver program countries only require an approved ESTA.
3. Driver’s License  – If you plan to rent a car, bring your driver’s license. An International Driving Permit may also be required.
4. Travel Insurance  – It’s recommended to have travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.

Having the proper documents will ensure a smooth and worry-free journey to Sacramento.

Detailed Itinerary for Your Sacramento Cinematic Journey

Experience the cinematic charm of Sacramento with this five-day itinerary, exploring famous filming locations and immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture and history.

Day 1: Begin your journey in Old Sacramento, a historic district with Gold Rush-era buildings that have been featured in numerous films. In the evening, enjoy a river cruise on the Sacramento River, offering beautiful views of the city.

Day 2: Visit the California State Capitol and explore the surrounding Capitol Park. Afterward, head to the Tower Bridge, a Sacramento icon featured in many films.

Day 3: Spend the day exploring Sutter’s Fort and the nearby State Indian Museum. In the evening, enjoy a play at the Sacramento Community Center Theater.

Day 4: Take a day trip to the Effie Yeaw Nature Center, a filming location for several nature films and TV shows. Enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and a picnic by the river.

Day 5: Spend your final day in Sacramento exploring some of its hidden gems, such as Fairytale Town or the National Historic Lighthouse.

This itinerary offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and culture, making your Sacramento trip a truly cinematic experience.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to Sacramento’s Cinematic Landscape

From its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems, Sacramento offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that has captivated filmmakers, authors, and travelers alike. This guide is your ticket to exploring Sacramento from a cinematic perspective, offering insights into the city’s film and literary connections, as well as travel tips for your visit. Whether you’re a film buff, a bookworm, or a traveler seeking new experiences, Sacramento welcomes you to step into its stories and create your own. Happy travels!