California Automobile Museum

Sacramento has many out-of-the way destinations, including the California Automobile Museum, which is a must-see for anyone, especially a car enthusiast. It has both permanent and rotating exhibits, so there is always something new. There are three venues on the premises for hosting private parties, proms, weddings, trade shows---just about anything. In addition, the museum offers events open to the public, such as paid photography classes and an annual free Capitol Pops Concert. Please check the museum's calendar for other events during the year.

Best and Worst Time to Visit the California Automobile Museum
The best time to visit is during the week when crowds will be minimal, and when the weather outside is pleasant, such as spring or fall. The worst time is during summer or the dead of winter. The building is not temperature controlled, and Sacramento summers can sometimes be stiflingly hot, and winters can be very cold.

Must See/Do at the California Automobile Museum
To see anything in the permanent collection is a worthwhile activity, but the 1910 Peerless is very special. It is as close to a horseless carriage as any early car could be, and the coach portion looks nearly grand enough to cart about the Royal Family.

Can't-miss activities at the museum include concerts and automobile photography classes. Please check the museum's calendar for details. The events rotate, so there is always something new.

Admission to the California Automobile Museum
The price of admission ranges from free to $8. On special days, the museum offers either discounted or free admission, depending on the occasion. For example, on Mother's Day, all mothers get in free.

The museum is open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The last admission of each day is at 5:00 p.m.

The museum is closed Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. It closes at 3:00 p.m. on the Fourth of July, Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.

Every third Thursday of the month, the museum is open until 9:00 p.m. for Cars Under the Stars. Last admission at 8:00 p.m.

Parking and Public Transportation to the California Automobile Museum
There is a free parking lot at the museum.

Regional Transit bus 38 drops patrons in front of the museum.

Food at The California Automobile Museum
No food is sold at the museum. There are lots of dining options on Broadway and in the surrounding downtown area, including fast food, Chinese, Thai, vegetarian, sushi and steak.

Insider Tips for the California Automobile Museum
If attending a special event, such as concert or fashion show, arrive at least an hour to hour-and-a-half early to ensure decent parking, or plan to use a taxi or public transportation.

Author's bio: Shawna McGregor-King is a freelance writer and Sacramento native who yearns to live in a grass hut on a deserted beach with a nearby Target store.