Sacramento

Want to rub elbows with California’s most influential decision makers? The general public has been able to do just that since the State Capitol building opened its doors in Sacramento in 1869. Museum exhibits and historical items offer a glimpse into California’s political past while the rest of the building acts as a “living museum.” Of course, California’s elected officials just refer to the Capitol as “the office.”  Look closely, and you may see Governor Jerry Brown, or his wife and Chief of Staff, Anne Gust-Brown, or their unofficial State Dog 'Sutter' in the halls!
 
A visit to California’s State Capitol provides a unique opportunity for visitors to witness the past, present, and future of California government interact with equal force. Public tours for individuals and groups of 10 or fewer, are offered 7 days a week, on the hour, from 9-4 p.m. All tours are free. 
 
Numerous fascinating exhibits offer views on architecture, state history, former governors, county profiles, antique furnishings and historic flags. Special exhibits include *History of California State Parks: A Most Glorious Heritage* and A Restaurant and Cafeteria is located in the Basement.   One of the most fun exhibits is the hall of counties that line the main floor.  Each county presents what makes it special in this most special of all states!
 
Don't miss the beautiful 40 acres surrounding the park. You'll encounter the Rose Garden at the east end of the park (along 15th Street) -- the site of Spring, Summer and Fall weddings.  Off N Street, you can find the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.  Its 22 shiny black granite panels memorialize the 5,822 names of California's dead and missing. The exquisite full-relief bronze figures depict the realities of daily life during that conflict. 
 
Nearby is another monument to those who fight to keep us safe: the California Peace Officers' Memorial. The beautiful bronze and granite edifice memorializes the more than 1,300 courageous peace officers who have laid down their lives "in the line of duty," serving their fellow Californians.
 
There are numerous groves of trees with comfortable benches, lawns for picnicing and paths to meander -- right in the middle of the city.  During warm weather, it's not unusual to find special-interest groups holding a rally on the west steps of the Capitol, or sometimes, the North side along L Street, which is the main pedestrian entrance to the Capitol through the security building.