Delta King Riverboat - Boats docked at a pier on a cloudy day.
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Delta King Riverboat

4.3
·1k reviews·Sacramento, United States

A historic 1927 riverboat hotel docked in Old Sacramento, offering unique rooms, refined dining, and stunning waterfront views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Delta King Riverboat - Boats docked at a pier on a cloudy day.

Delta King Riverboat

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 1927 riverboat hotel docked in Old Sacramento, offering unique rooms, refined dining, and stunning waterfront views.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"This historical gem offers a truly unique stay, blending history with a prime waterfront location."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Embrace Small Rooms

Rooms are small but charming! It's a historic boat, so expect cozy quarters. :housewithgarden:

🍸 Patio Drinks

The patio offers the best mid-afternoon cocktail experience with stunning river views. :cocktail_glass:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Riverboat Experience

Historic Riverboat Experience

Sleep aboard a beautifully preserved 1927 riverboat, a truly unique lodging adventure.

Old Sacramento Waterfront

Old Sacramento Waterfront

Enjoy stunning river views and a lively atmosphere right outside your door.

Refined Onboard Dining

Refined Onboard Dining

Savor delicious meals and craft cocktails with a historic ambiance.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Historic Charm

Rooms on the Delta King are intentionally small to preserve its historic character. Don't expect sprawling suites; instead, savor the unique experience of sleeping on a 1927 riverboat. Embrace the charm and history!

Location, Location, Location!

The Delta King is perfectly situated in Old Sacramento, making it an ideal base for exploring the historic district's shops, museums, and restaurants. Everything you need is within walking distance.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Ambiance and dining
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Where to take out-of-towners that can’t walk much?

🎯 Embrace Small Rooms

Rooms are small but charming! It's a historic boat, so expect cozy quarters. :housewithgarden:

🍸 Patio Drinks

The patio offers the best mid-afternoon cocktail experience with stunning river views. :cocktail_glass:

reddit.com

The patio on the Delta King is the best mid afternoon cocktail/drink experience.

reddit.com

staying at delta king 2 nights... need breakfast lunch dinner spots walking distance

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Location

Old Sacramento's shops and museums are all within easy walking distance. :walking:

🎶 Beware of Sea Lions

Sea lions can be noisy at night, so bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper. :zzz:

reddit.com

Cruiseless Cruises?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace Small Rooms

Rooms are small but charming! It's a historic boat, so expect cozy quarters. :housewithgarden:

🍸 Patio Drinks

The patio offers the best mid-afternoon cocktail experience with stunning river views. :cocktail_glass:

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Location

Old Sacramento's shops and museums are all within easy walking distance. :walking:

🎶 Beware of Sea Lions

Sea lions can be noisy at night, so bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper. :zzz:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Guests consistently praise the Delta King for its unique historical charm, excellent waterfront location in Old Sacramento, and friendly staff. The experience of staying on a 1927 riverboat is a major draw, offering a memorable alternative to standard hotels. While rooms are acknowledged as small, this is generally accepted as part of the boat's historic character. Some guests noted noise from sea lions at night.

"I could not have asked for a more pleasant stay at the Delta King!! From beginning to end, everything about this one of a kind hotel exceeded my expectations. No ridiculous resort fees, very reasonable deposit, excellent food options on site, and every single person I interacted with was so lovely!

Old town Sacramento is so adorable and it was all within walking distance of the Delta King. I’m a huge history buff so I was very enchanted by the ship and all the roles it has served in “previous lifetimes.”

Thank you to Kai, Albert, Cheryl, Apple and all of the other incredible employees who made my time so memorable and enjoyable I cannot wait to return!!"

Eric Curry

"What a delightful and historical gem. Did not disappoint. Yes, rooms are small folks so please ignore reviews that just lean into this. It’s a historic boat - what did you expect?

I just loved this place so much and staff were incredible. You really feel like you are living in history and the restaurant really delivered. I will be back."

Tristan Lombard

"Drove from Lake Tahoe to San Francisco and stopped here to check the place out.

Connor our server was amazing. He and I shared fun facts about the boat and her twin The Delta Queen.

Our food was so good! Fish and fries as well as the spicy chicken sandwich did not disappoint.

We didn’t stay in the rooms but I would totally come back. Location is excellent and offers tons of dining and shopping."

Amandaintheqc

What People Like

Unique historic experience
Prime Old Sacramento location
Friendly and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Small room sizes
Sea lion noise at night

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Delta King is conveniently located in Old Sacramento. If arriving by car, there are several parking garages nearby. For those arriving by public transport, Sacramento Valley Station is a short walk away, making it easy to reach the Delta King riverboat hotel. Reddit

While the Delta King itself doesn't have dedicated parking, there are multiple parking garages and lots within easy walking distance in Old Sacramento. Rates can vary, so it's worth checking current prices. Reddit

Yes, the Sacramento Valley Station is very close to the Delta King. This makes it a convenient option if you're traveling from other cities and want to avoid driving and parking hassles. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You don't need tickets to simply walk around the public areas of the Delta King or visit its restaurants and bars. However, if you plan to stay overnight in the Delta King rooms, you'll need to book a room. Reddit

The Delta King typically has multiple dining options, including a more formal restaurant and a casual bar/grill. Hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on the Delta King restaurant hours. Reddit

The Delta King Hotel occasionally offers deals and packages. It's recommended to check their website directly or sign up for their newsletter to be notified of any Delta King Hotel deals. Reddit

Standard check-in and check-out times apply, typically in the afternoon for check-in and late morning for check-out. Confirm these times when booking your Delta King rooms to plan accordingly. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Staying in Delta King rooms offers a unique historical experience. While the rooms are smaller than modern hotels, they are clean and provide great views. Guests often rave about the immersive historical atmosphere. Reddit

The Delta King itself is a historical attraction. While there aren't formal tours, you can explore the decks and learn about its past. The surrounding Old Sacramento area offers many historical attractions and museums. Reddit

The patio on the Delta King offers fantastic views of the Sacramento River, especially during sunset. Many rooms also provide lovely river or Old Sacramento waterfront views. Reddit

As a historic riverboat, accessibility can be a consideration. While efforts are made to accommodate guests, some areas might have limitations due to the boat's structure. It's advisable to contact the hotel directly to discuss specific needs. Reddit

The Delta King Pilothouse is a unique dining venue, often offering a more intimate and refined experience. It's a great spot for a special meal or drinks with a view. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Delta King restaurant typically offers a refined dining experience with a menu that often includes seafood, steaks, and other American cuisine. The Pilothouse restaurant at the Delta King is known for its quality. Reddit

Yes, the Delta King restaurant, especially the Pilothouse, is often recommended for romantic dinners due to its unique ambiance, historic setting, and quality food. Reddit

Besides the main restaurant, the Delta King boat usually has a more informal bar and grill area, perfect for casual meals, snacks, and drinks. The patio is also a popular spot for drinks. Reddit

Absolutely! The Delta King has bars and lounges, including its popular patio, where you can enjoy drinks and soak in the riverfront atmosphere without needing to stay overnight or dine. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire Delta King riverboat is a photogenic subject! Capture exterior shots from the waterfront, interior details of the historic decor, and panoramic views from the decks. The Pilothouse also offers unique photo opportunities. Reddit

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photographing the Delta King. Evenings offer a charming illuminated view of the boat. Reddit

Yes, Old Sacramento itself is very picturesque with its historic buildings and waterfront. Combine shots of the Delta King with the charming streets and river views for a complete photo collection. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Delta King offers a unique adventure for families. While the rooms are small, the novelty of sleeping on a historic riverboat is a huge hit with kids. It's a fantastic way to make history come alive! Reddit

Pro-tip: Explore the decks together and imagine life on the river decades ago. The walkable location in Old Sacramento means easy access to kid-friendly museums and attractions. Just be mindful of potential noise from sea lions at night, and consider earplugs for lighter sleepers. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While not a budget hostel, the Delta King can offer good value, especially considering its prime location and unique experience. By skipping resort fees and enjoying the walkable access to Old Sacramento's dining and shopping, you can manage costs effectively. Reddit

Consider: Opting for a casual meal at the Delta King's bar/grill or enjoying drinks on the patio can be more economical than fine dining. Look out for potential Delta King hotel deals on their website. Reddit

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

The Delta King provides a wonderfully romantic and unique setting for couples. The historic ambiance, combined with the riverfront views, creates an intimate atmosphere. Reddit

Recommendation: Book a dinner at the Pilothouse restaurant at the Delta King for a special evening. Enjoying cocktails on the patio as the sun sets is also a perfect romantic interlude. The novelty of staying on a riverboat adds an unforgettable touch to any getaway. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Night on the River: Staying at the Delta King Hotel

Staying at the Delta King Hotel is an experience unlike any other in Sacramento. Forget standard hotel rooms; here, you're sleeping on a piece of history. The Delta King rooms are intentionally compact, reflecting the original design of this 1927 riverboat. While some reviews mention the size, most guests find the charm and uniqueness outweigh the lack of expansive space. Each room offers a cozy retreat, and many boast lovely views of the Sacramento River or the bustling Old Sacramento waterfront. It's a chance to immerse yourself in a bygone era while still enjoying modern comforts. Reddit

Booking your stay on the Delta King riverboat means you're not just getting a room, but a story. The boat has served many roles throughout its life, and that history is palpable. The staff are often praised for their friendliness and willingness to share insights about the ship's past, adding another layer to the experience. If you're looking for a standard, cookie-cutter hotel, this isn't it. But if you seek an unforgettable adventure and a deep dive into local history, the Delta King Hotel is a must-consider. Reddit

Dining and Drinks with a View: The Delta King Restaurants

The Delta King restaurant offerings provide a delightful way to experience the riverboat's ambiance. Whether you're seeking a refined evening meal or a casual bite, there's an option for you. The Pilothouse restaurant at the Delta King is often highlighted for its elegant atmosphere and quality cuisine, making it a popular choice for special occasions or a romantic dinner. Expect a menu featuring classic dishes, often with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Reddit

For a more relaxed experience, the Delta King also features informal bar and grill options, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. The patio on the Delta King is a standout feature, especially during warmer months. It's frequently cited as the ideal spot for mid-afternoon cocktails or enjoying the sunset over the Sacramento River, complete with a refreshing delta breeze. It’s a place where you can truly savor the unique setting. Reddit

Exploring Old Sacramento from the Delta King

The Delta King in Old Sacramento boasts an unbeatable location. Docked right on the waterfront, it serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring the historic district. Old Sacramento is a treasure trove of history, with its preserved 19th-century buildings, charming shops, and fascinating museums. Many visitors note that everything is within easy walking distance, making it incredibly convenient to explore without needing a car. Reddit

From the Delta King, you can easily stroll to attractions like the California State Railroad Museum, the Sacramento History Museum, and the many unique boutiques and candy shops that line the wooden boardwalks. The riverfront itself offers scenic views and a pleasant atmosphere for a leisurely walk. The proximity means you can easily pop back to the Delta King boat hotel for a break or a refreshing drink before heading out again. Reddit

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