Sacramento Valley Station
A grand, beautifully restored historic train station in Sacramento, offering a glimpse into classic rail travel with ample seating.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Sacramento Valley Station
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand, beautifully restored historic train station in Sacramento, offering a glimpse into classic rail travel with ample seating.
"The station is absolutely beautiful! The restoration job is well worth the wait."
🎯 Allow Extra Time for Tracks
The walk from ticketing to tracks can be long; build in extra time to avoid rushing.
🗺️ Look for Signage Carefully
Signage can be minimal. Pay close attention to the small TVs for schedules and track information.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture
Admire the beautifully restored classic train station vibe, a testament to its grand past.

Spacious Waiting Areas
Enjoy ample seating in clean, expansive waiting areas while anticipating your train.
Surrounding Dining Scene
Explore numerous food options just outside the station for a satisfying meal before or after your journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Station
Amenities & Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Allow Extra Time for Tracks
The walk from ticketing to tracks can be long; build in extra time to avoid rushing.
🗺️ Look for Signage Carefully
Signage can be minimal. Pay close attention to the small TVs for schedules and track information.
🅿️ Paid Parking is Available
There's paid parking, but it can be a bit complicated to navigate.
♿ Trolley Service for Assistance
If you have mobility issues, a trolley service is available to help you reach the tracks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Allow Extra Time for Tracks
The walk from ticketing to tracks can be long; build in extra time to avoid rushing.
🗺️ Look for Signage Carefully
Signage can be minimal. Pay close attention to the small TVs for schedules and track information.
🅿️ Paid Parking is Available
There's paid parking, but it can be a bit complicated to navigate.
♿ Trolley Service for Assistance
If you have mobility issues, a trolley service is available to help you reach the tracks.
🍽️ Explore Nearby Food Options
While station amenities are limited, many great food choices are available in the vicinity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sacramento Valley Station is praised for its beautiful, restored architecture and ample, clean seating. However, visitors frequently point out the station's poor signage, making it difficult to locate tracks, and a lack of amenities like shops. The long walk to platforms and inconsistent luggage assistance are also noted drawbacks.
"Very pretty building, with cool architecture. Though I wish there was more here. The first class lounge could use a major upgrade, and there could be more shops here."
Andy Vickland
"This building is absolutely beautiful! The restoration job (that took forever) is well worth the wait. They did a great job updating it but still keeping the classic train station vibe. I haven’t actually been on a train in a while… but the station seems like a great place to relax and wait for a train. There aren’t many good options around since the star bucks left. But there is a bunch of food options in the area!"
William Thompson
"Very big station. It was clean with lots of seating. From ticketing area it’s quite a walk to the railway tracks. So make sure you build in time. The walkway is covered but for one area immediately after the station where you cross the road. For people who cannot walk there is trolley service.
There is plenty of paid parking but it is some what complicated"
Cali Living
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To get from Sacramento Valley Station to Sacramento Airport (SMF), you can take a taxi or rideshare service, which is the most direct option. Alternatively, you can use public transportation by taking an Amtrak train from Sacramento Valley Station to the closest station to the airport and then catching a bus or shuttle. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times.
Sacramento Valley Station serves as a hub for Amtrak trains, including the Coast Starlight. It's also a stop for other Amtrak services. Taxis and rideshares are readily available outside the station. The surrounding area is served by local bus routes, and it's a central point for exploring downtown Sacramento on foot.
Yes, there is paid parking available at Sacramento Valley Station. However, travelers have noted that it can be somewhat complicated to navigate. It's advisable to factor in extra time to locate parking upon arrival.
Yes, you can take an Amtrak train from Sacramento Valley Station to Santa Clara. The trip is generally straightforward. You'll want to arrive at the station with enough time to find your platform.
For concerts, it's best to check the specific venue's location. Many downtown Sacramento venues are within walking distance or a short taxi/rideshare ride from the station. For venues further out, public transport or rideshares are recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased at the ticketing area within Sacramento Valley Station. It's also possible to buy tickets online through the Amtrak website or app before your arrival to save time.
While the station building is accessible for waiting, train schedules dictate the active hours for departures and arrivals. It's best to check Amtrak's schedule for specific train times.
Yes, there is a first-class lounge, but reviews suggest it could benefit from an upgrade. It offers a place to relax while waiting for your train.
Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular routes or during peak travel times, to secure your seat and potentially get better fares.
There is a designated pick-up and drop-off area. Be aware that the walkway to the tracks is covered, but there's an uncovered section when crossing a road immediately after the station.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The station is generally described as clean with plenty of seating available in its large waiting areas, making it a comfortable place to wait for your train.
Unfortunately, many visitors report a lack of clear signage and maps within the station, making it difficult to locate tracks. Tiny TVs display schedules but can also show ads.
Amenities are somewhat limited. While there's ample seating, shops are scarce, and the first-class lounge could use modernization. The surrounding area offers more dining choices.
It's quite a walk from the ticketing area to the railway tracks. Travelers are advised to allow ample time for this journey.
Luggage assistance can be inconsistent. One reviewer noted waiting for help with luggage with no one arriving, requiring them to rush to their train.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The station itself has very limited dining options, with one reviewer noting the absence of a Starbucks. However, numerous food options are available in the immediate vicinity of the station.
The area surrounding Sacramento Valley Station offers a variety of food choices, catering to different tastes and budgets. You'll find everything from casual eateries to more established restaurants.
Yes, while the station itself lacks extensive dining, the abundance of restaurants nearby makes it easy to grab a meal before your departure.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The station's beautifully restored architecture provides excellent photo opportunities, capturing its classic train station charm.
Focus on the grand interior spaces, the architectural details of the restored building, and the general ambiance of a historic train station.
Yes, you can photograph the Amtrak trains that stop at Sacramento Valley Station, capturing the essence of rail travel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Gem: Sacramento Valley Station
When exploring, take time to admire the detailed craftsmanship and the overall design that evokes a sense of nostalgia. The station serves as a significant landmark in Sacramento, California, showcasing its historical importance as a major Amtrak hub in Northern California.
Navigating Your Journey: Tips for Travelers
It's crucial to allow ample time for your journey from the ticketing area to the platform, as the walk can be considerable. For those with mobility concerns, a trolley service is available to assist with the distance. While the station itself has limited amenities, the surrounding downtown area is rich with dining options, providing a good alternative for meals before or after your train ride.
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