The Ziggurat West Sacramento - Lalish, the capital of the Ezidis.
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The Ziggurat West Sacramento

4.3
·73 reviews·West Sacramento, United States

A striking pyramid-shaped office building, one of only five in the US, offering unique architecture and waterfront views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdLow
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The Ziggurat West Sacramento - Lalish, the capital of the Ezidis.

The Ziggurat West Sacramento

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A striking pyramid-shaped office building, one of only five in the US, offering unique architecture and waterfront views.

4.3
(73 reviews)

"Definitely a cool building. Worth walking across the Tower Bridge just to photograph this building up close. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Smart Parking

Opt for the cheaper public parking lot ($1.75/hr) just before the main event lot. :car:

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Cross the Tower Bridge from Old Sacramento for the best Ziggurat and skyline shots. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ziggurat Exterior

The Ziggurat Exterior

West Sacramento Waterfront

A striking pyramid-shaped office building, one of only five in the US. Its unique architecture is a visual marvel.

Reddit
Tower Bridge Views

Tower Bridge Views

Connecting Old Sacramento and West Sacramento

Walk across the iconic Tower Bridge for stunning panoramic views of the Sacramento skyline and the Ziggurat.

Reddit
Delta Waterfront

Delta Waterfront

Adjacent to the Ziggurat

Enjoy the revitalized waterfront with its walking paths and views of the Sacramento River. Keep an ear out for harbor seals!

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Parking Smarts

Skip expensive event parking! Look for the $1.75/hour public lot just before the main entrance. It's a small saving, but Redditors confirm it's still a viable option for event days. Reddit

Architectural Wonder

This unique pyramid structure is a must-see for architecture buffs. Plan to walk across the Tower Bridge from Old Sacramento for fantastic photo opportunities. Reddit

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Event Evenings
Why
Experience the buzz
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎥 Local Trivia! Let’s see how well you know your local history! Test your Sacramento knowledge with a fun poll! 👇 ❓ What was the original use of the Ziggurat Building in West Sacramento? 🅰️ State of California records storage 🅱️ Headquarters for a mortgage company 🅾️ Backup data center for UC Davis 🆎 Architectural school prototype Fun Fact: This uniquely shaped riverfront building is one of Sacr...
livingsacramentosuburbs
5 likes • 756 views

🚗 Smart Parking

Opt for the cheaper public parking lot ($1.75/hr) just before the main event lot. Reddit :car:

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Cross the Tower Bridge from Old Sacramento for the best Ziggurat and skyline shots. Reddit :camerawithflash:

Explore the iconic Ziggurat Building in West Sacramento! 🏢🔒 Known for its unique pyramid design and advanced security features, this government hub is a fortress of modern infrastructure. Discover why it's one of the #WorldsMostSecureBuildings: https://www.identiv.com/resources/blog/the-worlds-most-secure-buildings-the-ziggurat-building-usa #IdentivSecurity #ZigguratBuilding #SecureFacilities #...
hirschsecure
5 likes • 130 views
We often get asked what this building is during our tours. The Ziggurat is a ten-story building located at 707 3rd Street in West Sacramento, California, on the shore of the Sacramento River and was designed by Sacramento architect Edwin Kado. It is currently the headquarters of the Department of General Services. It’s pyramid shape makes our Sacramento skyline look even more interesting!
capital_tuktuk
54 likes • 929 views

🚶‍♀️ Waterfront Stroll

Enjoy the scenic walk along the Delta waterfront, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Reddit :walking:

👂 Seal Spotting

Listen for the sounds of harbor seals on the Delta Queen across the way, especially at night. Reddit :seal:

reddit.com

PSA: Public Parking at the Ziggurat

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Smart Parking

Opt for the cheaper public parking lot ($1.75/hr) just before the main event lot. Reddit :car:

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Cross the Tower Bridge from Old Sacramento for the best Ziggurat and skyline shots. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Waterfront Stroll

Enjoy the scenic walk along the Delta waterfront, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Reddit :walking:

👂 Seal Spotting

Listen for the sounds of harbor seals on the Delta Queen across the way, especially at night. Reddit :seal:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(73 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are drawn to The Ziggurat for its unique, pyramid-like architecture, often making a special trip to photograph this unusual building. The surrounding waterfront and the scenic Tower Bridge walk are also highlights. However, some guests have noted issues with noise from local wildlife at night and concerns about parking costs during events.

"An Evening Stay on the Delta Queen right acrost the way is not what you might expect now. The newer water break and walkway has Harbor seals all night long hooting and hollering. It's impossible to get any descent sleep. Earplugs don't work. If you spend that much money on the Delta king, the Ziggurat needs to address this situation. The fix is easy. A temporary 2-sided barrier installed on the walkway will fix that...🙄"

Darrell Wiley

"Definitely a cool building. When I was across the river in Old Town sacramento, this building caught my attention because of its unique shape. It was definitely worth walking across the tower bridge into West Sacramento just to photograph this building up close."

Matt McLean

"One of five (🤔) pyramid structures in the United States. Seeing this building up close was a small bucket list item for me. Really cool architecture and very nice surrounding area. Pretty cool for just an office building. Glad I stopped to see it."

Wolfman Brody

What People Like

Unique pyramid architecture
Great photo opportunities
Scenic Tower Bridge walk

What People Dislike

Noisy wildlife at night
Expensive event parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ziggurat is located in West Sacramento, easily accessible by car. If coming from Old Sacramento, the most scenic route is to walk across the Tower Bridge. Reddit

Limited public transportation options are available. Check local transit schedules for bus routes serving West Sacramento. Driving or ride-sharing is generally more convenient. :bus:

Walking across the Tower Bridge offers fantastic views and a direct path to the Ziggurat. It's a popular choice for photographers. Reddit :bridgeatnight:

Yes, Old Sacramento Waterfront is directly across the river, offering historical sites, shops, and restaurants. Reddit :historic_building:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, The Ziggurat is an office building, and its exterior is visible from public areas. You do not need tickets to view it from the outside. :ticket:

As it's a private office building, there are no official visiting hours. The exterior can be viewed at any time, but it's best appreciated during daylight for photography. :clock10:

Generally, access inside The Ziggurat is restricted to tenants and their guests. Public tours are not typically offered. :lock:

There is no admission fee to view the exterior of The Ziggurat. Parking fees may apply depending on the lot you choose. :moneywithwings:

While primarily an office building, private events may be held within. Check local event listings for any public-facing activities. :confetti_ball:

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic shots are taken from across the Tower Bridge in Old Sacramento, offering a full view of the pyramid. The waterfront area in West Sacramento also provides good angles. Reddit :camerawithflash:

Daylight hours provide the best natural light for capturing the building's unique architecture. Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) can offer dramatic lighting. :sunriseovermountains:

Drone regulations vary by location. It's advisable to check with local authorities and ensure you comply with all airspace restrictions before flying a drone. :drone:

Photography of the exterior from public spaces is generally permitted. However, be mindful of private property and security personnel. :noentrysign:

🚇 🚗 Parking & Transportation

There's a public parking lot with hourly rates ($1.75/hr) just before the main event parking area. Event parking can be significantly more expensive ($30+). Reddit :car:

Yes, event parking can be quite costly, often around $30 or more. The public lot offers a much more affordable alternative. Reddit :money_bag:

Ride-sharing services and taxis can drop off passengers near the entrance. Be aware of any event-specific traffic patterns. :taxi:

Bike racks may be available, especially near public access areas. It's recommended to bring your own lock. :bicycle:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ziggurat itself is primarily an office building, so the main draw for families will be the unique architecture and the surrounding waterfront. Walking across the Tower Bridge is an adventure in itself for kids, offering great views and a sense of exploration. Reddit

Pack some snacks and enjoy a picnic on the West Sacramento waterfront. Keep an eye out for harbor seals – their sounds can be a fun discovery for children. The open space along the river provides room for kids to move around. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Ziggurat is a photographer's dream due to its distinctive pyramid shape. The best vantage point for iconic shots is from across the Tower Bridge in Old Sacramento, offering a clear, unobstructed view of the entire structure. Reddit

Experiment with different times of day to capture the building in various lighting conditions. Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlights. Don't forget to capture the Ziggurat with the Sacramento skyline in the background for a more comprehensive shot. :camerawithflash:

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, the key is smart parking. Avoid the expensive event lots by utilizing the $1.75/hour public parking option just before the main entrance. Reddit This small saving can add up, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring.

Viewing the Ziggurat from the outside is free, and walking across the Tower Bridge offers fantastic views without any cost. Pack your own lunch and snacks to avoid restaurant markups in the tourist areas. :moneywithwings:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance

The Ziggurat in West Sacramento is a striking example of pyramid architecture in the United States, standing out with its distinctive shape. It's one of only five such structures nationwide, making it a unique landmark. While it functions as an office building, its unconventional design has garnered significant attention from visitors and architecture enthusiasts alike. Reddit

Its presence across the river from Old Sacramento makes it a focal point for those exploring the Sacramento area. The building's unique silhouette is particularly captivating when viewed from a distance, especially when framed by the Sacramento skyline. This visual appeal has made it a popular subject for photography and a point of interest for travelers seeking unusual sights. Reddit

The Ziggurat's design is a bold statement, deviating from typical corporate architecture. This boldness is precisely what draws visitors to appreciate its form and consider it a worthwhile stop, even if just for a photo opportunity. Its unique status contributes to its allure as a quirky yet impressive piece of modern architecture. Reddit

Navigating Parking

Parking around The Ziggurat can be a point of consideration, especially if attending an event. While the main event parking lot can be quite expensive, often exceeding $30, savvy visitors have discovered a more budget-friendly alternative. A public parking lot, charging a more reasonable $1.75 per hour, is located just before the main entrance. Reddit

This cheaper option is a well-kept secret among locals and frequent visitors, confirmed by Reddit discussions. It requires a short walk but offers significant savings, making it ideal for those who want to admire the Ziggurat without a hefty parking bill. Planning ahead and locating this lot can greatly enhance your visit, especially on busy event days. Reddit :car:

Security concerns have also been mentioned, with one reviewer noting an incident involving their car being scratched. While this seems to be an isolated issue, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to property management or security personnel. :warning:

The Waterfront Experience

The area surrounding The Ziggurat boasts a revitalized waterfront along the Sacramento River. This space offers pleasant walking paths and scenic views, providing a relaxing environment to complement the architectural marvel of the Ziggurat itself. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll, especially during the cooler parts of the day. Reddit

Interestingly, the waterfront is also known for its local wildlife. Visitors have reported hearing and seeing harbor seals in the Delta Queen area across the way, particularly at night. While this can be a charming natural encounter, some guests have found the noise disruptive to sleep if staying nearby. Reddit :seal:

The proximity to Old Sacramento via the Tower Bridge is a major advantage. This allows visitors to easily combine a visit to the Ziggurat with exploring the historic district, creating a well-rounded day trip that offers both modern architecture and historical charm. Reddit

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