Things To Do
in Citrus Heights

Citrus Heights is a residential suburb northeast of Sacramento, California. It offers a comfortable mix of residential neighborhoods, parks, and convenient access to shopping and dining. The city combines suburban calm with proximity to the capital's cultural attractions.

It's anchored by Sunrise Mall and has easy access to outdoor recreation along the American River Parkway.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Citrus Heights Historical Society, where you can discover the rich history of the area through engaging exhibits. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling some of the best pastries and coffee the region has to offer. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby parks, soaking in the morning sunshine and the beauty of the vibrant landscape.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, venture to the Sunrise Mall for some shopping and entertainment. Explore a variety of shops, ranging from unique boutiques to popular retail chains, while indulging in a light lunch at one of the mall’s many eateries. Consider catching a matinee showing at the mall's movie theater for a fun and relaxing experience.

evening
:

As evening approaches, head to one of Citrus Heights’ charming restaurants for dinner, where you can savor delicious local cuisine. After your meal, take a pleasant walk through the local neighborhoods to appreciate the beautifully lit streets and homes. End your day with a sweet treat from a nearby ice cream parlor, perfect for winding down.

day 2
Nature Walks and Wildlife Spotting
morning
:

Embark on a refreshing nature walk at the nearby American River Parkway, where you can enjoy the fresh air and stunning views along the river. Early morning is the perfect time for birdwatching, as many local species are active and visible in this serene environment. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the water, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, continue exploring the trails, perhaps taking a guided tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna. Pack your hiking gear for a more rigorous trek, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. Stop for lunch at a scenic picnic spot, where you can recharge and take in the views.

evening
:

As dusk settles in, return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a cozy restaurant known for its farm-to-table options, featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. After dinner, consider attending a local event or concert, enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment$1,300-1,800/mo
🧾Monthly utilities (gas/electric/water)$150-250
🚗Gas per gallon$4-5
🎬Movie ticket$12-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to Sacramento for day trips
  • Diverse dining options
  • Family-friendly neighborhoods
  • Access to outdoor recreation along the American River Parkway
  • Limited nightlife compared to downtown Sacramento
  • Some areas are car-dependent
  • Summer heat can be intense
  • Higher traffic on major routes around commute times

Places to Visit in Citrus Heights

Visit one of these nice places.

Sunrise Mall Area and Main Street Citrus Heights

Busy commercial hub with storefronts, signage, and changing seasonal displays.

Independence Park

Lush greenery, ponds, and family-friendly scenery ideal for daylight and golden hour photography.

American River Parkway viewpoints

Riverside trails and bridges offering reflections and wide skies for composition.

Culinary Guide

Food in Citrus Heights

As part of the greater Sacramento region, Citrus Heights offers a diverse food scene with Mexican, Asian, Italian, and Californian cuisines. Expect fresh produce, farm-to-table options, and casual eateries that emphasize value and flavor.

Citrus Heights Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Birria Tacos

Tender meat in a crispy tortilla served with a rich consommé for dipping.

Must-Try!

California-Style Burrito

A hearty burrito with fries, carne asada or al pastor, and fresh toppings.

Pho or Vietnamese Noodle Soup

Comforting bowls with aromatic herbs and light broths.

Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

Grilled or fried fish with bright salsa and crisp toppings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Citrus Heights Farmers Market

Seasonal stalls offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Citrus Heights has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Summer highs commonly reach the 90s F (32-37 C), with cooler evenings; winter temperatures typically sit in the 40s to 60s F (5-15 C).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

General Courtesy

Be friendly and patient; queues are common, and casual dress is typical in many spots.

Driving Etiquette

Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and follow local traffic rules; use turn signals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise typical urban safety precautions: stay aware of surroundings, especially at night in less populated areas; lock vehicles and valuables; use well-lit areas and crosswalks. Emergency services are readily available in the Sacramento region.

Tipping in Citrus Heights

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

15-20% at restaurants; tips for bar staff, and small tips for service at cafes or quick-service spots.

Payment Methods

Cash, debit/credit cards, and mobile wallets are widely accepted; some places may be cashless.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and dry with temps often in the 90s; hydrate, wear sunscreen, and favor early mornings or evenings for outdoor activities.

Fall

Mild temperatures and pleasant crowds; ideal for park walks and outdoor dining.

Winter

Mild and rainy at times; pack a light jacket and plan for flexible outdoor plans.

Spring

Blooming landscapes and comfortable temperatures; great for hikes and outdoor photography.

Nightlife Guide

Citrus Heights at Night

Nightlife in Citrus Heights is generally low-key and family-friendly, with casual bars, breweries, and live music venues. For a broader range of options, a short drive to nearby Sacramento provides more clubs, lounges, and late-night scenes.

Hiking in Citrus Heights

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

American River Parkway Trail

Extensive riverfront trail with scenic views and flat to moderate routes.

Citrus Heights foothill trails

Short hikes with gentle elevation near the foothills.

Airports

How to reach Citrus Heights by plane.

Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Major airport serving the region with domestic and some international flights; about 20-25 minutes from Citrus Heights by car, depending on traffic.

Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC)

Reliever airport offering general aviation services and charter flights; closer to central Sacramento.

Getting Around

Walkability

Citrus Heights is moderately walkable in commercial corridors like Sunrise Boulevard, but many neighborhoods are car-dependent. You can reach shops, parks, and some services on foot within central areas, with longer trips requiring a car or transit.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families with good schools and parks.

Seniors

Active communities with services for seniors.

Young Professionals

People commuting to Sacramento for work.

Students

Nearby colleges and community schools contribute to the demographic mix.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Popular in community leagues and local gyms; youth and adult programs available.

Soccer

Wide participation in local clubs and recreational leagues.

Golf

Accessible courses for all skill levels in the broader Sacramento area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy on main arteries, especially during commute hours. Public transit via SacRT light rail and buses provides alternatives; biking and rideshare options are common in the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Citrus Heights.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for veggie dishes, plant-based proteins, and easily customizable options; most restaurants can modify dishes to fit a vegetarian diet.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are several urgent care clinics and medical offices in Citrus Heights, with access to Sacramento-area hospitals such as Mercy San Juan Medical Center and UC Davis Health facilities within a short drive for more specialized care. Primary care physicians and specialists are widely available in the region.

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