This is a complete guide to parking in Downtown Sacramento. Parking in Downtown Sacramento can be tricky, especially on event nights. This guide will share the best places to park for key Downtown destinations, the best apps to reserve parking, and where to park during busy event nights. Read this guide and avoid the stress of driving from parking garage to parking garage looking for parking in Downtown.

Key Takeaways

• Garages and parking lots activate special event flat rates when an event is expected to cause increased volume in the garage. Special event rates may vary according to the size of the event and its proximity from the event. Special event flat rates activate up to two (2) hours prior to an event start time.

• Downtown Sacramento has over 40 parking locations, offering a range of solutions including street metered parking, parking garages, and pre-reservation options to ensure a stress-free parking experience for visitors to popular attractions.

• Using mobile parking apps like ParkMobile simplifies the parking process in Sacramento by allowing users to find, reserve, and pay for parking remotely, and even extend parking times through the app without returning to the meter.

Special Event Parking in Sacramento Made Simple

Garages and parking lots activate special event flat rates when an event is expected to cause increased volume in the garage. Special event rates may vary according to the size of the event and its proximity from the event. Special event flat rates activate up to two (2) hours prior to an event start time.

For special events, it’s a smart move to book a spot in a nearby garage ahead of time through platforms like ParkWhiz or SacPark. If you’re someone who likes to live on the edge and didn’t make a reservation, you still have options in the city garages listed below:

Pre-pay: A $15 payment is collected upon entry. You’ll receive an exit ticket upon payment which you’ll need to use to leave the facility later.

• Capitol Garage  10th & L St (The entrance is on the right when turning off L St)

• Old Sacramento Garage  2nd & I St (Go past 3rd St, then use the left turn lane into the garage)

• Tower Bridge Garage Front Street and Capitol Mall (before reaching Tower Bridge)

Flat-rate:  Grab a ticket when you enter the facility. Pay the $15 fee either at the exit gate when you leave or at a payment kiosk in the same garage to secure an exit ticket.

• City Hall Garage 11th St (between I & J St) or 10th St (between I & J St)

• Memorial Garage 14th St (between H and I St) or 15th St (between H & I St)

• Check out this link for more information: https://www.cityofsacramento.org/Public-Works/Parking-Services/Event-Parking

Where to Park When Visiting Golden One Center & Downtown Commons

When planning a visit to the Golden 1 Center or Downtown Commons, you have four parking garages at your disposal. If you’re heading to a Kings game or any event at the Golden 1 Center, we advise booking your parking spot in advance through Park Whiz or Sac Park. Note that event parking and Kings game parking at DOCO Garages is restricted, with the exception of the DOCO West Garage.

DOCO Central Garage (414 J Street): Open 24/7 for all retail, restaurant, and Cinemark parking.

DOCO East Garage (7th & J Street): Open round the clock for all retail, restaurant, and Cinemark parking.

DOCO West Garage (325 L Street): Open for all retail, restaurant, and Cinemark parking, even during concerts, Kings games and events at Golden 1 Center.

Sawyer Hotel Garage (500 J Street): Level P1 open for all retail, restaurant, hotel, and Cinemark parking.

Where to Park When Visiting Crest Theater

When visiting the the Crest Theater, the nearest and most convenient public garage is Capitol Garage, located on the corner of 10th and L, 2 blocks away. The daily rate (6 a.m. – 5 p.m.) is $1.50 for each half hour or fraction thereof, with a maximum daily charge of $25. The weekend rate is also $1.50 for each half hour or fraction thereof, but with a lower maximum daily charge of $5.00. Pre-pay rates and hours vary from $10 – $15 depending on events, and your ticket is valid through 6 a.m. the next day. Lastly, the evening rate (5 p.m. to 6 a.m.) is $1.50 for each half hour or fraction thereof, with a nightly maximum charge of $5.00.

Where to Park When Visiting SAFE Credit Union Convention Center and Performing Arts Center

When visiting the the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center and Performing Arts Center, the nearest and most convenient public garage is Capitol Garage, located on the corner of 10th and L, 2 blocks away. The daily rate (6 a.m. – 5 p.m.) is $1.50 for each half hour or fraction thereof, with a maximum daily charge of $25. The weekend rate is also $1.50 for each half hour or fraction thereof, but with a lower maximum daily charge of $5.00. Pre-pay rates and hours vary from $10 – $15 depending on events, and your ticket is valid through 6 a.m. the next day. Lastly, the evening rate (5 p.m. to 6 a.m.) is $1.50 for each half hour or fraction thereof, with a nightly maximum charge of $5.00.

Where to Park When Visiting the California State Capitol

When visiting the California State Capitol, the nearest and most convenient garage is Capitol Garage, conveniently located on the corner of 10th and L. The daily rate (6 a.m. – 5 p.m.) is $1.50 for each half hour or fraction thereof, with a maximum daily charge of $25. If you’re a daily commuter, you might be interested in purchasing a SacPass for daily parking here. SacPass users must enter between 4 a.m. – 10 a.m. and exit between 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Parking outside these hours will require an additional payment at the garage’s daily rate. The weekend rate is also $1.50 for each half hour or fraction thereof, but with a lower maximum daily charge of $5.00. Pre-pay rates and hours vary depending on events, and your ticket is valid through 6 a.m. the next day. Lastly, the evening rate (5 p.m. to 6 a.m.) is $1.50 for each half hour or fraction thereof, with a nightly maximum charge of $5.00.

Where to Park When Visiting Old Sacramento

When it comes to parking in Old Sacramento, you have a variety of options at your disposal. Metered street parking is available throughout the Old Sacramento Waterfront area, seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. If you’re planning a visit during the holiday season, you can enjoy free parking on select Holidays.

Additionally, surface lot parking is available at Front & L Street, which can be accessed from Firehouse Alley. If you prefer garages, there are two public parking garages you can use:

Old Sacramento Garage, entrance on I Street between 3rd and 2nd. Note that select businesses offer parking validation!

• Weekend Pre-Pay Rates – $10-$15

• Friday from 3 p.m. to close

• Saturday and Sunday, all-day

Tower Bridge Garage, entrance on Capitol Blvd at Neasham Circle near the Tower Bridge.

• Weekend Pre-Pay Rates – $10-$15

• Friday from 3 p.m. to close

• Saturday from 3 p.m. to close

• Sunday from 3 p.m. to close (if Monday is a holiday)

Where to Park When Visiting The Sofia, B Street Theater

When you’re heading to The Sofia, you’ll find plenty of parking options. Our top recommendation is the Sutter Community Garage, nestled in our alley at 2701 N Street. The entrance is located on 28th between Capitol Avenue and N Street. There’s also a white zone that can hold up to six cars directly in front of the theatre, located on Capitol Avenue between 27th and 28th Street. This is the perfect spot for dropping off or picking up a patron. A

Navigating Downtown Sacramento Parking

Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, deciphering Sacramento’s parking options is your gateway to a stress-free experience. Sacramento, with its myriad of attractions, can be a bustling hub of activity – from the Golden 1 Center to the Sacramento Convention Center Complex, Capitol Park, Old Sacramento, and the California Museum, each offering their own parking solutions. With over 40 parking locations in Sacramento, Parking.com is a treasure trove of daily and monthly parking options, making your visits to these popular destinations hassle-free.

However, grasping your parking options extends beyond merely identifying a parking spot. It entails making further choices, such as using street parking or parking garages, or possibly reserving your parking space ahead of time. Let’s dissect these options for better clarity.

Street Smarts: Metered Parking in the City

Picture this: you’ve found the perfect parking spot right on the street, only to realize you don’t have any change for the meter. Does that sound familiar? Well, that’s where Sacramento’s metered parking comes to your rescue. The city’s metered parking spots accept coins, credit cards, and even the Parkmobile app.

Metered parking in Sacramento is enforced from Monday through Saturday, so remember to check the official website of the City of Sacramento for precise hours of operation. And the best part? It’s quite affordable at $1.75 per hour. No more scrounging for loose change!

Secure Spots: Utilizing Parking Garages

If you’re looking for a safe and secure parking solution, parking garages in downtown Sacramento have got you covered. Not only do they provide protection from weather and theft, but they also offer the convenience of online parking purchase for specific garages. Imagine the peace of mind you’ll get from knowing that your vehicle is safely parked, especially during late-night events or meetings!

Location information for these parking garages can be found on the City of Sacramento’s Parking Services website. The rates vary, so it’s advisable to refer to updated rates and details on platforms such as Parkopedia – Sacramento Parking or the City of Sacramento’s Parking Services website. Also, remember to check the specific garage hours when planning your visit.

Pre-Plan Your Park: Reserve Parking Advantages

Ever heard the saying, “The early bird gets the worm”? In the world of parking, this translates to “The early bird gets the best parking spot”! Booking parking in advance in Sacramento offers the following benefits:

• Ensures you have a spot reserved in your chosen location

• Provides discounted rates for City-owned garages, offering a 25 percent discount off the pre-pay flat rate

• Allows you to check parking availability up to a week in advance

So why not plan ahead and save yourself from last-minute parking hassles?

Essential Tips for Downtown Sacramento Parking

Now that you’re well-versed with the parking options, let’s equip you with some insider knowledge to further facilitate your parking experience. Did you know that the best times to find parking in downtown Sacramento are weekdays after 4:30 p.m. and throughout the weekends? Also, did you know that the City Hall Garage offers a rate of $1.50 per half hour, making it an affordable option for extended parking? Well, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Let’s delve further into these insights.

Timing is Everything: Best Hours to Find Parking

We all know that timing is everything, and it’s no different when it comes to securing a parking spot. In downtown Sacramento, peak parking hours usually occur during regular business hours when 10-hour parking spots may become occupied rapidly. But that doesn’t mean you have to struggle to find a parking spot during these hours.

The least busy periods to find parking in downtown Sacramento are weekdays after 4:30 p.m. and all day on weekends. Metered parking is free on weekdays after 4:30 p.m. and all-day on weekends, making these times an excellent choice for finding a parking spot. So, plan your visit accordingly, and you’ll find yourself parking with ease!

Cost-Effective Parking Choices

Parking in downtown Sacramento doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket. There are plenty of cost-effective parking choices that won’t leave you penniless at the end of the day.

For instance, from Nov. 24 to Dec. 24, you can enjoy the following daily parking benefits:

• Free parking at select on-street meters after 4:30 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends

• Various parking promotions and discounts, including substantial rate reductions based on demand; view rates for more details

• ParkWhiz promo codes that offer a 10% discount on parking

Or you could opt for parking garages and lots, which offer varying rates that can be further explored on resources such as the Parkopedia website and the City of Sacramento’s Parking Services site.

Safety First: Parking in Well-Lit Areas

When it comes to parking, safety should always be your top priority. Parking in well-lit areas in Downtown Sacramento offers enhanced safety and security for both vehicles and pedestrians, as well as improved visibility for drivers.

Sacramento city has established specific lighting standards for parking lots and garages, including a minimum maintained illumination of ¼ foot candles per square foot for walkways, alcoves, and passageways, and a minimum of one footcandle of light at the parking surface for open parking lots and carports. So, always choose to park in well-lit areas, and you’ll be able to enjoy your visit to Sacramento without any worries.

The Convenience of Mobile Parking Apps

In this era of digitisation where an app exists for almost everything, parking shouldn’t be an exception. Mobile parking applications have transformed parking methodologies, promising a smooth, effortless experience.

ParkMobile, the leading provider of intelligent parking and mobility solutions in North America, allows you to find, reserve, and pay for parking right from your mobile device. No more worrying about carrying cash or rushing back to feed the meter. Let’s examine how this application can simplify your Sacramento parking experience.

ParkMobile App at Your Service

The ParkMobile app is a game-changer for anyone who parks regularly in downtown Sacramento. With features like the Parking Availability tool for locating open parking spaces and a map view displaying available parking spots within the vicinity, finding parking has never been easier.

And the best part? You can reserve and pay for your parking spot right from the app. Just enter the ParkMobile zone number and location information from the meter decal or zone sign, or scan the QR code provided, and you’re all set.

Plus, the City of Sacramento provides a range of discounted parking options through the app, making parking even more affordable.

Extend Parking Without the Rush

With the ParkMobile app, you no longer have to worry about your parking time running out. The app allows you to extend your parking time remotely, right from your mobile device.

The process to extend your parking session is simple:

1. Log into your active parking session.

2. Press ‘extend’.

3. Choose the additional time to add to your session.

4. Confirm the extension transaction.

The pricing for extending parking depends on the specific parking location and the requested duration of the extension, but the convenience of being able to extend your parking time without having to rush back to your vehicle is priceless!

Downtown Sacramento Parking for Residents and Visitors

Whether resident or visitor, downtown Sacramento caters to all your parking requirements. From residential parking permits to short-term and long-term parking options, there’s something for everyone.

Residents get to enjoy the benefits of residential parking permits at no cost. These permits enable residents to park on the street and contribute to the management of on-street parking availability. And for visitors, the City of Sacramento provides several managed parking facilities at affordable rates, along with discount programs. Let’s scrutinise these options further.

Resident Perks: Permit Parking Explained

If you’re a resident of Sacramento, you’re in for a treat. The city offers residential parking permits that allow you to park on the street without being subject to posted time limits and meter payments.

Obtaining a resident permit is quite straightforward. All you need to do is provide either a DMV registration and/or current Proof of Residency. And the best part? These permits are provided at no cost to residents. Even guests are allowed to utilize resident permit parking in Sacramento, making it perfect for those house parties or family get-togethers!

Visitor Insights: Short-term and Long-term Parking

Visiting Sacramento for a day or planning an extended stay in Sacramento CA? The city has got you covered with a range of short-term and long-term parking options.

Short-term parking options in downtown Sacramento include parking garages like 1801 L Street and Capitol Towers Garage, with rates ranging from $7 to $20 per day. If you’re staying for a longer duration, you can opt for long-term parking options like Capitol Garage and City Hall Garage, with an average monthly parking cost of approximately $140, equating to just over $4 per day. So, whether you’re in town for a quick meeting or a month-long vacation, you’ll find a parking option that suits your needs!

Parking Enforcement and Avoiding Tickets

Now that you’re armed with ample information about parking in Sacramento, comprehending the rules and regulations becomes crucial to steer clear of parking citations and fines.

The City of Sacramento has implemented specific rules and regulations for parking. To prevent incurring parking fines, individuals have the option to pay via phone or online and should ensure to park in areas where the parking sign indicates a duration of one hour or more by being green. But what if you end up with a parking citation despite all precautions?

Know the Rules

Parking enforcement in Downtown Sacramento is in place until 10 p.m., and there are specific regulations for complimentary holiday parking in Downtown, Midtown, and Old Sacramento. Knowledge of these rules can save you from an unnecessary parking ticket.

Also, remember that vehicles are prohibited from parking on the street in the same location for more than 72 hours as per the Sacramento City Code 10.36.080(A)(1). So, keep these rules in mind, and you’re less likely to find an unwanted parking ticket on your windshield!

Dealing with Citations

Despite your best efforts, if you end up with a parking citation, don’t panic. It’s essential to know your rights and understand how to dispute the citation if necessary.

Typically, parking tickets in Sacramento are issued for the following reasons:

• Parking in a restricted area

• Surpassing the designated time limit

• Parking without a valid permit

• Occupying a metered space without payment

If you think you’ve received a citation by mistake, you can contest it either online or in writing within 21 calendar days from the ticket’s issue date. However, remember that failure to pay a parking ticket can lead to increased fines, civil assessments, holds on your driver’s license, and potential tow or impoundment of your vehicle.

Summary

Parking in Sacramento doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a variety of options like metered parking, garage parking, and advanced booking, coupled with the convenience of mobile apps like ParkMobile, you can find a parking spot that suits your needs. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, attending a special event, or just exploring the city, there’s a parking solution for everyone. Stay informed, know your options, and your parking experience in Sacramento will be a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking free in downtown Sacramento?

Parking in downtown Sacramento is mostly metered, but some spots are free. You can use the SpotAngels map to locate the free parking spots in real-time before heading to your destination.

How do I pay for parking in downtown Sacramento?

You can pay for parking in downtown Sacramento using Pay & Display meters, which are available in the form of green meter kiosks scattered throughout the city. They accept coins or credit cards, but not dollar bills.

How much is daily parking in Sacramento?

Parking in downtown Sacramento costs $4 an hour with a maximum of $21 per day at commercial lots and garages. Look out for early bird rates and commuter specials for cheaper parking.

What are the designated hours for meter parking enforcement in Sacramento?

Meter parking in Sacramento is enforced from Monday through Saturday. For exact hours, please refer to the official website of the City of Sacramento.