If you have kids in Sacramento, there’s a good chance you’ll frequently end up in William Land Park, also known as “Land Park.” Land Park has three popular kid-friendly attractions, making it a must-visit destination for the best things to do with kids in Sacramento. 

From zoo animals to farm animals and amusement rides, there is no shortage of entertainment for kids in Land Park. The park is beautiful, relaxing, and expansive, with lush landscapes like ponds and diverse trees. It’s a serene setting that is the centerpiece of the Land Park neighborhood, with a range of restaurants to dine at nearby after a day of family-friendly fun. 

Best Things To Do with Kids in Land Park

1. Sacramento Zoo

The Sacramento Zoo might be considered small compared to other well-known zoos throughout California, but it will still delight children. Our family has a membership, and we frequently visit the zoo. I love that the Sacramento Zoo is smaller because it doesn’t take up an entire day. It’s the perfect way to spend a beautiful morning in Sacramento, admiring the animals while amusing kids. 

While Land Park has been home to the Sacramento Zoo since 1927, it’s now the temporary home of the zoo. The Sacramento Zoo is relocating to Elk Grove where it will triple its current size, welcome new animals, and become a state-of-the-art, modern new zoo.   

2. Funderland Amusement Park

When my family wants a Disneyland fix without spending Disneyland prices or driving to Anaheim from Sacramento, it’s nice that we can go to Funderland. While the two theme parks are vastly different, both have options to provide beginner thrills for younger children. 

There are 10 rides and attractions at Funderland. The admission price grants unlimited access to going on the rides as much as one wants. Some rides also include height and weight restrictions. 

3. Fairytale Town 

Fairytale Town is best for younger kids, ages ten and under. Attractions in Fairytale Town are based on famous fairy tales and fables. For example, there’s a giant Jack and the Beanstalk slide, tortoise and hare sculptures to climb on, Cinderella’s coach to interact with, and King Arthur’s Castle to meander through, among many other things to do. 

There are also many farm animals to marvel at, including sheep, pigs, goats, rabbits, reptiles, and more. There’s a Children’s Theater, which often has puppet shows, a playground, and an indoor Story Center with storytimes, book nooks, and arts and crafts. Fairytale Town is known for its many seasonal events throughout the year.   

4. Land Park Playground(s)  

The Land Park playgrounds are a fantastic option for a summer day in Sacramento. They are well-shaded by large trees and are next to the Land Park Wading Pool. The restrooms are also next to the playgrounds. 

There are two playgrounds—a smaller structure for toddlers and a larger structure for older children. There are also baby swings and regular swings. Another bonus is that the playgrounds are fenced in. 

5. Land Park Wading Pool 

Younger children can beat the Sacramento heat by soaking in the Land Park Wading Pool. This shallow-depth wading pool features a mushroom fountain. It’s set in a shady, grassy area next to the playground and restrooms. 

The Land Park Wading Pool is one of the best summer things to do with kids in Sacramento and a perfect option for smaller kids who might not be ready for a larger pool just yet. Previously, the Land Park Wading Pool had age restrictions, only allowing ages seven and under into the pool, and access was for children 50 inches tall and under only. I recommend checking the Land Park Wading Pool website for updated entry requirements and seasonal hours. 

6. WPA Rock Garden

Take a stroll through a secret garden in the middle of Land Park. Access the garden from the parking spaces on 15th Ave, across the street from Fairytale Town. It’s also next to the Land Park outdoor amphitheater.

Other Park Amenities

There are many picnic areas throughout Land Park. Pack a picnic and enjoy shaded bliss. If you find picnic tables are reserved, set out a blanket on the sprawling Land Park lawn. 

In addition to various sports fields in Land Park, there is a basketball court, jogging path, a nine-hole golf course, and an outdoor amphitheater. 

Restrooms in Land Park 

The main attractions in Land Park, like the Sacramento Zoo, Fairytale Town, and Funderland have restrooms. However, if you plan to peruse Land Park without visiting one of these attractions, restrooms are near the playground. 

Where to Park 

One of the best perks about Land Park is that parking is free throughout the park! If you’re planning on going to the Sacramento Zoo or Fairytale Town, the best place to park is in the allotted parking spaces on 15th Ave. To get here, take a right next to the Fairytale Town entrance from Land Park Drive (or a left depending on what direction you’re driving from), and you’ll see diagonal angled parking spaces on both sides of the street. There is also an overflow parking lot a little ways down 15th Ave on the right-hand side. 

If you’re going to Funderland, most people park on the street near the entrance. So long as there is no particular signage, you can park all throughout Land Park, whether it’s a designated parking space or not. It’s best to park close to attraction entrances as the sidewalks are not consistent throughout the park, and you may have to walk on the main street at times, which isn’t the safest with young children. 

Where to Eat near Land Park 

With a next-level food scene and abundant kid-friendly restaurants in Sacramento, it’s hard to choose just one of the many delicious places to dine at in Land Park. 

Land Park is home to some of Sacramento’s most beloved family-friendly eateries, like Gunther’s and Tower Cafe. When trying to wrangle kids and get them to leave all the enjoyable activities in Land Park, hopefully, this list of kid-friendly restaurants in Land Park will help save some time on needing to Google where to eat nearby. 

Gunther’s

It’s impossible to go to Land Park without making a pit stop for ice cream at Gunther’s. It is truly a beloved treasure in Sacramento and one of the best things to do with kids in the summer in Sactown. The indulging ice cream flavors and fruit freezes are reason enough to keep returning to this retro ice cream parlor, but there’s always something new to try with their seasonal flavors. 

Tower Cafe

If you want to feel like you stepped into a garden retreat, Tower Cafe in Land Park is an ideal spot. The lush garden patio makes a picturesque spot for a meal yet is still casual enough for kids. The menu is extensive, and there will be something for everyone. There’s also a kids’ menu, high chairs, and coloring sheets for kids. 

Pangaea Bier Cafe 

Look across the street from Gunther’s, and you’ll see Pangaea Bier Cafe. This neighborhood spot is known for its burgers, comfort food, and relaxing patio. The kids’ menu is a bit on the small side but has classic options, like chicken tenders and grilled cheese. 

Masullo 

When you just spent a day in Land Park running from attraction to attraction with kids and want to sit down for a delectable bite to eat, pizza is always a sure bet. Masullo is a highly rated yet family-friendly pizzeria serving Neapolitan-style wood-oven pies. Their menu is inventive, with many enticing pizza options. If little ones want something other than pizza, there’s a kids’ pasta option.  

Meet & Eat  

Meet & Eat is another one of the many kid-friendly restaurants in Sacramento with a lovely patio. This Land Park eatery is a neighborhood gem with farm-to-fork fare. The kids’ menu is vast and includes breakfast dishes and all-day options. 

Vic’s

Like Gunther’s, Vic’s is another cherished Sacramento institution dishing out homemade ice cream in Land Park. Its nostalgic, family-friendly atmosphere has made it a favorite staple for generations. In addition to ice cream, Vic’s has a timeless cafe serving affordable burritos, wraps, and baked goods, including a few options just for kids. 

New Helvetia Brewing Company 

One of the many things to love about Sacramento is how many local breweries are kid-friendly. When parents want to try a craft beer brewed in Sactown, the kids can tag along to places like New Helvetia Brewing Company. The food options are from Chana’s BBQ, a Mexican BBQ fusion, and there is a dedicated kids’ menu. 

Selland’s 

Selland’s Market-Cafe is a Sacramento favorite known for its warm atmosphere and fresh, high-quality meals. There are a few locations throughout Sacramento, and one is in Land Park. The Land Park outpost also has a nice outdoor patio. Selland’s specializes in farm-to-fork dining, offering a rotating menu of seasonal dishes, gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and desserts. It’s perfect for a casual family meal. 

Riverside Clubhouse  

Kids will probably be captivated by the outdoor waterfall on the patio, which might be reason enough to go to Riverside Club. This Land Park restaurant may feel more upscale, but it’s family-friendly and is appropriate for a special occasion or a casual meal. They have an appealing breakfast menu served on Saturdays and Sundays. There is also a separate kids’ menu.