The Good Life ~ Sacramento
Exploring a City with a Small-Town Feel and World of PotentialArchive for Shopping
Out & About
If you’re in the Arden area…
You might be shopping at the light, bright Arden Fair and eating at the world-famous Cheesecake Factory, but you might also consider shopping at The Rack (where great deals can be found) and dining at Coco’s (where breakfast always comes with your choice of fresh-baked goodie).
If you’re in the El Dorado/Folsom area…
You might be shopping at the grand Palladio and listening to music at the new Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill, but you might also consider Happy Hour at Sienna (a lively time with savory appetizers) or sake tasting at Gekkeikan Sake (take a tour and enjoy the Koi pond).
There’s so much out there to see, do, taste, feel and experience, one tiny move away from your norm can heighten your senses, enhance your spirit, and enrich your enjoyment. Isn’t that what life is all about?!
For more ways to kick up your Sacramento area experience, stay at a Gold Card participating hotel, where you’ll find great deals all around town! http://www.discovergold.org/visitors/goldcard/merchants.cfm
Comfort & Joy (& not necessarily in that order)
Holiday Shopping in Sacramento comes in all shapes and sizes, from malls to historic spots, boutiques to vintage shops, galleries to antique stops. Whether you’re in search of whimsical gifts or just want to reward yourself royally, sometimes the journey is the best part of the adventure. As for the destination, nevertheless, there are some really great shopping + hotel packages currently available for those wanting to immerse in the holiday cheer. http://pages.exacttarget.com/SacramentoWinter2012Deals/
For your shopping options, here are a few local favorites, as well as a few images to your right to stimulate the shopping appetite.
Malls:
Arden Fair, Downtown Plaza, Pavilions, Roseville Galleria, Town & Country
Historic Spots: Old Sacramento, CA State Railroad Museum
Specialty:
Evangeline’s, Lumens Light + Living, Collected Works Gifts
Boutiques:
Felicia Strati, Cuffs, French Cuff Consignment
Vintage Shops:
Thunderhorse, Crimson & Clover, Racks
Galleries: Crocker Art Museum, Artists’ Collaborative Gallery, Spanglish Arte
Antique Stops:
Sacramento Antique Faire, Fringe, 57th Street Antique Row
(Don’t forget your comfy shoes!)
Fun, Frivolity, Wine & Retro Things
Good Times Ahead!
Are You Up for a Weekend of Fun, Frivolity, Wine & Retro Things?
If so, pack your vintage-inspired bathing suit and get your taste buds ready for a rollercoaster ride of an experience. Oh, and make sure you have a place to rest up – before, between and after – as these events are sure to require some energy and enthusiasm on your part. And while you’re at it (if you can handle more excitement), ask for your Gold Card (at participating hotels) – your ticket to even more fun and extra savings around town. [http://www.discovergold.org/visitors/goldcard/]
Friday, September 21
A TASTE OF SACRAMENTO – 14th Annual Easter Seals benefit featuring unlimited wine, beer and food tastings. Sacramento Convention Center, Downtown, 5:30-9pm, $40. http://www.myeasterseals.org/events/a-taste-of-sacramento.html
NATIVE HARVEST FESTIVAL TASTING – Seasonal Native American-inspired foods, entertainment and trunk show. Inside Ancient Future, Midtown, 6-8pm. Ticket pre-purchase required, $30.
(916) 476-3754, http://sacramento.downtowngrid.com/events/index.php?events_id=8571&tk=d79dbf1b6378939e57e9&event_on=09%2F21%2F2012
Saturday, September 22
A MAD MEN INSPIRED POOL PARTY – Contests, cocktails, food trucks, DJ music, classic cars, shopping, proceeds to various charities. The Greens Hotel, Uptown. 2-6pm, $8. http://sacramento.downtowngrid.com/events/index.php?events_id=8766&tk=d79dbf1b6378939e57e9&event_on=09%2F22%2F2012
Eat, drink and be merry. Be there or be square.
Sacramento’s Hidden Gems – Discovered!
The new Sacramento Visitors Guide is here!
Pick up your free copy of the 2012 spring/summer Sacramento Visitors Guide now. Get it at participating hotels, Sacramento visitors centers or the Convention Center; order it online (http://www.discovergold.org/visitors/freevisitorsguide.cfm) or call for a free copy – 800-292-2334. And while you’re waiting, here’s a sneak peak…
Diamonds in the Rough ~ Uncover Sacramento’s Unique Gems
By Melanie Noel Light
Unique to Sacramento, eclectic in experience, and as quaint as the neighborhoods they’re in, these experiences will leave a lasting impression on your senses.
SAVORY
The Firehouse – Known for its overall elegance, romantic courtyard and impressive wine cellar, the aptly-awarded Firehouse Restaurant has been a charmer since it opened in 1960. Quality customer service and enhancement of celebrations are the goals of The Firehouse’s General Manager and Wine Director Mario Ortiz, who celebrated his 40th anniversary with the restaurant in 2011. Working his way from busboy to virtually self-taught sommelier, Mario spent years visiting with the area’s top winemakers and learning to pair The Firehouse’s “California nouveau continental cuisine” with the restaurant’s 2,400 labels. Go for a romantic meal in the courtyard or try wine tasting Tuesdays in the wine cellar. 1112 2nd St., 916-442-4772, http://www.firehouseoldsac.com
>Stay – Old Sacramento hotels include the Embassy Suites and Holiday Inn Capital Plaza
Jim Denny’s – The just-cooked-in-front-of-you quality of Jim Denny’s makes a visit to this tiny but mighty pre- and post-wartime eatery worth the typically-long wait. Known for their burgers, chili and monster omelets, it’s definitely quaint, always delicious, and a Food Network favorite. 816 12th St., 916-443-9655, http://www.jim-dennys.com
>Stay – Nearby Downtown hotels include the Hyatt, Sheraton Grand and The Citizen
STREET-SMART
Local Roots Food Tours – Let Lisa take you on a journey-afoot through Sacramento’s historic neighborhoods and unique eateries. Learn tidbits about the area’s architectural and haunted history, and sample locally-inspired signature dishes and drinks. Wear comfy shoes and have camera on hand for photo ops. 800-838-3006, http://www.local-food-tours.com
Bows & Arrows – Bows & Arrows is quintessentially Midtown with vintage shop, gallery space, café lounge and whimsical patio. The multi-use space, eclectic lighting and homemade goods (try the lime avocado popsicle) offer an intimate peek into what makes Midtown so uniquely “indy”. 1815 19th St., 916-822-5668, http://www.bowscollective.com
>Stay – Midtown accommodations include Amber House Bed & Breakfast
SOUVENIERS
Visions of Eden – For a glimpse of the finer (but still attainable) things in life, Visions of Eden is inviting and awe-inspiring. Luxuries for the home include dazzling Fire & Light glassware, mesmerizing pit and pendulums, luxurious tapestries and splendid garden decor. 126 J St., 916-448-1499, http://www.visions-of-eden.com
Evangeline’s – For a little unadulterated fun step into Evangeline’s for hard-to-find knick-knacks, costumes, accessories, and things that will coax a chuckle out of you. Never again underestimate the wonders of bacon- or mullet-inspired gifts. 113 K St., 916-448-2594, http://www.evangelines.com
>Stay – Old Sacramento area hotels include the historic Delta King
No Snow Day? Will You Settle for Some Sunshine?
Views from the Holiday Inn Capitol Plaza
If you’re a downtown/central city type… Stay at the Holiday Inn Capitol Plaza, order some delicious and (surprisingly) reasonably-priced room service, and then enjoy the views as the sun sparkles through the Tower Bridge and settles into the Sacramento River.
Convenience is king here with immediate freeway access, but I suggest you park the car and leave it because you can hoof it to pretty much whatever your heart desires. Shopping and a brewery (River City) await you at the Downtown Plaza – just steps from your room – and Old Sacramento is not much farther the other direction, home to a handful of classy restaurants, historic sites, intriguing shops and photo ops.
Try Ten22 for dinner or drinks on the patio, Steamers for some breakfast tacos at a sunny sidewalk table, or the Delta King for river views and a more lavish (but still affordable) champagne brunch. Haven’t seen the newly-expanded and highly renovated Crocker Museum yet? It’s just another short jaunt away and will fulfill your more artistic, creative and cultured tastes.
If mom-n-pop is more your style… Stay at the comfy, cozy Amber House Bed & Breakfast in Midtown, unwind with a welcome drink on the porch, and then head out for some boutique shopping ‘afoot. Once those hunger pangs grab hold, grab some grub at Chicago Fire or Zelda’s pizzeria or try Kru or Tamaya Sushi. Independent bookstores and art galleries also abound around here.
Seriously, we’re all feeling pretty spoiled here since the New Year hit, and we’d like nothing more than to share our fine weather, amenities and attractions with you!
[Watch for more photos soon to come~]
Ladies Who “Lunch”
Inside Arden Fair Mall
We get together to see each other, first of all. We get together to shop, secondly. And finally, when we’re famished and need re-fueling, we’ll eat together. We’ve been doing it for decades now – my mom and I – cutting out of school or work early for some power shopping.
When I was school-aged and not yet able to drive, my mom would pick me up from school mid-day for an afternoon of shopping and lunch at one of Sacramento’s major malls (Arden Fair, Country Club or Sunrise, usually). And with each mall came its own dining theme. For instance, at Sunrise we’d eat at the same dark cozy café and I’d order the same dang thing every time – club sandwich. At Arden – which was so different back then than it is now – I recall Carmel Corner popcorn and Orange Julius’ (must have been a late afternoon snack).
It only happened about twice a year, when my mom would pull up in her chariot and rescue me from math, science and P.E. for one day. But during the summer when my cousin Heidi was visiting from L.A., we’d all spend a day in Old Sacramento, shopping and dining like clockwork in the Firehouse’s courtyard… turkey sandwich, no mayo, and a 7-Up.
Just as Sacramento, its shopping venues and dining scene have changed, so have our habits morphed to reflect the times, although not entirely. Yesterday I met my mom in Old Sacramento for some shopping and lunch, and I found comfort in recalling the old and gratitude in the longevity of the ritual.
Whether it’s shopping to enrich our upcoming experiences or lunch to reconnect and reload, sharing our favorite pastime together allows us to not only continually re-bond, but perhaps even strengthen the threads of our existence… This time, I took Mom to Ten 22′s outdoor patio. While it wasn’t the first time I’d been there, I didn’t order the veggie Panini like I usually do. I actually tried something new.
Museum Stores: Shopping Outside the Box
Unique Holiday Gifts
Be a great gift giver, enjoy the art of gift giving, and feel good about your purchases at the same time! How? By shopping at local museums, finding hidden treasures and holiday gifts, and supporting local history and the parks that preserve it.
When searching for holiday gifts, local shoppers often think of malls and mass retailers. However, hidden treasures and unique items are available at various museums and historic parks throughout the Sacramento area as well. Outlined below is a sampling of some of the unique, quality items waiting to be discovered at a few favorite historic destinations around town.
California State Railroad Museum
California Poppy Necklaces & Earrings — Made exclusively for the Railroad Museum Store, fashion necklaces and earrings are available that showcase an elegant floral design taken from the Santa Fe Railway’s “California Poppy” china pattern. This china pattern was used for decades on many Santa Fe passenger trains traveling to and from California. The necklace comes with a 30″ chain that can be shortened. The earring wires are hypo-allergenic.
Polar Express Merchandise — Of course, the Museum Store sells difficult-to-find and crowd-pleasing Polar Express merchandise, all officially licensed. Gift items include water globes, picture frames, throw blankets, mugs and holiday ornaments.
Gift Memberships — The gift of membership to the California State Railroad Museum makes a wonderful gift with many benefits such as free entrance into the museum, free excursion train rides, special discounts, invitations to members-only events and much, much more!
Huntington & Hopkins Hardward Store (located next to Railroad Museum)
Wooden Toys & Puzzles — Reminiscent of an earlier time, wooden puzzles and time-tested toys spur imagination and hands-on creativity for kids of all ages.
Local History Books — Wonderful and thought-provoking books are available about Sacramento’s role in the Gold Rush and the Pony Express.
Governor’s Mansion State Historic Park
California or State Parks Branded Merchandise — Perfect for California lovers, the Governor’s Mansion SHP store has California branded merchandise such as mini flags, California bear mugs,t-shirts, books, pins and more. Plus, a variety of State Parks branded merchandise is available, too.
Period Popular Jewelry — Affordable yet tasteful costume jewelry (that represents the period of interpretation 1903-1967) is available in the Mansion store and includes necklaces, bracelets, brooches, pins and earrings. Great conversation pieces!
Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park
Books About 19th Century Life — Appropriate for the restored Mansion, two popular books are available at the on-site store, titled “Essential Handbook of Victorian Entertaining” and “Essential Handbook of Victorian Etiquette.” Both books provide guidance for properly conducting oneself in an era where social norms differed materially from those we are familiar with today.
State Indian Museum
Native American Artwork — Unique and original artwork made by talented Native American artisans from all over California is available in the Museum Store.
Soapstone Kits — Wonderful for children with active imaginations who love to explore and enjoy hands-on activities, soapstone carving kits are available in a variety of figurines such as a bear, wolf, sun disk or dolphin.
Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park
Corn Husk Doll Angels — Traditional corn husk dolls bring the magic of Christmas as charming angel ornaments. Available handmade by the artisans at Sutter’s Fort or as “do-it-yourself” kits.
Hand-Dipped Beeswax Candles & Pine Cones — Made on-site, Sutter’s Fort SHP has its very own line of beeswax candles and pine cones that range in shapes, sizes, scents and prices. Beeswax candles lit the night during the cold winter of 1846. Now everyone can enjoy the beauty and scent of hand-dipped candles.
No admission fee is necessary to browse through the various on-site stores. More information and hours for the various sites is available online at http://www.parks.ca.gov/CapitalDistrict.
Antiques, Vintage, Retro… It’s all Grand
Having spent the night dreaming of antiques, vintage gowns and time travel, I thought it would be a good time to list some of the Sacramento area’s best antique and vintage shops. Many are well established with rooted reputations, while others are newer or more obscure. Either way, if you love old things and the stories they could tell, put on your comfy shoes, grab your canvas bags and an energy bar, and let’s hit the road!
Cheap Thrills – 1217 21st St (Midtown), 916-446-4103
Prevues: A Fashion Fetish – 2417 K St (Midtown), 916-448-4556
Article Consignment Boutique – 5704 Elvas (East Sac), 916-316-5772
The Antique Company – 2100 X St (Downtown), 916-457-1099
57th Street Antique Mall – 875 57th St (East Sac), 916-451-3110
Sacramento Antique Faire – Under the W-X Freeway (Downtown), Sundays, http://www.sacantiquefaire.com
There are several other places I could list, but since I haven’t been there yet…. well, I’d obviously better stop dreaming about it and and get back into the game. There’s clearly a lot of shopping yet to be done! Watch for Vintage part 2 coming soon.
Office Inspiration – A Break Away?!
The Bread Store, across from OfficeMax
So I took a walk this afternoon to sneak out of the office, suck up some fresh air and soak up some of that late winter sunshine. About halfway, I decided to duck into OfficeMax on J & 17th because I was curious to see what they had.
But because I was also in need of some career comfort, it delighted me to plop down into an office chair that felt almost heavenly in comparison to the one I’ve got. It was black – not my color of choice when it comes to office furniture – but hey, I know I’m the minority in that regard. And anyway, it was just so darn comfortable that I had visions of wanting to sit at my desk all day and write away.
Then I spotted some very attractive journals/notebooks that awakened my sense of all things pretty… and just in time, frankly, because I too was in need of some career inspiration.
And although I walked out empty-handed (to be fair, I didn’t have my wallet with me), I did not walk out with nothing. You see, shopping at office stores is not exactly titillating to me…. but on this day I learned that they can be quite comforting, and even inspiring if you let them.
Arden Fair – Hits Midlife at 52
A 'Retro' Arden Fairl
It’s a cold and wet Friday afternoon. We drive into the Arden Fair Mall parking lot and slip right into a convenient parking space (Obviously, it’s not Christmastime). We walk down the mall, which is full of people and light, and still I find myself missing the gargantuan Christmas decorations that really make the place sparkle during the holidays (But then again, I don’t usually get to see them because I usually avoid the December crowds like the dentist).
After some rather intense shopping, Tom and I decide to take a load off and rejuvenate at the quiet and cozy California Cafe bar. There’s a couple eating a late lunch, two women just finishing cappuccinos and a woman with an armful of bags having a beer and what looks to be a shot of vodka.
Refreshed, we separate to cover greater ground. Tom finds the perfect black t-shirt at Banana Republic. I sample 20 different ‘butters’ at The Body Shop and try on some billowy little nighties at Victoria’s Secret.
I think back on what Arden Fair used to be like: Small and dark with Weinstocks on one end and Sears – separated by a small street – at the other. I look out and see an open field across the street… notice the scent of caramel corn emanating from Caramel Corner… see the five and dime Ben Franklin store… the movie theater hidden underground and the psychedelic 70s paisley carpet luring us down into its clutches… There’s the groovy Food Circus and Corti Brothers speciality market separated from the main mall by an automotive shop to the east…
I loved that little mall, and how it still reminds me of childhood and the magic lurking in dark, quirky spaces.
These days, Arden Fair is hardly anything like it used to be. It’s better in so many ways – large, clean and constantly full of the latest and greatest shops. There’s a handful of restaurants encasing it like a half circle. And at Christmastime, the crowds are so great that shuttles scoot people from the parking lots of other nearby businesses. (Of course, that field across the street is now full of buildings… and I may be the only one bothered by the loss of that little touch of nature).
Still, what was once the Little Humble Mall that Could is now the large contemporary mall that does. I wonder what 10 or 20 more years will unveil, and how we’ll look back on this particular time and place with nostalgia.
http://www.ArdenFairMall.com
{photo courtesy Arden Fair Mall}
There is something special about Sacramento; the rich land upon which it was built, the rivers that flow through, the bounty around it and the people who make the Sacramento area their home.
Life is good in California’s Capital City for many reasons, including climate and geography, community and amenities, nature and wildlife, and so much more. It’s hard to imagine a warmer feeling than a sunshine-drenched morning here, an easier feeling than a refreshing post-rain spring day, or a more engaging experience than a night on the town with friends or family.
There’s truly something here for everyone and every mood, for Sacramento is a shifting entity itself, with four distinct but relatively mild seasons, diverse neighborhoods and people, a ripening food and restaurant scene, year-round events and outdoor fun, and daytime and night-time adventures. Its magic is a blend of history and tradition, vision and reinvention. And there’s so much pleasure to be had here – with family and friends, food and wine, adventures and experiences – that they’re likely to create the kind of fond memories that might seem so familiar… but aren’t quite like any other.
