Sacramento is not only the capital of the largest state in the Unites States; it is also a unique historical and cultural center for the country. Sacramento was largely unpopulated until 1848 when gold was discovered. Setting off explosive growth and the California Gold Rush, Sacramento and the entire area became the busiest and most bustling part of the entire nation as thousands came west to strike it rich. Today Sacramento remains the core cultural and economic center of its four-county metropolitan area. Despite the changes over the years Sacramento is still richly connected to its past. Explore Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, a representation of the settlement founded by Swiss homesteader John Sutter. Other museums and attractions allow visitors to participate in the Gold Rush culture, panning for gold in the river or seeing how the early forty-niners lived. Take a quick tour of the domed and ornate 1874 capitol building before strolling through the surrounding Capitol Park. Visit the 1878 Governor's Mansion, now a state museum with furnishings donated by 13 former governors. The Crocker Art Museum, houses 19th-century Californian and European art. The Discovery Museum is a hands-on replica of Sacramento as it was in 1854. The nearby Towe Ford Museum displays every model made during Ford's first 50 years. The new Golden State Museum brings history to life through state-of-the-art technology. On the riverfront, Old Sacramento encompasses 26 acres of shops and restaurants in vintage buildings built in the 1800’s. Walk through the California State Railroad Museum, the world's largest, to see over 21 restored locomotives. Sacramento also hosts year-round events and festivals. From April to September, the Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot, offers half-hour tours on its steam locomotives. August and September brings the California State Fair to the California Exposition fairgrounds (Cal Expo) in Sacramento. This 152-year-old celebration includes informative and historical exhibits, carnival games and rides, an indoor trade show, petting zoos, and live entertainment. The American River, which runs right through the heart of Sacramento, provides several opportunities for outdoor leisure, such as river rafting and fishing. In addition, the American River Cycling Trail is a pleasant ride stretching alongside the river from Folsom, CA to downtown Sacramento, where old town provides plenty of refreshment with bars and restaurants. From Indian land to Gold Rush to the present, Sacramento has seen a wealth of changes, yet it has remained a beautiful destination celebrated for its wonderful scenery and blooming flowers. While sometimes overlooked during visits to some of California’s other big cities, Sacramento has much to offer both the seasoned traveler as well as the longtime local when it comes to entertainment and beauty.