by Victoria K.

Created on: May 20, 2009   Last Updated: August 13, 2009

California's capital city is adorned with stylish homes, glossy buildings and enough summer activities to satisfy the resident's metropolitan city and its visitors.

Besides the many activities and events this chic city has to offer, there are local venues and hot spots to stop by and visit. There are a few popular neighborhoods nestled between the tree-shaded streets. Each neighborhood boasts a variety of local flavor and entertainment.

Folsom is historically known for the Gold Rush. Walk along Sutter Street's historical district and stop by the many cafes, restaurants and unique shops for a quick bite and shopping delight. If you are an animal lover (especially where the wild things are), drop by the "Misfit Zoo" and catch up with some furry, friendly and not so friendly animal friends such as wolves and bears.

Head over to Davis where thousands of students of the U of Cali roam the downtown streets in search of a poetry reading or concert. Then make your way over to Old Sacramento where you will find a fully restored neighborhood where you can laugh the night away at a comedy club, enjoy river view dining, take in a flick or trot along the Downtown Plaza for shopping and much more. Don't forget to stop by the K Street Mall, home to the Crest Theater; a repertory cinema featuring art and foreign titles or for a more modern experience, make your way to the IMAX Theatre for the ultimate viewing experience.

Enjoy a night of pure stand-up comedy at Comedy Under the Stars, located at the Laguna Town Hall's amphitheater in June and Elk Grove in July. You can purchase snacks or bring your own. The best part? Tickets are only $5.00 per person.

Ready for some fun in the sun? Six Flags Waterworld has everything from slip slidin' water slides to rough ridin' wave pools. After drying off and enjoying a meal, spend a romantic evening watching the Delta Aquarids meteor shower in July or gaze into the summer sunset after enjoying an afternoon at the Moon Garden.

In the mood for a festival with good food and good fun? Check out the Festa Italiana in August before heading over to Pops in the Park for a 7:30pm showing of Grease during Screen on the Green. Bring a picnic blanket and a basket full of goodies and cozy up on the grass to watch one of your favorite musical classics.

And finally, what summer vacation is complete without the beach? Paradise Beach (if the name doesn't sell it, I don't know what will) is the perfect spot to sunbathe, slash around or just sit back and relax on a warm summer day in Sacramento.

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