Good hotel close to Amtrak and downtown attractions- help pl

Question

We are coming in on the Zephyr and leaving on the Coast Starlight, staying for a couple of nights in Sacramento.

I am looking for some help finding a good hotel (no budget) close, hopefully walkable, we will have very little luggage, to both interesting things to see and to the station.

If on time the Starlight doesn't leave until midnight so will need to be at the station late.

Any help gratefully received.

Answer

Sacramento is very walkable, especially the area around the Old Sacramento Waterfront and downtown. Since you’ll be arriving on the California Zephyr and leaving on the Coast Starlight, staying near the Sacramento Amtrak station is ideal, both for convenience and for easy access to downtown attractions.

Recommended hotel options:

Kimpton Sawyer Hotel: A modern, stylish option right in downtown Sacramento. It's about a 10–15 minute walk to the Amtrak station and adjacent to the Golden 1 Center. The hotel offers luxurious rooms, excellent service, and on-site dining.
Hyatt Regency Sacramento: Located downtown, roughly 12–15 minutes on foot from the Amtrak station. Offers spacious rooms and riverfront views. The hotel has dining and bar options, and is close to Old Sacramento and museums.
Delta King Hotel: A unique option right on the Sacramento River in Old Sacramento. The historic riverboat has been converted into a boutique hotel. It's charming, very close to museums, restaurants, and shops, and about a 15–20 minute walk to the Amtrak station. Check late-night access if your train departs at midnight.
Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Downtown: Convenient for walking to the station and Old Sacramento. Comfortable rooms with modern amenities, and it’s near cafes and attractions.

Things to consider:

Old Sacramento: Offers museums, historic buildings, shopping, and restaurants. Very walkable from most downtown hotels.
California State Railroad Museum: Perfect for train enthusiasts, especially kids or anyone interested in trains.
Late-night access: Since the Coast Starlight leaves at midnight, confirm with the hotel about luggage storage or shuttle service if needed.
Dining: Downtown has a range of restaurants, from casual cafés to fine dining. Staying in Old Sacramento gives easy access to both quick bites and scenic waterfront meals.

Summary:

If you want modern luxury: Kimpton Sawyer or Hyatt Regency are top choices.
If you want a unique historic experience: Delta King Hotel in Old Sacramento.
If convenience and comfort are your main priorities: Courtyard by Marriott is reliable and well-located.

All of these hotels provide easy access to downtown attractions and are within walking distance or a short taxi ride to the Amtrak station. For your midnight departure, planning transport or storing luggage at the hotel in advance will ensure a stress-free transition to the train.