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Best Ways To Experience The Presidential Inauguration In Sacramento

The 57th Presidential Inauguration will occur on January 21, 2013 and promises to be a unique opportunity to experience a historic event. This also happens to be a holiday, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. No matter what your political affiliation or belief, you have to admit this inauguration is a big deal. Sacramento is a political town so interest should be high, at least in and around the capitol. So, what are your plans? Here are a few ideas on how you can participate in this once-in-a-lifetime inauguration event.

obama inauguration
(credit: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Sactrips.com  
(916) 443-8741
www.sactrips.com

Sactrips.com is a local tour company that is hosting a trip from Sacramento to New York leaving January 17, 2013 and returning January 22, 2013. The tour company will land participants in New York City during the Presidential Inauguration and includes complementary shuttle service to San Francisco, hotel and event activities. In addition to several tours and activities while in New York, the package also includes a day trip to Barack Obama's Presidential Inauguration and parade in Washington D.C. Click here for details on pricing.

state capitol politics
(Credit: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

State Capitol Museum
1315 10th St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 324-0333
www.capitolmuseum.ca.gov

If you just cannot swing a trip to Washington D.C. right now, then you should take advantage of living in Sacramento and visit the State Capitol Building. The U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C was the basis for the Sacramento Capitol Building design. There is always something exciting going on in and around the Capitol and you might even run into your representative. Stop by the Capitol Museum and see the "California Treasures: Artwork of the Great Depression" exhibit. Capitol tours are available between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. and start every hour. Stop at nearby Simon's Cafe at 1415 16th Street for a coffee or meal before or after your visit.

Related: Best Bars For Networking In Sacramento

sac history museum
(credit: historicoldsac.org)

Sacramento History Museum
101 I St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 808-7059
www.historicoldsac.org

If you just want to go out and celebrate America, then take a trip to the Sacramento History Museum. While most of the artifacts displayed here are local and Gold Rush related, they represent a small but important part of the nation's path to greatness. This is a little hole-in-the-wall museum and is mostly made up of donated historical items found in the city. You will see things about the Pony Express, Gold Rush and early politics. Entry is only a $5 donation and when you are done, you will have the option of visiting other historic attractions located within blocks of the museum. Walk to the Delta King and have lunch, check out the old Eagle Theater or visit the California Rail Road Museum.

2004 Ryder Cup - Opening Ceremonies - September 16, 2004
(Photo by A. Messerschmidt/Getty Images)

Throw your own Inaugural Event

This is the perfect opportunity to throw a Presidential Inauguration party at your place. Turn on the big-screen television, buy some hot wings and beverages and you have the makings for a great event. This may be the number one option for most people and might be the best option for seeing everything you want to see. Just like watching football, television allows viewers to see and hear all of the highlights. Television also allows you to jump from one location to another and best of all; you do not have to stand elbow to elbow with a million people. Do not forget the refrigerator and bathroom is always just steps away. If you do have to leave the room, you can just pause the DVR.

Related: Best Bar Rentals for Your Private Party

David Mace is a freelance writer covering all things Sacramento. His work can be found on Examiner.com.

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