Hyatt Regency Sacramento

The Hyatt Regency Sacramento stands directly across from the California State Capitol and next to the Sacramento Convention Center, in the heart of the government and business district. It is a big, full-service hotel with hundreds of rooms, a pool, restaurants and meeting space, popular with conference attendees, legislative visitors and leisure travelers who want a central, no-surprises stay. From many rooms you look out over Capitol Park or the downtown skyline, and the walk to Old Sacramento, Golden 1 Center and Midtown restaurants is easy. For first-time visitors, it is among the most convenient bases in the city.

Location is the strength. You can walk out the door and be at the Capitol in minutes, then continue to Capitol Park, the Crocker Art Museum or Old Sacramento without a car. Light rail and buses are close, and the convention center is practically next door, which helps if you are attending an event. The hotel's upper floors have good views, so ask for a high room facing the park or skyline. Streets around the hotel are quiet at night, since this is a government district, but they can be lively during weekday business hours.

Rooms are spacious by downtown standards and are updated periodically, with comfortable beds, work areas and modern bathrooms. The hotel has restaurants and bars, a fitness center and an outdoor pool that is welcome in Sacramento's hot summer. Service is professional, with a concierge desk that can help with tours, tickets and restaurant reservations. Families will appreciate the size of the rooms and the proximity to the Capitol and the zoo, which is a short drive away.

Because the hotel serves meetings and conventions, rates fluctuate with the event calendar. Weekend stays often cost less than weekday ones, and summer weekends can be especially good value. Parking is available on site for a fee, and many guests arrive by rideshare from the airport. If you want a quieter, more boutique experience, consider other options, but for central convenience, a pool and reliable service, the Hyatt Regency is hard to beat.

Travelers who like a classic city-hotel experience will appreciate the lobby, the staffed concierge and the ease of walking to the Capitol and Crocker Art Museum. Ask about packages that include parking or breakfast, and look for weekend rates when no conventions are in town, since the hotel can be excellent value when the business calendar is quiet.

Because the hotel is popular with groups, request early check-in if you are arriving on a morning flight, and ask the concierge about restaurant reservations, since nearby tables fill quickly during legislative weeks and conventions.