Sutter's Fort - State Historic Park

In 1839 a Swiss immigrant named John Sutter received a 48,000-acre land grant in the Sacramento Valley from the Mexican government. He used the land to create a flourishing agricultural empire and named it New Helvetia (New Switzerland.) This empire established Sacramento’s earliest settlement and the first non-Indian settlement in California’s Central Valley. 

In 1847 Sutter sent aid to the Donner Party, a group of immigrants trapped in a winter storm in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Word spread and Sutter became known for his hospitality and for providing temporary refuge to travelers. This reputation made New Helvetia the destination for early immigrants to California. 

Less than a decade after they were established, Sutter’s properties were overrun by gold seekers and the fort is all that remains of New Helvetia. It has been restored to its former state based on an 1847 map published in Darmstadt, Germany and is open daily for tours. 

Location-Directions
The park is located in midtown Sacramento between K and L Streets and 26th and 28th Streets.

Traveling on I-80, from San Francisco, take Business 80/Hwy 50 east. Take the Business 80 exit (north towards Reno) to the N Street turn off. Travel straight on 30th Street then turn left under the freeway at L Street to the Fort which will be located on your right. 

Facilities - Opportunities
The Fort is available for private parties and gatherings for a fee.
Call for availability and information: 916-324-7405.

Special events are scheduled throughout the year. 

Sutter's Fort Trade Store provides a large variety of authentic gifts and publications relating to California history including the Overland Trail and Gold Rush. The store is non-profit and operated by the Sacramento Historic Sites Association in cooperation with the California State Parks.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Summer and spring are warm; fall and winter can be cool. Layered clothing is advised.

Park Features

Activities	Facilities
Exhibits & Programs	Restrooms
Guided Tours	Visitor Center
Accessible Features	Historical

Monday - Saturday, bring quarters for the parking meters. Parking is free on Sundays.

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Sutter's Fort - State Historic Park