California was at the centre of the US gay marriage row, with historic Proposition 8 eventually passing and taking away the right of gays to marry in the state. Despite this, there is a reasonable gay scene in Sacramento, with plenty of venues and resources aside from the usual array of gay dance clubs.

Gay resources include the Lavender Library Archive and Cultural Exchange, and the Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Centre, a useful place to go if you find yourself in a spot of homophobic trouble. There is a gay-friendly beach at  American River, where clothing is option, but be prepared for cold water! Gay clubs worth a visit include the new dance club Badlands, and Faces which runs a variety of theme nights, both on K Street. For a mixed crowd and a relaxed evening on an outdoor patio try the Mercantile Saloon on L Street. On Boxwood Street you can find The Bolt, a levi and leather gay bar, or there’s The Depot, again on K Street, which hosts gay nights and screens popular TV shows. Gay and gay-friendly eateries in Sacramento, including Hamburger Patties (formerly Hamburger Mary’s), or Sandra Dee’s, where you can try an alligator tail sandwich if you’re feeling adventurous. For extra-special gifts for those back home, or simply something for the weekend, check out etc, which sells a variety of gay-orientated products including porn.

As demonstrated by the rallies both for and against Proposition 8, there are various conflicting views on homosexuality in the state. In general terms, Sacramento is quite liberal, but the occasional homophobic incident does happen.

Sacramento Airport is quite small, but takes flights from many US destinations and some indirect flights from Europe. Otherwise, reaching Sacramento is easiest by buses run by companies such as iconic travel company Greyhound.