Step Aboard the Delta King Theater in Sacramento: History Meets the Stage

Introduction

Docked along the Sacramento River in Old Sacramento, the Delta King Theater offers visitors something truly unique: live performances inside a restored 1920s riverboat. The Delta King itself is a floating piece of history, once a luxurious paddlewheel steamer that ferried passengers between San Francisco and Sacramento. Today, it’s permanently moored and transformed into a boutique hotel, dining destination, and cultural hub—with its crown jewel being the intimate Delta King Theater.

This one-of-a-kind venue is home to the acclaimed Sacramento Theatre Company, which stages everything from comedies and dramas to musicals and thought-provoking plays. The setting alone makes the experience memorable: plush seating, river views, and the sense that you’ve stepped back into a bygone era.

Whether you’re a theater lover, a history enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a memorable night out in Sacramento, the Delta King Theater combines the charm of the city’s riverfront with the magic of live performance. It’s an experience where history, culture, and entertainment flow together—just like the waters beneath the boat.

What is the Delta King Theater in Sacramento famous for?

The Delta King Theater is famous for its unique location inside a historic 1920s paddlewheel riverboat. It’s also known for hosting performances by the Sacramento Theatre Company, one of the region’s longest-running and most respected theater groups.

Why should you visit the Delta King Theater?

You should visit the Delta King Theater because it offers a performance experience you won’t find anywhere else. Watching a play on a historic riverboat in Old Sacramento adds layers of atmosphere and charm that a traditional theater can’t match. Plus, you can pair your evening with dinner on board or a stroll through the historic district.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit the Delta King Theater?

The theater operates according to its performance schedule, usually with shows in the evenings and matinees on weekends.

The best times to visit are during Sacramento’s spring and fall seasons, when the weather is pleasant for exploring Old Sacramento before or after a show. Always check the official calendar for performance dates and times.

How much does it cost to visit the Delta King Theater in Sacramento?

Ticket prices vary by production but typically range from $20 to $40 per person. Special events and premium performances may cost more. Dining packages or hotel stays on the Delta King can also be combined with your theater experience for an enhanced night out.

What can you see or do at the Delta King Theater?

At the Delta King Theater, you can:

Watch live performances by the Sacramento Theatre Company.

Explore the Delta King riverboat, which also includes a hotel, restaurant, and bar.

Enjoy riverfront views before or after your show.

Dive into history, as the boat itself is a carefully restored relic from the 1920s.

What is the history behind the Delta King Theater?

The Delta King was built in 1927 as a luxury paddlewheel steamer, designed to transport passengers and cargo between San Francisco and Sacramento. Alongside its twin, the Delta Queen, it represented the height of river travel elegance. After years of service, wartime use, and even abandonment, the Delta King was eventually restored and permanently moored in Sacramento.

Today, the ship serves as a floating hotel and cultural landmark, with the Delta King Theater continuing the vessel’s tradition of entertaining guests—this time through the performing arts.

Where is the Delta King Theater located and how do you get there?

The Delta King Theater is located on the Delta King riverboat, docked at:
1000 Front Street, Old Sacramento, CA 95814

By car: Parking garages are available nearby in Old Sacramento.

By train: Sacramento Valley Station is a short walk away.

By foot: If you’re staying downtown, it’s an easy stroll to the waterfront.

Insider Tips for Visiting the Delta King Theater

🎟 Reserve tickets early: The theater’s intimate size means shows can sell out quickly.

🍽 Pair with dinner: Book a table at the Pilothouse Restaurant onboard for a full evening experience.

🌅 Arrive before sunset: The riverfront views from the deck are breathtaking at golden hour.

Nearby Attractions to the Delta King Theater in Sacramento

Old Sacramento Waterfront – A historic district with shops, dining, and cobblestone streets.

California State Railroad Museum – A must-see for train lovers, showcasing historic locomotives.

Tower Bridge – Sacramento’s iconic golden drawbridge, perfect for photos.

Sacramento History Museum – Explore Gold Rush stories just steps away.

Crocker Art Museum – A short drive to one of California’s premier art collections.

Experience the Delta King Theater with Questo

The Delta King Theater is more than a performance space—it’s an experience that blends Sacramento’s history with the thrill of live storytelling. With Questo, you can turn your evening at the theater into part of a wider interactive walking quest, exploring Old Sacramento’s hidden stories, landmarks, and riverfront charm.

👉 Download the Questo app today and make your visit to the Delta King Theater an adventure that sails far beyond the stage.