California State Capitol Museum

Forty acres of lawn and huge old trees around the Capitol, with a rose garden and plenty of squirrels to chase. No playground, so think picnic and a run on the grass after a Capitol tour.

Right across from the Capitol and its lawns, with a saltwater pool and cabanas. Handy for a downtown weekend on foot.

A 1925 building turned boutique hotel a few blocks from the Capitol, and it says outright that kids are welcome (cribs and connecting rooms on request). No pool, so it's a better fit for a baby or toddler than a kid who wants to swim.

A 1920s market building turned hotel a couple of blocks from the Capitol. The pool is the reward at the end of a long museum day.

Suites at the edge of Capitol Park, so dinner can be mac and cheese in your room after a day on your feet.

Downtown's main library, with the Kid's Place downstairs and maker spaces with 3D printers for older kids. A good cool-off stop between downtown sights.