Hyatt Regency Sacramento

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.

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.

Free tours of the Capitol itself, open on weekdays only. Expect a security line and no toy weapons, then let the kids run it off on the lawns outside.

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

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.

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.