Historic Main Street Elk Grove

Discover what makes Main Street the place to be in Elk Grove.

Regarded as one of the oldest western settlements in the greater Sacramento region, Elk Grove’s Main Street is full of rich history, boutique shops, beautifully appointed restaurants, nightlife, and unique indoor-outdoor public and private events. Main Street has become a must-see destination for those visiting Elk Grove.

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Things to Do

Main Street's collection of shops and restaurants presents the community and visitors with a wide variety of experiences including dining, events, shopping, and more. If you need a break from the boutiques and shops, marvel at Main Street's historic architecture or catch a live concert or special event at Old Town Plaza.

Shopping

Elk Grove’s extensive network of boutiques and small businesses makes it impossible to leave Main Street empty-handed. Pick out the perfect outfit at Beeleu Boutique, stock up on vintage home decor, antiques, and gifts at The Red Door, Antiques Vintage & More. Surprise that special someone with flowers and gifts from Flowers by Fairytales for a romantic evening.

Food & Drink

Satisfy your cravings at one of the many cafes, bars, or restaurants on Main Street in Elk Grove. Start your day with fresh coffee and pastries from Tule Coffeehouse. Enjoy an Italian-American dining experience at Brick House Restaurant or Palermo Ristorante Italiano, each offering authentic Italian eats at an affordable price. Stop by Prost Beer Hall for German eats and beer. Sip local suds at brewery, Dust Bowl Brewing Co. - Old Town Taphouse.

Prost beer hall

Shop the Main Street Marketplace

Located inside the Visitor Center at 9045 Elk Grove Blvd., Suite 102, the Main Street Marketplace offers a curated retail experience in the heart of Historic Main Street.

Featuring a rotating selection of handmade goods, artwork, specialty foods, and gifts from local makers and small businesses, the Marketplace highlights the creativity and craftsmanship of the Elk Grove's local business community. Stop in to shop local, discover unique finds, and take a piece of Elk Grove home with you!

History

In 1852, brothers Joseph and George Kerr, purchased the 320 acres of land that would later become Elk Grove. Once the railroad made its way south of Sacramento and into Elk Grove, around 1868, businessmen began to see the area’s potential. As time went on, Elk Grove saw a massive increase in new businesses, establishing the area as a hub for west-bound travelers and businessmen.

In 1892, a disastrous fire broke out, nearly destroying the entire area. Bob’s Club, a saloon built in 1867, was the only building to survive and is the oldest building still standing in Elk Grove. Following the destruction, many buildings were rebuilt and can be admired to this day. Roughly 132 years after the railroad was built, The City of Elk Grove was founded. Almost everything done in the city today can trace its origins back to the railroad tracks, which still run through the center of Main Street.

A Special Planning Area (SPA) has been established in order to protect and preserve the historic character of Main Street. Serving as a master plan to guide the future of Elk Grove, the SPA regulates architectural design standards, zoning regulations, and the process for new development.

Want to get a closer look into how Elk Grove came to be? Download the walking tour, “Discover the History of This Jewel We Call Old Town."

A black-and-white image of Main Street with an antique car driving in the distance.
Credit >> BeLocal

Seasonal Events

Fridays in the Grove

Elk Grove offers a range of enjoyable events on select Fridays throughout the summer and fall. These Friday's in the Grove events cater to different age groups and interests, including family-friendly movie nights, country line dancing, and 18+ comedy nights, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. Check out our events calendar for the full line-up of Fridays in the Grove events at Old Town Plaza.

Thriftathon: Urban Reclaim Market

A vibrant vintage, thrift, and secondhand market hosted at various locations across Sacramento County. Featuring over 30 vendors, this curated flea market experience includes unique activations such as community clothing swaps, buy-sell-trade opportunities, and more!

The Creative Space Market

Explore a world of creativity at The Creative Space Market, a quarterly market hosted at Old Town Plaza. Each market introduces unique themes, with vendors showcasing specially curated items. Immerse yourself in the melodies of local talents and savor delectable bites from food trucks. Come join for a dynamic fusion of art, music, and culinary delights!

Dickens Street Faire

Elk Grove’s traditional start to the Yuletide Season is the Dickens Street Faire every November. Featuring 145+ arts & crafts vendors, festive food, and live musical performances. Listen to Christmas carolers or get a picture with Santa to ring in the holiday season on Main Street Elk Grove.

Crowds walk through Main Street at the Dickens Faire.

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