Welcome to Main Street, Historic 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.

Things to Do

Main Street's collection of shops, businesses, 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 one of the many boutiques on Main Street including TrendE and Beeleu Boutique. Stock up on vintage home decor, antiques, and gifts at Vintage Soul or 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 The Coffee Spot Co. Enjoy an Italian-American dining experience at Brick House Restaurant or Palermo Ristorante Italiano, each offering authentic Italian eats at an affordable price. Sip local suds at breweries such as Dust Bowl Brewing Co. - Old Town Taphouse, or Old Town Pizza and Tap House.

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 crowd of people walk around Old Town Plaza

Seasonal & Upcoming Events

Americana Vintage Market

Every second Saturday starting in April (10 am-2 pm) the Americana Vintage Market presents Elk Grove's vintage and handmade pop-up market. The market hosts up to 50 local vintage and handmade vendors, food trucks, baked goods, and coffee booths. Visitors can enjoy live music and performances in the heart of Main Street.

Dickens Street Faire

Join Elk Grove’s traditional start to the Yuletide Season at the Dickens Street Faire. Featuring 125+ 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 in historic Elk Grove.

Food Truck Mania

Held the first Wednesday of every month, Food Truck Mania brings the community together for an evening of gourmet cuisine and family-friendly fun. Savor mouthwatering bites from a variety of food trucks while enjoying live entertainment.

Friday's 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.

Uncorked & Uncapped

Gather your friends and head over to Uncorked & Uncapped 2023. For one day in September, visitors can enjoy unlimited tastings of local craft beer and wine, live music, and food vendors.

There's always something happening on Main Street! Find even more events below.