The local history is an important part of the Sacramento County lifestyle. There are many museums in the area, each of which is dedicated to commemorating a certain aspect of early California. The majority are located in Sacramento, which is an easy drive from Carmichael. The California Military Museum, for example, contains over 30,000 artifacts and a library and document archive regarding California’s military history dating back to the Spanish colonial period. The California State Indian Museum contains a large collection of artifacts documenting more than 150 tribes that were local to northern California. Other local history museums include the Roseville Telephone Museum, the Towe Auto Museum and the Sacramento Museum of History, Science and Technology.

Art enthusiasts will enjoy many opportunities for exhibitions, live music and performing arts in nearby Sacramento. The Crocker Museum in particular is an attraction not to be missed. The mansion was renovated by the Crocker family in the late 19th century. At the same time, the Crockers built a gallery to contain the family’s valuable art collection. The property, building and collection were presented to the city of Sacramento in 1885. The facility is now operated by the Crocker Art Museum Association and is dedicated to promoting the study and appreciation of fine arts.

Popular recreational activities in the area include hiking, camping, picnicking, fishing, biking, running, horseback riding, water-skiing, and boating. There are several local facilities where most, if not all, of these activities are available. The Folsom Lake State Recreational Area offers trout, catfish, bass and perch fishing as well as a 32-mile bike path. The Auburn State Recreation Area is another popular site.