Things to Do in El Dorado Hills

With its rolling hills, sweeping views of the Sierra, and proximity to Folsom Lake, El Dorado Hills is one of the most popular suburbs in the greater Sacramento area. Just 25 miles northeast of Sacramento and 75 miles from South Lake Tahoe, its central location makes it a great choice for anyone looking to put down roots in the region. The family-friendly vibe, numerous parks, top-notch restaurants, and varied shops just add to the appeal.

It may be quiet, but El Dorado Hills is no sleepy suburb. Rather, it has plenty of lively events throughout the year, from holiday celebrations to live music and festivals. Plus, it offers a wide range of homes from which to choose, from high-end luxury estates to upscale townhomes and apartments to single-family homes with room to roam. Following are some of our favorite things to do in El Dorado Hills.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Photo courtesy California State Parks

Its location in the Sierra foothills means El Dorado Hills has plenty of outdoor recreation to enjoy. The city sits along the southeastern shore of Folsom Lake, ideal for swimming, boating, fishing and water sports like kayaking and jet skiing. There are also numerous hiking and biking trails around the lake, which is the eastern terminus for the American River Bike Trail.

Numerous parks can be found in El Dorado Hills as well, including Promontory Park, with its large playground and splash pad, and El Dorado Hills Community Park, which is a great place to spend a day with the family — four-legged family members included. It has fenced-in areas for both large and small dogs, plus a community pool, barbecue areas and a playground.

El Dorado Hills offers easy access to some of the best hiking and biking trails in the greater Sacramento area. Darrington Trail stretches along the eastern edge of Folsom Lake along the South Fork of the American River, offering opportunities for wildflower viewing and bird watching. Brown’s Ravine Trail is a hiking-only trail (known for purple lupine in the spring!) that starts near its namesake marina and extends 13 miles to Salmon Falls Road.

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Go on a Shopping Spree

Photo courtesy Tea Xotics

If you’re in need of a little retail therapy, head to the El Dorado Hills Town Center, a hub for shopping, dining and events. It has national retailers as well as smaller boutiques, including  Face in a Book, an indie bookshop that also offers gifts, greeting cards, and stationery;  Bark Avenue, a locally owned and operated pet supply and grooming store; and Cadence Corner Boutique, specializing in women’s clothing, accessories, home decor, and gift items. Looking for a gourmet gift? Check out Tea Xotics, which offers loose-leaf teas, tonics and body oils.

Have a Bite to Eat

Photo courtesy Mom and Pop Chicken Shop

El Dorado Hills has dozens of eateries, ranging from small, locally-owned spots to gourmet, farm-to-fork restaurants. Some of the best spots to try include Selland’s Market-Café, which features farm-fresh salads, pizza, sandwiches and larger plates; Milestone, offering seasonal dishes and a popular weekend brunch (not to mention a huge wine list); and Sienna, which features steaks and seafood in a refined setting. Looking for something a bit more laid-back? Try The Purple Place, a casual roadhouse with burgers and other pub fare; or Mom and Pop Chicken Shop, featuring some of the best hot chicken sandwiches around.

Get to Know Your Neighbors

Photo courtesy El Dorado Hills Art, Beer & Wine Festival

El Dorado Hills hosts many community events throughout the year, from farmers markets to fun runs. Some of the most popular events to check out include the Fireworks & Freedom Festival, held in July; Live on the Boulevard, a Thursday night concert series held throughout the summer; and the El Dorado Hills Brewfest, held in September. There are also spring garden tours, a fall festival, holiday tree lighting and Easter eggstravaganza each year.

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Make Yourself at Home

El Dorado Hills is one of the best residential communities around. You can find a wide variety of home styles in this region, with a significant emphasis on high-end luxury homes. You’ll find lakeview homes, houses overlooking peaceful meadows, and massive mansions and luxury properties within exclusive housing communities in the area. El Dorado Hills is known for its rolling hills and expansive views, which means all the more land for homeowners to enjoy.