Things To Do
in El Dorado Hills
El Dorado Hills is a scenic, family-friendly suburb located southeast of Sacramento, perched on rolling hills with expansive views. The area blends master-planned neighborhoods, golf courses, and open spaces, offering easy access to nature, shopping, and dining. It serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby Folsom Lake, the Sierra foothills, and historic Gold Country towns, while maintaining a quiet, upscale vibe.
Expect well-kept streets, abundant parks, and a strong emphasis on outdoor living in this California community.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming El Dorado Hills Town Center, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. After breakfast, take a stroll around the beautiful outdoor spaces, admiring the sculptures and local artwork displayed throughout the area. Don't forget to stop by the local shops to pick up unique souvenirs and artisanal goods.
After lunch, head to the nearby El Dorado Hills Community Park for a relaxing afternoon of outdoor activities. You can explore the walking trails, have a picnic, or let the kids enjoy the playground facilities. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bicycle to explore the scenic routes around the park.
As the sun sets, make your way to a popular local restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in delicious cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade, soaking in the serene atmosphere and beautiful views. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local winery for a wine tasting experience, sampling some of the best local vintages.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. Enjoy the stunning lakeside views and take advantage of the cool morning temperatures to hike along one of the many scenic trails. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, as you may spot deer, eagles, or various species of birds.
After an invigorating morning, grab a packed lunch and find a nice spot by the lake to enjoy a picnic. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on Folsom Lake, taking in the breathtaking surroundings and enjoying the refreshing water. If you're lucky, you might even see some playful otters or swimming ducks while you're out on the lake.
After an active day, return to El Dorado Hills for a well-deserved dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Savor the flavors of the region with a focus on farm-to-table dining options. Wrap up your evening with a visit to the local ice cream parlor for a sweet treat to cool off and indulge your sweet tooth.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍷Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🛒Grocery for a week | $60-120 |
| 🏠Rent for 1 bedroom apartment (monthly) | $1,500-2,000 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $4-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong outdoor recreation options and scenic hill country
- Proximity to Sacramento with easy day trips
- Limited nightlife within El Dorado Hills itself
- Primarily car-dependent, with limited public transit
Places to Visit in El Dorado Hills
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop vantage point within Generations Park offering sweeping views of the hills, open space, and city lights at dusk.
Cinematic streetscape and fountain areas ideal for candid shots, light reflections, and people-watching photography.
Seasonal foliage and oak woodlands along the network of trails provide natural framing for landscape images.
Sunrise or golden hour views over the lake with hills on the horizon make for expansive skyline photography.
Food in El Dorado Hills
El Dorado Hills Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-smoked beef with tangy barbecue, a regional favorite available at local smokehouses and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Crisp greens, local vegetables, and house-made dressings reflecting the season.
Blistered crusts with seasonal toppings from nearby farms, commonly found in family-friendly spots.
Lightly battered or grilled fish with fresh toppings, often served with lime and salsa.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, cheese, breads, prepared foods, and live demonstrations.
Occasional street-food events and pop-up vendors around the Town Center offering quick bites and desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress is typically casual in most settings, but neat attire is appreciated for dining and events. Greet with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi' and make eye contact when speaking.
Dogs are common in parks and some trails, but keep pets leashed where required and clean up after them.
Safety
Tipping in El Dorado Hills
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. practice: 15-20% at restaurants, with rounding up for smaller tables or exceptional service. Tip for curbside pickup service if applicable.
Most places accept cash and major credit/debit cards; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with dry heat. Hydration and sun protection are essential; outdoor activities are best in the early morning or late afternoon. Lake recreation and shaded parks are popular during peak heat.
Mild temperatures and changing colors in the hills. Great for hiking and photography; evenings can be cool.
Cool to mild days with a chance of rain. Layered clothing is advised and indoor dining options shine during wetter spells.
Pleasant, green landscapes with blooming wildflowers. Ideal for outdoor activities and scenic walks.
El Dorado Hills at Night
Hiking in El Dorado Hills
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of maintained trails through oak woodlands and scenic canyons with varying difficulty.
Waterfront trail offering lake views, ideal for easy-to-moderate hikes and bike rides.
Nearby foothill routes with panoramic vistas and opportunities to observe wildlife.
Airports
How to reach El Dorado Hills by plane.
Primary airport serving the region, about 40-60 minutes by car depending on traffic; global and domestic flights.
Larger international airport about 2.5 hours drive northeast, useful for broader connections.
Major hub about 2.5-3 hours west via I-80; wide range of international and domestic flights.
Alternative west-side hub about 2.5-3 hours away; convenient for western U.S. connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families drawn to good schools, safe neighborhoods, and outdoor amenities.
Commuters and local professionals who work in Sacramento and surrounding towns.
A segment of residents seeks a peaceful, scenic environment with access to golf and leisure activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Several courses in and around El Dorado Hills attract local players and visitors seeking scenic fairways.
Parks and fields support youth leagues and casual play for families.
Expansive open space and foothill trails draw outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Dorado Hills.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for menus featuring seasonal produce, plant-forward options, and charcoal/grill alternatives; many spots offer veggie burgers, pastas, and salads, and staff can suggest substitutions.