Introduction
If you’re anything like me—someone who enjoys discovering a place that blends scenic nature with suburban ease, local flavor, and just enough adventure—then El Dorado Hills, CA should be on your radar. I recently spent a weekend exploring this foothill community just east of Sacramento, and what I found exceeded my expectations. From lakeside trails and craft beers to charming town‑center strolls and golden sunset vistas, El Dorado Hills offers a surprisingly rich mix of things to do. Here are the 12 best & fun things to do in El Dorado Hills, CA, drawn from my own visit and local insight—with pictures, tips, and a personal tone throughout.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In El Dorado Hills, CA (2026)
1. Stroll the El Dorado Hills Town Center
One of my first stops was the Town Center—a pedestrian‑friendly hub full of shops, restaurants, cafés and a gentle lakeside walkway. According to local guides, the Town Center is the “community anchor” of El Dorado Hills, designed with broad sidewalks, a mix of retail and dining, and community events in mind.
What I loved: enjoying an espresso on the patio with lake views, people‑watching while browsing boutiques, and catching the evening light on the buildings.
Tip: Visit near golden hour for the best lighting, and plan a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants after your shopping.
See Also: 21 Best & Fun Things To Do In Greenwood, MS
2. Hit the Trails: Browns Ravine & New York Creek
I carved out a morning to escape into nature. The Browns Ravine Trail offers sweeping views of nearby Folsom Lake and is suitable for beginner to intermediate hikers. The New York Creek Trail is a shorter loop through oak woodlands and is perfect for a more relaxed walk.
Tip: Bring a water bottle and wear good shoes. For the Browns Ravine Trail, start early to get cooler temps and fewer people.
3. Enjoy Lake Views & Water‑side Leisure
One of the memorable moments for me: sitting by the lake, watching the sunlight dance on the water as families paddled or relaxed on shore. According to local resources, the area near El Dorado Hills gives great access to lakeside recreation.
Tip: Pack a picnic and head to a viewpoint near the shoreline for an easy, relaxing afternoon.
4. Visit a Craft Brewery: Mraz Brewing Company
After a day of exploring, I made my way to Mraz Brewing Company—a local craft brewery that tourism guides highlight as a fun evening stop.
Tip: Sample a flight to taste a few styles, check for food trucks or live music nights, and sit outside if the evening is nice.
5. Shop & Dine at the Town Center’s Boutique Scene
Beyond just strolling, I carved time for my favourite boutique finds and a dinner with friends. The Town Center, as noted in real‑estate guides, is a vibrant centre for shopping, dining and community events. )
Tip: Reserve dinner ahead if you’re going on a weekend, especially at popular restaurants with patio seating.
6. Picnic & Play at Community Park
On a sunny afternoon, I visited the El Dorado Hills Community Park—a spacious park that hosts free summer concerts, community events and family gatherings. Real‑estate information highlights its role in local recreation and festivals.
Tip: Bring a blanket or low lawn chair—if you catch a concert, arrive early to get a good spot.
7. Tee Off or Enjoy Scenic Golf at Serrano Country Club
If you’re a golfer (or even if you just like scenic clubhouses), I found the Serrano Country Club a highlight. While not always listed in every “best things” list, local site mentions it as an outdoor‑lifestyle hub in El Dorado Hills.
Tip: Ask about “guest rounds” or lunch at the club restaurant if you’re not playing a full round.
8. Sunset Views & Photo Spots
One of the quieter moments of my trip: finding a sunset vantage point above the hills overlooking the valley. Locals on Reddit mention spots like Kalithea Park and Ridgeview Park as hidden gems for views.
Tip: Bring a light jacket—once the sun dips, it cools down quickly up on the ridge. From a parking spot to viewpoint in minutes.
9. Family‑Friendly Fun: Library & Lake Forest Park
For a parent‑friendly outing, I visited the local library beside a duck pond and then relaxed at Lake Forest Park which has play areas, bocci courts and covered picnic tables.
Tip: Make it a midday stop—grab lunch nearby and then enjoy the park while the kids (or you!) unwind.
10. Catch a Flick or IMAX Movie
When evening came, the local cinema (Regal/IMAX) at the Town Center was a relaxing way to end the day. As one list pointed out, it’s a top entertainment option in El Dorado Hills.
Tip: Choose a convenient showtime around dinner—so you can dine, stroll the centre, and wrap up at the movie without moving too much.
11. Seasonal Events & Local Festivals
What really elevated the trip were the local events. From the Art, Beer & Wine Festival in the Town Center, to the Tree Lighting ceremony in Winter and Summer Concert Series in the park—El Dorado Hills shows its fun side through community gatherings.
Tip: Before you go, check the town calendar. If you time your visit with a festival or outdoor concert, you’ll hit a higher “fun quotient.”
12. Dine Well & Explore Local Flavors
Finally, one of my favorite parts: the food. From brunch spots to fine‑dining restaurants and casual patios overlooking the water, El Dorado Hills has a variety of wonderful options. Guides mention that dining is a highlight in the area.
Tip: Pick a restaurant for one memorable night—ask for a patio‑table with a view—and for other meals, keep it relaxed with local cafés that have character.
Final Thoughts
My weekend in El Dorado Hills reaffirmed a lesson: you don’t always need to head to major tourist hubs to find a rich and varied experience. This community offered me unexpected variety—nature and suburbia, boutique shops and craft beers, lakeside views and hillside trails.
Here are a few personal reflections:
- Balance your pace. I went from hikes and views to café‑lounge to movies. That mix made the trip full but never overwhelming.
- Enjoy the local rhythm. There was no rush; time to stroll, pause, people‑watch, sip coffee. That’s what made it memorable.
- Pack for flexibility. Good shoes for trails, a jacket for evenings, and a camera (or phone!) for views.
- Look for events. When your visit intersects with a concert or festival, the experience lifts.
- Taste local flavor. Whether it was a craft brew or a restaurant patio, I found memorable meals part of the story.