Introduction
A few summers ago, my family and I decided to escape the usual weekend routine and head out to El Dorado Hills, California. We picked this spot because we wanted somewhere close enough for an easy trip, but different enough to feel like an adventure. What we found was a place with beautiful hills, lake views, charming town‑center bustle and enough variety that everyone—from young kids to adults—found something to love. Over our stay, we discovered 12 of the best & fun things to do in El Dorado Hills that I’m excited to share with you. Whether you’re planning a daytrip or a longer stay, there’s enough here to fill a weekend (or more) of memories.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In El Dorado Hills, CA (2026)
1. Stroll & Dine at the El Dorado Hills Town Center
Right from the start, the Town Center in El Dorado Hills stood out. It’s a beautifully‑planned downtown‑style space: wide sidewalks, lakeside views, shops, restaurants and places to hang out. According to local guides, it’s the cornerstone of the area for shopping, dining and community gatherings. (Travel Lens)
Why our family loved it: After our drive in, we chose a lakeside patio for lunch, watched ducks nearby, browsed a bookstore while the kids goofed around. It felt relaxed and comfortable—exactly what we needed.
Tip: Come in the late afternoon so you can stay through dinner, and make sure to pick a spot with outdoor seating if weather allows.
See Also: 12 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Connecticut
2. Hike or Walk the Browns Ravine/Lakehills Trails
If your family enjoys fresh air and views, these trails are a win. One popular loop is Browns Ravine with views of nearby reservoirs, and the Lakehills Trails offer more oak‑woodland paths with sweeping vistas.
Why we enjoyed it: We hiked one morning—packed some snacks, comfy shoes—and spent an hour walking among trees, listening to birds, and spotting the lake in the distance. By midday we were ready for lunch.
Tip: Bring water and sun protection—even shaded trails can get warm. Have a stroller or carrier if you have younger kids.
3. Spend Time at the Promontory Park & Sports Complex
For a more structured “active” stop, Promontory Park delivers. It’s a large community park with playgrounds, open lawns, courts and picnic zones. According to local “things to do” lists, it’s a top‑family destination.
Why we appreciated it: One afternoon, we laid out blankets, the kids ran free, and my spouse and I relaxed under a tree. Later, we played a little family bocce and let the younger ones swing on the playground.
Tip: If you bring picnic gear or BBQ, come earlier in the day to claim good shaded spots.
4. Enjoy Lakeside Recreation at Nearby Folsom Lake
While technically just outside El Dorado Hills, Folsom Lake is a must‑visit for families wanting water time—boating, kayaking, lakeside picnics, and more. Many family‑travel guides highlight this as a top activity.
Why it stood out: We rented a kayak for an hour and paddled calm water; the kids found rocks along the shore while we enjoyed the view. Perfect mix of nature and low‑key fun.
Tip: Pick a launch point with amenities and shade. Bring swimsuits if you want to wade, and check for parking fees.
5. Visit the Local Library & Duck Pond at Lake Forest Park
For a calm break or rainy‑day alternative, check out Lake Forest Park. There’s a modern library, playgrounds, and a duck pond walk that younger kids especially enjoy.
Why we included it: On one cooler morning, we took the kids to the library for storytime and then walked to the pond for a little exploration. They loved spotting ducks and the peaceful setting was a treat.
Tip: Bring sneakers and maybe a snack—great place to start your day slowly.
6. Sample Local Flavors & Entertainment at Mraz Brewing Company
For the adults (and older kids) in the family, Mraz Brewing Company provides local beer, live music and a patio vibe. While it’s not purely for kids, it’s part of the area’s appeal.
Why we visited: On our “grown‑ups” evening, we sat on the patio, enjoyed a craft brew while the kids had root beer floats. Then we strolled the Town Center for dessert.
Tip: Check their event calendar for family‑friendly nights. Arrive early for good seating if live music is happening.
7. Book a Movie at the Regal IMAX Theater
When the weather turned or we wanted a low‑key afternoon, the IMAX theater in the Town Center was just right. Family‑friendly and convenient. According to one infographic of “Top Things To Do,” it ranks among local favorites.
Why we appreciated it: We caught an early matinee, bought popcorn, and the kids got a break while we enjoyed a movie together. It refreshed the trip.
Tip: Look for matinee pricing and pick a seat toward the middle for best view in IMAX theatres.
8. Treat Yourself at the Sunday Farmers’ Market & Local Events
El Dorado Hills has a lively events calendar—Sunday farmers markets, a Summer Concert Series, art & wine festivals and more. These are great for families to feel part of the local community.
Why we did it: One evening we wandered into the Town Center for live music, grabbed dinner at a food‑truck‑style spot, and let the kids dance a little. It felt festive but not overdone.
Tip: Check community calendars ahead. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs if outdoor concerts are offered.
9. Explore the Views at RidgeView Park or Other Lookout Spots
For a simple, scenic stop—just look for Ridge View Park or similar vantage points overlooking the valley and Folsom Lake. Community notes highlight this as a local favorite for sunsets.
Why we loved it: In the evening, we laid out a blanket, brought snacks, and watched the sun set over the hills. Kids played nearby while we relaxed—beautifully simple.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset. Bring a light jacket as hillside breeze can kick in.
10. Family Picnic at Lake Forest Park or Similar Green Space
Sometimes the best outing is low‑pressure and relaxed—and this was one. Choose Lake Forest Park, Promontory Park lawn or another green space for a picnic, games and unwind time.
Why we did it: On our “wind‑down” morning, we packed sandwiches, frisbee, towels and let the kids run. We took our time and it felt like vacation.
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket, quick games (frisbee, soccer ball) and maybe a small cooler with refreshments.
11. Visit a Nearby Nature Center or Trail for Kids
If you want a little more nature exploration, check out kid‑friendly trail loops like New York Creek, or woodland walks in the foothills.
Why we included this: We wanted to slow down and observe nature. We found a short trail, brought binoculars for the kids, and walked through oaks with little streams. It was peaceful and different from the shopping/dinner rhythm.
Tip: Pick shorter trails (<2 miles) if you have younger kids. Pack water and maybe a small snack for a nature stop.
12. Dinner & Dessert Family Night in Town Center or Local Restaurant
Finally, wrap your day with a relaxed dinner and perhaps dessert. The Town Center and surrounding local restaurants in El Dorado Hills offer family‑friendly menus, high‑chairs, and casual ambiance.
Why our family enjoyed it: After a full day, we picked a restaurant where kids had their own menu, the ambiance was relaxed, and for dessert we found a café with outdoor seating that let the kids pick sweets while we reflected on the day.
Tip: Make a reservation if it’s a weekend evening. Choose a restaurant near the Town Center so you can combine dinner with a post‑meal stroll.
Final Thoughts
Our trip to El Dorado Hills turned into one of those rare weekend getaways where everyone in the family found something to enjoy—from nature walks and lake views to casual shopping, movies and dinner. It wasn’t just about “big attractions”; it was the mix of simplicity, nature, community and comfort that made it memorable.
A few key take‑away tips if you go:
- Mix “active” + “slow”: We paired a hike or trail morning with a relaxed afternoon (picnic, movie).
- Plan for weather & comfort: Hillsides can get breezy; lakeside can get sunny—pack layers and water.
- Pick your “anchor” location: We chose the Town Center as our home base—restaurants, shops, movie theater all within walking distance.
- Let kids have choice: Whether picking the movie, the dessert café or the playground, their involvement boosted everyone’s mood.
- Unwind intentionally: We scheduled a full morning just for picnic + lawn play, which reset our pace and left us refreshed.
- Capture a memory: Mine is the dusk view from Ridge View Park—blanket laid out, kids running ahead, valley lights coming on, and the sense we were far enough away to feel “away.”
If you’re thinking of a family trip with a blend of nature, comfort and casual fun—El Dorado Hills might just surprise you. So grab your walking shoes, pack the snacks, pick your trail, and don’t forget to leave room for a lakeside paddle or a lakeside lunch. Here’s to good times, new memories, and a weekend well spent.
Happy exploring in El Dorado Hills!