Sacramento is not only the star on the map of California, it’s a fabulous base camp for exploring wineries in and within a short distance of town (check out our list of great dog-friendly places to stay). Get started at Revolution Winery & Kitchen, a Midtown craft winery whose large, dog-friendly patio with umbrella-shaded tables is shared with next-door Temple Coffee Roasters. Wines are made onsite with regionally grown grapes, while the restaurant’s menu is largely vegan.
In addition to lunch and dinner, Revolution offers a Monday-Friday happy hour and also weekend brunch. Temple, meanwhile, is a farm-to-cup local favorite with eight very popular locations in Sacramento, Davis and Folsom.
Ready for a day trip? Buckle up and head east about 45 minutes on Highway 50. Exit at Camino, and take your time exploring the Apple Hill Growers region, whose 54 family-owned farms, ranches, wineries and breweries are located between Placerville and Pollock Pines. Bring the dogs, bring the kids and bring shopping bags, as you’ll want to come home with bulk apples, apple pie, cider (and maybe hard cider) and a pumpkin or three.
About a dozen wineries are included in the Apple Hill Wine Trail mix. We return time and time again to Boeger Winery, located just off the highway and featuring beautifully landscaped, dog-friendly picnic grounds (BYO or pick up some goodies in the visitor center); and Lava Cap, where views of hillside vineyards compete with wine and snacks served on the covered patio. When visiting the area, be sure to check out seasonal events as well as kid activities.
