The Best Western Golden Key in Auburn has 68 rooms, and some are set up specifically for guests traveling with dogs. It’s a solid base if you’re planning to explore Placer County’s outdoor areas—the American River Nature Recreation Area is nearby with good trails for walks, and you’re positioned between town and the foothills if you want to head toward higher elevation spots.

The rooms come with the standard motel setup: microwave, refrigerator, cable TV, and high-speed internet. There’s a heated pool open May through October, which is useful on warm days. The hotel has flower gardens and lawn space where dogs can get some exercise, though you’ll want to contact them ahead of time to confirm current pet policies and any fees involved.

They serve a complimentary expanded continental breakfast with waffles, eggs, and pastries, so you won’t need to hunt for breakfast before heading out. The staff is generally helpful, and you get free Wi-Fi throughout the property plus free nationwide calling.

Auburn itself sits at the edge of the Sierra Nevada foothills, so depending on your interests, you could spend time exploring the town’s Gold Rush history, head up to higher elevations for hiking, or use the hotel as a jumping-off point for exploring the American River area. The location works well if you’re en route to Palisades Tahoe or want a quieter alternative to staying right in the mountains.

It’s a straightforward, no-frills option that handles dogs without making a production of it. The breakfast and pool are nice bonuses, and the proximity to outdoor recreation means you’ve got options for what to do each day. The garden area is genuinely useful for getting your dog settled after travel or before heading out for the day.