Each of the California Welcome Centers scattered throughout the state are staffed with personal travel concierges. These knowledgeable experts are ready to provide information that will enhance and enrich your visit, including suggestions on where to eat, what to see, and where to stay. Welcome Centers also offer free maps and brochures on local attractions and things to do throughout the region.

The El Dorado Hills Welcome Center sits right off US Highway 50 in the Town Centre, making it easy to stop by whether you’re heading up to the Sierra Nevada or exploring the foothills. The friendly staff can help you find local restaurants, book hotel rooms throughout the area, and point you toward dog-friendly activities specific to what you’re looking for. The center itself welcomes well-behaved dogs on leash, so you can bring your dog inside while you gather information about the region.

From this location, you’ve got easy access to some genuinely great outdoor options. Lake Tahoe is within reach for skiing in winter or hiking and water activities in summer. The Rubicon Trail offers four-wheel drive adventures for those interested in backcountry exploration. Closer by, El Dorado Hills’ Town Centre has shopping and dining if you just want to spend a couple hours before heading elsewhere. The staff regularly hosts presentations and events about hiking with dogs in the area, which is genuinely useful if you’re new to the region and want to know which trails work well with your dog.

When you stop in, they’ve got water and treats available for dogs, which is a nice touch after being on the road. The center is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Even if you’re just passing through, spending twenty minutes here can save you time later figuring out where to go next.