Sacramento’s big backyard offers more adventures than you can shake a stick at, whether you feel like chasing waterfalls in Placer County, tracing old mining trails near the American River, or sipping small-batch wines in the Sacramento River Delta. At night, two-room suites at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade give families and four-legged friends more room to relax.
Sacramento’s riverfront Embassy Suites overlooks the iconic Tower Bridge and offers easy access to waterfront walking paths. The property hosts complimentary evening receptions for guests, and daily breakfast is included with a stay. Dogs and cats are welcome for a $75 (one- to four-night stay) or $125 (five or more nights) fee, with two pets maximum allowed per room.
Discovery Park is three miles north of the Embassy Suites. From there, the paved, 32-mile Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail follows the American River Parkway to Folsom – with a connection to Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. Leashed dogs can walk on trails here, and they’re also allowed in the water at specific park swimming areas. Camping, boating and paddling are big, too, and picnickers might catch a glimpse of spring wildflowers, wildlife or bird species that fly through during the year.
Up north, the Auburn State Recreation Area covers nearly 42,000 acres. Whitewater rafting trips navigate about 50 miles of water in the American River Canyon, and some visitors still search for gold with hands or pans. On-leash activities are allowed except at Lake Clementine, and Mutt Mitts are stocked at various places within the recreation area.
Look for low-key, dog-friendly wineries outside Placerville, in the Apple Hill Growers region. Boeger’s got beautiful picnic grounds, and you can bring your own snacks or purchase cheese and charcuterie to enjoy in the Lava Cap garden. Pause at Rainbow Orchards to stock up on apple cider donuts and fresh pies in the fall.
