Sacramento is known for its rich agricultural heritage and is often referred to as “America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital” due to its abundance of fresh, locally-sourced food. But the city is also famous for its tree-lined streets and verdant parks, earning it the nickname “City of Trees.” Today Sacramento’s parks provide shady refuge for DogTrekkers even on the hottest summer days.
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the top parks to visit with your four-legged companion. Here is a guide to dog parks.
William Land Regional Park: This 166-acre place of shady urban pride is the “Central Park” of Sacramento. Located just south of downtown in the Land Park neighborhood, it has a bit of everything, from fishing and duck ponds to a zoo, golf course, jogging trails, pocket gardens, playgrounds, and ample picnic sites. It’s a relaxing place to stroll, and dog-watch, and hosts the annual Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash and Bark in the Park Festival.
Capitol Park: If you’re into plants, gardening, and history, you can easily spend hours in this 40-acre urban preserve hugging the imposing state Capitol. Hundreds of labeled plants from around the world make it a garden enthusiast’s delight, while somber memorials and monuments recall sacrifices made in war. Walk across Capitol Avenue to enjoy a repast at one of several dog-friendly restaurant patios.
Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail (AKA American River Bike Trail): The American and Sacramento Rivers converge at Discovery Park, about 3 miles from downtown Sacramento, and this 32-mile, multi-use riverside bike trail between there and the city of Folsom is the city’s premier recreational feature. If you’re a first-timer to Sac, start your trek in the Old Sacramento Historic District.
McKinley Park: Located in East Sacramento, just across Business 80 from Midtown, McKinley Park is beloved for its well-tended rose garden, founded in 1928. If you’re into roses, this is the place to learn, sniff and admire. The park’s 30-plus acres also include a duck pond, picnic areas, playground, pool, library, tennis courts, jogging paths, and more.
Curtis Park: Also south of downtown, in a lovely, older neighborhood, Curtis Park has a mile-long jogging path along with playgrounds, sports fields, and lots of trees
