Pleasant surprises in Pleasant Hill

By: DogTrekker Staff

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Photo by @clearerphish.

This East Bay community of 35,000 is surrounded by hills that perfectly reflect its name. But while some may view its location (23 miles east of San Francisco and 73 miles west of Sacramento) as merely “close to” (as in “close to” the City by the Bay as well as Napa and Sonoma wine country), Pleasant Hill holds plenty of dog-friendly appeal on its own.

In the uber-expensive Bay Area, you and your pup will be pleased to find several affordable dog-friendly lodging options, including Homewood Suites by Hilton, Pleasant Hill Inn, Sonesta Select, Hyatt House, Residence Inn by Marriott and Extended Stay America.

There are some delicious restaurants to check out too. Wence’s Oyster Bar and Grill is a locals favorite with oysters, seafood, steaks, pastas and more. Enjoy lunch, dinner and cocktails with your dog on the patio.

Another good choice is downtown’s Jack’s Restaurant & Bar, where humans can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner specialties on a dog-friendly patio.

If you’re looking for a place for Fido to run off energy after sitting patiently by your side as you eat, make tracks for Paso Nogal Open Space and Dog Park. You’ll find 63 acres of open space laced with hiking trails (leashed dogs welcome) along with a 2.5-acre fenced exercise area divided into sections for small and large dogs.