Best of the Burbs 2014: Guide to Elk Grove

Landmarks

Old Town Plaza (9615 Railroad Street). An outdoor plaza that’s home to many community events, festivals and fairs.

Where to observe the natives

Multicultural Festival ( www.elkgrovecity.org/multicultural-festival ; see page 41 for more information).

At any of the area’s chain restaurants and big-box stores.

Fashion and what to wear

Something sensible for the state office job.

Busy prints on women’s blouses.

Mom—or dad—jeans.

Elk Grove for lovers

Boulevard Bistro (8941 Elk Grove Boulevard, www.frontiernet.net/~boulevardbistro). It’s like dining in a French oasis.

Cosumnes River Preserve (13501 Franklin Boulevard in Galt). Hop on the freeway and head south for a scenic stroll.

Common phrases

“Were you on Highway 99 this morning? It was gridlocked.”

Spot to lose the kids

Drop them off at soccer practice.

How to identify a local

The SUV or minivan swerving through rush-hour traffic on Highway 99.

Nugget Market (7101 Elk Grove Boulevard, www.nuggetmarket.com) or Sprouts Farmers Market (8211 Laguna Boulevard, www.sprouts.com). Anyone in the parking lot filling up the trunk of a modified Honda Civic.

Where to eat and drink like a local

Bob's Club (9039 Elk Grove Boulevard, www.bobsclubeg.com). This place claims to be the city’s oldest business.

Local culture and museums

Elk Grove Historical Society (9441 E. Stockton Boulevard, www.elkgrovehistoricalsociety.com). The group runs a number of history museums and parks. Its members sometimes dress in 19th-century garb.

Elk Grove Fine Arts Center (9080 Elk Grove Boulevard, www.elkgrovefineartscenter.org). This place hosts art exhibitions, classes and events.