Elk Grove, California

ELK GROVE, CALIFORNIA -- The first city to incorporate in California during the 21st century. The natural beauty of the region by preserving open spaces such as the Cosumnes River Preserve and the Stone Lakes Wildlife Refuge make Elk Grove a highly desirable place to live. In fact it now has the 5th largest school district in the nation.

One of the fastest-growing areas in California manages to retain the feel of that once small town that began back in 1850. Family-oriented events include the Western, Strauss & Harvest Festivals, Pumpkin Festival, Hot Summer Nights free summer concerts at Laguna Town Hall, Salute to Red, White and Blue, and the Parade of Lights & Dickens Faire.

Old Town is east of State Route 99, while newer housing developments such as Laguna Creek and Laguna West in Elk Grove are west between Highway 99 and Interstate 5.