Things To Do
in Danville
Danville, California sits in the San Ramon Valley of the East Bay, about 30 miles east of San Francisco. This scenic town blends a classic small-town main street with modern, family-friendly amenities and highly rated schools. The downtown area along Hartz Avenue features brick storefronts, cafés, and boutiques that invite a leisurely stroll.
With easy access to Mount Diablo and expansive open spaces, Danville offers a relaxed vantage point for both outdoor adventures and community events.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Danville's Historic Center, where you can admire the beautifully preserved architecture. Stop by the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History to appreciate local art and learn about the town's rich heritage. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at one of the quaint cafes to fuel your exploration.
After indulging in a delightful lunch at a local bistro, visit the Sutherlin Mansion, an impressive antebellum home that offers a glimpse into the past. Spend some time in the surrounding gardens, which are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. As the afternoon winds down, check out the local shops for unique finds and souvenirs.
As dusk falls, head to the historic downtown area for a leisurely dinner at a restaurant offering traditional Southern cuisine. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music in one of the nearby venues. After dinner, take a casual walk along the riverfront, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the night.
Begin your morning with a refreshing hike at the beautiful Anglers Park, where you can take in the sights and sounds of nature. The trails are well-maintained and offer varying levels of difficulty, making it accessible for everyone. Don’t forget your camera, as the morning light makes for perfect photos of the lush greenery.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the park, surrounded by the serene landscape. After lunch, explore the nearby Dan River, where you can engage in activities like fishing or simply relaxing by the water. The afternoon is a great time to unwind and appreciate the tranquil sounds of nature.
As the sun sets, head back to the downtown area for a casual dinner at a local eatery known for its farm-to-table offerings. Enjoy a leisurely meal while reflecting on the day's adventures in nature. If you're up for it, take part in a local trivia night or game at one of the pubs for some fun.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (monthly) | $2,000-3,000 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly for 1-bedroom) | $120-200 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong family-friendly community with high safety and good schools
- Access to outdoor recreation in Mount Diablo and nearby open spaces
- Walkable downtown with boutique shops and café culture
- Proximity to San Francisco Bay Area cities and Bay-Delta scenery
- Limited nightlife and club-type venues compared to larger cities
- Higher-than-average housing costs and occasional traffic during commute hours
Places to Visit in Danville
Visit one of these nice places.
Photograph brick storefronts, tree-lined sidewalks, and charming street activity during golden hour.
Lookouts and pullouts around Mount Diablo offer sweeping city and valley vistas.
Bridges along the trail provide strong lines and silhouettes for landscape photography.
A peaceful spot with water features and greenery ideal for family and portrait photography.
Food in Danville
Danville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A seasonal salad featuring local greens and fresh-picked vegetables with a light vinaigrette.
Must-Try!
Thin-crust pizzas topped with seasonal produce and herbs, a staple at many casual Danville spots.
Comfort-food main course commonly found in family-friendly restaurants.
Handmade pasta dishes featuring local olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market on selected Saturdays offering fresh produce, breads, jams, and prepared foods from local vendors.
Pop-up carts and street bites on warmer weekends featuring tacos, noodles, and comfort foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep voices down in neighborhoods after dark and avoid loud music late at night.
Queue patiently at food stalls and shops; greet staff with a friendly hello or thank you.
Smart casual is appropriate for most venues; casual wear is typically fine for outdoor and casual dining.
Safety
Tipping in Danville
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tipping 15-20% at restaurants is customary; for cafés and takeout, rounding up or a small tip is common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always an option; digital wallets like Apple Pay are common in many venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures with blooming wildflowers; ideal for outdoor walks and park picnics.
Dry and warm, often sunny; carry water and schedule outdoor activities in mornings or evenings.
Pleasant temperatures with fall colors in parks and hills; great for hiking and outdoor dining.
Cool and rainy at times; layering is recommended and outdoor activities may be affected by weather.
Danville at Night
Hiking in Danville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep but rewarding hike with sweeping Bay Area views from the summit.
Extensive network of trails offering city panoramas and rolling hills.
Nearby expansive trails with wildlife and scenic vistas in a protected landscape.
Airports
How to reach Danville by plane.
Major international hub about 40 miles northwest of Danville; access via I-580/680 and regional transit connections.
Approximately 25-35 miles southwest; convenient for domestic travel and short hops within the West Coast.
Regional/general aviation airport about 15 miles north; small air service and private flights.
About 85 miles northeast; serves longer-distance trips and offers major domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly community with highly rated schools and safe neighborhoods.
Many commute to the Bay Area for work while enjoying a quieter suburban lifestyle.
Quiet neighborhoods and easy access to nature attract retirees seeking a relaxed pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Community leagues and local fields make these popular weekend activities for families.
Public courts and school gyms host pickup games and organized leagues.
Youth and adult leagues with weekend matches in parks and recreation centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Danville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common; look for farm-to-table salads, vegetable mains, and ask about dairy-free or egg-free preparations.