Things To Do
in Emeryville

Emeryville is a vibrant city located in the San Francisco Bay Area, known for its stunning waterfront views and thriving arts scene. It serves as a hub for technology and innovation, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. The city is also home to a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, creating a lively atmosphere for both residents and visitors.

With its convenient location, Emeryville is a gateway to exploring the surrounding regions of the Bay Area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Emeryville
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at La Mediterranee, known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Afterward, take a stroll along the Emeryville Marina to enjoy scenic views of the Bay.

afternoon
:

Visit the Emeryville Public Market for lunch, where you can choose from a variety of food vendors. Post-lunch, explore the nearby Pixar Animation Studios and the surrounding area for some unique photo opportunities.

evening
:

Dine at The Spaghetti Factory for an Italian feast before heading to the Emeryville Center for the Arts for an evening of local performances or art exhibits.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your second day with a coffee and pastry from Peet's Coffee, then head to the nearby Temescal Regional Recreation Area for some hiking.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the park, and afterward, visit the Emeryville Art Gallery to appreciate local artwork. Consider shopping at the Bay Street Emeryville for a mix of retail experiences.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at The Cheesecake Factory, followed by a movie at the AMC Bay Street 16.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$15
🍔Burger$12
Coffee$4
🍺Craft Beer$6
🚌Bus Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse dining and shopping options
  • Beautiful waterfront views
  • Proximity to major attractions in the Bay Area
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Higher cost of living compared to other areas

Places to Visit in Emeryville

Visit one of these nice places.

Emeryville Marina

This picturesque marina offers stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, especially at sunset.

Pixar Animation Studios

Capture the iconic architecture of Pixar's headquarters, a symbol of creativity and innovation.

Bay Street Emeryville

A lively shopping district that features modern architecture and vibrant public art installations.

Culinary Guide

Food in Emeryville

Emeryville offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural community and innovative spirit.

Emeryville Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cioppino

A classic seafood stew made with a variety of fish and shellfish, simmered in a rich tomato broth.

Must-Try!

Dungeness Crab

Fresh local crab served with garlic butter or in a variety of dishes, a must-try when in the Bay Area.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Emeryville Public Market

A vibrant marketplace featuring a variety of food vendors offering everything from sushi to gourmet tacos.

Climate Guide

Weather

Emeryville experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average temperatures range from the mid-40s°F in winter to the mid-70s°F in summer. The area receives minimal rainfall from May to September, while the winter months can be wetter. Fog may occur in summer, especially in the mornings, providing a unique atmospheric effect.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Diversity

Emeryville is a multicultural city; being respectful and open-minded towards different cultures is appreciated.

Environmental Awareness

Residents take pride in sustainability; recycling and minimizing waste are encouraged practices.

Casual Dress Code

Emeryville has a relaxed atmosphere; casual attire is generally acceptable in most settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Emeryville is generally considered safe for visitors, but it's always wise to take standard precautions like being aware of your surroundings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services are readily available, and local police are responsive to community needs. It's best to keep valuables out of sight and be cautious in crowded places.

Tipping in Emeryville

Ensure a smooth experience

Standard Tipping

It is customary to tip service staff between 15% to 20% for good service in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather attracts more visitors, so plan for crowded attractions. Enjoy outdoor dining and festivals.

Fall

Cooler temperatures make for comfortable exploring, and fall colors add beauty to parks and landscapes.

Winter

Mild winter temperatures are ideal for sightseeing, but occasional rain may occur. Indoor attractions are a good option.

Nightlife Guide

Emeryville at Night

Emeryville boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, lounges, and entertainment venues. You can enjoy craft cocktails at local bars, catch live music at nearby venues, or dine at restaurants that stay open late. The Bay Street area often features events and festivals, making it a lively spot for evening outings.

Hiking in Emeryville

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve

Offers trails through beautiful botanical gardens and forested areas, providing a peaceful hiking experience.

Redwood Regional Park

Just a short drive away, this park features trails among towering redwoods, perfect for hiking and nature walks.

Airports

How to reach Emeryville by plane.

Oakland International Airport (OAK)

Located about 10 miles from Emeryville, Oakland International Airport provides domestic and international flights. It offers various transportation options, including shuttles, taxis, and BART connections to the Bay Area.

Getting Around

Walkability

Emeryville is highly walkable, with many amenities and attractions located within walking distance of each other. The city features well-maintained sidewalks and bike lanes, making it easy for pedestrians and cyclists to navigate. The Bay Street area is particularly pedestrian-friendly, encouraging exploration of shops and eateries.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live and work in Emeryville, attracted by job opportunities and its proximity to tech hubs.

Families

Emeryville is home to many families who appreciate the community's amenities, parks, and schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

The Golden State Warriors, based in nearby San Francisco, are a major draw for basketball fans, with games often attracting large crowds.

Soccer

Soccer is popular in the region, with local teams and events drawing enthusiastic support from the community.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Emeryville can be congested, especially during rush hours, as it is a busy urban area. Public transportation includes bus services and nearby BART stations, providing access to San Francisco and other Bay Area cities. Ride-sharing services are also widely used, making it easier to navigate the area without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Emeryville.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Emeryville offer vegan dishes, ensuring that plant-based eaters can enjoy diverse meals.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free options, so be sure to inquire about available dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Emeryville has access to several healthcare facilities, including urgent care centers and clinics. For more comprehensive medical needs, residents often visit nearby hospitals in Oakland or Berkeley. Health insurance is widely accepted, and many services cater to diverse populations, ensuring comprehensive healthcare access.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide