Things To Do
in Emeryville
Emeryville sits on the edge of San Francisco Bay just across from San Francisco, a compact, modern hub built for convenience and Bay Area access. It blends shopping, dining, and culture with easy links to Oakland and Berkeley, making it a practical base for East Bay exploration. The waterfront promenade, Public Market Emeryville, and quick transit connections help visitors maximize time in the region.
Coordinates 37.8382, -122.2932 place it squarely in the heart of the Bay Area's urban shoreline.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful walk along the Emeryville Marina, where stunning views of the San Francisco Bay await. Enjoy the fresh morning air as you watch the boats glide across the water while keeping an eye out for playful sea otters. Grab a coffee at a nearby café to energize yourself for the day ahead.
After lunch, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to get up close to the natural beauty of the waterfront. You can also visit the nearby Emeryville Public Market, where you’ll find an array of unique vendors and fresh produce. Spend your afternoon sampling local food and perhaps picking up some artisanal products to take home.
As dusk approaches, return to the marina for a picturesque sunset. Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant with views of the bay, where you can savor fresh seafood and local wines. Cap off the night with a stroll along the dock, watching the twinkling city lights reflect in the water.
Delve into the artistic side of Emeryville by visiting the Emeryville Art Gallery. Spend your morning exploring diverse exhibits from local artists and engaging in the community's vibrant creative scene. Don't forget to interact with artists, as many of them might be present during your visit.
Afterward, head to the nearby Pixar Animation Studios for a glimpse into the world of animation. While tours need to be arranged in advance, you can roam the Pixar park and enjoy the imaginative outdoor sculptures. Treat yourself to lunch at one of Emeryville's trendy bistros, featuring a delightful menu inspired by local ingredients.
In the evening, catch an independent film at the local cinema or grab tickets for a live performance at a nearby venue. Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant where you can indulge in seasonal dishes crafted by talented chefs. Cap off the day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, soaking in the artistic atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range, per night) | $120-250 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transit fare (one-way) | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable base with quick access to SF and the East Bay
- Diverse dining options and waterfront scenery
- Safe, family-friendly environment with parks and trails
- Close to Oakland and Berkeley for culture and nightlife
- Strong transit links to the greater Bay Area
- Higher cost of living and dining compared to national averages
- Limited nightlife within Emeryville itself
- Parking can be challenging during peak times
- Major attractions require short trips to neighboring cities
- Weather can be cooler and foggy near the water in summer
Places to Visit in Emeryville
Visit one of these nice places.
Waterfront views with silhouettes of cranes and the San Francisco skyline on clear days, ideal for early morning light.
Colorful walls and architectural lines provide urban photography opportunities and interesting textures.
Golden hour shots with reflections on the water and the bay skyline as a backdrop.
Scenic vantage points along the San Francisco Bay Trail for coastal landscape photography and wildlife captures.
Food in Emeryville
Emeryville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Bay Area-inspired bowl featuring fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and a light sauce, commonly found at waterfront eateries near Emeryville.
Must-Try!
A hearty burrito with carne asada, pico de gallo, beans, and rice; popular in casual Mexican spots throughout the East Bay.
A bakery favorite in the Bay Area; try a pastry or morning bread that nods to regional sourdough traditions at nearby bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market with multiple vendors offering prepared foods, groceries, and grab-and-go bites from a variety of cuisines.
Casual stalls and counter-service spots around the Bay Street area offering diverse, quick bites and multicultural flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Share designated paths; yield to pedestrians; use a bell or verbal cue when passing; ride with lights at night.
Friendly, casual North American etiquette; polite greetings and small talk are common in shops and cafes.
Safety
Tipping in Emeryville
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, standard tipping is 15-20% at restaurants; hotel staff and rideshare drivers also expect tips.
Major credit/debit cards, cash, and contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry days with highs around the 70s F (20s C); mornings near the water can be cool; fog may roll in late afternoons.
Moderate and pleasant temperatures; great for outdoor dining and walking; light sea breezes possible.
Wet season with rainfall; mild daytime temperatures; bring a waterproof layer and comfortable shoes.
Greener landscapes and blooming flora; comfortable temperatures and active outdoor scenes; light breezes.
Emeryville at Night
Hiking in Emeryville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails among tall redwoods with panoramic views and gentle to moderate elevations, a quick escape from the city.
Lakeside trails and rolling hills with family-friendly hikes, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Emeryville by plane.
Closest major airport, about 15-20 minutes by car; convenient for intra-California and West Coast travel.
Major international hub about 25-40 minutes away by car, depending on traffic; broad domestic and international connections.
Longer drive but feasible for certain domestic routes; typically 45-60 minutes by car with typical Bay Area traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Emeryville and the broader East Bay are highly diverse, with sizable Asian, Hispanic/Latino, White, and other communities, contributing to a vibrant cultural mosaic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at community centers and outdoor courts; pickup games and local leagues are common.
Extensive local clubs and school programs; ample fields in nearby parks.
The Bay Trail and surrounding hills attract runners and cyclists for scenic workouts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Emeryville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Bay Area eateries label or easily accommodate vegetarian options; look for veggie bowls, salads, and tofu dishes, and don't hesitate to ask for customization.