Emeryville

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Emeryville's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring the Emeryville Marina
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Art and Culture in Emeryville
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Nature and Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Start your day with a hike at the nearby Eastshore State Park, where you can experience the serenity of nature while enjoying panoramic bay views. The morning air is especially refreshing as you explore trails lined with native vegetation. Keep your camera ready to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife along the way.

afternoon
:

After your hike, head to the Golden Gate Bridge for a breathtaking afternoon of sightseeing and photography. You can enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic overlook spots, soaking in the iconic views. Consider renting a bike to explore the area further, cruising along the waterfront trails.

evening
:

Return to Emeryville for dinner at a restaurant known for its craft cocktails and sustainable seafood. Spend your evening at a local park, watching the sunset and enjoying the peaceful ambiance. If you're in the mood, check out a nearby live music venue for some local entertainment.

day 4
Shopping and Downtown Strolls
morning
:

Begin your day by exploring the shops at the Bay Street shopping district. Discover unique boutiques and well-known retailers, giving you ample opportunities for finding one-of-a-kind items. Grab breakfast at a café and indulge in local pastries to fuel your shopping spree.

afternoon
:

Continue your exploration of Bay Street after lunch, enjoying the outdoor spaces and art installations that give the area a vibrant atmosphere. There's also a chance to catch a matinee show at the local theater, depending on the schedule. Take some time to relax and people watch as you sip on a refreshing drink.

evening
:

For dinner, visit one of the restaurants offering international cuisine and seasonal ingredients. Post-dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the shopping district, where you might catch live music or community events. End your night with a sweet treat from a dessert shop, leaving a perfect finish to your day.

day 5
Culinary Tour of Emeryville
morning
:

Kick off your day with a visit to the local farmers' market. Sample fresh produce and homemade goods, interacting with local farmers and artisans to learn about their offerings. This morning excursion sets a nice tone for a food-loving vacation.

afternoon
:

Join a guided culinary tour to explore some of Emeryville's best restaurants and food spots. Sample dishes from various cuisines, learning about the local food culture and the history behind each eatery. Make sure to have a hearty appetite as the tours often include multiple tasting stops.

evening
:

As the evening approaches, enjoy a DIY dinner at home using fresh ingredients you picked up from the market. Invite friends or fellow travelers to join in for a delightful cooking experience. After dinner, relax under the stars with some local wine, reflecting on your delightful culinary journey.

day 6
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Spend your morning at the Emeryville Recreation Center, where various activities await families. Engage in outdoor games, utilize the playground, or take a dip in the local pool to kickstart the day with excitement. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy later.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Adventure Playground, an imaginative space where children can unleash their creativity through building and outdoor play. Parents can relax while the kids explore the unique structures designed to encourage hands-on fun. The afternoon provides the perfect opportunity for family bonding in a playful setting.

evening
:

Wrap up the day by visiting the local ice cream parlor for some sweet treats that the whole family will love. Spend the evening at a family-friendly restaurant with a kid’s menu and fun atmosphere. After dinner, stroll around the neighborhood enjoying the warm evening air and sharing your day's highlights.

day 7
Historical Exploration
morning
:

Begin the day with a visit to local historical landmarks, getting to know the rich history of Emeryville. Start at the Emeryville Historical Society, where you can explore exhibits showcasing the city’s past. Engage with informative guides who can provide fascinating stories and insights.

afternoon
:

Continue your historical journey by visiting significant sites such as the original railroad station or the remnants of the industrial era. After exploring, take a break and enjoy lunch at a café that reflects the old-world charm of the area. Don’t skip visiting local bookstores or antique shops as part of your historic tour.

evening
:

Delight in dinner at an establishment that offers meals inspired by traditional recipes and local history. After your meal, attend a historical talk or event, if one is scheduled, to further deepen your understanding of the local culture. Finish your evening with a reflective stroll through a historical neighborhood under the stars.

day 8
Day at the Beach
morning
:

Spend your morning at the nearby beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the soothing sound of the waves. Bring along beach gear, such as volleyballs, for some friendly competition with friends and family. A light breakfast picnic on the beach can be ideal to set the mood for a relaxed day.

afternoon
:

After some fun in the sun, enjoy a leisurely swim or take a long seaside walk as the afternoon rolls in. Consider engaging in beach activities like sandcastle building or beachcombing for unique shells and treasures. Grab lunch from a beachside stand, ensuring to indulge in classic beach fare like fish tacos or fresh fruit.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a nice spot to watch the colors change in the sky while enjoying a pre-dinner cocktail. For dinner, opt for seafood right at the beach where the fresh catch is sure to be a highlight of your meal. End the night with a bonfire if permitted, sharing stories and laughter with good company.

day 9
Local Craft and Distillery Tour
morning
:

Begin with a visit to a local craft brewery to sample artisanal beers and learn about the brewing process. Engage in a guided tour where you can chat with passionate brewers who can share the secrets behind their best creations. Pair your drinks with a light breakfast for the perfect start to an adventurous day.

afternoon
:

After the brewery, head to a nearby distillery to discover the art of distilling spirits. Participate in tastings that showcase the unique flavors and techniques used in the local distilling process. Be sure to enjoy lunch at a nearby gastropub known for pairing local drinks with farm-fresh meals.

evening
:

As evening arrives, join a cocktail-making class to further enhance your newfound knowledge of craft beverages. Enjoy your creations with dinner at a restaurant known for its innovative drink menu and seasonal cuisine. Conclude the day by reflecting on your experiences with local craft drinks while socializing in a relaxed setting.

day 10
Relaxation and Self-Care
morning
:

Take a step back from the everyday hustle and start your day with a visit to a spa for a rejuvenating treatment. Opt for a massage or facial that will set the tone of relaxation for your day. Enjoy a tranquility-filled environment as you embrace some much-needed self-care.

afternoon
:

After your spa visit, take a leisurely stroll through one of Emeryville’s parks, enjoying nature and perhaps indulging in a peaceful picnic lunch. Consider bringing a book or journal to immerse yourself further into relaxation mode. Allow yourself to disconnect from technology and just be present in the moment.

evening
:

For dinner, opt for a calming atmosphere at a restaurant that focuses on nourishing comfort food. Continue the self-care theme by enjoying herbal teas to wind down. Spend your evening reflecting on the moments of peace you experienced throughout the day, perhaps writing them down to carry that tranquility into the next.

Discover Emeryville

Read more in our Emeryville 2025 Travel Guide.

Emeryville Travel Guide