Walnut Creek

Day Trips

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in downtown Walnut Creek, savoring freshly brewed coffee and pastries. After breakfast, take a stroll through the beautiful Civic Park, enjoying the lush gardens and vibrant flower beds. Visit the Walnut Creek Historical Museum to learn about the rich history of the area.

For lunch, indulge in a delicious meal at a nearby farm-to-table restaurant, where you can taste local produce. Afterward, explore the charming boutiques and shops in the historic district, picking up unique souvenirs and artisan goods. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to the Lesher Center for the Arts, where you can catch an art exhibit or performance.

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant featuring seasonal dishes and a great wine selection. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Iron Horse Regional Trail, where you can appreciate the peaceful ambiance and beautiful scenery. Finally, consider stopping for a nightcap at a local brewery to unwind and reflect on your day.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading to Mount Diablo State Park for a morning hike. The trails offer stunning views of the Bay Area, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Spend some time observing the diverse wildlife and unique flora along the way.

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks in the park, surrounded by majestic mountain views. After your meal, embark on a guided nature walk to learn more about the local ecosystem and geology. As the day warms up, consider trying your hand at rock climbing or mountain biking on designated trails.

Return to Walnut Creek and freshen up before dining at a local steakhouse known for its prime cuts and extensive wine list. Post-dinner, catch a local music concert or outdoor movie screening, often hosted in the summer months at various parks. Wind down your evening with a stroll through downtown, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and local culture.

Enjoy breakfast at a quaint café, then head out to explore the nearby vineyards in the East Bay wine region. Start your wine-tasting adventure at a family-owned winery, where you can sample their signature wines while overlooking picturesque vineyards. Take a guided tour to learn about the winemaking process and the history of the estate.

Continue your wine exploration by visiting a couple more wineries, each offering a unique tasting experience and breathtaking views. Savor a gourmet lunch at a winery with a patio, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and scenic surroundings. Take time to relax and perhaps indulge in a wine and cheese pairing session.

Return to Walnut Creek for dinner at a cozy bistro that focuses on local ingredients and wine pairings. After your meal, visit a local wine bar to sample some of the best wines from the East Bay region. Conclude your day with live jazz music at a nearby venue, creating a perfect ambiance for the evening.

Kick off your day with breakfast at a café that showcases local artists' work while enjoying your meal. Spend the morning at the Bedford Gallery, located within the Lesher Center for the Arts, to appreciate contemporary art exhibitions. Engage with local artists and learn about their inspirations and techniques during guided tours or workshops.

For lunch, try a trendy eatery known for its eclectic menu and artistic flair. Afterward, visit the nearby Walnut Creek Performing Arts Center to check out any upcoming shows or events. Spend some time exploring the local art scene by visiting various galleries and studios in the area.

Dine at a restaurant that features art-inspired décor and a menu that highlights local flavors. Post-dinner, attend a live theater performance or concert at the Lesher Center for the Arts, immersing yourself in the local culture. End your night with a glass of wine at a nearby lounge, reflecting on the artistic experiences of the day.

Start your day with a family-friendly breakfast at a local pancake house, where the kids can choose from a variety of toppings. Head to the nearby Heather Farm Park, where the children can enjoy the playgrounds and open spaces for games and activities. Take a leisurely walk around the park’s lake, observing the ducks and other wildlife.

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the park, allowing everyone to relax and recharge. After lunch, participate in some family-friendly activities like frisbee, soccer, or even a scavenger hunt. Consider visiting the park's community center for scheduled events or workshops that might interest your family.

For dinner, gather at a family-oriented restaurant with a fun atmosphere and an extensive kid’s menu. After dinner, take the kids to a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat. Conclude your day with a family movie night back at your accommodation or a local theater featuring family-friendly films.

Begin your day with breakfast at a popular brunch spot known for its creative dishes and locally-sourced ingredients. Afterward, head to Broadway Plaza for a shopping spree at upscale boutiques and department stores, where you can find everything from fashion to home decor. Enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting as you browse through various shops.

For lunch, choose a trendy restaurant in the plaza that offers a mix of global cuisines. Afterward, take a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you can learn to prepare a signature dish from a professional chef. Enjoy the fruits of your labor by sharing the meal you’ve created with fellow participants.

Dine at a nearby restaurant that features a seasonal menu and craft cocktails, providing a delightful end to your shopping day. After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife by visiting a local bar or rooftop lounge for drinks and live entertainment. Enjoy the ambiance and mingle with locals as you unwind from a busy day.

Start your day with breakfast at a health-conscious café, fueling up with smoothies and bowls before heading to the nearby Mount Diablo State Park. Spend the morning hiking the trails, where you can enjoy panoramic views and spot various wildlife in their natural habitat. Take time to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of this stunning natural reserve.

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the park's picnic areas, surrounded by nature. Challenge yourself with more hiking or opt for a leisurely stroll along the easier trails that wind through the park. Capture the breathtaking scenery with photographs or simply relax and soak in the environment.

Return to Walnut Creek for a hearty dinner at a rustic restaurant that embraces farm-to-table principles. After your meal, take a sunset walk along the Iron Horse Regional Trail, where you can reflect on your day immersed in nature. End your evening with a cozy nightcap at a local pub or wine bar.

Start your day with breakfast at a local bakery, indulging in fresh pastries and coffee. If your visit coincides with a local festival, head to the event venue to experience the festivities, which often feature live music, craft booths, and food trucks. Take time to explore the various offerings and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Continue enjoying the festival activities, participating in workshops or demonstrations that reflect the local culture. Sample delicious dishes from various food vendors while soaking in the live entertainment. Connect with local artisans and purchase unique handmade goods to take home as souvenirs.

As the festival winds down, enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant that is known for its local flavors and festive atmosphere. After dinner, check out any evening events or performances happening at the festival, such as live music or dance shows. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the festival grounds, enjoying the twinkling lights and lively ambiance.

Enjoy breakfast at a historic diner known for its classic American fare, setting the tone for a day of exploring local heritage. Visit the Shadelands Ranch Historical Museum to learn about Walnut Creek’s past and its development into a vibrant community. Engage with the interactive exhibits and knowledgeable staff who can share fascinating stories.

For lunch, choose a local eatery that reflects the character of the town, perhaps with a retro vibe. Afterward, take a guided walking tour of Walnut Creek's historical landmarks, including old homes and notable buildings that tell the story of the city's evolution. Capture photos and listen to engaging anecdotes about the city’s past.

Conclude your historical journey with dinner at a restaurant situated in a historic building, where the ambiance reflects the town's charm. After dinner, enjoy an evening lecture or storytelling event at a local library or community center that focuses on Walnut Creek's history. End your day with a quiet walk through the illuminated streets, appreciating the blend of past and present.