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The Tri-Valley region in Northern California, home to the towns of Livermore, Dublin, Pleasanton, and Danville, is a popular weekend getaway thanks to its location just 30 miles east of San Francisco.Danville, a secret only locals know, offers a vibrant mix of outdoor recreation areas, rich history and heritage, a thriving art scene,trendy restaurants, and boutique speciality shops.
Outdoor Activities– Danville is home to several outdoor recreation areas that capture the charm and character of the area.
Mount Diablo State Park– Mount Diablo State Park stands as a jewel of the Bay Area, offering an incredible array of recreational activities, breathtaking natural beauty, and hidden wonders. The park is a hotspot for hiking, horseback riding, road cycling, mountain biking, hang gliding, rock climbing, nature viewing, and more. Visitors can access this sprawling park in Danville via its South Gate.
Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve– Located just a few miles from Downtown Danville, this park features 5,778 acres of wilderness and an expanded trail system that allows hikers and horseback riders to enjoy its remote and rugged areas. Las Trampas Ridge offers amazing views of Mount Diablo and sweeping sights of the surrounding valleys.
Iron Horse Trail– This fully-paved, mostly shaded trail is a great way to stretch your legs and get around town. The Iron Horse Trail is a popular route for pedestrians, bicyclists and equestrians that connects two counties and 8 towns between Concord and Pleasanton.
Sycamore Valley Park– This family-friendly park features a variety of activities, including a playground, splash pad, sports fields, and a scenic pond and is a great place for a peaceful stroll, picnics, and outdoor outings. If you are looking for more of a hike, easy access to the Sycamore Valley Open Space Regional Preserve is located onsite.
Danville’s Landmark Oak Tree– Known as the centrepiece of Downtown Danville, this over 350-year-old tree is not only a historic landmark of the town but a central point for community events. Each year in November, residents and visitors gather at the base of the tree to witness the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
History & Art– The town of Danville venerates its rich history and appreciation for the arts in a variety of ways to be enjoyed by residents and visitors.
Blackhawk Museum– Located just minutes from Downtown Danville in Blackhawk Plaza, an outdoor shopping mall featuring shops, restaurants, a playground, landscaped grounds and ponds, this world-renowned museum features five galleries, including its automotive collection which displays rare and historically significant automobiles, its award-winning Spirt of the Old West gallery, and its World of Nature gallery which features over 600 animal species in a fully immersive experience.
Eugene O’Neill Historic Site– The only American playwright to win the Noble Prize, Eugene O’Neill, moved to Danville at the height of his career and wrote some of his most famous pieces at this present-day National Historic Site. Visitors are welcome to explore this sprawling estate, known as the Tao House, via self-guided and guided tours.
Museum of San Ramon Valley– The Museum of San Ramon Valley commemorates Danville’s history as a railway depot and features a life-size train car that visitors are welcome to board and pose with. The Museum is also home to a variety of rotating exhibits, which highlight various aspects of the region’s history.
Village Theatre & Art Gallery– Built in 1873 as a farmer’s lodge, the Village Theatre & Art Gallery has since worn several hats,including a skating rink, movie theatre, and church. Today, it isprotected as a historic site and hosts a 245-seat theatre and 1,000-square-foot art gallery that displays rotating exhibits.
Culinary Finds– Danville offers a delightful food scene from local flavours to cosy cafes, as well as upscale eateries.
Sideboard Neighborhood Kitchen– Sideboard is a friendly eatery offering espresso and pastries, and a full lunch and dinner menu of updated New American fare. This homey stop is fitted with quirky decor and mismatched crockery, making it feel like you are visiting a family member or friend’s house.
Cocina Hermanas– This local restaurant, named after the owner’s three daughters, marries well-known Mexican street food and family dishes with their dedication to fresh, sustainable, and locally-sourced ingredients.
Danville Brewing Company– A part of the popular Tri-Valley Beer Trail, Danville Brewing is a sprawling, industrial brewpub with a dog-friendly patio serving house brews, guest beers and modern American eats.
Locanda Ravello– Locanda Ravello is a polished pizzeria serving up Neapolitan pies, authentic pasta dishes, sides, and a full bar in a contemporary, airy interior. Do not miss out on their amazing happy hour.
Bridges Restaurant– You might recognise this popular restaurant for its Hollywood debut in the movie “Mrs Doubtfire” and its famous Heimlich scene. Outside of its hilarious claim to fame, this upscale eatery features Asian-influenced Californian fare.
Danville Chocolates– Satisfy your sweet tooth at this locally beloved shop. Danville Chocolates boasts a variety of house-made gourmet chocolates, truffles, and other sweets.
Elliott’s– Established in 1907, Elliott’s is one of the oldest San Francisco Bay Area dive bars and is still going strong. This small, hole-in-the-wall bar is packed with personality and is worth a visit.
Downtown Shopping– Downtown Danville’s streets are lined with small, locally-owned speciality shops selling everything from home goods and personalised gifts to antiques and premium cigars.
Whim House– This bright and airy shop offers an extensive selection of categories, including rugs, pillows, serving and barware, fine table and bath linens, paint, outdoor furniture, candles, and personal care items.
Cottage Jewel- Looking for something truly unique to bring home from your visit to the Tri-Valley? Cottage Jewel is a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind vintage, antique and artisan wares. Find jewellery, accessories, home goods, and novelty items from various eras.
Danville Cigars, Fine Wine & Gifts– Whether it is a simple indulgence or for a special occasion, Danville Cigars, Fine Wine & Gifts is stocked with premium cigars and a rare selection of fine wines and port vintages. Enjoy your purchases from their cosy back patio.
