A 48-Hour Family Holiday Guide To California’s Tri-Valley

Located just 35 miles east of San Francisco, the Tri-Valley is a captivating destination offering an array of experiences for families. Comprising four cities—Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, and Danville—the Tri-Valley region unveils a unique charm. It is home to one of California's oldest wine regions, vast outdoor recreational areas, Northern California's largest luxury outlet mall, and a variety of acclaimed restaurants providing delightful al fresco dining experiences. Whether it's biking along scenic country roads, exploring fascinating museums, indulging in delicious treats at ice creameries, or embarking on invigorating hikes, Tri-Valley promises a new adventure each day. With its extensive network of trails, numerous parks, museums, the Tri-Valley is an ideal destination for a great family holiday. Here’s a 48 hour itinerary with family-friendly activities in Tri-Valley

DAY 1

A Grape Escape

Start your day with a wine trail. The Tri-Valley's Livermore Valley boasts more than 50 wineries with tasting rooms, each offering a unique and enjoyable wine-tasting experience. It is one of the country's oldest wine regions, with viticulture pioneers creating high-quality wine. Be sure not to miss the historic Wente Vineyards wine caves.

Enjoy The Outdoors

The Tri-Valley is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities that are perfect for enjoying nature as a family. With miles of trails, numerous parks, and year-round sunshine, the area provides a peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty, making it a great place for biking along its winding country roads and rolling hills. Enjoy the stunning views along the rolling hills of Pleasanton Ridge. Or head to the beautiful Lake Del Valle in Del Valle Regional Park where there are opportunities for swimming, boating, paddle boarding, and more.

Immerse In Art And Culture

In the evening, experience the vibrant arts and cultural scene of Tri-Valley, boasting numerous museums, art galleries, cultural events, theaters, and immersive experiences. You could explore five museums in one location at the Blackhawk Museum in Danville, which showcases a prestigious classic car collection and exhibits on Art of Africa, Into China, World of Nature, and the Spirit of the Old West. Alternatively, take in a musical or dance performance or catch a play at the 507-seat Bankhead Theater.

DAY 2

Go On A Themed Culinary Trail

Start your day by experiencing one of the emerging culinary tours in Tri-Valley. You and your kids will love the Tri-Valley Ice Cream Trail, which includes stops at ice creameries in the region. From the old-fashioned Loard’s, serving classic ice cream flavours, desserts, and candies, to Icicles, where you can enjoy handmade ice cream desserts made with fresh milk, poured on a cold plate, and mixed with fresh fruit or other ingredients.

If your family has coffee aficionados, you could consider signing up for the Tri-Valley Caffeine Trail that has the region’s best cafés, tearooms, and coffeehouses offering diverse coffee experiences.

Hike To A Summit

Hit up Mount Diablo State Park, a haven for hikers, cyclists, and campers. With its summit soaring 4,000 feet above the Bay Area, the park offers a wealth of outdoor activities and intriguing geological features. Don't miss the chance to explore the Summit Visitor Center, where you can delve into captivating exhibits about the area's ecosystem and history.

Eat Out At A Michelin Restaurant

If you are passionate about food, you'll be thrilled to discover that the Tri-Valley is home to two Michelin Bib Gourmands, a Michelin Plate, and a diverse selection of ethnic cuisines. Along with popular family-friendly eateries, the region offers a delightful array of culinary experiences that suit every palate. The exceptional weather allows for year-round al fresco dining, with restaurants creating warm and inviting outdoor settings, perfect for enjoyable evenings.

A Pet-Friendly Holiday

Planning your getaway with a furry companion? Tri-Valley stands out as one of California's premier pet-friendly destinations, offering a range of accommodations, dining options, wineries, breweries, and dog parks.

Getting There

Tri-Valley, California, lies in the East Bay area. Accessible via major highways like I-580 and I-680, it is located approximately 30 miles east of San Francisco. From San Francisco International Airport (SFO), travellers can take BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) to Dublin/Pleasanton station. Alternatively, Oakland International Airport (OAK) offers car rentals or shuttle services to reach the Tri-Valley region.