The Tri-Valley area in California encompasses the neighbouring cities of Livermore, Dublin, Pleasanton, and Danville and is known for its wineries, downtowns, luxury shopping opportunities, a vast culinary landscape, suburban charm, and much more. Tri-Valley is accessible from anywhere on the West Coast, especially the Bay Area, just 30 miles east of San Francisco, and less than an hour from three international airports. Since these cities are in close proximity to each other, you can easily mix and match experiences without affecting your travel time, ensuring a holiday of all the best spots in Tri-Valley.
Livermore
A cup of Joe at Story Coffee is a great way to get your trip started. Head to their pop-up bar at Bankhead Theatre in Livermore and order an iced latte or cold brew coffee to go.
Spend the rest of the day exploring Tri-Valley’s historic wine country. The Livermore Wine Trolley is a great way to experience the region and will take you on a stunning scenic journey through three different wineries, with tastings and lunch included.
If you decide to go wine tasting on your own, there are many Livermore wineries to visit. Wente and Concannon vineyards play prominent roles in California’s wine history, dating back to the late 1880s. Retzlaff Vineyards & Estate Winery has a lovely gazebo that looks out over their stunning grapes. Page Mill Winery is another favourite. They started out at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains back in the 1970s and have since relocated here, just minutes from downtown Livermore.
Later in the evening, reward yourself with some retail therapy at the San Francisco Premium Outlets in Livermore. Shopping makes everyone hungry, so grab a light bite at Demitri’s Taverna, the Village Salad always hits the spot.
Sanctuary Ultra Lounge in Livermore is a wonderful place to finish the day. For dinner, you can continue to try local wines and spirits while snacking on appetisers like coconut shrimp and angus sliders before moving on to their Chicken Pesto Penne or French Cut Bone in Pork Chop. Or, spend your first evening eating authentic American comfort food at Sauced BBQ & Spirits in Livermore. Try the Pulled Pork and Jalapeño Grits, accompanied by one of their Peach Mules and the Swamp Fries as an appetizer.
A long and eventful day concludes with the comfort of a luxury hotel, and Livermore offers plenty of options. The Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa in Livermore provides soothing spa packages and body treatments.
Dublin
Start your day at Denica’s Real Food Kitchen in Dublin. This family-friendly restaurant makes everything from scratch, including freshly baked cookies. Another great option for breakfast is Blossom Bee Creperie, where crepes are made with a spicy Thai twist with menu items like Thai Basil Chicken Crepes and Spicy Red Curry Crepes.
After fuelling up, head over to Dublin Hills Regional Park for an invigorating and peaceful time in nature. The Calaveras Ridge Trail will take you to vast grasslands that have remained untouched for over 200 years.
The Dublin Heritage Park & Museums are another great way to spend the day. This 10-acre park is free to the public, with historic museums and buildings, such as the 1856 Murray Schoolhouse and Kolb House, both offering interesting perspectives into Dublin’s rich history. You will even notice an old cemetery on the grounds; walking among the old plots and reading the headstones will take you back in time.
Grab a late dinner at Amakara in Dublin. Their sushi is fresh and filling, but nothing warms you up like a bowl of Chasu Ramen—their incomparable broth soothes from the inside out. Alternatively, try Urban Plates in Dublin for a quick dinner. Their Grilled Grass Fed Steak and Sustainable Oven Baked Salmon are fan favourites.
Retire in Dublin in the luxury of Aloft, with premier rooms and amenities to recharge and rejuvenate you for the next day.
Pleasanton
Start the day with Tri-Valley’s Caffeine Trail with freshly brewed coffee and a scrumptious meal at the artisan cafe The Press.
There are many outdoor activities to choose from in Pleasanton. The Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park has many trails spanning over 5,000 acres; some even leading up to deep-canyon streams. In addition to lovely hiking spots, Alviso Adobe is another hidden treasure of the Tri-Valley. This community park shares the fascinating history of the Amador Valley, showing visitors what life was like for Native Americans, Spanish Ranchos, and more, leading up to the present day.
Being out in the sun for most of the day can make you thirsty. Hop on the Tri-Valley Beer Trail and rehydrate with some of the tastiest suds you will ever enjoy! Some of the places on the trail are McKay’s Taphouse & Beer Garden and the Hop Yard Alehouse in Pleasanton. Aside from their extensive tap lists, these locations offer tasty food options, from snacks to dinner.
For dinner, continue on the Beer Trail for some of the Tri-Valley’s best food. Bottle Taps in Pleasanton has mouthwatering food pairings that go with both beer and wine.
For accommodation, The Rose Hotel in Pleasanton is a charming historic property that embodies the essence of the city.
Danville
Danville Harvest is a good place to start the day, where everything on the menu is made from fresh and organic ingredients.
The Blackhawk Museums in Danville are always fun and educational, making them ideal for a day out with family. They showcase a few interesting exhibitions to choose from—the Spirt of the Old West, Art of Africa, or the Automotive Gallery. If you are there on the first Sunday of the month, the museum turns into a cool hangout where motor enthusiasts can showcase their cars.
If you prefer shopping on a smaller scale, skip the outlets and head over to downtown Danville. Hartz Avenue is a great place to spend the afternoon, with shops ranging from Anthropologie to boutiques like Francesca’s Collections.
For dinner, Danville Brewing Company, a downtown Danville hotspot, popular for their award-winning beers and amazing food, is a must-stop. End the day on a sweet note with a scrumptious nibble at Danville Chocolates.
If you prefer to crash in Danville, look no further than the Best Western Danville Sycamore Inn, located in the heart of the San Ramon Valley and providing a comfortable retreat.
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