Danville is a beautiful town in the San Ramon Valley of California's Contra Costa County. It is known for its luxury homes, upscale shops and restaurants, outdoor activities, and proximity to San Francisco. If you are considering moving to Danville, here are the top 10 things to do in this incredible area:
1. Shop on Main Street
Main Street is the heart of downtown Danville and is lined with boutique shops, delicious restaurants, and plenty of reputable businesses. Stroll down Main Street to enjoy local Danville shopping before grabbing a bite to eat at one of Danville’s fine dining establishments.
2. Indulge in culture, art, and museums
Danville has been growing and evolving for over 130 years. Known as the "Heart of the San Ramon Valley," Danville was originally settled by Bay Miwok Indians who wintered in encampments on Mount Diablo and summered in the valley's creekside communities. There are plenty of museums, memorials, and historical sites in the area to satiate any history buff's appetite. For instance, The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is a major Danville attraction where you can learn about the history of the surrounding area. Blackhawk Museum is another must-see museum known for its unique galleries showcasing a rare collection of classic automobiles.
Founded in 1985, The Museum of the San Ramon Valley features exhibits on the Native Americans who first lived in the area, early settlers, and the town's role in World War II. It also delves into how the local terrain and environment had a tremendous impact on the human experiences, institutions, and civilizations on display. Furthermore, the museum hosts a children's section with interactive games and activities, making it a Danville destination the whole family can enjoy.
Insider tip: Take the walking tour of downtown's historic buildings for an authentic Danville experience.
Another Danville favorite is Shadelands Ranch Museum. Located on a historical ranch once owned by George Shadelandone, one of Danville's founders, Shadelands Ranch Museum has exhibits on early ranch life as well as creatures that live in the San Ramon Valley today. Its grounds are also home to several sculptures crafted by local artists!
3. Hike and enjoy the great outdoors
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The majority of the over 167 acres of parkland operated and maintained by the Town of Danville is put to use for energetic forms of leisure. The neighborhood has six community parks, each with its own set of features like a dog park, walking pathways, and sports grounds for various activities.
Mt. Diablo State Park is the go-to spot for getting some fresh air and exercise. Located just 40 minutes from Danville, the park offers various beautiful hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, all with breathtaking views of the Bay Area. Explorers enjoy biking, walking the trails, and enjoying the impressive scenery.
Insider tip: Pack water and a snack, as there are no food options once you're in the park. We suggest bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many picnic spots throughout the area. And remember to wear sunscreen and a hat in the summer, as the California sun can get quite strong!
4. Go wine tasting
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The Livermore Valley wine region is located just east of Danville and is home to many different wineries. Start your day at Eagle Ridge Vineyard, then head to Nottingham Cellars for a tantalizing tasting menu paired with mouthwatering local cheeses. Finish your afternoon with a tour and tasting at Retzlaff Vineyards & Winery for the full experience.
5. Browse the weekly farmers’ market
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Every Saturday, rain or shine, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. year-round, downtown Danville comes alive with its weekly farmer's market. Local farmers sell fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, eggs, honey, and more at the Railroad Avenue Municipal Parking Lot. There is also live music and face painting for kids, making this a family-friendly activity everyone can enjoy. It's a great place to find unique gifts or pick up some groceries for the week.
6. Ride horses at Shadowbrook Farm
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Shadowbrook Farm offers horseback riding lessons for all levels, from beginners to experienced riders. The farm also offers pony rides for small children. Enjoy a picnic lunch by one of the ponds on the property after your lesson for a fun and relaxing Danville experience.
7. Play golf at Danville’s best country clubs
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Danville is home to a slew of country clubs boasting California’s best in 18-hole golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pools for members and guests. Blackhawk is a Danville country club that even has its own lake!
8. Enjoy a sweet treat from Lottie's Creamery
Lottie's Creamery is an old-fashioned ice cream parlor that has been serving delicious ice cream since 1948. The shop has classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, as well as more unique savors like avocado and huckleberry.
9. Take a hot air balloon ride
Hot air balloon rides are available through several companies in the Bay Area. A hot air balloon ride is a great way to see the stunning sights of San Ramon Valley from above. Once you touch down, enjoy champagne and hors d'oeuvres while you watch the sunset over Mount Diablo!
10. Have a picnic in Osage Station Park
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Osage Station Park is a great place to relax with a picnic lunch or dinner. The park has a playground for kids, barbeque pits for cooking out, and a large grassy area perfect for spreading a blanket.
11. Eat at the Restaurants on Hartz
The lively Hartz Avenue is full of an array of exciting eateries for any hungry diner. Check out Corner of Brazil (370 Hartz Ave, Danville, CA 9452) for fantastic Brazilian pastries, Acai bowls, crepes, and coffees. There’s also Sushi Bar Hana (301 Hartz Ave, Danville, CA 94526) for seafood-minded individuals, as well as Primo’s Pizzeria & Pub for exquisite pasta, pizzas, and sandwiches. Whether you’re seeking Italian dishes at Incontro Ristorante or Mexican cuisine at Cocina Hermanas, you will surely not walk away hungry.
12. Have fun at the festivals in Downtown
Photo courtesy of Danville Summerfest
Danville has a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of events and festivities for residents to enjoy no matter the time of year. The Danville Summerfest in June is a family-fun community event with live performances, kids’ activities and booths, a classic car show, tons of food and drinks, and a health and wellness fair. During summer, Danville also hosts concerts, wine-tasting events, and more. In October, Danville's “Flavors of Fall” features live dancing and music, excellent food options, choreography, a “Scarecrow Stroll,” and free booth activities for the whole family. From October through January, nearby Blackhawk Plaza hosts a European model train exhibit for visitors to enjoy.
13. Enjoy the youth sports
Danville residents take pride in the available athletic programs, including a fantastic array of youth sports. These programs provide enriching activities for grade-school students and create a fun atmosphere where kids can learn athletic skills, build confidence, and work as a team.
The winter Junior Warriors basketball program is a partnership between the Town of Danville and the Golden State Warriors Organization. In addition, kids can enjoy the Danville Little League for ages 5 through 12 to help kids gain baseball skills at a young age, as well as the Tassajara Valley Little League for ages 5 through 16.
The San Ramon Valley Girls Athletic League is a nonprofit girls’ softball program for ages 5 to 18 that runs in the spring. There is even the Diablo Scorpion League, a youth lacrosse program, and the Danville Oaks Rugby team. Finally, the Mustang Soccer League has junior and recreational programs for kids.
John DeMarinis: Your expert Danville realtor
With plenty of upscale shops, restaurants, outdoor activities, and a rich history, this beautiful San Francisco Bay Area town truly has something for everyone. The activities and attractions mentioned in this blog post are just some things you can look forward to once you make your move to Danville, California. John DeMarinis would know– he has called Danville home for over a decade now and feels very lucky to do so.
John started working in real estate in 2003 and now closes on roughly 25 homes a year. His children attend Monte Vista High School and Los Cerros Middle School, and the entire family serves as parishioners at St. Isidore's Catholic Church. John's goal as a Danville Realtor with RE/MAX is to give his clients attentive and thoughtful assistance throughout their whole home buying or selling process. He believes family to be the most important thing in the world and looks forward to gaining the opportunity to serve yours. Connect with John today.
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock
