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Mt. Diablo Region
The Mt. Diablo Region is located in the San Francisco Bay Area, the gay capital of the United States. Situated on the sunny side of the East Bay Hills, the idyllic communities of Concord, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek and the Tri-Valley (which includes Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin and Danville) are known for their warm, balmy evenings; al fresco dining; fresh, clean outdoors with plenty of room to roam; world-class shopping; and proximity to “The City” via the Bay Area Rapid Transit system (BART).
With an original blend of scientists, wine makers and techies who call it home, the Tri-Valley is accessible from anywhere in the Bay Area, just 30 miles east of San Francisco, less than an hour away from three international airports, and serviced by Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and the ACE train. Experience local California, minutes from the city but worlds away.
Once awake, you’re going to want to head down to Lake Del Valle in Livermore with its gorgeous views and plenty of trails to get the heart pumping. You could even rent a boat or kayak, but be sure to keep an eye out for golden eagles, as Del Valle Regional Park is home to one of the country’s largest golden eagle habitats.
After enjoying the great outdoors, reward yourself with some retail therapy at the San Francisco Premium Outlets in Livermore. Shopping makes everyone hungry so pop across the street and make way for dumplings at a number of authentic restaurants at Pacific Pearl.
“Wine” down with some wine tasting at Ruby Hill Winery in Pleasanton. Their history goes way back to the 1800s, before Prohibition! With 55 tasting rooms on Livermore Valley’s Wine Trail, you’ll want to check out as many as you can in California’s original wine country!
Finish off your weekend with an exquisite dining experience at Sabio on Main. This spectacular farm to fork tapas restaurant is located in historic Downtown Pleasanton. Afterward, how about a little something for the road from the famous Meadowlark Dairy Drive-Thru, one of the Tri-Valley Ice Cream Trail’s most popular stops. Treat yourself to a soft-serve cone without even getting out of the car!
It’s been a long day! To get ready for Day 2 in the Tri-Valley, you’re going to need a good night’s sleep. The Tri-Valley has 40 lodging options from boutique to 4-star, including your favorite top hotel brands, most of which are Clean and Safe Certified by the California Hotel & Lodging Association (CHLA).
After fueling up, head over to beautiful Mt. Diablo State Park accessible via Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd. in Danville. Enjoy a nice morning hike, or for a different perspective of the mountain, visit Tao House, home of Pulitzer-winning playwright, Eugene O’Neill, and now a National Historic Site. The view of Mt. Diablo is amazing through the writer’s window, and the old barn still hosts his plays today.
For shopping and lunch, head to downtown Danville. Hartz Avenue and East Prospect Avenue are perfect streets to spend the afternoon window shopping at Whim House or finding a scrumptious nibble at Danville Chocolates. Danville Harvest is a great option for lunch nearby. All their food is sourced with fresh, organic ingredients.
After lunch, don’t miss the world-class Blackhawk Museum in Danville where you’ll discover interesting exhibitions from—from the brand new World of Nature Experience, Spirit of the Old West, Art of Africa, Into China or the world-renowned Automotive Gallery. One ticket gets you into all exhibits.
Take the back road via Camino Tassajara for an unforgettable country drive to Dublin. If you come in the winter, you’ll know exactly how this city got its name. The emerald green hills are a jaw-dropper. And what better spot to hop on the Tri-Valley Beer Trail. Thirsty Bay, Inc 82 and Altamont Beer Works have exactly what you’re looking for when it comes to beer or cider, as well as a relaxing vibe in which to enjoy your company.
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. Hard to choose, but you don’t have to! If you’re a lover of spice and heat, ask for their ghost pepper jack cheese. Live music usually starts at 7:00 pm.
Wave goodbye to the beautiful Tri-Valley, we look forward to seeing you again!
Take a drive to beautiful Walnut Creek and check in to one of the hotels in our collection. Once you’re all checked in, throw on your hiking boots or cross-fit sneakers for a glorious hike of Mt. Diablo. You’ll take in fresh air and magnificent views while getting much-needed exercise at Mount Diablo State Park
After the hike, the quick drive to Shadowbrook Winery is a pleasant one. Enjoy a wine tasting to relax your muscles in an elegant indoor/outdoor setting stylishly laid out for optimum relaxation.
Return to your hotel room for a good night sleep, to be ready for the morning as you venture off to Concord for more exploring!
For the outdoorsy foodie types.
One of the unique attractions in Walnut Creek is the Ruth Bancroft Garden. It’s a world-renowned 3.5-acre garden, housing a collection of succulents, and drought-tolerant plants from around the world. Take a tour of the garden and work up a thirst, then head over to CaliCraft to sample a wide array of brews in their beer garden and taproom.
Switch gears to engage in dining from a wide array of culinary cultures in Walnut Creek. Your dining experience will be memorable as you “restaurant-hop” for appetizers, to main courses, to dessert, and end with a night cap. For a complete list of downtown Walnut Creek restaurants go to https://www.walnutcreekdowntown.com/ to map out your dining adventure!
For example, kick off the evening at Rooftop for cocktails and appetizers, then head over to Bounty Hunter for your main course. Skip on over to Lottie’s Creamery to sample delicious flavors like Bourbon White Chocolate Crisp, Strawberry Lemonade Sorbet, and Vanilla Salted Almond Toffee. Our downtown is totally walkable with delights for your palate along the way. Bon appetit!
Hotels in Walnut Creek:
Here’s how to make the most out of your time here:
After that amazing meal, stroll over a block or two to charming, historic Todos Santos Plaza and take a walk over to the park square. While you’re there, check out the iconic clock tower and cool, life-size statue of Salvio Pacheco, the city’s founder. The park is also home to Concord’s popular Farmers Market, held every Tuesday year-round, plus Thursdays during the summer months.
If you’re looking for a more rigorous way to work off your huevos, try an adventurous hike at Mt. Diablo State Park's popular Rock City trails where you can climb some boulders and enjoy the panoramic views. If you’d rather bike, take a cruise along the Iron Horse Trail. Start your ride a few miles from downtown up Willow Pass Road (at the Hilton Concord), where you’ll find the mostly flat cycle trail following along its namesake canal. Check out the Encina Bicycle Centers Concord location if you’re in need of a bike rental.
If you love escape room challenges, or always wanted to try one, give it a go at ATG Escape Rooms on Willow Pass Rd. Don’t let the office-type exterior fool you, they are known for their fun, higher-level challenges.
Check into the plush & comfy Hilton Concord and then make your way across the street to The Veranda Shopping Center and explore the great shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. You might even find yourself playing a game of ping-pong in the grass, or in the winter months, enjoying a skate date at the outdoor ice rink. While you’re there, treat yourself to a tasty frozen creation at Pop Bar, or if you’re ready for something even more chill, swing by Residual Sugar Wine Bar for a unique selection of wines by the glass.
Great dinner options abound at The Veranda including Puesto for stylish Mexican, fresh sushi at Mikuni, steak and pub food at the The Yard House or next-level seafood at EMC Seafood & Raw Bar. After dinner, finish the night off right at the Veranda Luxe Cinema and enjoy a kicked back movies experience in their plush, reclining seats.
If still have energy to burn after your fun-filled day, indulge in some casual nightlife at Vinnie's Bar & Grill located in Todos Santos plaza. Vinnie’s goes old school with pool, darts and live music.
A two-night’s weekend stay in a standard king or double queen room with breakfast for two at Courtyard by Marriott – Livermore, located in the historic Livermore Valley Wine Country. Valid Thursday-Sunday night.
Wine Tasting Experience for two at The Steven Kent Winery, whose award-winning cabernets hearken back to the valley’s roots as one of California’s best wine regions, according to Wine Enthusiast.
Wine Tasting for two at McGrail Vineyards & Winery, located in the heart of the Livermore Valley Wine Country and proud to be part of one of the oldest California Wine Regions. Enjoy beautiful views from their patio or enjoy a picnic on their sprawling green lawn.
Dinner for two at Sabio on Main: Chef Francis Hogan brings elegant, California cuisine emphasizing local and sustainable ingredients to historic downtown Pleasanton. Craft cocktails, a nationally awarded wine list and stunning design round out the experience.
Two soft-serve, homemade ice cream cones at the famous Meadowlark Drive-Through Dairy, founded in the early 1900’s. A delicious blast from the past.
Two therapeutic eye masks, good hot or cold.
Two stylish Tri-Valley buffs to make sure you get plenty of compliments while you’re being mask-compliant.
1 Night Stay at the Hyatt House or Residence Inn Pleasant Hill plus
Lunch gift certificate for Jack’s Restaurant
Dinner gift certificate at Wences or Wise Girl Restaurant
Spa treatment for 2 gift certificates at Spavia
SPH welcome basket inc bottle wine, cookies, dog collar & leash, caps.
1 Night Stay at the Hilton Concord & $ 75 gift certificate at Puesto Restaurant
Concord Taco Trail Package
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Two Days in Tri-Valley
From the top of Mount Diablo, you can see the three valleys that give us our name. Nestled within the Tri-Valley are four cities, each with its own unique history and charm: Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin, and the town of Danville. Here you’ll find California’s oldest wine country with 55 tasting rooms, a craft beer trail with 18 stops, California’s largest Premium Outlets, a delightfully diverse restaurant scene, an award-winning Ice Cream Trail, adorable downtowns, plenty of music and theater, unspoiled hiking trails with views for days, and sunshine you can count on.With an original blend of scientists, wine makers and techies who call it home, the Tri-Valley is accessible from anywhere in the Bay Area, just 30 miles east of San Francisco, less than an hour away from three international airports, and serviced by Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and the ACE train. Experience local California, minutes from the city but worlds away.
Day One
Wake up to our Caffeine Trail with a fresh brewed coffee and scrumptious meal at artisan cafe The Press, with two locations, in Pleasanton and Livermore.Once awake, you’re going to want to head down to Lake Del Valle in Livermore with its gorgeous views and plenty of trails to get the heart pumping. You could even rent a boat or kayak, but be sure to keep an eye out for golden eagles, as Del Valle Regional Park is home to one of the country’s largest golden eagle habitats.
After enjoying the great outdoors, reward yourself with some retail therapy at the San Francisco Premium Outlets in Livermore. Shopping makes everyone hungry so pop across the street and make way for dumplings at a number of authentic restaurants at Pacific Pearl.
“Wine” down with some wine tasting at Ruby Hill Winery in Pleasanton. Their history goes way back to the 1800s, before Prohibition! With 55 tasting rooms on Livermore Valley’s Wine Trail, you’ll want to check out as many as you can in California’s original wine country!
Finish off your weekend with an exquisite dining experience at Sabio on Main. This spectacular farm to fork tapas restaurant is located in historic Downtown Pleasanton. Afterward, how about a little something for the road from the famous Meadowlark Dairy Drive-Thru, one of the Tri-Valley Ice Cream Trail’s most popular stops. Treat yourself to a soft-serve cone without even getting out of the car!
It’s been a long day! To get ready for Day 2 in the Tri-Valley, you’re going to need a good night’s sleep. The Tri-Valley has 40 lodging options from boutique to 4-star, including your favorite top hotel brands, most of which are Clean and Safe Certified by the California Hotel & Lodging Association (CHLA).
Day Two
Start your day off right with breakfast at Sideboard Neighborhood Kitchen and Coffee Bar (a stop on the Tri-Valley Caffeine Trail) in Danville. They locally source all their ingredients and even have a trendy coffee bar where folks sip artisan coffee and talk about “how to save the world.”After fueling up, head over to beautiful Mt. Diablo State Park accessible via Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd. in Danville. Enjoy a nice morning hike, or for a different perspective of the mountain, visit Tao House, home of Pulitzer-winning playwright, Eugene O’Neill, and now a National Historic Site. The view of Mt. Diablo is amazing through the writer’s window, and the old barn still hosts his plays today.
For shopping and lunch, head to downtown Danville. Hartz Avenue and East Prospect Avenue are perfect streets to spend the afternoon window shopping at Whim House or finding a scrumptious nibble at Danville Chocolates. Danville Harvest is a great option for lunch nearby. All their food is sourced with fresh, organic ingredients.
After lunch, don’t miss the world-class Blackhawk Museum in Danville where you’ll discover interesting exhibitions from—from the brand new World of Nature Experience, Spirit of the Old West, Art of Africa, Into China or the world-renowned Automotive Gallery. One ticket gets you into all exhibits.
Take the back road via Camino Tassajara for an unforgettable country drive to Dublin. If you come in the winter, you’ll know exactly how this city got its name. The emerald green hills are a jaw-dropper. And what better spot to hop on the Tri-Valley Beer Trail. Thirsty Bay, Inc 82 and Altamont Beer Works have exactly what you’re looking for when it comes to beer or cider, as well as a relaxing vibe in which to enjoy your company.
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. Hard to choose, but you don’t have to! If you’re a lover of spice and heat, ask for their ghost pepper jack cheese. Live music usually starts at 7:00 pm.
Wave goodbye to the beautiful Tri-Valley, we look forward to seeing you again!
Stay Pleasant Hill
Start your day with stunning views on Mt Diablo with an early morning Yoga or Breakfast. Continue your day with a leisurely bike ride along the Contra Costa Canal Trail. This paved, multi-use trail makes a horseshoe shape around Concord, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, and Martinez (14 miles), passing several parks and shopping centers along the way. Enjoy Lunch in downtown Pleasant Hill at Jack's then maybe regroup with a spa treatment for two at Spavia. Finish the night with a live band and spectacular food and amazing menu at Wise Girl, https://wisegirlph.com. Before heading off to a night at Hyatt House Pleasant Hill, be sure to grab some yummy desserts at Cold Stone Creamery.Explore Walnut Creek, Jewel of the East Bay
A hotel stay, a beautiful hike, and wine-tasting in style.Take a drive to beautiful Walnut Creek and check in to one of the hotels in our collection. Once you’re all checked in, throw on your hiking boots or cross-fit sneakers for a glorious hike of Mt. Diablo. You’ll take in fresh air and magnificent views while getting much-needed exercise at Mount Diablo State Park
After the hike, the quick drive to Shadowbrook Winery is a pleasant one. Enjoy a wine tasting to relax your muscles in an elegant indoor/outdoor setting stylishly laid out for optimum relaxation.
Return to your hotel room for a good night sleep, to be ready for the morning as you venture off to Concord for more exploring!
For the outdoorsy foodie types.
One of the unique attractions in Walnut Creek is the Ruth Bancroft Garden. It’s a world-renowned 3.5-acre garden, housing a collection of succulents, and drought-tolerant plants from around the world. Take a tour of the garden and work up a thirst, then head over to CaliCraft to sample a wide array of brews in their beer garden and taproom.
Switch gears to engage in dining from a wide array of culinary cultures in Walnut Creek. Your dining experience will be memorable as you “restaurant-hop” for appetizers, to main courses, to dessert, and end with a night cap. For a complete list of downtown Walnut Creek restaurants go to https://www.walnutcreekdowntown.com/ to map out your dining adventure!
For example, kick off the evening at Rooftop for cocktails and appetizers, then head over to Bounty Hunter for your main course. Skip on over to Lottie’s Creamery to sample delicious flavors like Bourbon White Chocolate Crisp, Strawberry Lemonade Sorbet, and Vanilla Salted Almond Toffee. Our downtown is totally walkable with delights for your palate along the way. Bon appetit!
Hotels in Walnut Creek:
- The Renaissance Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton
- Walnut Creek Marriott
- Residence In Walnut Creek
- Holiday Inn Express
A Day in Concord
As home to the East Bay’s renowned Rainbow Center and annual Concord Pride Festival, Concord has long been an LGBTQ+ inclusive and welcoming community. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway with your spouse or significant other, a family weekend with the kids (or fur kids), hanging with friends or just flying solo, Concord offers an endless variety of things to do and places to stay. From our charming, historic downtown plaza, buzzworthy local food scene, premium shopping, live music and wide, open spaces, Concord is always full of unexpected discoveries.Here’s how to make the most out of your time here:
Morning
Savor a leisurely brunch at Canasta Kitchen. This modern Mexican café just off the Plaza boasts authentic, mouthwatering comfort foods like huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, dulce de leche pancakes, and Mexican eggs benedict. Plus, who could say no to horchata coffee?After that amazing meal, stroll over a block or two to charming, historic Todos Santos Plaza and take a walk over to the park square. While you’re there, check out the iconic clock tower and cool, life-size statue of Salvio Pacheco, the city’s founder. The park is also home to Concord’s popular Farmers Market, held every Tuesday year-round, plus Thursdays during the summer months.
If you’re looking for a more rigorous way to work off your huevos, try an adventurous hike at Mt. Diablo State Park's popular Rock City trails where you can climb some boulders and enjoy the panoramic views. If you’d rather bike, take a cruise along the Iron Horse Trail. Start your ride a few miles from downtown up Willow Pass Road (at the Hilton Concord), where you’ll find the mostly flat cycle trail following along its namesake canal. Check out the Encina Bicycle Centers Concord location if you’re in need of a bike rental.
Mid-Day
You’ve probably heard about Concord’s Taco Trail and now is the time to get acquainted. Head over to the Monument Blvd neighborhood to check out some of the authentic stops at the heart of the Trail. We suggest Tortellaria El Molino, Salsa Verde Mexican Cuisine or Ranchero Taqueria. With nearly 40 restaurants and taquerias, you won’t be able to do them all in one day, so plan to come back often and try them all!If you love escape room challenges, or always wanted to try one, give it a go at ATG Escape Rooms on Willow Pass Rd. Don’t let the office-type exterior fool you, they are known for their fun, higher-level challenges.
Check into the plush & comfy Hilton Concord and then make your way across the street to The Veranda Shopping Center and explore the great shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. You might even find yourself playing a game of ping-pong in the grass, or in the winter months, enjoying a skate date at the outdoor ice rink. While you’re there, treat yourself to a tasty frozen creation at Pop Bar, or if you’re ready for something even more chill, swing by Residual Sugar Wine Bar for a unique selection of wines by the glass.
Evening
Great dinner options abound at The Veranda including Puesto for stylish Mexican, fresh sushi at Mikuni, steak and pub food at the The Yard House or next-level seafood at EMC Seafood & Raw Bar. After dinner, finish the night off right at the Veranda Luxe Cinema and enjoy a kicked back movies experience in their plush, reclining seats.
If still have energy to burn after your fun-filled day, indulge in some casual nightlife at Vinnie's Bar & Grill located in Todos Santos plaza. Vinnie’s goes old school with pool, darts and live music.
Full Prize Package
Visit Tri-Valley
Pleasant Hill
Concord
- 1 Taco Trail Baseball Tee
- 1 Pair of Taco Trail Socks
- 1 Taco Trail Compressed Taco Tee
- Taco Trail Stress Ball