Do it Like a Local in Walnut Creek

With a great dining scene and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, Walnut Creek makes for a perfect day trip with friends, family, or both! Be sure to bring your walking shoes, because there's a lot to explore in this scenic town.

It's difficult to choose any one facet of Mount Diablo State Park as a "must-see" when there are so many possibilities within this expansive terrain. Hiking and camping enthusiasts will find their own mecca along Donner Creek Trail, particularly after reaching the peak. Stunning views of Donner Creek Falls are sure to dazzle any nature... More >
It's difficult to choose any one facet of Mount Diablo State Park as a "must-see" when there are so many possibilities within this expansive terrain. Hiking and camping enthusiasts will find their own mecca along Donner Creek Trail, particularly after reaching the peak. Stunning views of Donner Creek Falls are sure to dazzle any nature lover, with four separate waterfalls cascading into the creek below. For an added thrill, Rock City is also a local favorite that offers a variety of caves for visitors to wander while trekking through the wilderness. Mount Diablo's peak seasons are winter and spring, which provide the perfect weather for unraveling the great outdoors.
Even those averse to shopping will find something to enjoy in the Broadway Plaza Shopping Center. An outdoor mall, this Walnut Creek gem is ideal for a sunny afternoon on the town. Just minutes away from Main Street, shoppers will also find that once they tire of stores like Macy's, Banana Republic, and Lucky Brand Jeans, they can easi... More >
Even those averse to shopping will find something to enjoy in the Broadway Plaza Shopping Center. An outdoor mall, this Walnut Creek gem is ideal for a sunny afternoon on the town. Just minutes away from Main Street, shoppers will also find that once they tire of stores like Macy's, Banana Republic, and Lucky Brand Jeans, they can easily satisfy their lunch or dinner cravings in a flash. Sick of the usual, crowded mall experience? Don't miss out on the fresh air and laid back atmosphere of Broadway Plaza!
My only recommendation is to avoid feeding the geese; some may get a bit feisty.
Unlike most traditional coffee shops, Cafe La Scala is a blend of European flavors and unique selection. With a broad array of alcoholic beverages (wine and beer lovers, take note!), pastries, free wi-fi, and a relaxing vibe, this is an incredibly popular hangout for Walnut Creek locals. Don't let this deter you, though, as the friendl... More >
Unlike most traditional coffee shops, Cafe La Scala is a blend of European flavors and unique selection. With a broad array of alcoholic beverages (wine and beer lovers, take note!), pastries, free wi-fi, and a relaxing vibe, this is an incredibly popular hangout for Walnut Creek locals. Don't let this deter you, though, as the friendly staff is sure to make you feel right at home - even if you're just passing through. Whether you're in the mood for a melt-in-your-mouth panini or a soothing glass of merlot, Cafe La Scala will undoubtedly be a pleasurable experience.
Who doesn't like a fun trip to the neighborhood park? Heather Farm Park, while not well known, is a fabulous recreational area with plenty of fields, basketball courts, a pond, walking trails, and play structures for the kids. If that's not enough to fill one afternoon, bring along the animals, too -- the horse rink and dog parks are i... More >
Who doesn't like a fun trip to the neighborhood park? Heather Farm Park, while not well known, is a fabulous recreational area with plenty of fields, basketball courts, a pond, walking trails, and play structures for the kids. If that's not enough to fill one afternoon, bring along the animals, too -- the horse rink and dog parks are ideal for a play date with your furry friends. There's plenty of space in this large park, which also makes it a good location to throw a sizzling BBQ. My only recommendation is to avoid feeding the geese; some may get a bit feisty.
The fine Italian cuisine of Prima Ristorante is a bit on the pricey side, but well worth the expense for a romantic evening out. Adorned with an elegant fireplace and dim lighting, this intimate setting serves as a classy departure from the hustle and bustle of other less casual dining options. While here, you'll enjoy great service, a... More >
The fine Italian cuisine of Prima Ristorante is a bit on the pricey side, but well worth the expense for a romantic evening out. Adorned with an elegant fireplace and dim lighting, this intimate setting serves as a classy departure from the hustle and bustle of other less casual dining options. While here, you'll enjoy great service, an extensive wine list, and valet parking - which will come in handy given the limited street parking available. Meat lovers should be sure to order the Rib Eye, one of the best entrees offered at Prima!
With a broad array of alcoholic beverages (wine and beer lovers, take note!), pastries, free wi-fi, and a relaxing vibe, this is an incredibly popular hangout for Walnut Creek locals.
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There's a reason why the Embassy Suites is a hotspot for out-of-towners. Located just off of Main Street, visitors have the option of venturing downtown via a complimentary shuttle service, or discovering what the Bay Area is really about by hopping on the nearby BART. For those looking for a quick place to stay on the way to San Francisco, this hotel offers clean rooms, attentive staff, an outdoor pool, and a gym. While it... More
There's a reason why the Embassy Suites is a hotspot for out-of-towners. Located just off of Main Street, visitors have the option of venturing downtown via a complimentary shuttle service, or discovering what the Bay Area is really about by hopping on the nearby BART. For those looking for a quick place to stay on the way to San Francisco, this hotel offers clean rooms, attentive staff, an outdoor pool, and a gym. While it is a 5 star luxury hotel, it has an unbeatable price that will keep you coming back with the family in tow. Featuring a continental breakfast, well appointed rooms, and a relaxing ambiance, this is definitely a not-to-be-missed accommodation.
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