Best Things To Do See In Pleasanton California

Nestled in the Tri-Valley just east of San Francisco, Pleasanton is a small suburban haven bustling with culture. Whether you want to get some shopping in or enjoy a calm stroll and enjoy nature, Pleasanton has something for you.

Downtown Pleasanton

Downtown stands alone as a majestic centerpiece of Pleasanton culture. There are really only two places in Pleasanton where large groups of people congregate and socialize — the mall and downtown. With plenty of local businesses, including coffee shops, bars, restaurants, clothing stores and hair salons, there is never a shortage of people looking to hang out and spend their money. Whether you’re just out for a stroll, looking to go shopping, or feeling hungry, beautiful downtown Pleasanton offers something for everyone.

Concert in the Park

Alameda County Fair

Another summer attraction, the Alameda County Fair takes place from mid-June to Independence Day. The event features live music and showcases up-and coming artists and cover bands as well established industry veterans. Grab yourself a funnel cake or a hot-dog as big as your forearm. Taste some wine or some beer, enjoy a showcase of local artists, or head on over to one of the many ticket booths and purchase tickets for some classic carnival rides and attractions. The Alameda County Fair is a great way to get out and enjoy the sunshine.

First Wednesday Night Street Party

A fairly recent addition to the Pleasanton Downtown Association’s list of summer events and attractions, the First Wednesday Night Party fair is a straight-up block party. Every first Wednesday from May through August, a section of Main Street is blocked off and food trucks, music equipment, vendor booths, and fun come rushing in. Each month is a different theme, and this May kicks off with a Cinco de Mayo celebration. Grab a drink, grab some food, and join the party.

Pleasanton Ridge

In the mood for a good hike? Look no further than Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park. With thousands of acres of land for of biking, hiking, and running, breathe in the great outdoors without having to leave civilization. Bring the dog for a trail run or bring lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the many picnic tables throughout the park. Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park is a little slice of the wilderness a lot closer to home.

Scottish Games

If you like whisky, and celebrating culture then the Scottish Games are for you. Taking place each Labor Day weekend at the Alameda County fairgrounds, the Scottish Games are a celebration of epic proportion. Come see some old boys — and young ones — play rugby, and watch kilted men toss the caber (a traditional Scottish test of skill and strength). Witness Scottish culture in an interactive environment, from traditional music to a living history exhibition. The Scottish Games are a unique experience that you won’t want to miss.

Pirates of Emerson

Another fantastic event held at the fairgrounds, Pirates of Emerson is am eerie experience during the month leading up to Halloween. A classic carnival with an undead pirate theme, Pirates of Emerson offers numerous attractions that are sure to get you in the Halloween spirit. Complete with spooky walkthroughs that rotate each year and carnival-style games, this once small-time operation is one of the best Halloween attractions in the Bay Area — it’s no wonder that people keep coming back for more each year.

Stoneridge Mall

The Stoneridge Shopping Center has been a popular hang-out spot among Pleasantonians since it opened in 1980. Today, the two level shopping mall boasts 165 stores including Nordstom, Apple, H&M, and Mrs. Fields Cookies. Stoneridge also offers some great chain restaurant options like the Cheesecake Factory and California Pizza Kitchen.

Shadow Cliffs

Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area is a fun summer hang-out spot in the Tri-Valley. Take a pedal boat or kayak out into the reservoir, or hike, bike, or stroll along one of the many paths and trails that Shadow Cliffs has to offer. For the anglers, trout and catfish are plentiful, and the reservoir is also home to bluegill and black bass. Get outside and enjoy the beauty that the Tri-Valley has to offer.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.