Pleasanton CA is a city for families,with excellent schools and beautiful parks. Pleasanton CA also has a charming downtown with many restaurants and boutiques.
Visitors can enjoy the outdoors at Augustin Bernal Park,where they can participate in a variety of activities. This park has 237 acres,which includes a lake and hiking paths.
Augustin Bernal Park
Augustin Bernal Park is 237 acres of natural open space on Pleasanton Ridge with hiking trails and beautiful views. It is also home to native flora and fauna. It is a popular park for mountain bikers and hikers. The city recently added a new downhill-only trail to the park. The 0.7-mile trail is located within the community park and is designed to reduce mountain biker/hiker conflicts on existing multi-use trails.
The Valley View Trail and the newly opened Blue Oak Knoll trail provide spectacular views of the city and surrounding areas. The park was originally part of the Golden Eagle Ranch and donated to the City of Pleasanton by Walter S. Johnson in 1971. Since then,the city has developed eight different trails within the park.
You can access the park through the gate located at the Golden Eagle Estates entrance. Visitors must show ID to gain entry through the gate. The city provides a weekly park pass for non-residents.
Granizo Art Mural
Located in downtown Pleasanton,the Granizo Art Mural is a community art display that tells the story of the city’s history and culture. The mural is a colorful,interactive,and educational piece that can be viewed in many different ways. The mural was painted by Guillermo Wagner Granizo,and it features a variety of figures that represent the past of the city.
The 270-acre Alameda County Fairgrounds are home to a variety of attractions and events,including the annual Alameda County Fair. The fairgrounds feature the oldest one-mile horse racetrack in America,an arena and livestock event facilities,a 3,000-seat outdoor amphitheater,a Model train display,and the historic Heathcote-MacKenzie Heritage House.
The Museum on Main is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in local history. Located in a building that was built in 1914,the museum houses an incredible cultural collection that is sure to delight all visitors. The museum’s exhibits cover everything from Native American culture and modern-day Tri-Valley life.
Firehouse Arts Center
The Firehouse Arts Centre is located in downtown Pleasanton and includes a performing arts theatre,an art gallery,as well as office space. Its unique design blends portions of the historic original brick building with new construction and features. The design is consciously in line with the National Park Service guidelines on adaptive reuse of historic buildings. This helps to clearly distinguish between new constructions and historic structures.
The venue’s intimate performing arts theatre redefines the term “no bad seats.” Patrons can enjoy a drink in the lobby and are allowed to bring them into the auditorium for performances. It’s a clever feature that lets patrons enjoy the show and not worry about getting sore necks from sitting too long.
The theater’s schedule is a mix of music,theater productions,and art exhibitions. This season features the most Bay Area centric lineup ever. The previous shows included Rueibin Chan’s piano concert,April Verch’s dance/singing performances,and a performance by YEA. Don Lewis directed award-winning winners.
Alameda County Fairgrounds
Alameda County Fairgrounds are a popular attraction for sports enthusiasts and families with kids. It features exhibition halls,outdoor arenas and more,and it has been home to the Alameda County Fair since 1912. Other events are held at the Fairgrounds throughout the year such as weddings,company parties and group picnics.
The Museum on Main Street is a great place to learn about the culture and history in Pleasanton. This Smithsonian outreach museum has various exhibits that highlight the area’s unique heritage and culture,including work history,food traditions and more.
The Augustin Bernal Park,and Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area are also notable attractions. This is one of the best hiking destinations,offering a variety of trails. There is also a lake with picnic areas,and it has accessible facilities.