Danville CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Danville, California.
1. Blackhawk Museum
HISTORIC AUTOMOBILE COLLECTION
The Blackhawk Museum is a speciality museum featuring an impressive collection of rare and unique automobiles. Visitors can explore multiple exhibition galleries that showcase not only classic cars but also art, culture, and history from around the world. The museum offers a sophisticated environment where automotive history meets artistic expression and cultural education.
2. Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site
PLAYWRIGHT'S HISTORIC HOME
The Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site, also known as Tao House, is the former residence of America's only Nobel Prize-winning playwright. This historic property offers guided tours where visitors can explore the home where O'Neill wrote his most celebrated plays including 'The Iceman Cometh' and 'Long Day's Journey Into Night.' The serene setting provides insight into the life and creative process of one of America's most influential dramatists.
3. Auburn James Winery
PREMIUM WINE TASTING
Auburn James Winery offers a sophisticated wine tasting experience in the heart of Danville. Visitors can sample a variety of premium wines produced from carefully selected vineyards throughout California. The winery combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovation to create memorable wines in an inviting atmosphere.
4. Museum of the San Ramon Valley
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Museum of the San Ramon Valley celebrates the rich history and cultural heritage of the region through engaging exhibits and educational programs. Located in the restored 1891 Southern Pacific Railroad depot, this charming museum features rotating exhibitions on local history, native peoples, and the area's development. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the valley's past to life.
5. San Damiano Retreat
PEACEFUL SPIRITUAL SANCTUARY
San Damiano Retreat is a tranquil spiritual sanctuary offering a peaceful escape from everyday life. The retreat center is nestled in the foothills with beautiful grounds featuring gardens, walking paths, and contemplative spaces. Visitors of all backgrounds are welcome to enjoy the serene environment for reflection, meditation, or simply appreciating the natural beauty.
6. Iron Horse Regional Trail
SCENIC RECREATIONAL PATHWAY
The Iron Horse Regional Trail is a paved, multi-use path spanning over 30 miles through the San Ramon Valley, with a particularly scenic section running through Danville. Following a former railway line, this shaded trail offers a perfect setting for walking, running, cycling, and horseback riding with convenient access to local shops and restaurants. The trail connects communities while providing beautiful views of tree-lined streets and local landmarks, making it a favorite for outdoor recreation among locals and visitors alike.
7. Mount Diablo State Park
MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Mount Diablo State Park is a natural paradise offering some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in California. The summit, standing at over 3,800 feet, provides visitors with unparalleled vistas of the surrounding valleys and, on clear days, views extending as far as the Golden Gate Bridge. The park features numerous hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails for all skill levels, along with a visitor center showcasing exhibits on local geology and wildlife.
8. Village Theatre and Art Gallery
CULTURAL ARTS VENUE
The Village Theatre and Art Gallery is a cultural hub in downtown Danville showcasing performing arts and visual art exhibitions. This historic venue hosts a variety of performances including plays, concerts, and film screenings throughout the year. The attached art gallery features rotating exhibitions of works by local and regional artists, making it a centerpiece of Danville's thriving arts scene.
9. Historic Downtown Danville
CHARMING SHOPPING DISTRICT
Historic Downtown Danville captivates visitors with its rustic charm and tree-lined streets filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and diverse dining options. The area blends trendy establishments with historic buildings, creating a distinctive atmosphere that honors the town's Gold Rush heritage while embracing modern amenities. Visitors can explore locally-owned specialty shops selling everything from home goods and personalized gifts to antiques and premium cigars.
10. Lindsay Wildlife Experience
WILDLIFE REHABILITATION CENTER
Lindsay Wildlife Experience is one of the oldest and largest animal rehabilitation centers in the country, offering visitors close encounters with native California wildlife. The natural history and environmental center houses more than 50 species of animals and provides interesting tours, nature classes, and wildlife encounters. Visitors can touch, feed, and assist in the rehabilitation of some of the region's most amazing and rare animals while learning about conservation efforts.
11. Las Trampas Regional Wilderness
PRISTINE HIKING DESTINATION
Las Trampas Regional Wilderness offers outdoor enthusiasts access to pristine natural landscapes with miles of hiking trails through oak woodlands and rolling hills. From Las Trampas Ridge, hikers are rewarded with amazing views of Mount Diablo and sweeping panoramas of the surrounding valleys. The park provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, photographers, bird watchers, and those seeking a connection with the natural beauty of the area.
12. Rose Garden Shopping Center
PREMIER RETAIL DESTINATION
The Rose Garden Shopping Center is a convenient retail destination offering a variety of shopping options for Danville residents and visitors. This well-designed center features an assortment of stores, restaurants, and services in a pleasant outdoor setting. Shoppers appreciate the mix of national retailers and local businesses that create a comprehensive shopping experience close to downtown Danville.
13. Crow Canyon Country Club
UPSCALE GOLF EXPERIENCE
Crow Canyon Country Club offers members and guests an upscale recreational experience centered around a beautifully maintained golf course. The club features additional amenities including tennis courts, swimming pools, and fine dining options in an elegant clubhouse setting. Visitors appreciate the meticulous grounds, professional service, and social atmosphere that have made this a premier destination for golf enthusiasts and families seeking leisure activities.
14. St. Isidore Catholic Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
St. Isidore Catholic Church is a beautiful religious landmark with significant architectural and historical importance in Danville. The church features impressive stained glass windows, traditional design elements, and peaceful grounds that attract visitors of all faiths. Beyond religious services, the church serves as a community gathering place and represents an important piece of Danville's cultural heritage.
15. Alameda County Fair
SEASONAL FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
The Alameda County Fair is a beloved summer tradition just a short drive from Danville in neighboring Pleasanton. This annual event features carnival rides, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, horse racing, and a vast array of food vendors. Visitors from throughout the Tri-Valley region consider the fair an essential summer experience that combines educational opportunities with family-friendly entertainment.