Summertime in the Tri-Valley means day trips to the lake, playing carnival games at the Alameda County Fair, scenic drives up to Mt. Diablo State Park’s summit, and spine-tingling plummets down the waterslides at The Wave. Between warm, sunny weather and fun, seasonal festivities, summertime is one of the best times to visit the Tri-Valley. Don’t miss out on these top summertime must-sees and must-do’s below!
SEE SHAKESPEARE IN THE VINEYARD
Shakespeare in the Vineyard is a weeks-long summertime line-up of live theatrical performances. Each year, classic and modern Shakespearean-inspired works are performed beneath the stars at the picturesque Darcie Kent Winery. More Info →
RENT A BOAT AT LAKE DEL VALLE
During the summer, Del Valle Regional Park is a haven of recreational activities. While there are multi-night camping spaces available, there are also plenty of day-use bbq and picnic areas surrounding the 5-mile lake’s coast.
Rent kayaks, bikes, stand up paddle boards and lawn games from Outback Adventures near the swimming beach on the north east side of the lake. If you’d like to explore the far side of the lake, visit the Del Valle Marina to rent canoes, motor boats, pedal boats and pontoon boats. More Info →
VISIT THE ALAMEDA COUNTY FAIR
Each year between June and July, the Alameda County Fairgrounds transforms into the 7th largest fair in California. Whether you’re going for the horse races, the fried fair food, the nightly concerts or the extreme monster truck shows, the Alameda County Fair does not disappoint. More Info →
GO SUMMER STARGAZING
Photo Credit: @chris_orona
With virtually zero light pollution for 100 miles south, Del Valle Regional Park is one of the best places in the entire Bay Area to go stargazing. Reserve a camping spot to view the skies from inside the park or watch from the outskirts just up the road from the entrance gates. Keep in mind that certain stars and planets (like Jupiter!) are only visible during summer months. More Info →
Cool Off at The Wave Waterpark
Each year, The Wave open their doors for visitors and residents to enjoy their water slides, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, lounge areas, and children’s water park. Rent poolside loungers and cabanas for an extra convenient and comfortable visit. More Info →
CONCERTS IN THE PARK
Every Friday evening throughout the summer, local bands take the stage at Lions Wayside Park for a night of music and dancing in the heart of downtown Pleasanton. Grab dinner on Main Street just around the corner, and then head over to the park for a night of free and fun entertainment. More Info →
EXPLORE MT. DIABLO
Mount Diablo State Park features miles of interconnected trails and panoramic views of the entire San Francisco Bay Area, making it a summer hotspot for hiking, biking, camping, and rock climbing. Explore Rock City’s ancient wind caves while taking a trip down the “Trail of Time” or head up to the Summit Visitor Center where you can stand on the actual summit of the Bay Area’s tallest peak. More Info →