An urban oasis surrounded by pristine hillsides, Walnut Creek is known for its mild Mediterranean climate and picture-perfect setting at the foot of Mount Diablo.
Walnut Creek offers a blend of urban flair, suburban grace, and peaceful wilderness. Its central Bay Area location and easy access to BART and major highways add to its appeal.
There is much to do in the East Bay’s most “urban” city. Walnut Creek is a haven for the arts as it is home to the City of Walnut Creek’s Arts and Recreation program, one of the largest community arts programs in California. The program is open to adults, teens, and children, with classes offered in ceramics and sculpture, dance, digital media and photography, music, drama, and other areas.
In addition, Walnut Creek lays claim to the Lesher Center for the Arts, where residents can enjoy live performances throughout the year. The center also includes Bedford Gallery, which exhibits works created by historic, modern, and contemporary artists in five to six new exhibitions annually, as well as lectures, workshops, and panel discussions.
When it comes to getting active, Walnut Creek offers Mount Diablo State Park, part of California’s extensive state park system. Residents can hike along the mountain’s trail system, bike to its 3,849-foot summit, or explore the more remote trails on horseback. The summit offers views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, Farallon Islands, and Mount Lassen.
A more low-key outdoor destination is the Gardens at Heather Farm, which covers six acres and includes 20 sustainable gardens that are open to the public.
Walnut Creek is a family-friendly city with plenty of activities for residents to take part in all year round.The Walnut Festival takes place in the fall, and the city offers Walnut Creek on Ice during the winter months. The Walnut Creek Aquanuts, a world-renowned synchronized swimming club, perform three times each year, and in the summertime, the two-day Art and Wine Festival attracts more than 100,000 attendees.
What We Like About Walnut Creek
- Saturday morning music session by the Locust Street Musicians at the Peets Coffee on Locust Street.
- Va de vi Bistro and Wine Bar. Va de Vi translates to “It’s all about wine” in Spain’s Catalan language. Of course, it’s all about food, too! A great hangout for wine and small plates.
- End the work or school day on the first Wednesday of each month with a street festival (on Cypress Street) full of live music, dancing, food trucks, wine and beer, kids fun zone, interactive games and free prizes, chef demos, and more
- Skipolini’s Pizza in Walnut Creek is a great place for a casual, family pizza night. Fast, friendly service. Plenty of room for everyone. Outside eating, kid-friendly family place with a play structure.
