Walnut Creek is a vibrant city in the San Francisco Bay Area of Northern California. Located in Contra Costa County, it is home to over 70,000 residents, many of whom commute to nearby San Francisco and Oakland for work. With its close proximity to the Bay Area, Walnut Creek offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living.
The city has a lot to offer for visitors, including a multitude of shopping and dining options. Its downtown area is home to a variety of local businesses, as well as popular stores like Nordstrom and Crate & Barrel. The nearby open-air Walnut Creek Shopping Center boasts over 70 stores, while Broadway Plaza is home to designer brands like Louis Vuitton and Apple.
Walnut Creek also boasts plenty of outdoor activities. The nearby Shell Ridge Open Space offers trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, while the Iron Horse Regional Trail is popular with joggers and cyclists. The city also has two golf courses and is home to the Gardens at Heather Farm, a 15-acre botanical garden.
Walnut Creek is a great destination for those looking for a mix of urban and suburban living. It’s the perfect place to explore the Bay Area, with plenty of shopping, dining, and outdoor activities available. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Walnut Creek.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown Walnut Creek: Downtown Walnut Creek is the city's main hub, with a thriving business district and a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
2. Northgate: Northgate is a suburban neighborhood with tree-lined streets and a range of single-family homes. It is a great area for families looking for a quiet, safe area to live.
3. Ygnacio Valley: Ygnacio Valley is a residential neighborhood with easy access to freeways and BART. It has a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes.
4. Walnut Heights: Walnut Heights is a neighborhood with some of the highest-rated schools in the city. It has a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and condos.
5. Saranap: Saranap is a suburban neighborhood close to downtown Walnut Creek. It is one of the more popular areas for young families with a variety of housing options and easy access to parks, trails, and shopping.
1. Heather Farm Park: This urban oasis features a variety of recreational activities, including a lake, a picnic area, a playground, and plenty of open spaces for sports and leisure.
2. Walnut Creek Historical Society: This historical society is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of Walnut Creek and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the museum, which houses a variety of artifacts from the city's past.
3. Lesher Center for the Arts: This performing arts center features a variety of performances, including music, theater, and dance. The center also offers classes and workshops for all ages.
4. Diablo Vista Park: A great spot for a picnic or a stroll, Diablo Vista Park offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The park also features a variety of outdoor activities, including a playground, a pond, and a bike path.
5. Civic Park: This large park features plenty of open space for picnicking, playing sports, or enjoying a leisurely stroll. There are also plenty of trails, a playground, and a lake.
1. The Patio on Broadway: The Patio is a local favorite that serves up delicious Mexican cuisine and some of the best margaritas in town.
2. Prima Ristorante: Prima is an upscale Italian restaurant with a menu that features classic Italian dishes like chicken parmesan and pasta primavera.
3. John Muir Inn: The John Muir Inn is a cozy spot that serves up classic American fare. You can find classic dishes like burgers, steaks, and salads.
4. Wente Vineyards Restaurant: Wente Vineyards Restaurant features a farm-to-table menu that showcases locally sourced ingredients. You can find dishes like seared ahi tuna, wood-fired pizzas, and roasted chicken.
5. Oke Poke: Oke Poke is a Hawaiian-inspired eatery that serves up fresh poke bowls and poke burritos. The menu includes both traditional and unique creations like the spicy tuna and yuzu shoyu bowl.