Things to do in the Bay Area
Whether you're here for just the wedding or spending a few extra days here, our hope is that you have an amazing time while you're here. As a result, we've listed out a few options to maximize your trip!
Shopping
San Francisco Premium Outlets are one exit away from the hotel we chose so hopefully you can take advantage of any post Christmas discounts!
City Center @ San Ramon - Brand new shopping/dining area one town over from the wedding. Should be open by year end.
Nature
There are a ton of options for hiking and outdoors activities in the Bay Area. Here is a brief list.
There are a ton of options for hiking and outdoors activities in the Bay Area. Here is a brief list.
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Muir Woods Hike - iconic easy hike amongst redwoods just north of San Francisco. Very popular tourist spot so parking is tough. Get there early!
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Land's End Hike - easiest hike of all with the most amazing views of Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay. Located on the western end of San Francisco.
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East Bay Hiking - There are a few areas to hike closer to the wedding venue. Google Mt Diablo.
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Whale Watching - Wintertime is a good time to see whales migrating up to Alaska. Take a drive to Pt Reyes for a chance to see (no promises!).
Muir Woods
Eating
For closeby eats, there are pretty decent Asian casual spots one exit away from the hotel and right near the Outlets.
Pacific Pearl Shopping Plaza - (5min away) think hot pot, korean, shaved ice, etc.
Fallon Gateway - (5min away) - boba, panera, brewhouse, chaat cafe, gum kuo (canto food)
Dim Sum - (roughly 10-15 min away) - Koi Palace, Mayflower, Golden Harbor
Wine Country
Wine Country
Wine Country
Everyone's heard of Napa & Sonoma but the wedding is actually home to a few wineries right in the east bay. For example, check out Wente Vineyards which is 15 minutes away from the hotel. Otherwise, spend a day, relax, drink & eat up in Napa and Sonoma as well.
Everyone's heard of Napa & Sonoma but the wedding is actually home to a few wineries right in the east bay. For example, check out Wente Vineyards which is 15 minutes away from the hotel. Otherwise, spend a day, relax, drink & eat up in Napa and Sonoma as well.
Everyone's heard of Napa & Sonoma but the wedding is actually home to a few wineries right in the east bay. For example, check out Wente Vineyards which is 15 minutes away from the hotel. Otherwise, spend a day, relax, drink & eat up in Napa and Sonoma as well.
San Francisco
San Francisco is a natural stop. The city by the bay is 45 minutes to 1 hour drive away or you can take the BART as well. We'll list out a few attractions and our insider tips.
One IMPORTANT tip - If you are driving your rental car into SF, please make sure you don't leave any visible belongings in your parked car. Petty crime is high unfortunately.
Alcatraz Island - nice tour but book your tickets very very early (weeks or even months ahead).
Lombard Street - iconic zig zag street
Palace of Fine Arts - tourist spot
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe
Tahoe is 3 or 4 hours away if you'd like to snowboard or ski. Chains on tires may be required so be forewarned.
Tahoe is 3 or 4 hours away if you'd like to snowboard or ski. Chains on tires may be required so be forewarned.
Golfing
Take advantage of the weather and hit the course. TONS of options so just google it but here are a few quick suggestions.
Tri-Valley Golf Center - 5 min from the hotel
Course at Wente Vineyards - decent golf course close to hotel
TPC Harding - very playable, public course in San Francisco.