Benicia Day Trip From San Francisco

Just 36 miles from downtown San Francisco is the charming and historic waterfront town of Benicia. The combination of a vibrant art scene, historical landmarks, and excellent dining choices make this a place that can be enjoyed by one and all.

As well as learning about the local history, there are plenty of opportunities for shopping, both in big shopping outlets and smaller specialty ones. As of 1987, Benicia has been part of the California Main Street program, a trendy day trip out of San Francisco.

Benicia has a long and fascinating past and has, over the years, played an essential role in California’s history. For a short period in the mid-19th century, the town became the state capital. In 1853, the original capitol building was erected in the historical landmark and tourist attraction of Benicia Capitol State Historic Park.

Many of California’s most meaningful events affected Benicia, including the original Mexican culture, the gold rush, the Transcontinental Railroad, and the Civil War.

One of the great things about Benicia is that most of the town can be explored on foot. The only landmarks slightly too far out are the Arsenal building and the Camel Museum. Benicia’s downtown area adjacent to the waterfront promenade is ideal for strolling and taking in the sights.

A great first place to stop is the Visitor Information office on Main Street, 90 First Street, Benicia. Plenty of brochures and maps are available to help all visitors enjoy the town to the maximum. Information regarding the Historic Downtown Benicia Walking Tour can be found at the visitor center.

The tour features 25 locations, all in proximity to one another, such as The Union Hotel, the Pony Express Shop, and St Pauls’s Episcopal Church.

Things To Do in Benicia

Benicia Fire Museum

The Fire Museum is an exciting experience. It is home to one of the first fire engines seen in the state and various equipment and artifacts from the 1800s. The museum is located at 900 East Second Street, Benicia.

Fischer-Hanlon House

2. Fischer-Hanlon House offers an extravagant Victorian garden and is a beautiful example of a middle-class home in the 19th century. It was home to the same family for 110 years before being donated to the state in 1968. It’s open on Sundays, and guided tours are available on each month’s first and third Sundays. 115 West G Street Benicia.

Benicia Historical Museum and Camel Barn

The Historical Museum and Camel Barn is the ideal place to get a grip on Benicia’s history and that of the US Army Arsenal. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday. 2060 Camel Road Benicia

Benicia Waterfront

The Waterfront is gorgeous and offers some incredible views over the bay. It is the former location of the ferry terminal and shipyards but is now the First Street Promenade.

Benicia Capitol State Historic Park

The main attraction is the old capitol building. It is a unique white-columned construction crafted from materials from salvaged ships. It is open Thursdays from 12-4 and Fridays to Sundays. And 5 pm.

The quiet atmosphere of Benicia, combined with the spectacular scenery, meant that by the mid-1900s, the town was somewhat of a hub for the San Francisco art scene.

It continues to be a popular place for the arts and artists, and there is now a charming mix of cultures. The bohemian vibes come through now only in the galleries but also in the dining and shopping opportunities.

There are plenty of boutique stores and excellent eateries. Many of the best shops in Benicia are found on First Street and the nearby area. For a superb selection of art, exhibitions head to the shared space at The Arsenal.

Benicia Events to look out for:

Farmers Market – For fresh produce, arts and crafts, and pony rides. They are held on Thursday evenings from April until October.

Torchlight Parade – Features music, dancing, and live entertainment on July 3rd and 4th on First Street. Artists Open Studios Weekends – Offers the chance for local artisans and galleries to display their work on the first weekend in December and the one before Mother’s Day.

Yacht Races and Opening Day on The Straits – Decorated float parades held on the third Saturday in April. More information about this day trip can be found here.

More San Francisco Day Trip ideas

Capitol Reef National Park

Northern California Hidden Gems