Day Trip to Livermore California Top Ten Things To Do

Pack up the car and head out to picturesque and peaceful Livermore. Just a short drive southeast of San Francisco, the area is a wine lover’s dream come true. Even non-wine drinkers will have plenty to see and do on this day trip.

Livermore is best known for its reputation as the oldest wine-growing region in California. The tradition has continued, with over 50 wineries operating in and around the town. Robert Livermore began the first commercial vineyard in the 1840s, and others soon followed suit.

1. Wente Vineyards

One was Wente Vineyards, started by German immigrant C.H. Wente. It has grown into one of the best-known producers in the country. Cresta Blanca Winery was another of the first commercial ventures established in the Livermore Valley. James Concannon was an Irish Immigrant who founded the well-known Concannon Vineyard. Tours and tastings are extremely popular with day-trippers. 5565 Tesla Road. Website.

2. Concannon Vineyard

The Concannon estate boasts immaculate grounds adorned with rose bushes and flower gardens flourishing alongside the vineyards. Visitors can savor their lunch under the cool shade of picnic tables while relishing the exquisite taste of Concannon wine. Saturdays can be crowded, and hence, it’s advisable to plan a wine-tasting tour on Mondays. However, visitors must note that several wineries remain closed on Mondays. The location of Concannon Winery is 4590 Tesla Road.

3. Livermore Wine Trolley

With so many beautiful wineries in the area, booking a tour on the Livermore Wine Trolley is a good choice for maximizing your day. The most popular excursion includes visits to three wineries, tasting fees, and lunch. Tours operate every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday year-round. Address 2300 First St #336C, Livermore. Website.

4. Downtown Livermore

Downtown Livermore deserves a few hours of exploration. There are shops, a park to explore, and plenty of restaurants and cafes. Possibly the most unique attraction you’ll see is the Centennial Light Bulb. Housed inside a fire station, it’s been throwing light for a long time. A long time. Like 1 million hours long time!

5. Livermore Wine Country Downtown Street Festival

The Largest Street Festival in the Tri-Valley area is held in downtown Livermore annually. Over 150,000 attend each year to explore over 300 vendor booths. This event is usually held in the middle of May and features everything from wine tasting to a kid’s zone.

6. Del Valle Regional Park

Looking to burn off some extra calories? Head to Del Valle Regional Park for a day of hiking, biking, or canoeing on the serene lake. You can even reserve specific sites ahead of time for family picnics, parties, or BBQs. Plus, the park features a snack bar, a museum, and occasional live music events.

7. Livermore Outlets

If shopping is on your mind, Filmore has it covered. San Francisco Premium Outlets is located just outside of town on Interstate 580. Previously known as Livermore Outlets, the 512,000-square-foot center offers over 130 factory stores for a full day of shopping. 2774 Livermore Outlets Drive.

8. Livermore Farmers Market

Summertime sees a local Farmers Market sprout up on Railroad Avenue. There are plenty of locally grown fruits and veggies, of course. But there are also baked goods, crafts, and several food stalls: Sample Chinese, Mexican, and other delights. Save room for Hawaiian shaved ice. It is a sweet solution to beat the summer heat!

9. Duarte Garage and Lincoln Highway Museum

Open to the public on the third Sunday of every month, Duarte Garage features restored fire engines from the Livermore Fire Department. Also displayed is a collection of auto memorabilia from the 50s and 60s. Duarte Garage is situated at 848 Portola Ave. More info.

10. Livermore Food Tours

Another excellent way to explore downtown is to join one of the “Neighborhood Food Tours.” Welcoming hosts are happy to share some interesting historical tidbits as they guide you to some of the hottest tables in town.

Getting to Livermore

While Livermore has a Mediterranean climate, it can get hot in the summer. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, especially during the wine tours, and bring your favorite sunscreen. Livermore is 43 miles from downtown San Francisco, 90 miles from Sacramento, and only 35 miles from San Jose.

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