Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Livermore, California

Situated on the eastern edge of the greater San Francisco metropolitan area, Livermore is home to approximately 85,000 residents and is particularly recognized for its extensive national laboratory.

The city is positioned along the I-580 corridor, which connects San Francisco and Oakland to the west and extends northward to the Central Valley and inland cities such as Stockton and Modesto.

For those wishing to remain local, numerous activities await within the city limits; however, excursions to San Francisco and the surrounding wine-producing areas are also popular.

Below are 15 activities to consider in and around Livermore, California.

1. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Discovery Center

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory stands as one of the largest employers in the vicinity. Although much of the facility is restricted from public access, it boasts a Discovery Center filled with unique and educational exhibits meant to captivate inquisitive individuals.

The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Discovery Center is an excellent destination for a few hours of engagement when outdoor conditions are unfavorable. It typically receives high praise from visitors of all ages.

Due to the sensitive nature of much of the research conducted onsite, reservations for guided tours are required in advance.

2. Del Valle Regional Park

While San Francisco often experiences its share of cloudy and rainy days, Livermore’s climate generally offers more sunshine, making it suitable for outdoor pursuits such as hiking, biking, and watersports.

Del Valle Regional Park is merely a 20-minute drive from the city center and serves as an excellent option for nature enthusiasts seeking to embrace the outdoors without venturing to larger state and national parks in the area.

For those wishing to spend a night or two beneath the stars, the park offers over 100 individual campsites, many equipped with water and electrical hookups.

3. Ravenswood

Constructed over 125 years ago, Ravenswood served as the summer residence of a notable local individual who was captivated by the area’s natural splendor.

Although the residence has undergone multiple renovations over the years, much of the structure remains in its near-original condition. It is a favored venue for special occasions such as weddings and professional photography sessions.

The estate features impressive gardens, orchards, and auxiliary buildings, including a carriage house and a cottage.

Guided tours are offered by docents in authentic period attire several times a month. It is advisable to consult their website or contact them to secure your attendance.

4. Shiva-Vishnu Temple

Nestled in a quiet corner of suburban Livermore, the Shiva-Vishnu Temple represents one of the area’s most distinctive cultural sites.

For those who come across it unexpectedly, it often surprises them to discover such an elaborate and impressive representation of Indian architecture in a conventional Californian neighborhood.

The temple’s pyramid structure is embellished with various Hindu deities. Inside, there is a spacious hall and a large kitchen that offers delicious vegan meals.

The temple can be found on Arrowhead Avenue in Livermore, conveniently located near the downtown area.

5. The Bankhead Theater

As one of three distinct components that comprise the wider Livermore Performing Arts Center, the Bankhead Theater stands out as a prominent venue for live performances that has been operational for over ten years.

The theater was established to provide access to the performing arts for community members.

Since its inception, the venue has presented a diverse range of year-round productions—from children’s shows and contemporary music to stand-up comedy, dramatic theater, and chamber orchestra performances.

Many shows feature local talent, and numerous free performances are typically available throughout the year.

The theater is situated on First Street in Livermore.

6. Centennial Light Bulb

Upon experiencing one of Livermore’s most distinctive attractions, many visitors are prompted to reflect on the aging phrase, “They certainly don’t manufacture them like they used to.”

According to local lore, the Centennial Light bulb in Livermore has been continuously illuminated since its installation in 1901.

This remarkable bulb has reportedly emitted light for over one million consecutive hours, rendering it a true wonder.

The bulb resides within the city’s historic fire station on East Avenue. While it has been a steadfast beacon for more than a century, it is destined to extinguish one day, so make sure to visit while you still can.

7. Sycamore Grove Regional Park

Spanning nearly 900 acres, Sycamore Grove Regional Park is one of the largest recreational areas in Livermore.

Located on Wetmore Road, the park provides outdoor enthusiasts with a variety of activities, including biking, walking, running, and horseback riding.

A key highlight of the park is the 2 ½-mile paved trail that meanders through diverse natural environments. Additionally, there is a shorter loop trail suitable for families with young children.

The park’s trails often reveal a wide array of wildlife, and there is a picnic area equipped with covered seating and restrooms, conveniently located near the parking area.

8. Wente Vineyards

North-central California’s Livermore Valley hosts many award-winning wineries, with Wente Vineyards being one of the oldest.

Founded nearly 150 years ago, the vineyards remain under the stewardship of the original family’s fifth generation.

For those interested in gaining insight into the grape-to-glass process, winery tours provide an excellent opportunity.

Available tours vary in length and may include segments of the vineyard during harvest as well as production and bottling facilities. Naturally, tastings paired with bread and cheese are also included.

9. Hops & Sessions

With its appealing outdoor seating and a comfortable taproom, Hops & Sessions is recognized as one of the area’s most sought-after culinary destinations, having opened in Livermore in 2018.

Esteemed as the valley’s first pour-your-own taproom, Hops & Sessions allows patrons to serve themselves from a range of delectable beers without needing to wait for a server.

Regardless of personal preferences, visitors will appreciate reading about each beer’s ingredients, flavor profiles, and alcohol content before making selections. Additionally, for those interested in sampling various options, flights are available.

The establishment is located on First Street in Livermore.

10. Story Coffee

Situated on Maple Street in Livermore, Story Coffee is among the coziest coffee shops in the city.

While it may be smaller than other local establishments, it offers comfortable seating, ample lighting, and an overall inviting ambiance—making it an ideal venue for reconnecting with a friend over a cup of gourmet coffee.

The straightforward menu is displayed directly on the wall and includes classic favorites such as hot coffee as well as contemporary options like cold brew, lattes, and frappes.

Notably, the coffee tends to deliver a more robust caffeine experience than some of its competitors, so consumers should be aware.

11. Brushy Peak Regional Preserve

Livermore’s landscape is rich with municipal parks and various green spaces.

Brushy Peak Regional Preserve uniquely serves both as a park and a nature reserve; however, unlike other parks that allow adventurous visitors to explore off the trails, Brushy Peak requires adherence to designated paths due to the presence of protected plant species.

The preserve offers several family-friendly trails; nonetheless, previous guests have noted that shaded areas and seating are minimal. Visitors during the summer months should plan accordingly with good hats, sunblock, and sufficient water supplies.

The entrance to Brushy Peak Regional Preserve is located on Laughlin Road, just a short drive from the city center.

12. Livermore Wine Trolley

Indeed, winery tours and tasting experiences become far more enjoyable without the concern of driving afterward.

Fortunately, for those who prefer not to compromise a memorable experience as the designated driver, the Livermore Wine Trolley presents an appealing solution.

This trolley offers wine enthusiasts multiple guided day trip alternatives, partnering with numerous local wineries to provide guests with year-round access.

Typically, tours commence in downtown Livermore in the late morning, encompassing multiple winery visits, lunch, tastings, and round-trip transportation.

Occasionally, sunset dinner tours are available too.

13. Lizzie Fountain Park

Located at the intersection of First Street and South Livermore Avenue in downtown Livermore, Lizzie Fountain Park serves as the city’s most accessible municipal park.

This park is a popular gathering space for residents during the evenings and weekends. In the summer, the park’s fountain features a splash pad that is particularly enjoyable for children seeking to cool off.

For parents wishing to remain dry, nearby seating areas are available to observe the festivities.

The park’s proximity to various popular evening attractions, including bars, restaurants, and theaters, enhances its appeal.

14. The Livermore Art Association

Situated in one of the city’s most historic buildings on 3rd Street downtown, the Livermore Art Association is devoted to preserving and showcasing the works of local artists.

The association’s galleries encompass paintings, ceramics, photographs, and sculptures. They are typically accessible to the public several days a week and during weekends.

Operating hours may fluctuate but are often significantly extended during the local farmer’s market season on K Street.

This venue serves as a fantastic stop for those interested in appreciating remarkable artwork without the hefty admission fees commonly associated with private galleries and museums.

15. Livermore Valley

While Livermore possesses a more rural character than its larger counterpart across the bay, exploring the picturesque Livermore Valley presents an enjoyable day trip option for those seeking to escape the area’s infamous hustle and bustle.

The valley is easily accessible from the downtown area, featuring rolling hills, extensive vineyards, and exceptional dining establishments.

Although the region’s more than 50 wineries are among the primary attractions, there is also a selection of renowned craft breweries located along the valley’s ‘Brew Trail.’

Numerous visitors opt to maximize their experiences by combining morning outdoor activities such as hiking with an afternoon or evening tour and tasting at a winery.