History Archives - Visit Tri-Valley https://vtv.flip2staging.com/category/history/ Eat, Stay & Play in Tri-Valley, CA Wed, 08 Nov 2023 21:55:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://visittrivalley.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Tri-Valley-Logos-Outlines_Oak-Leaf-Icon-Oval-Dark-232x300-1-100x100.webp History Archives - Visit Tri-Valley https://vtv.flip2staging.com/category/history/ 32 32 15 Best Outdoor Activities in the Tri-Valley https://visittrivalley.com/blog/15-best-outdoor-activities-in-the-tri-valley/ Thu, 15 Jun 2023 15:18:20 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=90270 From breathtaking hikes to exhilarating bike rides, serene swimming holes to challenging rock climbing routes, and tranquil nature viewing to heart-pumping BMX tracks, the Tri-Valley offers an array of activities for every outdoor enthusiast.

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The Tri-Valley is a Northern California region packed with gorgeous landscapes and outdoor adventures for nature-lovers and thrill-seekers alike. From breathtaking hikes to exhilarating bike rides, serene swimming holes to challenging rock climbing routes, and tranquil nature viewing to heart-pumping BMX tracks, the Tri-Valley offers an array of activities for every outdoor enthusiast. 

1. Hiking

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging ascent, the Tri-Valley boasts a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Tackle steep inclines to take in sweeping views or meander through woodlands and meadows. Here are some of the top outdoor recreation spaces to get your hike on.

  • Mount Diablo State Park
    As one of the highest peaks in the Bay Area, Mount Diablo State Park remains a popular destination for hikers, bikers, sightseers, and more. One of the most popular hiking trails at this park is the Summit Trail, which leads hikers to the mountain’s highest peak at 3,849 feet, allowing for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
  • Las Trampas Regional Park
    Featuring nearly 6,000 acres of open space, Las Trampas Regional Wilderness spans across two counties and three towns. During spring, this park is known as one of the best places to find wildflowers. The most popular hiking trail at Las Trampas is the Rocky Ridge View Trail, offering sweeping views of the Diablo Range and San Francisco Bay. 
  • Del Valle Regional Park
    Del Valle Regional Park is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers have the option between low-lying oak-studded canyons, lakeside trails, or lofty ridge line views. One of the most popular hiking trails at Del Valle Regional Park is the East Shore Trail, offering picturesque views of Lake Del Valle and ample opportunities for wildlife spotting.

2. Cyling/Biking

If you’re looking for a mellow trail that weaves past wineries or challenging cycling routes that are fit for high-level competitions, the Tri-Valley has plenty of variety for bicyclists. Check out some of our top cycling and biking trails in the Tri-Valley.

  • Iron Horse Trail
    The Iron Horse Regional Trail is a beloved cycling route that spans approximately 32 miles, connecting Tri-Valley cities of Dublin, Danville and Pleasanton. This scenic, partially shaded trail follows the path of a former railway and offers a smooth, paved surface perfect for road cycling. 
  • Livermore Valley Wine Country
    For a unique cycling experience, explore the scenic vineyards and rolling hills of Livermore Valley Wine Country. This picturesque region offers a network of roads and cycling routes that wind through vineyards, olive groves, and breathtaking landscapes. Download our Livermore Valley Wine Country map!
  • Mount Diablo State Park
    The ride up this iconic peak, standing at 3,849 feet tall, is known for its demanding climb and rewarding views along the way. As you pedal up the winding roads, you’ll be treated to panoramic views that reach as far as the Sierra Nevada Mountains. One of the most popular cycling routes at Mount Diablo State Park is the Summit Climb starting from Danville’s South Gate Entrance.  
For those looking for a more leisurely ride, rent an electric bike or book a guided tour at Pedego in Livermore. 
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3. Swimming

Beat the heat and take a refreshing dip in one of the Tri-Valley’s various swimming holes. Whether you prefer remote reservoirs, community splash pads, or bustling waterparks, you’ll find ample opportunities to cool off. See our favorite outdoor swim spots below! 

  • Lake Del Valle 
    Located within Del Valle Regional Park, this picturesque lake offers a perfect setting for swimming and water activities. There are two swimming beaches located in the park, but swimming is allowed throughout most of this lengthy 5-mile lake.
  • The Wave Waterpark
    This family-friendly waterpark features thrilling water slides, a splash pad playground, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The Wave Waterpark offers an exciting aquatic experience for visitors of all ages. View our What to Do in Dublin guide for nearby restaurant recommendations and other actitivities.
  • Sycamore Valley Park
    This kid-friendly water play area is a favorite destination for families with young children. Enjoy the rest of the park grounds after drying off, which include sports fields, basketball courts, and large lawns to picnic on.

4. Rock Climbing

See the Tri-Valley from an entirely different perspective while scaling heights at Mount Diablo State Park. Rock climbers of all skill levels are welcome to explore the variety of rock formations and climbing routes housed in this California State Park. Rock City, located within Mount Diablo State Par, is home to the Boy Scout Rocks, a popular climbing site with over 12 routes. 

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5. Golfing

Tee off amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Tri-Valley’s award-winning golf courses. Challenge yourself on meticulously manicured fairways, and navigate difficult greens at some of the best golf courses in the San Francisco Bay Area. Check out some of our favorite places to yell “fore”!

  • The Course at Wente Vineyards 
    Known for its three distinct topographies, this Tri-Valley golf course was designed by golf great Greg Norman. The 18-hole championship course is a picturesque 7,181-yard, par-72, golf course tucked away in the scenic Livermore Valley Wine Country.
  • Callippe Preserve Golf Course
    Located in Pleasanton, this picturesque course blends challenging holes with stunning natural surroundings, making it a favorite destination for golf enthusiasts.

6. Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a popular outdoor activity the Tri-Valley, calling back to its longstanding history when farming, ranching and cowboy communities flourished in this region. Equestrians have a multitude of open park spaces to choose from. Read below for the top parks in the Tri-Valley for horseback riding.

  • Del Valle Regional Park
    This regional park frames a 5-mile long lake, which is surrounded by a complex network of lake-side trails. There are numerous staging areas within the park and also the sound end of Arroyo Road. 
  • Mount Diablo State Park
    Equestrians are welcome to ride their horses throughout the entirety of the 20,000-acre park with the exception of the Mary Bowerman Trail and anywhere above the lower summit parking lot. The park also features one approved horse camp site, which can hold up to 50 people and 50 horses

7. Star Gazing

With virtually zero light pollution for up to 100 miles south of Del Valle Regional Park, visitors are able to spot star clusters, nebulae, and based on the time of the year, even Jupiter! While some of these celestial beauties can be seen from the naked eye, we recommend bringing a telescope. 

8. Mountain Biking

For adrenaline junkies, the Tri-Valley is home to a number of outdoor areas which feature mountain biking trails for all skill levels. Ride through rugged terrain, navigate exciting single track trails, and enjoy the region’s stunning scenery. Check out the following outdoor recreation spaces that feature ideal terrain and biking trails for mountain biking. 

  • Del Valle Regional Park
    Located in Livermore, Del Valle Regional Park features over 4,300 acres of open space. Popular mountain biking trails include the East Shore Trail, which offers fantastic views of Lake Del Valle. 
  • Brushy Peak Regional Preserve
    This scenic park is home to the popular technical single track trail, Brushy Peak Loop Trail. During spring, the hillsides throughout the park are usually sprinkled with various wildflowers.
  • Sycamore Grove Park
    This picturesque 847-acre open space features a network of trails throughout the park fit for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Both Meadowlark Loop Trail and Cattail Pond Loop feature mellow single track terrain. 

9. Fishing

World-class anglers and amateur fishers alike will find plenty of opportunities to cast their lines in the Tri-Valley. Here are a few of the most popular fishing spots.

  • Lake Del Valle
    Known for its excellent fishing, Lake Del Valle is regularly stocked with catfish and trout. Fishers may also reel up large and small mouth bass, striped bass and panfish. 
  • Los Vaqueros Reservoir
    Situated on the outskirts of Livermore and known as one of the best fishing venues in the area. 
  • Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreational Area
    Shadow Cliffs lake is stocked weekly with trout and catfish, but there are also bluegill and black bass. This park features a wheelchair accessible fishing pier. Located just a mile from Downtown Pleasanton.

10. Camping

Pitch your tent or park your RV at a Tri-Valley campground to enjoy temperate year-round weather and incredible scenery. Whether you’re looking for a rustic, remote experience, a group or equestrian camp, or a place with modern, “glamping” amenities, there are plenty of campsites to choose from for those willing to rough it. 

  • Whiskey Ranch
    Located in the rolling hills of Livermore, this unique campsite shares its space with a wheat farm that’s made into whiskey at a local distillery. Each campsite features a bell tent equipped with furniture, picnic table, and camping stove.
  • Mount Diablo State Park 
    This park is popular spot for hikers, cyclists, equestrians, rock climbers, air gliders, nature enthusiasts, and campers alike, featuring panoramic views of the entire Bay Area. Mount Diablo State Park features three family campgrounds: Live Oak, Juniper, and Junction, as well as five group campgrounds: Buckeye, Barbecue Terrace, Wildcat, Stagecoach and Boundary. 
  • Del Valle Regional Park
    Del Valle Regional Park is a great place for year-round camping and features several water activities, swimming beaches, and a Visitors Center. The park is home to  150 tent and RV campsites, including 5 cabins, two wheelchair accessible sites, and  21 sites with water and sewage and electrical hook ups (120 volt, 50 and 30 amp). 

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11. BMX

Located near Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreational Area and Downtown Pleasanton, the Pleasanton BMX Park is one of the San Francisco Bay Area’s last public BMX parks that feature jumps and tracks for all ages. Sparing visitors the bells and whistles, there is no admission, parking, or other fees associated with visiting. Just show up and ride!

12. Picnicking

There are plenty of places to picnic in the Tri-Valley and picking a spot is made easy with our Picnic Planning Guide. Whether you’re planning a family-friendly day, a date with your loved one, or a big group outing with friends or colleagues, here are some of our top picnic areas in the Tri-Valley.

  • Emerald Glen Park
    This Dublin park is not only centrally located and easily accessible, it also features a variety of amenities like spacious grassy areas, sports fields, playgrounds, and an aquatic park. This community park has 5 picnic sites that can host anywhere from 24-200 guests. 
  • Morgan Territory Regional Preserve
    The views from Morgan Territory are breathtaking, and make for a perfect picnic backdrop. On clear days, visitors can see Mt. Diablo to the west, Mount St. Helena towards the north, and even the snow-capped Sierras to the east from the top of the preserves’ ridges.
  • Retzlaff Vineyards
    Retzlaff Vineyards boasts award-winning wines while being the only California Certified Organic vineyard in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Their large, shaded lawn is the perfect venue for a picnic with family or friends. 

13. Stand Up Paddle Boarding

The calm conditions at Lake Del Valle make it the perfect place to try your hand at a variety of water activities like stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, wind surfing and more. If you don’t own your own gear, rent a stand up paddle board, kayak, or windsurf from the rental stand on the swimming beach closest to the marina. 

14. Nature Viewing

From tranquil parks to expansive open spaces, the Tri-Valley is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Whether you like to birdwatch, learn about rare and endangered species, or simply enjoy being in the great outdoors, the Tri-Valley is home to several opportunities for to view wildlife.

  • Sycamore Grove Park
    This Livermore park is home to a variety of wildlife. Along the Arroyo Del Valle you might see frogs, pond turtles, dragonflies, ducks or even muskrats. Visitors often see deer, ground squirrels, butterflies, lizards and birds such as red-tail hawks, white-tail kites, scrub jays, magpies and meadowlarks.
  • Del Valle Regional Park
    Del Valle Regional Park features a 5-mile lake teeming with wildlife and wildflowers. Throughout the year, several water birds can be spotted in and around the lake. Most notably, bald eagles are frequently seen nesting in the trees surrounding the lake. There are also large colonies of cliff swallows, which build thousands of gourd-shaped nests on rocks and caves along the shoreline.
  • Brushy Peak Regional Preserve
    This park’s rugged rock formations served as hideouts for bandits during California’s Gold Rush era, including the notorious Mexican outlaw, Joaquin Murietta. Today, it’s grasslands and woodlands provide homes for a variety of wildlife species, including the federally protected California red-legged frogs and the California tiger salamanders.

15. Boating

Luckily for all the skippers out there, boating in the Tri-Valley is easy and accessible. Launch any size boat at Lake Del Valle (launching fees apply) or select from a variety of rental vessels at the marina. Pick from the fleet of paddle boats, motorboats, pontoons. Boat rentals are first come first serve, and they go quickly, so make sure to get to the marina early to secure your spot! 

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The History of Alameda County Fairground’s Horse Race Track https://visittrivalley.com/blog/the-history-behind-the-alameda-county-fairgrounds-horse-race-track/ Wed, 09 Mar 2022 19:12:17 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=83422 Learn more about America's oldest 1-mile horse race track and the birthplace of California horse racing.

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Horse Racing is a longstanding American pastime, originating in the mid-1700’s when horse breeders and racers originated the Jockey Club. However, it’s not a well-known fact that the oldest 1-mile horse race track in America is actually located in Pleasanton at the Alameda County Fairgrounds.

The race track was built in 1858 by the Bernal family, which is where Pleasanton’s Bernal Community Park gets its name. Although it’s widely believed that New York’s Saratoga race track is the oldest in the country, the race track in present-day Pleasanton predates it by 5 years. 

In the early 1900’s, the race track began to receive recognition for its ideal soil conditions and temperate weather. In 1902, it hosted horse racing for the Golden Gate Fair. Two years later it held the inaugural Pleasanton Fair and Races. However, it wasn’t until 1912 that the modern-day Alameda County Fair was held onsite, which looked similar to the annual fair that still operates there today. 

Unfortunately, the first two years of the Alameda County Fair did not prove to be a financial success. It was also overshadowed by San Francisco’s 1915 Panama Pacific International Exhibition and World War I. In result, the fair was cancelled and wouldn’t return to the grounds for over two decades.

Things began to look up for the Pleasanton race track in 1933 when California legalized pari-mutuel wagering, making it legal to bet on horse races at public venues and race tracks. In 1938, three local businessmen suggested using their own funds to repair the fairgrounds and revive the fair to hopes of bringing in revenue to the town.

By 1939, the Alameda County Agricultural Fair Association was founded and the Alameda County Fair returned to the fairgrounds that summer. The San Francisco Chronicle reported on the event calling Pleasanton the “birthplace of horse racing in California” and stating that  “the revival of East Bay racing will be on the same spot where horse racing virtually had its birth in California more than 70 years ago when the Spanish Dons built the first track here.”

In 1941, the race track hosted 9 days of racing during the Alameda County Fair for a handle of $432,644, which was a national record. However, due to World War II, the fair was suspended again for the following three years. 

The Alameda County Fair race track continued to make Fair history again in 2003 by hitting the second-highest handle at $35,766,350. In 2007, it set a new fair wagering handle at more than $39.8 million.   

Today, the race track remains one of the most popular activities at the Alameda County Fairgrounds featuring a first-class equestrian center, show arenas, and full-service amenities. The race track’s grandstands can accommodate over 6,000 guests, although the track is known to attract nearly 40,000 people on live-race days.

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From breathtaking hikes to exhilarating bike rides, serene swimming holes to challenging rock climbing routes, and tranquil nature viewing to heart-pumping BMX tracks, the Tri-Valley offers an array of activities for every outdoor enthusiast.

Blackhawk Museum Entrance

Read up on one-of-a-kind educational experiences that preserve the unique role of the Tri-Valley in California’s development in addition to other worldly exhibits.

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Exploring Art & Culture in the Tri-Valley https://visittrivalley.com/blog/exploring-art-culture-tri-valley/ Thu, 03 Mar 2022 19:15:21 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=82972 The Tri-Valley is home to a thriving arts and culture sector, featuring a variety of museums, art galleries, cultural celebrations, theaters, and experiences. Read below for some of our favorite […]

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The Tri-Valley is home to a thriving arts and culture sector, featuring a variety of museums, art galleries, cultural celebrations, theaters, and experiences. Read below for some of our favorite ways to explore the unique arts and culture offerings in the Tri-Valley. 

Bankhead Theater

The Bankhead Theater is easily the largest venue in the Tri-Valley, boasting 507-seats and presenting rotating art exhibits as well as exceptional musical, dance, and live-stage performances all year round. Located in the heart of Downtown Livermore near a variety of restaurants, shops, cafes and lounges, the Bankhead Theater is also a hub for community events and cultural celebrations like the Livermore Innovation Fair, Native American Day, and Diwali. 

Blackhawk Museum Entrance

Blackhawk Museum

The Blackhawk Museum is widely known for it’s extensive classic car gallery, housing a rotating collection of ninety rare, unique, and historically significant automobiles. However, it’s also home to four additional galleries that highlight various cultures and wildlife from around the globe. Visitors are welcome to explore each of the give galleries with admission, including the nationally-acclaimed Spirit of the Old West, Into China, Art of Africa, World of Nature, and its popular Classic Car Collection. The museum also features various events including galas, car shows, and educational events.

Read more about the Must-See Museums in the Tri-Valley. 

Live Shakespeare Performance at a Livermore Winery

Shakespeare in the Vineyard

Visitors to the Tri-Valley have the unique opportunity to enjoy Shakespearean performances under the stars. Every summer, the Shakespeare & Performing Arts Regional Company produce live, outdoor performances at a Livermore Valley Winery. Previously known as The Livermore Shakespeare Festival, Shakespeare in the Vineyard has been voted best live performance by the East Bay Times three years in a row: 2018, 2019 and 2020. 

Livermore Murals

Nearly 20 larger-than-life murals painted by local artists adorn the walls of businesses and buildings throughout Downtown Livermore and the surrounding areas. Some of these pops of color are easily spotted from main roads while others remain tucked away in less trafficked areas. Visitors are encouraged to check out our Downtown Livermore Mural Guide to find, view, and strike a pose with these attractive works of art. 

Several art pieces are displayed on the walls of an empty gallery

The Harrington Gallery

The Harrington Gallery is 2,000 square foot fine-arts gallery inside Pleasanton’s Firehouse Arts Center, which also houses a 221-seat theater and a 1,800 square foot classroom. Located in the heart of Downtown Pleasanton, the Harrington Gallery features seven group exhibitions per year, highlighting works by both established and emerging local and regional artists working in a variety of styles, genres, and themes.

Cultural Celebrations

The Tri-Valley is a melting pot of diverse cultures and ethnicities, with a wide variety of cultural celebrations to participate in. Some events include Dublin’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival which draws in thousands of people to the Tri-Valley each year, the ever-popular Scottish Games held at the Alameda County Fairgrounds, and Downtown Livermore’s Native American Day celebration that takes place in front of the Bankhead Theater. 

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From the Native American artifacts to Prohibition-era wine caves, check out some of the best spots to visit in the Tri-Valley for history buffs.

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The Tri-Valley’s Must-See Museums https://visittrivalley.com/blog/must-see-museums/ Mon, 28 Feb 2022 18:22:44 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=82914 Read up on one-of-a-kind educational experiences that preserve the unique role of the Tri-Valley in California’s development in addition to other worldly exhibits.

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Positioned as an important gateway region to the entire San Francisco Bay Area, the Tri-Valley has been an integral crossroads of historical and cultural significance for centuries. Today, the Tri-Valley is home to several one-of-a-kind educational experiences that preserve the unique role of the Tri-Valley in California’s development in addition to other worldly exhibits. 

Blackhawk Museum

The Blackhawk Museum is widely known for it’s extensive classic car gallery, housing a rotating collection of ninety rare, unique, and historically significant automobiles, however, it’s also home to four additional galleries that highlight various cultures and wildlife from around the globe.

The Spirit of the Old West exhibit explores the most prolific period of American History, documenting American westward expansion from the mid-1700’s to the 1900’s through both the eyes of Native Americans and American Settlers.

The newest addition to the museum, The World of Nature exhibit features a truly immersive expedition into the natural world through stunning, life-like of floor to ceiling dioramas, three-dimensional sounds, interactive screens, and more than 600 species from around the world on display.

Museum of the San Ramon Valley

The Museum of the San Ramon Valley features a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits that highlight the rich history and heritage of the San Ramon Valley and surrounding areas. Permanent exhibits include information about local geology, artifacts from California Native Americans, the Rancho period, the Gold Rush, and early settlers. The Museum also houses a life-size train car to commemorate Danville’s past as an integral train depot and the nearby Iron Horse Trail (previously known as the Southern Pacific Railroad). 

Museum on Main

Pleasanton’s Museum on Main collects documents, photographs, and artifacts with historical significance to the city of Pleasanton as well as the Amador and Livermore Valleys. Their collection consists of over 10,000 items, including 3,500 photographs and almost 2,500 other documents. The Museum on Main also acts as an information hub and a home base for Downtown Pleasanton community events, like the ever-popular Ghost Walk tours offered every Fall.

Dublin Heritage Park & Museums

Dublin Heritage Park & Museums is a 10-acre park featuring historic buildings, lawns, picnic areas, and a pioneer cemetery. The park sits at a major crossroads station used by stagecoaches traversing the Bay Area more than 200 years ago. Self-guided brochures are available for visitors to learn more about the city of Dublin’s deep-rooted history. 

Mount Diablo Visitor Center

Located nearly 4,000 feet above sea level, the Mount Diablo State Park Visitor Center features a variety of Native American artifacts, interactive exhibits, geological displays, dioramas of its unique plants and wildlife, and a 3D model of the mountain range. Visitors are also welcome to view a video explaining how the mountain range was formed over hundreds of thousands of years and to plant both feet on the actual summit itself. 

Before making the trek there, check out our Visiting Mount Diablo State Park blog.

Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site

The Danville home of Eugene O’Neill, the only American playwright to receive a Nobel Prize for Literature, is protected by National Parks Service as a historic site and serves as a way to preserve his life and work. The home itself, named the Tao House, contains several of the playwright’s personal possessions and provides visitors an intimate perspective of the world-renowned artist’s life who chose the Tri-Valley as his home several decades ago. Every year during the Eugene O’Neill Festival, his plays are brought back to life in the form of live performances housed in a small barn on the premises. 

topography exhibit at del valle regional park

Del Valle Visitor Center

The newly renovated Visitors Center at Del Valle Regional Park features state-of-the-art interactive exhibits offered in both English and Spanish including live animals, a build-your-own topography sand box, a water level control game, an Instagrammable wall painting that allows visitors to compare their wingspan to a bald eagle’s, and more. Open to visitors on Saturday and Sundays between 9:30am-3pm.

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Arts & Humanities Month https://visittrivalley.com/arts-humanities-blog Thu, 23 Sep 2021 22:22:27 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=80182 October is National Arts & Humanities Month! The Tri-Valley is home to several art galleries, museums, theaters, public art displays, and historic sites for visitors and residents to experience. Whether you’re […]

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October is National
Arts & Humanities Month!

The Tri-Valley is home to several art galleries, museums, theaters, public art displays, and historic sites for visitors and residents to experience. Whether you’re a long-time patron of the arts or you have yet to discover the Tri-Valley’s diverse artistic community, here are a few ways to get involved in this exciting month of local public art displays, cultural events, and educational museum exhibits.

Planning a visit in the future? Jump ahead to our art and humanities centric annual events or year-round activities featuring a listing of of museums, historic sites, art galleries, and more located in the Tri-Valley. 

Featured Events

Mark your calendars! Celebrate National Arts & Humanities Month in the Tri-Valley by taking part in any of these upcoming featured events:

FRIDAY OCT. 1ST

Eugene O'Neill: "51 Plays in 51 Minutes"

Eugene O’Neill, America’s only Nobel-prize winning playwright, made his home in the quaint town of Danville. Today, it’s memorialized as a National Historic Site. While Eugene is known for writing long plays, he’s less known for the amount of plays he was able to pen in his lifetime. Eugene O’Neill: 51 Plays in 51 Minutes is a playful overview of the entire O’Neill canon from the perspective of a director who has staged 27 of the playwright’s 51 plays.

SATURDAY OCT. 2ND

A Taste of Africa in the Heart of Livermore

This free family-friendly, outdoor event promotes and celebrates African and African diaspora cultures. Featuring various forms of art, outdoor musical and dance performances, a kids zone equipped with hands-on learning experiences, musical instrument exploration, arts & crafts, face painting and so much more.

SATURDAY OCT. 2ND

San Ramon historic foundation's oktoberfest

Celebrate Oktoberfest with beer tastings, German food, and live performances to benefit the San Ramon Historic Foundation and the renovation of historic buildings. This event will feature live music by Olympia Fields Brass Band, performances and dance lessons by Golden Gate Bavarian Dancers, sheep herding demonstrations and tours of this historic property. Cost includes a pilsner beer glass or wine glass, four beer or wine tickets and a German lunch.

SATURDAY
OCT. 9TH

livermore art walk

Don’t miss out on the Tri-Valley’s premiere one-day art festival. Over 200 artists will display their works on sidewalks and plazas, in parks and galleries, surrounded by boutique shops, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants in historic downtown Livermore. Art works range from contemporary to classical, abstract to realism, pottery to mixed media, handmade bags, ceramic garden art and jewelry, with subject matter from floral to figurative and much more. View a variety of cultural performances between 12pm-4pm in front of the Bankhead Theater, meet the artists, and buy one-of-a-kind, original handmade treasures.

SATURDAY
OCT. 9TH

dublin harvest festivaL

Enjoy an afternoon of old-fashioned fall fun with farm harvest activities, lively music, and favorite seasonal foods. This event features family-friendly activities like tractor rides, a hay bale maze, and more. While you’re here tour the 1910 Kolb House to see how a true farm family lived. 

THURSDAY
OCT. 14TH

NATional GEOgraphy LIVE: ANDY MANN | FROM SUMMIT TO SEA

Award-winning filmmaker and photographer Andy Mann uses his work to bridge the gap between science and policy. From his early days as a rock climber to his current passion documenting the critically endangered oceanic whitetip shark, his stunning images tell the story of our rapidly changing planet, from top to bottom.

AUG. 9TH-
OCT. 14TH

BelLisSimo: A CONTEMPORARY ITALIAN ART EXHIBIT

Bellissimo is an art exhibit showing a wide range of creative talents by 12 Italian and Italian American artists who reside in Northern California. The exhibition has been co-curated by two Danville Artists: Tricia Grame and Emily Smith Silvestri. Both women sought out an array of imagery, styles, subject matter and media to highlight the many talents of a variety of Italian Artists. The two resident artists collaborated with Museo Italo Americano in San Francisco to curate an eclectic show that pays homage to Italian culture and heritage.

SATURDAY OCT. 16TH

livermore pride

Mark your calendar for a full afternoon of outdoor, socially distanced entertainment including SF Cheer, Drag Queens, Pooch Parade dog show, live music, and Bay Area Children’s Theater. Attendees are also welcome to shop from nearly 100 local sponsors and merch & food vendors ranging from LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and ally businesses.

Annual Events

Planning a visit in the future? Browse through some of the most popular annual events hosted in the Tri-Valley. Use the buttons below to find out the exact dates for these events before planning your trip.

lunar new year celebration

Every year the Bankhead Theater hosts traditional dancing, demonstrations, food and crafts in celebration of the Lunar New Year. 

Dublin's St. Patrick's DAY Festival

Thousands of visitors flock to the Dublin every year for one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the United States. The celebration includes a festival, the Shamrock 5K Fun Run & Walk, a colorful parade, and more. 

livermore valley wine country's
barrel tasting weekend

Dozens of Livermore Valley Wine Country wineries participate in this annual event where visitors are invited to sample wines still in development straight from the barrel. Barrels are painted by local artists to be displayed throughout the month and are bid off at the end of the event.

Livermore rodeo

The Livermore Rodeo has celebrated over 100 years of tradition in the Tri-Valley. Includes several events including a Street Fest, Parade, Cowgirl Luncheon, and more!

alameda county fair

Voted one of the top fairs in the country, and home to America’s oldest 1-mile horse race track, the Alameda County Fair brings in thousands of visitors from around the country each summer.

Shakespeare in the vineyard

Voted best Live Theater in the East Bay for three years in a row, Shakespeare in the Vineyard is a unique opportunity to see a classic performance under the stars while sipping on local wines.

eugene o'neill festival

In celebration of America’s only Nobel prize winning playwright, the Eugene O’Neill Festival features live performances of his plays in a one-room playhouse of the playwright’s Danville homestead.

scottish highland gathering and games

Celebrating over 150 years of Celtic culture and the gathering of clans and societies, the Scottish Games feature several popular events including heavy athletics, Highland dancing, piping and drumming, as well as whisky tastings. 

california NATIVE AMERICAN DAY

This free, family-friendly event features a 25-foot Tipi display, traditional Indian dance performances, free arts and crafts for children, and educational booths.  

Year-Round Activities

Not sure when you’ll be visiting the Tri-Valley? Enjoy these museums, art galleries, and historic sites available to visitors throughout the year. 

Museums

The Blackhawk Museum, located in Danville’s Blackhawk Plaza, houses 5 impressive galleries under one roof. Admission includes access to all five galleries  including a vast collection of significant and historic cars, as well as Art of Africa, Into China, World of Nature, and the critically acclaimed Spirit of the Old West. More Info →

Pleasanton’s Museum on Main features permanent and rotating exhibits as well as a vast collection of photographs and artifacts from around the Tri-Valley region. Located in the heart of Downtown Pleasanton in what was previously Pleasanton’s city hall and library, the Museum on Main also acts as the center of Downtown celebrations and events. More Info →

The Museum on San Ramon Valley is located in Downtown Danville, and commemorates the rich heritage and history of the San Ramon Valley, including its geology, pre-colonial inhabitants, railroad developments, the Gold Rush, and early settlers. In addition to permanent educational programs and exhibits, it’s also home to rotating exhibits. More Info →

Dublin Heritage Park and Museums is a 10-acre park with historic buildings, lawns, pioneer cemetery, and picnic areas.  The park is designed to maintain and tell the story of Dublin’s rich farming history. More Info → 

theaters

Livermore’s Bankhead Theater is the largest performing arts facility in the Tri-Valley, seating 507 guests and hosting a range of performances, lectures, conferences and meetings. The Bankhead Theater is home to a wide range of performances from renowned world-class musicians to rising stars on their way up, from decades-old resident companies to young student performers. More Info →

Downtown Pleasanton’s Firehouse Arts Center is a 221-seat theater featuring performances in music, poetry, theater, comedy, film, and more. Located conveniently near Downtown Pleasanton restaurants and features a parkside patio and entrance adjacent to Lions Wayside Park. More Info →

Built in 1873 for use as a farmer’s lodge, the Village Theatre & Art Gallery has been used as a Grange Hall, movie theatre, and church. Recognized as a historic site by the Heritage Resource Commission, the Village Theatre now serves as a 245-seat performing arts theatre with a fine arts gallery located in the lobby area. More Info →

Art Galleries

The Harrington Gallery is located inside the Firehouse Arts Center and features 2,000 square feet of exhibition space. Harrington Gallery features seven group exhibitions per year, highlighting works by both established and emerging local and regional artists working in a variety of styles, genres, and themes. More Info →

Located in the spacious lobby of the Village Theatre & Art Gallery, and renovated in 2009, this 1,000 square foot exhibition space features rotating fine art exhibits. More Info →

Historic Sites

The Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site commemorates America’s only Nobel Prize winning playwright, Eugene O’Neill, who chose to live in Northern California at the height of his writing career. Isolated from the world and within the walls of his home, O’Neill wrote his final and most memorable plays; The Iceman Cometh, Long Day’s Journey Into Night, and A Moon for the Misbegotten.
More Info →

Ravenswood Historic Site is on the National Register of Historic Places, is a State of California Historical Point of Interest, and is a City of Livermore Historic Preservation Landmark Site. Free public tours are given by costumed docents on a regular basis. Two annual community events are held at Ravenswood: the Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social on the second Sunday in August and the Victorian Yuletide on the second Sunday in December. More Info →

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Public Art in the Tri-Valley https://visittrivalley.com/blog/public-art/ Wed, 02 Sep 2020 05:03:21 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=73299 Public art installations not only help beautify our region, they give us something interesting to seek out and enjoy while exploring the Tri-Valley. There are several murals, statues, mosaics, and […]

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Public art installations not only help beautify our region, they give us something interesting to seek out and enjoy while exploring the Tri-Valley. There are several murals, statues, mosaics, and public art pieces that can be found throughout our area, each with their own unique backstory. Read up on some of our favorite public art installations in the Tri-Valley below.  

Grazino Tile Murals

Guillermo Wagner Grazino was born in San Francisco in 1923 and graduated from San Francisco Art Institute following World War II. Despite being a Bay Area native, his ornate ceramic tile murals can be found throughout prominent cities in California and countries abroad, like Japan, Australia, and Nicaragua.

In 1994, to celebrate Pleasanton’s Centennial, the city commissioned Grazino to create a ceramic tile mural that told the rich history of the area. Grazino produced three colorful columns installed diagonally so that when they’re viewed together from any side, they form one large mural. The murals depict Native American inhabitants, Pioneer Settlers, the Southern Pacific Railroad, the Alameda County Fairgrounds, the city’s agricultural influence, and it’s short stint in silent movie-making. Unfortunately, Granzino battled with cancer while producing this mural, and it was one of his final pieces. 

Visitors can view this unique installation by visiting Pleasanton’s Civic Park, just south of Main Street. 

While you’re in town, don’t miss out on everything Pleasanton has to offer. Check out our What to do in Pleasanton blog. 

Livermore Murals

Located behind Story Coffee in Livermore, the “Welcome to Downtown Livermore” mural is unique in that it was painted by 9 regional artists and aims to highlight various aspects of the city. Some spotlighted characteristics include the city’s outdoor recreation space, the historic Livermore Valley Wine Country, the over 100-years old Livermore Rodeo, its buzz-worthy craft beer scene, and its dedication to both the science and art communities.

There are over 15 larger-than-life murals created by local artists are scattered throughout Downtown Livermore. Check out our Downtown Livermore Murals Guide to find, view, and snap a photo with these beautiful pops of color. 

Meadowlark Dairy Mural

You’ve probably heard that happy cows come from California, and the saying rings true here in the Tri-Valley. Meadowlark Dairy was founded in the early 1900’s in Pleasanton and was the first certified dairy in California. In 1969, the dairy owners built a milk processing plant selling drive-thru dairy and grocery goods at the present-day address: W. 57 Neal Street. Today, Meadowlark Dairy continues to provide dairy and grocery items while also being a local hotspot for classic and seasonal flavors of house-made soft serve from their drive-thru and walk-up windows. 

Meadowlark Dairy is also a participating ice creamery on our Tri-Valley Ice Cream Trail. Visit 5 stops on the trail and take home your very own Visit Tri-Valley ice cream scooper to use at home! 

Photo Credit: @Rachel Rodi

Railroad Plaza Mosaic

In 1891 the Southern Pacific Railroad was completed, making it easy to transport goods and people from Avon (near Martinez) to Danville. The small town’s history as a railway depot is still celebrated today in the form of historic markers, street names, a life-size railroad car at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, and the Railroad Plaza mosaic crafted by Rachel Rodi. The mosaic wraps around a shallow fountain and the tops of four benches surrounding it, depicting significant local historic and geographical sites. 

Historic Crossroads Mural

Located on the freeway underpasses of I-680 at Dublin Blvd. and Amador Valley Blvd., this expansive mural features a variety of historical figures that seem to be intermingling with each other in a hallway. The mural combines the city’s natural history, Spanish colonization, and American settlers with snapshots of the city in present-day. This creative juxtaposition was painted by Daniel Galves, John Pugh, and John Wehrle in 2003. 

See a full list of Dublin’s public art collection here. 

Eugene O'Neill Tribute

The Eugene O’Neill tribute located in Danville is an art installation celebrating America’s only Nobel Prize-winning playwright, Eugene O’Neill. O’Neill lived in Danville between 1937 and 1944 and his home is now a protected National Historic Site.

This peaceful path is lined with greenery and stone books which shed light on the famous playwright. A few chess tables and benches encourage visitors to sit and stay a while.

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A History Buff’s Guide to the Tri-Valley https://visittrivalley.com/2018/11/history-buffs/ Fri, 09 Nov 2018 22:16:40 +0000 https://visittrivalley.com/?p=25528 From the Native American artifacts to Prohibition-era wine caves, check out some of the best spots to visit in the Tri-Valley for history buffs.

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What better way to learn about a new place than by exploring its past? The Tri-Valley has a rich history that combines indigenous Native American tribes, Spanish and British colonization, the California Gold Rush, the development of the Southern Pacific Railroad, Prohibition, and the beginning of our longstanding Wine Country. 

For those who love to learn and history buffs alike, check out the following historic sites, museums, and Visitor Centers that you won’t want to miss. 

Photo Credit: @velvetlandscapes

Ravenswood Historic Site

Take a step back into time while visiting Ravenswood Historic Site in Livermore.  This gorgeous Victorian country estate was built in 1885,  acting as a summer home of San Francisco politician Christopher Augustine Buckley Sr. and a religious retreat for the Redemptorist Fathers. It was eventually purchased by developer Masud Mehran and gifted back to the city to be used as a park.

Today, Ravenswood is the not just a romantic wedding venue within the Livermore Valley Wine Country, but also a special place that aims to preserve the area’s history. Stop in every second and forth Sundays of each month (except the fourth Sunday in December) from noon to 4pm to enjoy a free tour of the site, run by Victorian-costumed docents! Tours run every twenty minutes and last approximately one hour, with the last tour of the day starting at 3pm. 

Blackhawk Museum

The Blackhawk Museum is known for his extensive automotive gallery, but it’s also home to a variety of culturally and historically significant exhibits. The Spirit of the Old West highlights American history on the Western frontier, telling the story from the perspective of both Native Americans and pioneers. The Art of Africa exhibit features various artifacts sourced from indigenous peoples of sub-Saharan Africa. The Into China gallery brilliantly showcases intricately handcrafted masterpieces that exemplify traditional Chinese customs and culture, as well as one of the world’s largest miniature models of the Forbidden City. The World of Nature gallery features over 600 animal species from around the world in a fully immersive experience that includes ambient sounds and floor to ceiling displays. 

For more experiences like this, don’t miss our Must-See Museums in the Tri-Valley blog.

Wente Vineyards

Wente Vineyards prides itself as being the oldest winery in Livermore Valley and the oldest continuously owned, family-operated winery in the United States, established in the Tri-Valley in 1883. In 1908, the first Chardonnay vines were planted in the Livermore Valley and today, over 75% of all California Chardonnay stems from the Wente Clone and the Wente Family property.

Take a tour of their property to learn about five generations of Wente Family wine-making history, or ask to see their vintage wine caves. At one point during Prohibition, police found out that they were smuggling wine through a neighboring valley and were ordered the family to demolish a whole section of tunnels.

Museum of San Ramon Valley

The Museum of the San Ramon Valley sits in the heart of Downtown Danville surrounded by restaurants, boutiques, and a few stops on our Tri-Valley Beer Trail. The restored building was originally Danville’s Depot, a shop and rest stop established in 1951 for residents and train passengers, and even features a life-size railroad car that visitors can board and take photos with. Although the 20-mile set of railroad tracks linking San Ramon to Martinez was demolished in 1978, the right of way still remains today as the Iron Horse Regional Trail.

Today, the museum is home to a permanent exhibit on the Valley’s history while also sponsoring revolving exhibits and several guided tours of the Alamo Cemetery and Old Town Danville. 

Concannon Vineyard

Concannon Vineyard was established in 1883 as one of the pioneers of California wine and Livermore Valley. James Concannon immigrated to the United States from Ireland, and was one of the first to craft Bordeaux-style wines in California. Despite Prohibition, Concannon Vineyard was able to endure through the tough times and stay in business, making them America’s oldest, ongoing winery under the same family label and stewardship.

Visit Concannon Vineyard to roam their gorgeous grounds, and manicured gardens while sipping on their renowned Cabernet Sauvignon. Don’t miss out on their historical wall display telling the story of their success and perseverance, located in their main tasting room.

Eugene O'Neill Historic Site

America’s only Nobel Prize-winning playwright, Eugene O’Neill, resided in what he called the Tao House in Danville between 1937 and 1944. There, he wrote some of his most memorable pieces including The Iceman Cometh, Long Day’s Journey Into Night, Hughie, and A Moon For the Misbegotten.

Today, it’s protected as a National Historic Site and retains its private sanctuary by not allowing private vehicles on location. Self-guided tours are available Wednesday-Friday and Sundays at either 10am or 2pm by advance reservation only. Guided tours on Saturdays are free, last approximately 2 hours, and include transportation to/from the park. Plan ahead and make reservations at least two weeks before your visit.

Mount Diablo Visitor Center

The Mt. Diablo Summit Visitor Center doubles as a historical attraction and an adventure! Mt. Diablo is not only a beautiful backdrop to the whole Bay Area, it’s a fun place for hiking, biking, exploring, horse-back riding, rock climbing and picnicking. Read more about all the activities this park has to offer in our Visiting Mount Diablo State Park blog.

The Mt. Diablo Summit Visitor Center is full of models, photographs, and artifacts from the early human inhabitance of the mountain range. A short video shown in a separate viewing room even illustrates how the mountain was formed millions of years ago. The Visitor Center was also made with rock that was sourced from other parts of the mountain range. If you look closely, you’ll notice that the rock is riddled with marine fossils dating back to the Jurassic Period.

Dublin Heritage Park

This 10-acre park located in Dublin features historic buildings, lawns, picnic areas, and an antiquated pioneer cemetery. The park is also home to two separate museums, the 1856 Murray Schoolhouse which showcases a permanent exhibit on Dubln’s history; and the Kolb house, a historic house-museum. Admission to both museums are free during regular hours, which are Wednesday through Sunday, from 1pm – 4pm. The Dublin Heritage Park & Museums also hosts a variety of classes, camps, events, and tours. 

Alameda County Fairground's Horse Race Track

America’s oldest 1-mile horse race track resides in Pleasanton, CA at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. The race track was built in 1858 and has a rich history, being called the “birthplace of California horse racing” by the San Francisco Chronicle in 1939. Read more about the History Behind Alameda County Fairgrounds Horse Race Track, or visit it in-person. 

Centennial Light Bulb

When’s the last time your light bulb lasted for over 100 years?  Stop by the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department to see the longest-lasting light bulb. Burning since June of 1901, this electric anomaly has been recognized by the Guinness World Records and Ripley’s Believe it or Not! For more information about this interesting piece of work, check out our Visiting the Centennial Light Bulb blog. 

Rock City

Rock City is a fun perk of visiting Mt. Diablo State Park. Rock City Park is located off of South Gate Road, approximately one mile north of the South Gate Kiosk. This unique space is a maze of sandstone formations sculpted by water and wind over millions of years that you could weave in and out of for hours. Some of the more popular features of this park within a park includes Sentinel Rock, a ridge of high peaks which offer breathtaking panoramic views; Fossil Ridge, an area of fossil-rich stone baring evidence of its ancient residents; and of course the Wind Caves.

Take a stroll down the “Trail Through Time” and get lost in this vast natural playground that has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years. Coming from the Live Oak campground or west Rock City parking lots, the Wind Caves are most likely the first attraction you’ll stumble upon. The sandstone of the Wind Caves and Elephant Rock are smooth to the touch, so as long as there is adult supervision, kids are safe to climb and play on and in them. Keep in mind that some of these rocks have deceivingly steep drop-offs, so scope the area out before you or your party start climbing.

Entrance of Museum on Main

Museum on Main

The Museum on Main has worn several hats since its 1914 establishment. Located on Main Street, this local staple shares a street with several delicious restaurants and adorable boutiques. The building itself has been used as the Town Hall, the local Police Department, and the first free library in the city of Pleasanton.

Since 1963, the Amador-Livermore Valley Historical Society (ALVHS) has used that building to protect, preserve and interpret the history of the two valleys. Stocked with plenty of documents and photographs, this museum also hosts several artifacts from the city’s Western Frontier days. 

Eugene O'Neill Tribute

Located in Danville on Front Street, across from the Danville Library, is a small but sweet tribute to America’s only Nobel Prize-winning playwright, Eugene O’Neill. O’Neill resided in Danville between 1937 and 1944 and his home is now a protected National Historic Site.

This peaceful path is lined with greenery and stone books which shed light on the famous playwright. A few chess tables and benches encourage visitors to sit and stay a while.

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From breathtaking hikes to exhilarating bike rides, serene swimming holes to challenging rock climbing routes, and tranquil nature viewing to heart-pumping BMX tracks, the Tri-Valley offers an array of activities for every outdoor enthusiast.

Blackhawk Museum Entrance

Read up on one-of-a-kind educational experiences that preserve the unique role of the Tri-Valley in California’s development in addition to other worldly exhibits.

Learn more about America's oldest 1-mile horse race track and the birthplace of California horse racing.

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Visiting the Livermore Centennial Light Bulb https://visittrivalley.com/2017/02/livermore-centennial-lightbulb-guinnessrecord/ Fri, 24 Feb 2017 12:00:58 +0000 http://staging.newtrivalley.wpengine.com/?p=1684 Perched up in the white ceiling of Livermore’s Station #6 is the granddaddy of old-school bulbs, and it refuses to burn out.

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Talk about a slow burn: The 60-watt bulb hanging inside Livermore Fire Station No. 6 near Robert Livermore Park, known locally as the Centennial Light, has been running since 1901. The In fact, event the Guinness Book of World Records and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! recognize it as the planet’s longest-burning light bulb.

Manufactured by the Shelby Electric Company, the bulb’s low wattage, vacuum-tight seal and constant power likely contribute to its life span. Over the past 115+ years, the bulb has been turned off only 4 times out of necessity. 

Visitors are welcome to visit the Livermore Fire Station No. 6 and view it themselves depending on the availability of the firemen on hand. Simply go to the rear of the station and ring the bell for assistance. Alternatively, you can also check out virtually via a 24 hour webcam that keeps an eye on the bulb around the clock.

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From the Native American artifacts to Prohibition-era wine caves, check out some of the best spots to visit in the Tri-Valley for history buffs.

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Family Matters https://visittrivalley.com/2015/03/family-matters/ Mon, 23 Mar 2015 19:23:44 +0000 http://staging.newtrivalley.wpengine.com/?p=1819 Ever sipped a California Chardonnay, Cab-Sauv or Petite Sirah? Thanks to wine pioneers Wente and Concannon, we bet you have. Take a close look, and it’s clear that the histories […]

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Ever sipped a California Chardonnay, Cab-Sauv or Petite Sirah? Thanks to wine pioneers Wente and Concannon, we bet you have.

Take a close look, and it’s clear that the histories of the Concannon and Wente vineyards are as entwined as the vines in a block of old-growth Chardonnay. Both were founded in 1883—Wente by German immigrant C.H. Wente, Concannon by Irish émigré James Concannon—and both survived Prohibition to become among the oldest continuously operating wineries in the U.S. And finally, both have been instrumental to the success of California’s wine industry.

Wente got its start in 1912, when second-generation winemaker Ernest Wente convinced his father to import Chardonnay vine cuttings from France. In 1936, Wente became America’s first winery to bottle and label what is now the world’s most popular varietal. Those cuttings were eventually cultivated into the Wente clone of Chardonnay, the most widely planted in California. “Little did he know the impact he would make on today’s wine industry,” says current CEO Carolyn Wente of her great-grandfather.

Concannon tells a remarkably similar story. In the early 1970s, third-generation winemaker Jim Concannon collaborated with UC Davis to cultivate several Concannon Cabernet clones. Those same clones are currently the most widely planted in the state, playing a key role in achieving California Cabernet’s world-renowned status. In addition to providing the backbone for California’s Cabernet explosion, Concannon introduced Petite Sirah to America. So wine drinkers the world over have already tasted a piece of the Tri-Valley. Still, says fourth-generation vintner John Concannon, there’s nothing like going straight to the source. “If you want to understand a wine, the best thing is actually experiencing the terroir and vineyard it comes from,” he says, “to really see where the wine is born.”

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Write On https://visittrivalley.com/2015/03/write-on/ Mon, 16 Mar 2015 21:58:38 +0000 http://staging.newtrivalley.wpengine.com/?p=1706 Theater buffs pay homage to the “father of American drama” at the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site. Tap into the region’s literary history with a visit to the gorgeous Tao […]

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Theater buffs pay homage to the “father of American drama” at the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site.

Tap into the region’s literary history with a visit to the gorgeous Tao House, the onetime home of America’s only Nobel Prize–winning playwright, Eugene O’Neill, who penned The Iceman Cometh and Long Day’s Journey Into Night from his house atop Danville’s western hills. In September of each year, the Eugene O’Neill Festival stages plays from the “father of the American drama” and others at the Old Barn theater, a stone’s throw from the house. Visitors can tour Tao House five days a week by boarding a free shuttle to the property from the Museum of the San Ramon Valley.

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Niles Canyon Railway https://visittrivalley.com/2015/03/niles-canyon-railway/ Mon, 16 Mar 2015 21:33:07 +0000 http://staging.newtrivalley.wpengine.com/?p=1691 For the ultimate in stylish travel, look no further than the historic and refurbished cars of the Niles Canyon Railway. The train runs each Sunday from April to August, from […]

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For the ultimate in stylish travel, look no further than the historic and refurbished cars of the Niles Canyon Railway. The train runs each Sunday from April to August, from Sunol to the Niles area in Fremont. Each direction takes about 30 minutes, with a layover at the turnaround. If that isn’t enough old-school elegance for you, try the wildly popular holiday Train of Lights ride, when the cars are lit up and pull out at dusk. The holiday trains run each Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Thanksgiving through Christmas, but tickets sell out fast. Special caboose charters and full-train charters are available, too.

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History Comes Alive in the Tri-Valley https://visittrivalley.com/2015/03/history-comes-alive-in-the-tri-valley/ Mon, 16 Mar 2015 21:29:18 +0000 http://staging.newtrivalley.wpengine.com/?p=1688 Each city in the Tri-Valley offers its own insight into the area’s frontier past. In Dublin, Heritage Park and Museums is made up of Pioneer Cemetery; St. Raymond (1859), the […]

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Each city in the Tri-Valley offers its own insight into the area’s frontier past. In Dublin, Heritage Park and Museums is made up of Pioneer Cemetery; St. Raymond (1859), the region’s oldest Catholic church; the Murray Schoolhouse; and the 1911 craftsman bungalow Kolb House, now a museum. Other areas boast their own treasures:

In Danville, an oak tree thought to be 350 years old stands on Diablo Road and also serves as the town’s logo. Nearby, the historic Danville Hotel and Railroad Depot are reminders of the town’s earliest days. The beautiful and renovated Sunol Water Temple,  built in 1910, once carried most of San Francisco’s water supply.

Perhaps no site better reflects the region’s history than Forest Home Farms Park in San Ramon, which includes the Glass House Museum  (circa 1877) and the Boone House (1900).

Even the wines here are historic. Concannon Vineyard  started in 1883 and made one of the first Bordeaux-style wines in California. Clones of its California Cabernet provided the basis for the Cab frenzy of the past 40 years. Concannon also introduced the varietal Petite Sirah to America. Meanwhile, Wente Vineyards (also from 1883) introduced the first labeled Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon in the country. So raise a glass to history.

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