Walnut Creek is a city where small-town charm meets big-city perks. Nestled in the San Francisco Bay Area, it offers an ideal blend of outdoor adventures, entertainment, and a warm, welcoming community spirit. From scenic parks and hiking trails to popular shopping districts and top-tier dining, there’s something for everyone here.
Whether you’re looking to purchase a home in Walnut Creek, an apartment to rent, or have your eye on a rental home in the city, this guide is packed with everything you need to start your life in The Creek. Here’s your ultimate Walnut Creek bucket list, packed with all the must-see spots and experiences that will add a dash of excitement to your life. Let’s dive in.
1. Escape into nature at Heather Farm Park
Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek is a 102-acre oasis, ideal for any nature lover. From scenic walking trails and peaceful ponds to beautifully landscaped gardens, it’s the perfect spot for some relaxation in the great outdoors. The park also features tennis courts, a swimming pool, a skate park, and plenty of open space for picnics and recreation. Whether you’re out for a stroll, unwinding by the lake, or playing your favorite sport, this is the perfect spot to recharge and enjoy this beautiful landscape.
After spending the day at Heather Farm, treat yourself to a meal at Tatsu Sushi, conveniently located just a few minutes away. This restaurant stands as a true benchmark of quality. Each piece is expertly crafted, guaranteeing an exceptional dining experience every time. More than just a restaurant, it’s a popular spot to enjoy an impressive variety of Japanese treats that you won’t want to miss.
2. Spend the day at Old Borges Ranch
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rustic charm of Old Borges Ranch, one of Walnut Creek’s best-kept secrets. Tucked into the foothills of Mount Diablo, this historic ranch couples the city’s natural beauty with a glimpse into the area’s agricultural heritage. If you’re drawn to the outdoors or have an interest in history, it’s an unforgettable experience to add to your Walnut Creek bucket list.
“As a family photographer in Walnut Creek, I’m always in awe of the amazing biking opportunities we have. One of my favorites is Old Borges Ranch—especially if you have toddlers or little kids. There is a cute goat farm, and the hiking trails are wide, fairly flat, and safe for all ages,” shares family photographer Jenn Chen from Jenn Chen Photography.
For the best experience, pack a picnic and make a day of it. Wander through the ranch’s historic buildings, meet the friendly farm animals, and explore the grounds to your hearts’ content.
3. Grab your ice skates
When winter rolls around, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by lacing up your skates and hitting the ice. Walnut Creek on Ice, the city’s seasonal ice skating rink, is a beloved gathering spot, offering a festive way to celebrate the colder months. Perfect your spins, laugh through wobbly first steps, or simply soak in the cheerful atmosphere—it’s an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to add a little sparkle to their bucket list.
“One of the things we did as a family was go to the seasonal skating rink and sip hot chocolate or your favorite beverage while watching kids try to gain their balance,” shares the team at the local floral shop, Countrywood Florist. “One of the funniest things is watching parents recapture their youth (me included). As a transplant from New Jersey, I’m not alone in The Creek, and we do show up at the rink. Also, if you’re looking for a real NY pizza in WC, I recommend Pizzalina in Countrywood Center.”
4. Gather for an elegant tea party
Step into a world of charm and sophistication at Pretty Tea Parties and Events, located at 520 Lennon Lane. This unique venue offers an enchanting tea party experience, perfect for creating unforgettable memories. With two private suites to choose from, you’ll find the perfect setting for any occasion.
The main room exudes elegance, with its gold scrollwork, vintage Parisian style furniture, Chinese vases, Italian marquetry tea carts, and a fireplace adorned with matching candelabras. This space, seating up to 40 guests, feels like stepping into a Bridgerton-inspired dream—classic, floral, and regal. For a more intimate gathering, the Woodland Room seats up to 11 guests and offers a cozy, nature-inspired setting. With a small bridge and trees embracing the room, it’s like enjoying an upscale event in the heart of the forest—minus the bugs. This space provides the perfect backdrop for baby showers, bridal showers, receptions, fund raising, birthdays, book clubs, client appreciation, and all of life’s celebrations.
Photo courtesy of Pretty Tea Parties and Events
5. Indulge in a shopping spree at Broadway Plaza
If shopping is your idea of the perfect day out, Broadway Plaza is an essential stop to add to your Walnut Creek bucket list. This upscale, open-air shopping center offers a luxurious yet inviting experience, combining high-end stores, charming boutiques, and top-notch dining options. Whether you’re splurging on a shopping spree or simply taking in the lively ambiance, Broadway Plaza promises a memorable outing for anyone looking to explore the heart of Walnut Creek’s retail scene.
“One of my favorite spots in Walnut Creek is Broadway Plaza. With its open-air design, beautiful landscaping, and a mix of luxury stores and favorites like Anthropologie or Madewell, it’s the perfect place to shop, dine, or enjoy the atmosphere,” shares photographer Athena Joyce from Athena Galgiani Photography. “Broadway Plaza offers a plethora of activities and attracts a great crowd, making it a must-do activity whether you’re running errands or indulging in some leisure time.”
After a full day of shopping, treat yourself to an exceptional dining experience at BH Wood-Fired Grill. Located just minutes from the plaza, this refined restaurant combines a sophisticated ambiance with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes like the Steakhouse Wedge Salad, Prime Rib French Dip, and Mt. Lassen Trout pair beautifully with their curated selection of California wines and artfully crafted cocktails. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and savor the vibrant charm that defines Walnut Creek.
6. Spend the day bowling at Pinstripes
Looking for a fun and unique thing to do in Walnut Creek? Pinstripes, the city’s upscale bowling alley, is the perfect spot for a memorable outing. This modern venue combines bowling with bocce, delicious food, and a stylish atmosphere. With a full-service bistro and bar, you can also enjoy handcrafted cocktails and dishes while taking a break between games.
After your game, don’t miss the chance to explore nearby local favorites like Walnut Creek institution Sunrise Bistro for their breakfast burrito or a hearty ham and cheese croissant. Then, get a hand-whisked matcha latte just around the corner at Third Culture Bakery. It’s the perfect way to create a quintessential Walnut Creek day.
7. Explore Walnut Creek’s Trails
The city’s trails are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic routes through rolling hills, shaded creeks, and panoramic viewpoints. From the beginner-friendly Iron Horse Trail to the challenging hikes at Mount Diablo State Park, there’s a perfect hike for every skill level. Ideal for walking, running, biking, and with year-round accessibility, Walnut Creek’s trails provide a peaceful escape just minutes from the city.
“If you’re new to the area, I highly recommend exploring Walnut Creek’s incredible trail system, including the Iron Horse and Contra Costa Canal Trails,” says Emily Woodall, a local family photographer from Emily Woodall Photography. “These well-maintained paths can take you all over the city and even connect you to Pleasant Hill, Concord, San Ramon, and Danville. The trails offer a fun way to get to know the area while taking in Walnut Creek’s beautiful scenery. It’s a great way to stay active and experience all that this city has to offer.”
8. Take your fitness to the next level with an exercise class
Looking for additional ways to stay active? If you’re living in Walnut Creek, the city offers a variety of exercise options that cater to all interests and fitness levels. From high-intensity interval training to yoga, Pilates, and dance, you’re sure to find a class that fits your routine. Beyond helping you achieve your fitness goals, these classes offer a great chance to connect with others and build a sense of community.
Ballet at Contra Costa Ballet Center
For those drawn to the beauty and grace of classical dance, the Contra Costa Ballet Center is a top-tier destination in Walnut Creek. As the premier classical ballet school in the East Bay, it provides world-class instruction, guiding students from their first steps in music and movement through seven progressive levels of achievement. Along the way, students build proficiency, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts, all while laying a strong foundation for future success.
Additionally, the Contra Costa Ballet Center is celebrated for its remarkable performances. Each year, the Contra Costa Ballet Foundation produces two highly anticipated shows—the beloved Nutcracker and the Spring Repertory. The Nutcracker attracts over 4,500 attendees each year, while the Spring Repertory features classical works like Sleeping Beauty and Swan Lake, along with contemporary performances such as Alice in Wonderland. These productions not only highlight the talent of the ballet school’s students, but also offer unique opportunities to perform alongside professional dancers at the prestigious Lesher Center for the Arts.
Fitness boot camp at Gumsaba
Looking for an invigorating outdoor fitness experience? Gumsaba Boot Camp offers a fantastic option for newcomers. Proudly serving the East Bay since 2010, these classes are rain or shine and cater to all fitness levels. Their team of highly educated coaches are ready to cheer you on, and the Gumsaba community is supportive and welcoming. As they say, it’s the hardest hour you’ll ever love.
9. Discover fresh finds at Walnut Creek’s farmers market
Looking to enjoy fresh, local flavors and a vibrant community atmosphere? Walnut Creek’s Sunday Farmers Market is the perfect way to start your weekend. With an impressive selection of farm-fresh produce, mouthwatering baked goods, and unique artisan products, you’re bound to discover something new every time you visit.
The team at East Bay Bakery recommends making it a regular stop, especially given Walnut Creek’s beautiful weather year-round. “If you live in Walnut Creek, the best way to start your Sunday is by hitting the Sunday farmers market,” they share. “Walnut Creek has pretty much great weather all year long, so we recommend hitting the Walnut Creek Sunday Farmers Market for selections of amazing produce, flowers, baked goods and lots of hot foods and drinks. With friendly vendors, live music, great food, and just overall good vibes, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.”
10. Discover the best of Walnut Creek’s downtown
Downtown Walnut Creek is the heart of the city, where you can explore charming boutiques, cozy cafes, and enjoy the atmosphere. Whether you’re shopping, people-watching, or just there for the experience, this bustling area offers a perfect way to spend a day for your Walnut Creek bucket list.
After exploring the downtown scene, round out your day with a trip to Modern China Café. Located in the heart of downtown, this lively, high-energy lounge perfectly captures the essence of the Walnut Creek community. Known for its fantastic mixology bar, cozy fire-pit seating, and authentic Asian Fusion cuisine, it is a go-to destination for a memorable dining experience. They offer live entertainment every weekend, so it is the perfect place to visit for a memorable night out.
11. Delight in delicious sweets
If you have a sweet tooth, Walnut Creek is home to some incredible dessert options, and Scrumpoptious Desserts is a true standout. Specializing in everything from cake pops and macarons to custom cakes, Scrumpoptious has been making events sweeter for over 10 years. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, their creations are sure to impress.
Photo courtesy of Scrumpoptious Desserts
Turning your Walnut Creek bucket list into reality
Walnut Creek is a charming San Francisco suburb filled with an endless array of experiences you’ll love. From hiking scenic trails to indulging in a shopping spree at Broadway Plaza, every corner of this city offers something for every kind of explorer. Treat yourself to a bit of adventure and visit these iconic Walnut Creek bucket list locations—You’re bound to discover some new favorite spots along the way.
