Live like a local in Pleasanton
Set in the East Bay area of Northern California, the charming city of Pleasanton lives up to its name in every way. Whether you’re in search of rural or urban pursuits, Pleasanton gives you access to both, with more than 1,200 acres of parks, open space and trails, alongside bustling markets and shops, fine dining and cafes – not to mention festivals, parades, and free outdoor concerts. It’s no wonder Pleasanton is considered to be one of the best cities to live in – and you can live like a local when you book a Pleasanton vacation rental.
Open-air art and underground fun in Pleasanton
Head to the state-of-the-art Firehouse Arts Center for music, art, poetry, theater, and more. Or to the Museum on Main, which holds free open-air family days from June through September. Download the free ‘Guide by Cell’ from the museum’s website, and learn more about the historic old buildings – and secret underground tunnels! – of Downtown Pleasanton. The Alviso Adobe house is a rare example of an early American adobe, and there’s a replica old dairy in the surrounding park. Kids will go wild for the elephant exhibit at Oakland Zoo, while parents can visit a local winery.
Aquatic adventures in Pleasanton
On hot summer days, a visit to the peaceful Shadow Cliffs Park is a must. Shadow Cliffs Lake has a swimming beach which is open daily, but has lifeguards on duty during summer months only. Boats can be rented from late spring to early fall, and fishing is also popular. You’ll find plenty of hiking trails in the area, and golfers will appreciate the challenging Callippe Preserve Golf Course, while shoppers can fill their boots on the tree-lined streets of historic Downtown, or at nearby Stoneridge mall. There’s also a year-round weekly farmers’ market.
You’ll be walking on sunshine
Pleasanton residents clearly love a festival, and there are events, concerts and parades throughout the year, particularly in the summer months, when it’s sunny and warm. June and July are popular times to visit, with the county fair taking place at the Alameda County Fairgrounds and weekly open-air concerts in Lions Wayside Park. Temperatures have been known to top the 100 mark in the summer months, but usually hover around 70-80 degrees, dropping into the 50s in the winter. Pleasanton vacation rentals are in particularly high demand during the summer peak.
Exploring the natural features in Pleasanton
Whether you're looking for exciting outdoor activities or just want to take in the scenery, Pleasanton is a great spot to appreciate mother nature. Here are a few of the area's noteworthy sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- San Francisco Bay (23.2 mi / 37.3 km)
- Lake Elizabeth (9.2 mi / 14.8 km)
- Mount Diablo State Park (15.3 mi / 24.6 km)
- Alum Rock Park (18.8 mi / 30.2 km)
- Bishop Ranch Regional Preserve (7.7 mi / 12.4 km)
- Fremont Central Park (9.2 mi / 14.8 km)
How to get to and around Pleasanton
The nearest airport is in Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK), located 18.8 mi (30.3 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could also fly into San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO), which is 28.3 mi (45.5 km) away.
If you prefer train travel, the main station is Pleasanton Station. Utilize the area's public transportation and catch a ride on the metro at Dublin/Pleasanton Station or West Dublin-Pleasanton Station to easily get around the city.