Summer Adventures Await: Top East Bay Spots for the Whole Family
0
16
0
Whether you're looking for scenic trails, interactive museums, or exciting theme parks, Solano and Contra Costa Counties are full of family-friendly places to beat the heat and make lasting memories this summer. Here's your guide to some of the best local summer fun—perfect for families, grandkids, and even solo getaways.
Outdoor Adventures & Parks
Rockville Hills Regional Park (Fairfield) Known for its hiking and biking trails, this 633-acre park is great for active families looking to explore nature and enjoy a scenic picnic.
Peña Adobe Park (Vacaville) Offers wide-open picnic areas, historic sites, and connections to Lagoon Valley Park for hiking and biking.
Lagoon Valley Park (Vacaville) Popular for hiking, fishing, and disc golf, this park also features dog-friendly areas and scenic lake views.
Heather Farm Park (Walnut Creek) A large urban park with a playground, skate park, dog park, sports fields, and even a nature pond.
Dinosaur Hill Park (Pleasant Hill) A hidden gem perfect for light hiking and enjoying panoramic views—especially during sunset.
Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve (Antioch) Offers guided mine tours and hiking through rolling hills, ideal for kids who love a bit of adventure and history.
Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area (El Sobrante/Richmond) Picnic under towering eucalyptus trees, enjoy family games, and take advantage of the easy hiking trails.
Alhambra Creek Staging Area (Martinez/Briones Park) Great for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography with less crowded trails.
Rush Ranch Open Space (Suisun City) A flat, stroller-friendly area great for families looking to enjoy wetlands, guided nature walks, and scenic views.
Indoor Fun & Attractions
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom (Vallejo) Thrilling rides, animal attractions, and water features make this theme park a top choice for all ages.
Jelly Belly Factory (Fairfield) A sweet stop for factory tours, jelly bean art, and tastings. Educational and tasty for the whole family.
Boomers! (Livermore) Mini golf, arcade games, go-karts, and more. A high-energy spot for kids and teens.
Vacaville Ice Sports (Vacaville) Escape the heat with a fun ice-skating session that’s perfect for beginners and pros alike.
Pixieland Amusement Park (Concord) Tailored for younger children, Pixieland offers gentle rides, train adventures, and carnival snacks.
Small World Park (Pittsburg) A charming park with mini rides, picnic spaces, and playgrounds ideal for toddlers and early grade-schoolers.
Color Me Mine (Walnut Creek & Concord) Hands-on pottery painting studio—great for creative bonding time, rainy days, or quiet afternoons.
Solano County Historical Museum (Fairfield) Offers interactive exhibits on local history and hands-on artifacts perfect for multigenerational learning.
Lindsay Wildlife Experience (Walnut Creek) A unique animal hospital and education center that lets kids learn about and interact with rescued wildlife.
Family-Friendly Beaches & Water Spots
Sandy Beach County Park (Rio Vista) Riverfront picnic area and camping, great for fishing and relaxing—though not ideal for swimming.
Benicia State Recreation Area (Benicia) Scenic tidal wetlands perfect for biking, walking, and wildlife spotting with your family.
Lake Solano Park (Winters) Offers boating, fishing, shaded picnic areas, and shallow waters for wading—ideal for a full day outdoors.
Keller Beach (Richmond) One of the few swimmable beaches in the area, with picnic tables, restrooms, and Bay views.
Contra Loma Regional Park & Reservoir (Antioch) Includes a lifeguarded swimming lagoon, fishing spots, and grassy areas to lounge and play.
Relaxed, Scenic, & Senior Social Options
Looking for slower-paced summer fun? Seniors in Solano and Contra Costa Counties have some great opportunities in July 2025 to connect, explore, and unwind. Whether you're with family or meeting new friends, check out these senior-friendly options:
Fairfield Senior Center Events (Fairfield) Enjoy Bingo nights, painting classes, line dancing, and group lunches. July also features "Music in the Park" and special guest workshops.
Pleasant Hill Senior Van Trips Organized day trips to museums, local shopping, and wine tasting. Check the city schedule for July’s destinations.
Benicia Library Book Clubs & Lectures Join community discussions and relaxing reading groups throughout the month.
Walnut Creek Senior Center Outdoor Walks Morning group strolls at Heather Farm Park with stretching, conversation, and fresh air.
Martinez Adult Education Art Classes Explore your creative side with summer classes in painting, ceramics, and crafts.
Want Even More Local Gems?
If you're loving this roundup of East Bay summer fun, why stop here? Head over to my latest blog: Discover Benicia: Your Ultimate Guide to Local Favorites and Must-Dos
It's your go-to guide for everything Benicia has to offer. Whether you're new to the area or a lifelong local, you might just find a new favorite spot.
➡️ Click here to read the full Benicia guide and start exploring like a local!
Safe Travels: How to Stay Secure While on Vacation
Vacations are all about relaxing, exploring, and making memories—but a little preparation can go a long way in making sure your trip is safe and stress-free. Whether you're heading across the country or just a few hours away, these vacation safety tips are especially helpful for seniors, families, and solo travelers alike.
Secure Your Home Before You Leave
Lock all doors and windows—including garage and shed doors.
Set up timers for interior lights to make your home look occupied.
Ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail or schedule a temporary USPS mail hold.
Avoid posting real-time travel updates on social media until you're back.
Share Your Itinerary
Let a family member or close friend know your travel plans, including hotel info and expected return dates.
Keep important emergency contacts saved in your phone and printed in your luggage, just in case.
Pack Smart
Travel light but wisely—bring only essential valuables.
Keep medications in your carry-on, clearly labeled.
Bring copies of travel documents (passport, ID, insurance) and keep them separate from the originals.
Stay Alert in Crowds
Use crossbody bags or money belts to avoid pickpocketing.
Be cautious in tourist-heavy areas, where scams are more common.
Keep your phone charged and maps downloaded in case you lose service.
Health & Wellness Tips
Stay hydrated, especially during summer travel.
Don’t skip meals or rest—fatigue increases vulnerability.
If you have any medical conditions, wear a medical ID bracelet and bring a list of current medications.
Bonus Tip for Seniors
Consider sharing your location with a family member using your phone settings. It offers peace of mind—especially when traveling solo or with a group tour.
A safe trip is a happy trip. Taking these simple steps can help prevent unexpected issues and let you focus on enjoying your vacation to the fullest.
SF East Bay Homes Is Your Trusted Local Resource
Exploring the East Bay should be fun, not overwhelming. As a local real estate expert and Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, Allison Costelow understands more than just the housing market—she knows how to help individuals and families make the most of life in our vibrant community.
The SF East Bay Homes Team works closely with seniors who are ready to simplify their lifestyle—whether you’re considering downsizing, transitioning to a senior living community, or just exploring your options. These transitions can be emotional and complex, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way with clarity, compassion, and care.
Reach out to SF East Bay Homes today to schedule a free home consultation, get a market update, or simply talk through your plans. Let’s make your next move the right one.
Let SF East Bay Homes help you find your place in it.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more guidance for real estate and local tips to help you or your loved one make a smooth transition—plus discover why so many are proud to call East Bay home.
Summer Fun and Safety: Stay Prepared While Enjoying the Season
While summer is all about sunshine, family time, and new adventures—staying safe at home is just as important.
If you or someone you love is planning to age in place, or you're supporting a senior through that journey, join us for our next free online seminar:
🛡️ Seniors Home Safety Solutions: How to Stay Secure and Prepared
📅 July 30, 2025
🕕 6:00 PM PST
💻 Free 30-minute online session
Learn practical, easy-to-implement tips to make your home safer and more senior-friendly—without losing comfort or independence.
