Unforgettable encounters in Lafayette, California:
In Lafayette, California—whether you're a local or a passerby—the town hiding in plain sight offers a treasure trove of experiences that’ll leave you wanting more. Don't believe us? Here's a scorching hot list of the top nine things to do in this delightful East Bay pocket. Let's kick it off!
9. A Tribute to Heroes: The Lafayette Hillside Memorial
As you whiz by on Highway 24 or hop off the BART, the Hillside Memorial—Lafayette's landmark monument—strikes quite the pose. This locally-grown ode honors soldiers of diverse faiths and origins who've made the ultimate sacrifice. With a 2024 land donation under its belt, the memorial has ensured its continued position—making a contemplative visit a must.
8. Trailblaze through Briones Regional Park
Just beyond the city's edge, Briones Regional Park whispers a siren call to nature lovers and adventurers. This sprawling paradise offers an expansive network of hiking and equestrian trails that weave through scenic hills, verdant meadows, and wooded areas. Spot local wildlife like deer, hawks, and other critters as you conquer the rolling terrain. Plus, the panoramic vistas offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys and Mount Diablo on a clear day. Make sure to swing by the Lafayette Ridge Staging Area, boasting cows, bone-crushing hikes, and, as some claim, the city’s most celebrated restroom.
7. Brain Pickings at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center
If ephemeral cardboard bookshelves and stuffy Victorian reading rooms are what come to mind when considering libraries, think again! The Lafayette Library and Learning Center prides itself on being a modern hub of knowledge and cultural exchange. The building's contemporary design, open spaces, and art installations have transformed the library into a vibrant center of community activity. Don't miss the author talks, children's story hours, and civic forums that bring residents together for intellectual discourse and friendly debate. We've dug up more juicy deets about the library's unique architecture if you're intrigued!
6. Catch a Show at the Town Hall Theatre
For a local culture fix, we recommend the historic Town Hall Theatre. With roots tracing back to the early 1900s, this cozy venue has played host to plays, musicals, and improv shows featuring both local and occasional guest performers. Mighty as an oak, the quaint venue has adapted to the times by offering everything from Shakespearean classics to modern, contemporary pieces. Keep an eye on the theatre's rotating lineup to ensure you don't miss a beat.
5. Sip, Savor, and Soak it All In at the Lafayette Art & Wine Festival
Every autumn, downtown Lafayette transforms into a lively hub of music, art, and, of course, our region's finest vintages and brews. The Lafayette Art & Wine Festival is a must-attend event, featuring multiple stages for live performances, food trucks dishing out various cuisines, and booths showcasing regional wineries and breweries. Wander through art exhibits, quaff samples from local winemakers, and enjoy the festive atmosphere that permeates the entire downtown area.
4. Time Travel at the Lafayette Historical Museum
History junkies unite! Located within the Lafayette Library building, the Lafayette Historical Museum chronicles the city's transformation from a small settlement to the thriving community it is today. Engaging exhibits and friendly volunteers provide an informative and entertaining journey through Lafayette’s intriguing past.
3. Savor the Local Flavors
Don't let Lafayette's size fool you—its culinary scene is bursting with flavor, diversity, and ingenuity. Wander the charming downtown streets and explore a variety of global cuisines, from Italian trattorias to sushi bars—and everything in between! Make your meal complete by pairing it with a local wine or craft beer. Here's our hot take on a few local faves:
- Breakfast Club at Midtown or Tutu’s for breakfast
- Sideboard or Horn BBQ for lunch
- Locanda Positano for Italian fare
- Social Bird, Barranco, or The Hideout for dinner
2. Live Music and Cold Ones at The Round Up Saloon
A beloved neighborhood institution—er, dive bar—The Round Up Saloon is the go-to watering hole for good music, cold drinks, and good times. Known for its old-school atmosphere and rich history, the saloon has welcomed patrons since the '30s. Grab a frosty pint, square dance with fellow revellers, and stomp your way through an evening of live music. Whether you're swaying to rock or two-stepping to country, The Round Up Saloon keeps the party going.
1. A Stroll Amongst the Scenery at the Lafayette Reservoir
The Lafayette Reservoir—home to endless Instagram-worthy vistas—is the city's pride and joy. Boasting a 2.7-mile paved loop trail around the picturesque waterfront, the reservoir beckons joggers, walkers, and cyclists to take in the mesmerizing sights. When you're not in motion, bask in the beauty by renting a paddleboat, hooking a fish (with the proper permit), or simply spreading out a picnic on the grassy embankments. Whatever you do, be sure to capture the jaw-dropping panoramas as you take in the fresh mountain air.
While it may seem small compared to some of its East Bay neighbors, Lafayette sure knows how to pack a punch when it comes to sights, culture, and natural beauty. So why not dip your toes in Lafayette's alluring offerings? You might just find that there’s a whole new world hiding in plain sight!
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In Lafayette, California, you can immerse yourself in a rich lifestyle that encompasses food-and-drink, home-and-garden, and entertainment experiences. Visit the Lafayette Art & Wine Festival for a taste of local flavors and culture, or catch a show at the historic Town Hall Theatre. Explore the Briones Regional Park for an adventurous hiking experience, and unwind at the relaxed atmosphere of The Round Up Saloon. For a dose of history, drop by the Lafayette Historical Museum, and don't miss the unique architecture and intellectual discourse at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center. And, of course, a stroll around the scenic Lafayette Reservoir is a must. There's something for every kind of adventure-seeker in Lafayette.
