Named after the many walnut trees that fill rolling hillsides, Walnut Creek is a tight-knit community known for being a commercial center within the area. Though it has thrived as a shopping point of agricultural products and commerce for many years, its renown as a residential hub began in the 1950s when it underwent a growth spurt. Since then, it’s thrived as a highly livable and enjoyable place to live.
Those who reside in Walnut Creek experience charming suburban neighborhoods while still having unmatched access to a vibrant and upscale downtown area brimming with delicious restaurants and chic boutiques. It’s also a gateway to larger nearby cities, including San Francisco, San Jose, and Sacramento.
Many residents are professionals who work in nearby cities like San Francisco, Oakland, or Silicon Valley, while many others are retirees who appreciate the area's mild climate. There is also a growing population of young families who are drawn to the city's excellent schools, parks, and activities. Aside from being a shopping and dining hub, Walnut Creek is also a haven for artists, with many ways to pursue and enjoy creative endeavors. With highly walkable areas, charming parks, and beautiful gardens, outdoor enthusiasts love Walnut Creek as well. The amenities, location, and quality of life make it a wonderful place to settle down.
One of Walnut Creek’s highlights is the presence of Broadway Plaza, its shopping and dining core. There, you’ll find high-end stores in a welcoming, upscale outdoor environment. The plaza often hosts community events like artisan markets, and when you get hungry after a shopping spree, there are plenty of delicious bars and restaurants to choose from.
Va de Vi Bistro & Wine Bar is a great choice for lunch or dinner. This cozy bistro and wine bar is a favorite among locals for its extensive wine list and delicious small plates. Visitors can test their sommelier skills by indulging in a wine flight or snacking on an artisanal cheese plate.
For a taste of Spain, locals head to Telefèric Barcelona Walnut Creek, which offers a range of tapas, paella, and other Spanish dishes. The restaurant has a stylish, modern interior and a great selection of Spanish wines and cocktails. It’s also a cool place for hosting a special event in their private dining room, which has its own private bar and an incredible view that overlooks the excitement of Main Street.
Another restaurant with great views is Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, which allows diners to enjoy their meals al fresco under the gaze of the nearby Mt. Diablo. Their menu highlights organic and sustainable ingredients, and their cocktail list is creative and includes several variations on the classic Moscow Mule.
Walnut Creek is widely known for being an artistic epicenter for the region. The Walnut Creek Civic Arts Education works to build a community that has access to the arts, and locals here certainly take advantage of that. The Center for Community Arts hosts many classes and workshops in everything from painting and sculpting to dance and music. There’s also the Lesher Center for the Arts, which hosts a professional theater company, houses a gorgeous visual art gallery, and brings in incredible, world-class performers, including pianists, jazz ensembles, and comedians.
Outdoor lovers have plenty of beautiful green spaces to enjoy in Walnut Creek, and The Gardens at Heather Farm is one of the best. This six-acre property showcases gorgeous flora and fauna, making it a beautiful place to enjoy a beautiful summer day. If you can’t get enough, there’s even a greenhouse and nursery on-site, so you can take a plant or two home with you.
Walnut Creek boasts multiple festivals that bring excitement and fun into the community. The Art and Wine Festival at Heather Farm Park has been recognized as the best outdoor festival in the East Bay, and it’s easy to see why. Hundreds of artisans fill the park, local entertainment takes the stage, and wine lovers get the chance to try some of the best wines in the region. The Walnut Festival is another favorite, and it’s been running for over 85 years. It celebrates the mighty walnut, the local crop that lends the festival (and the city itself) its name. The festivities are not to be missed, and the community enjoys maintaining this tradition every summer, celebrating with rides, food, and music.
Walnut Creek is primarily served by the Walnut Creek School District. Some areas of the city are also served by Mount Diablo Unified School District, Acalanes Union High School District, San Ramon Valley Unified School District, and Lafayette School District.
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