Looking for a delightful day trip destination in the East Bay just got a lot easier! Take a ride on the ACE train and journey to Pleasanton. Tucked in the heart of the Tri-Valley region, Pleasanton offers an abundance of charming attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Discover the amazing destinations in and around Pleasanton by means of taking a fast and convenient ride on the ACE 05 train, which arrives at the heart of the city at 7:53am. Whether you’re a shopaholic waiting for downtown shops to open, open, open, or the outdoorsy type that hits the trail at sunrise, ACE 05 arrives nice and early to give you plenty of day to enjoy.
Step into downtown Pleasanton just twelve minutes from the ACE Station, where historic streets lined with centuries-old buildings lead the way to charming shops, boutiques, and eateries. On Main Street, explore a variety of shops offering everything from clothing and accessories to artisanal gifts and home decor. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy and discover hidden treasures along the way. Start by grabbing a book at Towne Center Books, check out the sales at Girlfriends Boutique next door, or stop in to explore the Therapy Stores for gifts or quirky apparel. There’s even a pet supply store called Murphy’s Paw—a must see whether you have pets or not! Shopping can work up an appetite, so you may want to stop to grab a bite at Alberto’s Cantina, Pastas Trattoria, or sit for a relaxing drink at McKay’s Taphouse and Beer Garden. If a coffee is what you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Inklings Coffee and Tea. Main Street truly has something for everyone and it’s all within a few minutes walking distance from the ACE Station.
If the adventure you seek has more to do with a brisk walk or hike, you can catch a ride on the Wheels bus 10R from the Livermore Transit Center, just nearby the ACE Station. From there, you can easily find yourself at the Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area, where you can swim, fish, or hike. Or, take a 9-minute rideshare trip to Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park, where you’ll discover amazing hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. And if you hit the right season, make your way to the Alameda County Fairgrounds. During the summer months they have their county fair, along with ag exhibits and the best fair food around. There are plenty of possibilities for outdoor adventure in Pleasanton.
Below are some of Pleasanton’s delights.
Downtown Pleasanton: Take a stroll through downtown Pleasanton and explore its charming shops, restaurants, and cafes. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Farmers’ Market on Saturdays, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and more.
333 Division Street, Pleaaston, CA 94566
Telephone: 925-484-2199
info@pleasantondowntown.net
Town Center Books: This indie bookstore offers a large selection of titles, plus author events and book clubs.
555 Main Street, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Hours: 10am to 7pm Mondays thru Thursdays
10am to 9pm Fridays thru Saturdays
11am to 5pm Sundays
Telephone: 925-846-8826
Girlfriends Boutique: Women’s clothing and gifts for all ages and sizes.
549 Main Street, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Hours: 11am to 5:30pm
10am to 6pm Saturdays
11am to 5:30pm Sundays
Telephone: 925-484-9111
Therapy Stores: A quirky shop featuring men’s and women’s apparel and accessories, plus handmade gifts, art, and stationery.
525 Main Street, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Hours: Daily, 11am to 7pm / Sundays 10am to 6pm
Telephone: 925-931-0545
Murphy’s Paw: A charming store to find supplies, holistic food, and all-natural treats for furry friends.
410 Main Street, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Hours: 10am to 7pm Mondays thru Thursdays
10am to 9pm on Fridays
9am to 9pm Saturdays
9am to 8pm Sundays
Telephone: 925-600-8925
Alberto’s Cantina: A Cheery locale serving Mexican standards such as tamales AND tacos, with a vast selection of tequilas.
435 Main Street, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Hours: 11am to 9pm Mondays thru Thursdays
11am to 10pm Fridays and Saturdays
11am to 9pm Sundays
Pastas Trattoria: A romantic, family-owned restaurant serving pizza, pasta, and other Italian dishes.
405 Main Street, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Hours: Daily, 11:30am to 2:30pm / 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Telephone: 925-417-2222
McKay’s Taphouse and Beer Garden: Bi-level gastropub in a homelike setting for craft beers, bar snacks, and backyard garden with games.
252 Main Street, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Hours: Closed Mondays
Tuesdays 4pm to 9pm
Wednesdays 11:30am to 9pm
Thursdays 11:30am to 10pm
Fridays 11:30am to 11pm
Saturdays 11:30am to 9pm
Telephone: 925-425-00217
Inklings Coffee and Tea: A neighborhood cafe with coffee, tea, and pastries in convenient quarters for private events.
530 Main Street, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Hours: 7am to 6pm Mondays thru Thursdays
7am to 7pm Fridays and Saturdays
8am to 6pm Sundays
Telephone: 925-399-6746
Outdoor Lowdown
Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area: Originally a gravel pit, this area is now a scenic lake featuring a sandy beach. Visitors flock to enjoy a variety of recreational activities including swimming, fishing, and boating.
2500 Stanley Boulevard, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Hours: Daily, 7am to 5pm
Telephone: 510-544-3230
Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park: Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on the trails of Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Foothill Road, Pleasanton, CA
Park Hours:
Jan 1 – Feb 28: 8am to 5pm
Mar 1 – Mar 31: 8am to 6pm
Apr 1 – Apr 30: 8am to 7pm
May 1 – Aug 31: 8am to 8pm
Sep 1 – Sep 30: 8am to 7pm
Oct 1 – Oct 31 8am to 6pm
Nov 1 – Dec 31: 8am to 5pm
Admission: Free
Telephone: 888-327-2757
Alameda County Fairgrounds: The expansive 270-acre event locale serves as the venue for the annual Alameda County Fair, a tradition since 1912. Additionally, it hosts several trade shows and community events throughout the year.
2005 Valley Avenue, Gate 8, Pleasanton, CA 94566
Hours: 9am to 4pm Mondays thru Fridays
Closed on Weekends
Telephone: 925-426-7600
From invigorating hikes to shopping for your doggie’s next new jacket along bustling Main Street, Pleasanton has a little bit of something for everybody. Be sure to use this guide to plan your next trip; ACE will bring you to the magic of Pleasanton.