24 Best & Fun Things to Do in Livermore (CA)

Livermore, previously known as Livermorès or Livermore Ranch, is an Alameda County city situated in California, United States of America.

As of 2021, the city’s population was 86,803, making it the most populous Tri-valley city.

Livermore was registered as a railroad city by William Martin Mendenhall on November 4, 1869, and he named the city after his friend Robert Livermore.

The city is California’s oldest wine region. It is surrounded by wineries and a ranch that depicts its Western heritage and farmlands.

Livermore’s Western heritage, culture, award-winning wines, and art offer a rare mix to this fantastic community.

There are quite some fun things to do in Livermore. The city is filled with activities everyone can enjoy regardless of whether single or with family.

There are lots of things to love about Livermore. Its desire to accept science and art is shown in the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Discovery Center’s establishment and all the theaters it houses.

Furthermore, the city offers outdoor recreation through the many established parks, amusement parks, and unusual but fascinating attractions.

Are you planning to visit Livermore? Check out the top things to do in Livermore, CA.

Things to Do in Livermore, CA

1. Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area

Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area
Credits: Images by John ‘K’ / Flickr
Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area

Shadow Cliff Regional Recreation Area lies on the borders of Pleasanton and Livermore. It is also part of the East Bay Regional Park system.

The Shallow Cliff Regional Recreation Area is one of the fantastic outdoor destinations you should visit during your vacation. It was established in 1971.

Shadow Cliff was a Kaiser Industries gravel quarry before being donated to the East Bay Regional Park System. This recreation area is located in Pleasanton, which is 15 minutes from Livermore.

Pleasanton developed the 266-acre area with support from the U.S. Bureau of Outdoor Recreation.

You can fish for black bass, trout, catfish, and bluegill at Shadow Cliff Regional Recreation Area’s main lake.

You can also enjoy the views of the miniature lakes and ponds or take a stroll around.

Additionally, there’s a swimming beach in the area. It is open every day during the summer season and on weekends during the spring season. However, it is important to note that the beach is usually closed when the water levels are low.

Finally, you can also have a nice picnic, admire the waterbirds or go on a boat ride on the lake at Shadow Cliff Regional Recreation Area.

Address: 2500 Stanley Blvd, Pleasanton, CA 94566, United States

2. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Discovery Center

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Discovery Center
Credits: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory / Facebook
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Discovery Center

One of the top things to do in Livermore, CA, is to visit Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Discovery Center.

The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Discovery Center was established in 1953 to take care of the security need of the United States and to enhance the national defense through the development and application of science and technology.

If you are a science geek, you should visit this Laboratory and take part in the free tours while having a face-to-face experience with science.

With the help of retired engineers, you can participate in the public tour and gain more knowledge about science and technology.

The Laboratory features wall displays that you will enjoy seeing and learning about how the Laboratory came to be.

Additionally, you will learn about Dr. Lawrence Livermore and the role and contributions of the Laboratory.

You can also bring your kids to join the science shows and watch live experiments and demonstrations.

Address: 7000 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

3. Boomers Livermore

Boomers Livermore
Credits: 963 Creation / Shutterstock

One of the fun things to do in Livermore is to check out Boomers Livermore.

Boomers Livermore is an amusement park that you can visit during your holiday in Livermore.

When it comes to having fun, Boomer Livermore is a blast. The amusement park features Thunder Road Go-karts, bumper boats, and laser tags.

You can use this destination to host birthday parties, cooperate parties, and even team-building activities.

You can also play a round or two of golf on the grass lawns with windmills. Boomer Livermore also has a challenging and fun arcade section to play video games and win excellent prizes.

Address: 2400 Kitty Hawk Rd, Livermore, CA 94551, United States

4. Livermore Heritage Guild

One of the best things to do in Livermore, CA, is to learn about the city’s history at Livermore Heritage Guild.

The Livermore Heritage Guild is the city’s historical society. This society maintains a collection of artifacts, newspapers, maps, oral histories, more than 5,000 historical photographs, and reference books that show Livermore’s rich history.

Livermore Heritage Guild is located on Third Street, and its headquarters is in the historic Carnegie Building.

Since 1974, the Livermore Heritage Guild and the Livermore Art Association Gallery have been housed in the Carnegie Building.

The Carnegie Building includes a Museum with artifacts and archived items regarding the early periods of Livermore and its early settlers.

Address: 2155 3rd St, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

5. Del Valle Regional Park

Del Valle Regional Park
Credits: aaron_anderer / Flickr
Del Valle Regional Park

Among the best things to do in Livermore, CA, is to spend a day at Del Valle Regional Park. This tourist attraction is a lakeside resort situated ten miles south of Livermore.

Lake Del Valle is a reservoir that provides marvelous views and recreation for visitors.

The Lake has a visitor center by the west side, so you can stop by and look at the exhibits and learn more about its history.

Lake Del Valle is a popular fishing area. Catfish, trout, panfish, smallmouth bass, and striped bass can be caught here.

Additionally, you can swim in the park’s swimming beaches and rent motorboats, canoes, paddle boats, or patio boats.

This area is also suitable for holding a picnic. In addition, it has a campground with 150 sites available, so you can set up camp if you want to.

Address: 7000 Del Valle Rd, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

6. Centennial Light Bulb

Centennial Light Bulb
Credits: John Fink / Flickr
Centennial Light Bulb

A spectacular attraction that you need to see during your vacation in Livermore is the Centennial Light Bulb. It is located at Livermore Fire Station at six on East Avenue.

The attraction is unusual but fascinating. It holds a Guinness World Record for the Longest Burning Light Bulb.

In 2001, the Light Bulb celebrated its centennial, and in 2011, its 110th birthday.

In 1901, the Light Bulb was established by the fire department at the fire department cart house, but it was moved to its location in 1975 and was escorted by the police and fire truck.

The Light Bulb is hooked to a 120v power source and UPS, radiating for 24 hours to help provide lighting for a fire engine.

Aside from viewing this remarkable attraction, you can also greet the city’s firefighters.

Address: Fire Station #6, 4550 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

7. Ravenswood Historic Site

Ravenswood Historic Site
Credits: Jeffrey Grandy / Flickr
Ravenswood Historic Site

Ravenswood Historic Site was built in 1891 as a summer house for Sir Christopher Buckley.

The Site is a well-known venue for events, weddings, and more. The original building has undergone renovation. It features a Cottage, and a Carrier House encircled by gardens, sweeping lawns, orchards, and vineyards.

Ravenswood Historic Site offers an accessible but guided tour on the second and fourth Sunday of each month so you can visit this destination and explore.

This one-hour tour includes the Main House, the stunning gardens, and the cottage.

If you are visiting in a group, you can opt for a private but guided tour which costs only $5 per person.

Address: 2647 Arroyo Rd, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

8. Fenestra Winery

Fenestra Winery
Credits: streetflash / Shutterstock

Fenestra Winery is in a stunning hidden setting encircled by trees, lawns, and vineyards. This historic Winery was built in 1889. It is the city’s first family-owned boutique winery.

Fenestra Winery’s specialty is traditionally balanced and award wines from mainly Livermore Valley’s grapes.

The Winery is a beautiful location for a picnic and enjoying fine wine on a warm day. The tasting room is located on the west side of the lawn, offering a more private experience.

The Winery is also a stunning venue for events and other celebrations. Wine tasting is available during the weekends from noon to evening.

Fenestra Winery offers an easy escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Address: 83 Vallecitos Rd, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

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9. Wood Family Vineyards

Wood Family Vineyards
Credits: allstars / Shutterstock

Wood Family Vineyard came into existence in 1991 when the pregnant owner, Rhonda woods, began making homemade brew after discovering that beer can assist in producing breast milk.

After a few years, Rhonda and her husband, Michael, attempted to grow grapevines to learn more about winemaking.

Recently, this vineyard has received many awards and produces top-notch quality, elegant wines at the winery.

Among their award-winning wines, you will discover 14 Red wines and their 92-point Chardonnay called “Para Mas Amiga’s’ which has won a double Gold in the state.

Wood Family Vineyards has a lot of seats like couch seating, Barrel seating, and High Top Game Tables.

The winery also offers performances like acoustic music every Wednesday and music on Fridays.

Address: 2407 Research Dr, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

10. Livermore Casino

Livermore Casino
Credits: clementetinin / Shutterstock

If you are a betting fan, why don’t you visit Livermore Casino and bet on a deck of cards?

At this 24-hour gaming floor, you can have a night of three-card poker and enjoy a baccarat game or a blackjack.

Additionally, Livermore Casino has a full-service bar where you can stay and have a drink or two.

One of Livermore Casino’s main features is the restaurant’s fantastic food, where you can fill yourself with delicious servings of pasta, burgers, steaming sandwiches, and salads.

You can enjoy your meal and drinks indoors and on their relaxing patio.

Address: 3571 First St, Livermore, CA 94551, United States

11. The Livermore Wine Trolley

Livermore Wine Trolley
Credits: aaron_anderer / Flickr
Livermore Wine Trolley

What if you could drink and taste all the wines you want without worrying about how you will get home or who will drive you there?

No need to worry, as it is what the Livermore Wine Trolley will do for you.

The Livermore Wine Trolley provides a fully guided trip to three fantastic Wineries in Livermore Valley on weekends throughout the year.

This group has partnered with 25 wineries in Livermore Valley to offer you a day of wine tasting, fun, and even wine lessons as you try out the different wines in the city.

The Livermore Wine Tour starts with picking you up at Downtown Livermore at 11 am. Aside from the wine tasting, the tour will provide you with lunch.

Address: The Livermore Wine Trolley, Livermore, CA 94551, United States

12. The Duarte Garage and Lincoln Highway Museum

Duarte Garage and Lincoln Highway Museum
Credits: Marchand for Mayor / Facebook
Duarte Garage and Lincoln Highway Museum

The Duarte Garage is located along Lincoln Highway, which is America’s first Intercontinental highway.

Frank H. Duarte built the Duarte Garage in 1915. The Duarte Garage offers car repair services, sells gasoline and oil products, and also services farm and agricultural tools.

Frank H. Duarte handed ownership to his son Fran in 1950 and focused the business on fixing farm tools and wineries.

At one point, Livermore had decided to knock down the garage to make an expansive park, but there was an intervention from the Livermore Heritage Guild in 1972 to renovate it and turn it into a museum.

You should visit the Duarte Garage and participate in the events like the Guild’s Annual General Meeting Car shows, which feature vintage and classic cars and annual auctions.

Address: Portola Ave & N L St, Livermore, CA 94551, United States

13. Bankhead Theater

Bankhead Theater
Credits: Debra Askanase / Flickr
Bankhead Theater

One of the fun things to do in Livermore, CA, is to watch a performance at Bankhead Theatre.

The Bankhead Theatre was established in 2007. It is one of the venues which comprises the Livermore Performing Arts.

The Livermore Performing Arts aims to ensure that performing arts can be available for all the locals in the city, providing cheap tickets, concessions, and family-friendly shows.

Although the main focus of Bankhead Theatre is music, you can also watch other shows like theater, comedy, dance, and acrobatics when you visit.

Additionally, Bankhead Theatre often hosts touring shows and local artists.

Address: 2400 First St, Livermore, CA 94551, United States

14. Clos De Mayo Vineyard

Clos De Mayo Vineyard
Credits: VDB Photos / Shutterstock

Clos De Mayo Vineyard began after the Wente Family obtained several estates that became Chardonnay plantations.

Although the winery has undergone several challenges due to the change in economic trends in the Bay Area, it is now seen as a unique global wine collection that endured during trying periods.

The estate often hosts meetings and other social gatherings. The winery is pleased with its location since it is perfect for producing Cabernet Sauvignon.

When you visit this vineyard, you can enjoy their Clos De Mayo Reserve Petite Syrah which has been made with the duo, pressing and bloodletting traditional methods.

You can also get the Clos De Mayo Reserve Merlot that has been processed with the perfect consistency, aroma, and temperature.

Additionally, you can buy their trademarked Clos De Mayo Reserve Chardonnay, produced from top-quality chardonnay grapes.

Address: 7795 Cedar Mountain Rd, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

15. Hagemann Ranch

Hagemann Ranch
Credits: Sanfranman59 [CC BY-SA 2.0], Wikimedia Commons
Hagemann Ranch
Hagemann Ranch is among the best places to visit in Livermore, CA.

Hagemann Ranch is a family-owned business currently handled by Matt and Stephanie Hagemann. It has been operating for over 30 years.

This Ranch is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Aside from the fishing ranch, they have a sheep ranch, and recently, a cattle ranch was added.

At Hagemann Ranch, you can enjoy quality time fishing at the pond with your family, catch a rainbow trout, and clean/ bag it on ice.

The Ranch has all the fishing equipment required, including poles, rods, stringers, nets and baits, and tackle.

Additionally, you and your loved ones can enjoy fresh popcorn, cold beverages, snacks, and chips at a shop nearby called Grammy Snack Shack.

Furthermore, horse rides are available at Hagemann Ranch, so you can go horse riding if you like.

Address: 455 Olivina Ave, Livermore, CA 94551, United States

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16. Poppy Ridge Golf Course

Poppy Ridge Golf Course
Credits: Soonthorn Wongsaita / Shutterstock

If you like to golf, you can visit Poppy Ridge Golf Course and practice your swing.

Poppy Ridge Golf Course has the finest practice facility in Livermore. It features excellent range balls, pitching and chipping greens, three putting greens, and a full acre of natural grass.

You can improve your skills at this Golf Course by learning from professional golf instructors.

Poppy Ridge Golf Course is also a venue for outdoor weddings because of its stunning and outstanding garden environment.

Also, you can have lunch at a grill in this beautiful destination with its intimate setting and a sweeping view of the city’s vineyards and the rolling grassy hills.

The grill has an extensive menu ranging from delicious lunch to sunset dinner and Champagne brunch each weekend.

Address: 4280 Greenville Rd, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

17. Altamont Beer Works

Altamont Beer Works
Credits: somchaij / Shutterstock

Altamont Beet Works is located in the center of the Livermore Valley Wine Region. It offers fresh and delicious craft beers for you.

You can visit their handmade taproom to sample some of their craft beers made on-site on Tuesdays to Sundays.

Altamont Beer Works features ten frequently rotating beers on tap and snacks if you want some to go with the beer.

Some popular beers at Altamont Beer Works are India Pale Ales, Berry white with fresh berry flavors, and the rich mahogany.

Address: 2402 Research Dr, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

18. Livermore Farmers’ Market

Livermore Farmers' Market
Credits: Chubykin Arkady / Shutterstock

At Livermore Farmer’s Market, you will discover selections of local goods, flavors, and products.

Livermore Farmer’s Market offers fresh seafood and oysters from Cali Feeds and Kouign-Amann pastries by Starter Bakery.

You can also get fresh fruits like pomegranates, nectarines, Asian Pears, Italian plums, peaches, apricot, and cherries from the orchards.

Additionally, you can shop for fresh greens and other vegetables and enjoy local meals from pop-up stands and food trucks.

Another excellent way to enjoy your time at Livermore’s Farmer’s Markey is to catch live music by street musicians who offer jazz, rock n’ roll, folk, and country-blues music.

Address: 2155 3rd St, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

19. Lizzie Fountain Park

Lizzie Fountain Park
Credits: Olesia Bilkei / Shutterstock

If you are looking for what to do in Livermore, CA, with your family, a visit to the community Lizzie Foundation Park is highly recommended.

This Park is one of the several family and community parks you can spend time with your loved ones.

At Lizzie Fountain Park, you can sit back and watch your kids play around the water fountain during warm weather.

The Park has several benches placed under shady trees where you can have a quiet time to yourself or with your family.

The central water jet is encircled by a splash pad with tiny jets, which are okay for small children who want to swim when the weather gets too hot.

You can also purchase some snacks at nearby restaurants or read a book.

Address: First Street and S Livermore Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

20. Livermore Food Tour

Livermore Food Tours
Credits: Livermore Food Tours / Facebook
Livermore Food Tours

If you like to try meals at different restaurants, you do not want to miss the Livermore Food Tour.

The Livermore Food Tours are organized by a team of food lovers whose favorite pastime is to show tourists and locals the best restaurants or eateries to visit in Livermore.

If you decide to sign up for one of the tours, you will be taken to five or six different types of restaurants, where you will sample some of their exquisite meals and get a glimpse of how they operate behind the curtains.

You don’t have to worry about the walking pace because it is highly comfortable. Furthermore, as you walk with your guide, you will be provided with the city’s history and get the chance to sample tea, wines, and different meals.

Address: Livermore, CA, United States

21. Retzlaff Vineyards

Retzlaff Vineyards
Credits: sama_ja / Shutterstock

You shouldn’t be looking for what to do in Livermore, CA, if you haven’t visited any of the city’s wineries. Retzlaff Vineyards offers different award-winning wines made in their vineyards.

The tasting room allows you to sample the Daily Full Flight of Five estate wines or the Deluxe Full Flight. You will also be allowed to taste the young wines on a Barrel Tasting.

Retzlaff Vineyards are encircled by gorgeous landscaped gardens and lawns that are perfectly fine for holding a nice picnic with loved ones.

If you are interested in learning more about their organic wine production, you can schedule a guided tour of the vineyard, the straw-bale garden, and the historic land.

Address: 1356 S Livermore Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

22. Livermore Shiva-Vishnu Temple

Livermore Shiva-Vishnu Temple
Credits: Jay Galvin / Flickr
Livermore Shiva-Vishnu Temple

Among the best places to visit in Livermore is the Livermore Shiva-Vishnu Temple.

The Livermore Shiva-Vishnu Temple is located in the heart of a quiet part of Livermore and is quite a sight.

Livermore Shiva-Vishnu Temple’s architecture is a classic Southern Indian Hindu Temple with a remarkable Gopura.

This Indian Hindu temple is the largest in the Bay Area. It features all the Hindu religious deities.

As soon as you enter the Livermore Shiva-Vishnu Temple, you will find yourself in a large hall that holds all the religious ceremonies.

Furthermore, the temple serves as a cultural center. It has two large kitchens used to make mouthwatering vegetarian cuisines for members.

Address: 1232 Arrowhead Ave, Livermore, CA 94551, United States

23. Darcie Kent Vineyards

Darcie Kent Vineyards
Credits: True life photography / Shutterstock

Since Livermore is known for its wineries, you can expect that there will be a lot of winemaking places to visit.

To enjoy and appreciate the art of producing good wines, you should visit Darcie Kent Vineyards.

Darcie Kent is a fifth-generation artist and winemaker. She doesn’t just produce good wines but makes impressive wine labels. 

If you decide to visit this vineyard, you will have the chance to sample some of the best wines in the tasting room, which also serves as a gallery to exhibit Darcie Kent’s original paintings.

Darcie Kent Vineyards often host food and wine events in the stunning vineyards. You can check online on their website for their schedule calendar or subscribe to their mailing list to receive frequent newsletters.

Address: 7000 Tesla Rd, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

24. Bent Creek Winery

Bent Creek Winery
Credits: rawf8 / Shutterstock

Why don’t you visit Bent Creek Winery and admire this stunning attraction surrounded by vineyards and the hills of Livermore valley?

Bent Creek Winery was established in 1997 as a small Syrah vineyard, but in 2002, the winery began to produce its small-batch wines from the grapes grown in Livermore Valley vineyards.

When you visit their tasting room, you can sample the latest wines; some include red and white single cultivar wines, three dark and fruity ports, and some blends.

Furthermore, you could join their wine club and enjoy the perks of complimentary tastings and more.

Address: 5455e Greenville Rd, Livermore, CA 94550, United States

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Plan Your Trip to Livermore

Livermore is a unique and beautiful tourist destination that offers its visitors exciting activities to participate in.

The city boasts award-winning wineries surrounded by Panasonic views and fascinating but unusual attractions such as the Centennial Light Bulb.

This article will guide you when you begin your vacation in this beautiful city. Don’t hesitate to check the city out!