What’s the Perfect 48-hour Family Weekend Itinerary in the East Bay?
If your family calendar is full but your weekend inspiration is running low, good news: this East Bay corridor has you covered. In 2026, Danville, Pleasanton, and Livermore offer easy, memorable adventures that span nature, food, science, wine country, and kid-friendly fun, all without a long drive or heavy planning!
SATURDAY — DANVILLE
Morning: Explore the Blackhawk Museum
Kick things off with classic cars, cultural exhibits, and rotating displays that surprise kids and adults alike.
Price: ~$20 adults / ~$15 students / kids under 6 free Blackhawk Museum
Lunch: Sideboard Danville
Fresh sandwiches, salads, and bakery goodies, plus plenty of outdoor seating and relaxed vibes for families.
Afternoon: Iron Horse Regional Trail
Walk or bike a stretch of the multi-use trail (flat and kid-friendly),starting near downtown Danville.
Price: Free East Bay Parks
Dinner: Esin Restaurant & Bar
An elevated but welcoming dinner spot and one of our favorite restaurants in Danville, perfect for concluding a fun first day!
SUNDAY — PLEASANTON → LIVERMORE
Morning: Augustin Bernal Park (Pleasanton)
Enjoy an easy morning hike with panoramic views (or swap in a local playground for younger kids).
Price: Free
Coffee & Snacks: Try a local favorite like Medleno Coffee Shop & Roastery on your way out of town.
Midday: LLNL Discovery Center (Livermore)
At the LLNL Discovery Center website, kids and teens (and curious adults) can enjoy interactive exhibits about science and technology straight from real research labs.
Price: Free to visit; weekdays noon–4pm (hours vary; check site) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Afternoon: Wente Vineyards (Livermore)
This historic, family-owned winery (established 1883) is one of the most iconic in Livermore Valley. Tastings are $40+ with patio and lawn areas that are family-friendly (kids welcome in outdoor spaces). Wente Vineyards
Want to eat on-site? Check out The Grill at Wente for breakfast, lunch, or Sunday brunch with vineyard views. Wente Vineyards
Dinner: Sauced BBQ & Spirits (Livermore) or First Street Alehouse (Livermore)
Relaxed, kid-friendly dinner spots with outdoor patios and lively atmosphere to close out your adventure.
In one weekend, you get...
- Nature + culture + food + STEM + wine... all in a single, easy loop!
- Options for toddlers, tweens, teens, and adults
- Minimal driving between highlights
- Mix of free and paid activities to balance your budget
Living here means access to experiences most families only dream about without the airport scramble or packed parking lots. This weekend itinerary lets you savor it all...from history and hikes to grapes and good food! Let us know if you try it out.
Quick Answer:
The perfect 48-hour family weekend in the East Bay includes a Saturday in Danville with museums, dining, and trail time, followed by a Sunday exploring Pleasanton and Livermore with parks, science exhibits, and family-friendly wineries.
Photo Credits: Wente Family Vineyards