Brentwood Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to see, where to stay, what to eat, and much more in Brentwood, California.


Introduction to Brentwood

Brentwood is a small, scenic city in Contra Costa County, East Bay, Bay Area, California. It is known for its charming atmosphere, beautiful parks, and vibrant local culture. The city is home to several historical and cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking trails, and fantastic food and drink scene. In this travel guide, we will explore the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in Brentwood.

List of Places to Visit in Brentwood

If you’re planning a trip to Brentwood, make sure to visit these must-see attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Brentwood Historical Society and Museum: Learn about Brentwood’s rich history and culture by visiting this museum, showcasing the city’s agricultural past.
  • The Streets of Brentwood: A premier lifestyle center featuring high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment.
  • CoCo Farms: An outdoor farm implementing sustainable practices in the heart of Brentwood.
  • Brentwood Art Society: Visit local art exhibits and events while supporting the local arts community.

Natural Attractions of Brentwood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Diablo State Park: One of the Bay Area’s must-visit parks, Mount Diablo offers panoramic views, hiking and cycling trails, and camping sites.
  • Los Vaqueros Reservoir: A perfect spot for fishing, boating, and taking in the beautiful California sunset.
  • Marsh Creek State Park: A park that features a network of hiking and biking trails, wildlife, and lovely picnic spots.
  • Round Valley Regional Preserve: A 1,911-acre park with scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and a picnic area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Brentwood

Brentwood’s many natural assets make it a popular destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The city features several trails, hikes, and bike routes, where you can explore and see the beautiful scenery. Here are some of the top hiking/biking routes in Brentwood:

  • Deer Valley Loop Trail: A 6.3-mile trail for hiking and biking, complete with beautiful views, shaded areas, and frequent wildlife sightings.
  • Marsh Creek Trail: A 6.75-mile trail for hiking and biking, known for its scenic beauty and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • East Bay Municipal Utility District Trail: A 6.8-mile trail for hiking and biking along a richly forested ridgeline east of Mount Diablo.

Best Things to Do in Brentwood: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of fun activities and tours to do when visiting Brentwood. Here are some of the top-rated ones:

  • Golfing at Shadow Lakes Golf Course: Enjoy a day of golfing on the 18-hole course designed by renowned architect Brian Costello.
  • Wine Tasting at Hannah Nicole Vineyards: Sample some of the best wines the region has to offer on their scenic vineyard.
  • Pick Your Own Farm Experience: Head to a local family-run farm that offers seasonal fruit picking fun including cherries, apricots, peaches, nectarines, plums, and more.
  • Paint and Sip at Pinot’s Palette: Unleash your creativity by attending a Paint and Sip class to create and take home a masterpiece.

Week-Long Itinerary for Brentwood

If you want to make the most out of your trip to Brentwood, here is a week-long itinerary that includes the best things to do, see, and eat in the city:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Brentwood Historical Society and Museum
2 Explore Los Vaqueros Reservoir and enjoy fishing and boating activities
3 Hike the Deer Valley Loop Trail and have a picnic at the park
4 Have a wine tasting at Hannah Nicole Vineyards
5 Enjoy shopping and dining at The Streets of Brentwood
6 Visit East County Performing Arts Center to enjoy a local performing art show
7 Hike Mount Diablo State Park or try the Round Valley Regional Preserve trail

Food and Drink Scene of Brentwood

Brentwood’s food and drink scene reflects the city’s rich agricultural heritage, and its culinary landscape is diverse and flavorful. Here are some of the best food and drink options to try in Brentwood:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Brentwood Corn: Known as the sweetest corn in California, you can get fresh Brentwood corn from local markets and stands.
  • Prime Rib at Cap’s Oak Street Bar and Grill: A local favorite, the prime rib at Cap’s Oak Street Bar and Grill is a must-try for meat lovers.
  • The Angry Biscuit at Vinnie’s Famous Cheesesteaks & Grille: A hearty breakfast sandwich with sausage, egg, cheese, and homemade biscuits.

Local Beverages

  • Brentwood’s Local Breweries: Visit one of Brentwood’s craft beer breweries such as The Good Hop Brewery and Del Cielo Brewing Co. to try the local brew.
  • Brentwood’s Wineries: Sample the flavors of local Brentwood vineyards, such as Hannah Nicole Vineyards and Tamayo Family Vineyards.

Where to Stay in Brentwood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Brentwood offers an array of accommodation options, ranging from high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best options:

  • Best Western Plus Executive Inn & Suites: A highly rated hotel offering comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
  • Hampton Inn Brentwood: A great option for families, this hotel offers a complimentary hot breakfast every morning.
  • Brentwood Inn & Suites: A budget-friendly motel located near the major attractions and restaurants.

What to Buy in Brentwood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

From fresh Brentwood corn to artisanal crafts and local wines, Brentwood has many unique souvenirs and products to offer. Here are some of the best things to buy in Brentwood:

  • Brentwood Corn
  • California Walnuts
  • Handcrafted Pottery and Ceramics from Muddy Hands Pottery
  • Olive Oil and Honey from Casa Bella Farms

Local Culture and Customs of Brentwood

Brentwood’s culture revolves around its rich agricultural history, with a strong emphasis on family values, healthy living, and community involvement. Visitors are encouraged to participate in local festivals and events, such as Brentwood’s Harvest Time Festival.

Best Time to Visit Brentwood

The best time to visit Brentwood is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors can still enjoy Brentwood’s many attractions and activities year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Brentwood

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to Brentwood, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the local food and wines.
  • Explore the natural beauty of Brentwood’s parks and hiking trails.
  • Participate in the local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the natural environment.
  • Be disrespectful to the local culture and customs.
  • Ignore the safety guidelines and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Brentwood

Brentwood is a safe city overall. Visitors should practice general safety precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and not leaving valuables visible in their cars.

Health in Brentwood

Brentwood has several medical facilities, including Sutter Delta Medical Center and East County Urgent Care. Visitors should also bring sufficient sun protection, as the city can get quite hot during the summer months.

Getting to Brentwood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Brentwood is easily accessible from San Francisco, Oakland, and Sacramento airports. Visitors can also take the BART transit system, Amtrak trains, or buses to get to Brentwood.

Airports Near Brentwood

  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
  • Oakland International Airport (OAK)
  • Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Bus Stations Near Brentwood

  • Brentwood Park and Ride (BART link)
  • Tri Delta Transit

Other Options

  • Renting a car or hiring a taxi service is also an option to get to Brentwood.

How to Get Around in Brentwood

The best ways to get around in Brentwood are by car, bike, or foot. There are several bike-friendly trails and pedestrian walkways, and parking is available throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Brentwood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Brentwood’s central location makes it an excellent starting point for further exploration of Contra Costa County and beyond. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions to considering visiting:

  • San Francisco: A world-renowned city with iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Alcatraz Island.
  • Napa Valley: A picturesque region known for its scenic vineyards and world-class wineries, located an hour away from Brentwood.
  • Yosemite National Park: This renowned National Park is located around 3.5 hours away from Brentwood and is an excellent choice for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Brentwood is a charming city that offers an array of attractions, activities, and experiences for all types of travelers. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, food, or culture, Brentwood has something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to come and explore this hidden gem of California.