Lafayette Travel Guide

Discover all the top attractions, activities, and travel tips in Lafayette, California with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Lafayette

Located in Contra Costa County in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area, Lafayette is a charming town that offers a unique blend of beautiful outdoor landscapes, cultural attractions, and delicious culinary experiences. Settled in the late 1800s, Lafayette has since grown into a thriving community with plenty to offer visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Lafayette

Lafayette has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in exploring museums, hiking trails, or local restaurants. Here are some of the top attractions and activities to check out in Lafayette:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lafayette Historical Society Museum: This museum offers a deep dive into the town’s history, from its founding to the present day. Visitors can browse antique artifacts, photographs, and other pieces of local history.

  • Lafayette Gallery: This beautiful gallery features a rotating collection of works from local artists. Visitors can enjoy free admission and view a variety of art styles, from paintings to sculpture.

  • Lafayette Veterans Memorial: This touching memorial honors the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Visitors can pay their respects and learn about the sacrifices made by these important individuals.

Natural Attractions of Lafayette: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lafayette Reservoir: This stunning body of water is perfect for fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying the scenic views. Visitors can walk the paved trail around the reservoir, rent boats, or hike the surrounding trails.

  • Briones Regional Park: This expansive park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can spot local wildlife, try their luck fishing, or simply enjoy a picnic with family and friends.

  • Mt. Diablo State Park: This iconic California destination is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 20,000 acres of pristine wilderness to explore, visitors can hike, bike, or even go horseback riding on the park’s many trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lafayette

Lafayette is known for its beautiful trails and stunning views, making it a popular destination for hikers and bikers. Here are some of the top routes to explore in Lafayette:

  • Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail: This 7.65-mile trail runs between Lafayette and Moraga and is perfect for both hiking and biking. With plenty of beautiful views and few challenging hills, it’s a great option for beginners.

  • Lafayette Reservoir Rim Trail: This 2.7-mile paved trail circles the beautiful Lafayette Reservoir and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. It’s a popular option for walkers and joggers.

  • Briones Regional Park Trail: With over 80 miles of trails to explore, Briones Regional Park is a hiker’s paradise. Visitors can choose from easy, moderate, or challenging trails to suit their skill level.

Best Things to Do in Lafayette: Activities and Tours

In addition to outdoor adventures and cultural attractions, there are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy in Lafayette. Here are some of the best:

  • Lafayette Art and Wine Festival: Held annually in September, this festival is a celebration of local artists and winemakers. Visitors can enjoy live music, wine tastings, and a variety of art vendors.

  • Lafayette Gallery Art Walk: On the second Saturday of every month, the Lafayette Gallery hosts an art walk. Visitors can meet local artists, enjoy live music, and browse the latest exhibits.

  • Lafayette Farmers Market: Held every Sunday, the Lafayette Farmers Market offers fresh produce, artisanal goods, and even live music. Visitors can take home tasty souvenirs of their trip to Lafayette.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lafayette

For visitors who want to make the most of their trip to Lafayette, here’s a week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Monday Visit Lafayette Historical Society Museum
Tuesday Hike the Lafayette Reservoir Rim Trail
Wednesday Explore Briones Regional Park
Thursday Enjoy the Lafayette Farmers Market
Friday Walk around downtown Lafayette and grab lunch at a local restaurant
Saturday Attend the Lafayette Art and Wine Festival
Sunday Relax and enjoy the natural scenery at one of Lafayette’s outdoor parks

Food and Drink Scene of Lafayette

With its location in the heart of California’s wine country, Lafayette is home to a thriving food and drink scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lafayette Bakery’s Croissants: This local bakery is famous for its mouth-watering croissants, made fresh every day.

  • La Finestra Ristorante’s Pasta: This Italian restaurant’s homemade pasta is a fan favorite.

  • Rustic Tavern’s Burgers: This gastropub’s burgers are made with local, grass-fed beef and are sure to satisfy any appetite.

Local Beverages

  • Lafayette Park Hotel and Spa’s Signature Cocktails: This luxurious hotel’s bartenders are known for their creative and delicious signature cocktails.

  • Lafayette Wine and Spirits: This wine and spirits store offers a wide selection of local wines, perfect for taking home as souvenirs.

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

Lafayette offers a variety of options for visitors looking for a place to stay. Here are some of the best options:

  • Lafayette Park Hotel and Spa: This luxurious hotel offers stunning views and top-notch amenities such as a spa, fitness center, and fine dining restaurant.

  • The Lafayette Inn: This charming bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.

  • Affordable Suites of America: This budget-friendly option is perfect for visitors looking for comfortable, no-frills accommodations.

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

For visitors looking to bring home a piece of Lafayette, there are plenty of souvenir options to choose from. Here are some of the best local products to consider:

  • Local Wine: With its location in California’s wine country, Lafayette is known for its delicious local wines.

  • Handmade Soap: The Lafayette Farmers Market is a great place to find handmade soaps and other artisanal goods.

  • Historical Society Books and Artifacts: The Lafayette Historical Society Museum is a great place to browse books and artifacts related to the town’s rich history.

Local Culture and Customs of Lafayette

Lafayette is known for its lively arts and culture scene, with plenty of local festivals and events happening year-round. Visitors should also keep in mind that the town has a strong focus on sustainability, with many businesses and residents dedicated to reducing their environmental impact.

Best Time to Visit Lafayette

The best time to visit Lafayette depends on what activities and events you’re interested in. Generally, spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities, while summer is a popular time for festivals and events. Visitors should be aware that winter can be rainy and chilly, so make sure to pack accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lafayette

To make the most of your trip to Lafayette, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind:

Do:

  • Do hike or bike Lafayette’s beautiful trails.

  • Do check out local festivals and events.

  • Do try the local wine and cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the natural landscapes in any way.

  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.

  • Don’t be afraid to explore the town’s lesser-known attractions.

Safety and Health

Lafayette is a safe and healthy destination, but visitors should still be aware of any potential risks. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Lafayette:

Safety in Lafayette

  • Be aware of your surroundings when hiking or biking on trails.

  • Lock valuables in your car or hotel when leaving them unattended.

  • Practice basic water safety when enjoying outdoor activities on the water.

Health in Lafayette

  • Make sure to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated when spending time outdoors.

  • Be aware of any local plants or animals that may pose a health hazard.

  • Bring any necessary medications or prescriptions with you on your trip.

Getting to Lafayette: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lafayette is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Visitors can choose from a variety of transportation options to get to and around the town.

Airports Near Lafayette

  • Oakland International Airport (OAK): Approximately 20 miles from Lafayette.

  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO): Approximately 30 miles from Lafayette.

Bus Stations Near Lafayette

  • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) Lafayette Station

  • Greyhound Bus Lines Richmond Station

Other Options

  • Car rentals are available at both Oakland and San Francisco International Airports.

  • Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in the area.

How to Get Around in Lafayette

Lafayette is a walkable town, but visitors may want to consider renting a car or using ride-sharing services to get around. Biking is also a popular option for getting around town, with many bike-friendly routes and trails to explore.

Where to Go Next from Lafayette: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time to explore the surrounding area, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • San Francisco: This iconic city is just a short drive from Lafayette and offers a variety of attractions, from the Golden Gate Bridge to Alcatraz Island.

  • Napa Valley: This world-famous wine region is a must-visit for wine lovers. Visitors can enjoy tastings and tours at local wineries, as well as stunning vineyard views.

  • Point Reyes National Seashore: This beautiful coastal destination offers miles of hiking trails, stunning views, and the chance to spot local wildlife.

Conclusion

With its beautiful outdoor landscapes, lively cultural scene, and delicious cuisine, Lafayette is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, or simply relaxing, there’s something for everyone in this charming California town.