East Bay City Guide: A Day in Lafayette

Rolling hills, rustling trees, and a sense of serenity encompass everything you can see in the bucolic town of Lafayette, California. Nestled in the East Bay Area, right next to charming Walnut Creek, this quaint city is an ideal family-friendly destination. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back escape from San Francisco city life or a new suburb to explore, there are tons of fun things to do in Lafayette. Here are our favorite things to do in Lafayette.

Start the day with a filling breakfast at Sideboard, where everything is made using locally grown, organic, and sustainable ingredients. Nourish your soul with a warm latte and appreciate the way Verve’s espresso melds with the creamy goodness of Sonoma’s Clover organic milk (or L.A.’s Califia almond milk). Then, order the eggs Benedict for a refreshing twist on the classic, complete with feta cheese and balsamic vinaigrette. Or, get the breakfast salad for a scrumptious combination of baby kale, poached eggs, crunchy bacon, and Parmesan. However you decide to indulge, don’t miss out on the freshly made beignets; once you dip them in the house-made preserves, your life will never be the same.

Walk off the sumptuous meal at the Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area and enjoy the beauty surrounding this popular Lafayette attraction. Hike the 4.7-mile Rim Trail to see the best views as visitors run with their dogs, fish in the reservoir, bike on nearby trails, and enjoy picnics on the lawn. (If you’re feeling less ambitious, opt for the shorter and scenic 2.7-mile Lakeside Nature Trail.) 

Next, head back downtown to explore the boutiques that make the city of Lafayette, California so charming. Spend the afternoon wandering around, taking time to soak in the warm sun as you stroll between the shops. Once you’ve gotten your fill of retail therapy, head over to the Lafayette Park Hotel to relax with a hot-stone massage; the soothing treatment will transform you into an entirely new person. Soak in the whirlpool tub afterward and take in the stunning environs to get the most out of your mini vacation.

Wake up from the dream-like trance of the spa with an afternoon pick-me-up from the aptly named Coffee Shop. Enjoy an oat-milk latte on the outdoor patio or inside the adorable cottage-like café as you browse through Lafayette, CA real estate listings and consider making the town your permanent residence. 

When hunger strikes, walk over to The Coop for a hearty meal. Begin with an order of deviled eggs topped with pesto and crumbled bacon, or go for the brussels sprouts adorned with poached egg, crispy shallots, and bacon vinaigrette. Keep the good times rolling with decadent crab cakes or oysters rockefeller, but don’t miss the opportunity to try the “Brown Derby,” a hearty Cobb named after the salad’s origin. From here, the possibilities are endless; continue on with the artisanal cheese and charcuterie board, a classic French dip sandwich served with Parmesan truffle fries, or a perfectly cooked filet. Note the time before perusing the dessert menu, and opt for a fruity treat if time allows. Then, drive to the Town Hall Theatre to get your fix of live entertainment.

This town truly has it all, but after a long day of exploring, it’s time to tuck in for the night. Until next time, Lafayette, CA.

What fun places in Lafayette should we visit next? Let us know in the comments below.