11 Fun Things To Do In Vallejo

As one of Solano County’s top waterfront towns and the Bay Area’s most affordable places to live, Vallejo is a city you have to visit at least once. Beyond its rich history, Vallejo offers its visitors plenty of recreational opportunities—Six Flags, anyone? Make sure you spend much time in the city so get to check off all the exciting things to do in Vallejo from your bucket list. 

Exciting Vallejo Things To Do

1. Arrive on the San Francisco Bay Ferry

There are different ways to get to Vallejo, but the best one is taking the San Francisco Bay Ferry. The hour-long ride is packed with sights that are nothing short of breathtaking. The ferries run a few times a day, so make sure you plan a weekend trip from S.F.

2. Swing by the Alibi Clock 

The Alibi Clock is a Vallejo attraction with an interesting story. In the early 20th century,  two people used a photo of themselves in front of the clock to prove their innocence in a bombing accusation. Even though they got arrested, the two were pardoned a decade later. Point is, make sure to take a photo with the clock; it might come in handy someday. 

3. Attend a Show at the Empress Theatre

If you’re looking for high-quality entertainment, the Empress Theatre is the place to visit in Vallejo at night. The city’s premier performing arts venue offers a variety of productions ranging from dramatic theater and contemporary music to children’s shows and even boxing matches. Even if you’re not interested in attending a performance, admiring the beautiful architecture and classy lounge-style bar is still a treat.

4. Visit the Mare Island Naval Shipyard

Vallejo was home to the first and most famous naval shipbuilding facility on the West Coast. Starting in the mid-1800s—over the span of 142 years—the facility produced a huge number of vessels to serve the country. Take a tour of the shipyard and see all the dry docks, gantry cranes, and slips standing from the olden days and learn about its history at the Mare Island Museum.

5. Enjoy the Rides at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

Adrenaline junkies, rejoice—a visit to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom will easily become your favorite fun thing to do in Vallejo. Thrilling rides, live entertainment, dining options, and plenty of activities await you at this amusement park. Prepare yourself for a funtastic experience at Vallejo’s favorite spot.

6. Have a Picnic at Alden Park

Are you up for a fun picnic in Vallejo? Pack a sandwich or two and head to one of the Bay Area’s best parks. Located on a formal naval base site, Alden Park has a 28-foot ballistic missile on display. Have your picnic by the shaded trees and enjoy the great outdoors in one of the best places to go in Vallejo.

7. Indulge in Freshly Pressed Juice at Sunshine Smoothies and Coffee

Mornings start with fresh juice from the local favorite Sunshine Smoothies and Coffee. Their high-quality coffee, freshly pressed juices, vegan smoothies, and delicious baked goods will get you energized for all the fun things you’ll do near Vallejo. Once you make it to Wilson Avenue, pass by their drive-thru window and order your own cup of happiness. 

8. Drive Over the Carquinez Bridge

Spanning the length of the Carquinez Strait between the end of San Francisco and Vallejo, the Carquinez Bridge comprises two parallel bridges. The first was constructed in 1927, and the second in 1958. Cross the bridge to see gorgeous views of the strait and the adjacent city of Crockett. 

9. Find a Good Read at the McCune Rare Book and Art Collection

Find a large collection of literary pieces standing the test of time at the McCune Rare Book and Art Collection. Here, you can actually touch and flip the pages of rare books, some of which date back to the 15th century. Examine original French illuminated manuscripts, pages from Chaucer books, and early printings of Shakespear plays at this unique Vallejo attraction. 

10. Take Your Puppy to Wardlaw Dog Park

We have good news—Vallejo is a dog-friendly city. You don’t have to go on adventures alone;  your four-legged friend is more than welcome to join you; take Fido to the 22-acre Wardlaw Dog Park for afternoon fun. You won’t even have to worry about your dog running off; the park is fully fenced.

11. Go Biking at Vallejo Waterfront Park

Located on Glen Cove, Vallejo Waterfront Park offers one of the best biking trails in Northern California. Squeeze in a bit of exercise while you take in the views of the river and the bay. If you don’t like biking, simply stroll along the trails or sit by the water and admire the beauty of the area. Whatever your activity of choice is, a stop at this gorgeous park is one of the best things to do in Vallejo.