Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brentwood, California and Fremont, California

Driving from Brentwood to Fremont may seem like a long, boring drive full of nothing but highways and endless stretches of sunburnt earth. However, with a little bit of exploration, it can quickly turn into a journey full of unexpected stops and surprising experiences. The 45-mile trip should take about an hour, but with the five places we’re about to tell you about, we suggest giving yourself at least an extra couple of hours. From historic missions to scenic parks and even a plastic playground, there's a lot of fun and adventure to be had.

Halfway Point: Livermore, CA

Before we dive into the five unexpected stops, we want to highlight the midpoint of the drive and the perfect place to stop for lunch: Livermore, CA. This historic wine country town is located at the halfway point and is sure to satisfy any appetite. Visitors will find a wide range of dining options, including classic diners, farm-to-table restaurants, and artisanal pizza shops. If you're in the mood for some wine tasting, Livermore Valley Wine Country has a vast selection of wineries to choose from, with something for everyone's taste. Make sure to stop by Concannon Vineyards, where the winery has been producing wine since 1883.

1. Mission San José

Located in Fremont, Mission San José is a historic gem that is often overlooked. Founded in 1797 by Franciscan priests and Spanish soldiers, Mission San José was established to convert the Ohlone Native Americans to Catholicism. It played a critical role in the development of California and the West Coast, and visitors can walk through the original church, which was built in 1809. The mission also boasts a beautiful garden, museum, and exhibits, giving visitors an opportunity to learn about the local history. After the visit, make sure to try the delicious cochinita pibil tacos at Taqueria Los Pericos, less than a mile from the mission.

2. The Wave Waterpark

The Wave Waterpark in Dublin, California, is the perfect stop for families looking to cool off and have some fun. The park has a variety of water slides for different age groups, a wave pool, and a lazy river. There's also a special area for younger children, Splash Zone, where they can safely play with water features and small slides. Visitors can also relax in one of the cabanas or shaded areas while enjoying some refreshments from the snack bar. Make sure to try the famous corn dogs, a classic park treat, before departing

3. Museum of the San Ramon Valley

Located in Danville, California, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley showcases the local history and culture. Visitors can learn about the farmers and ranchers who helped shape the region and the discovery of gold in the area. The museum is home to an extensive collection of artifacts and photographs on display, and there are often rotating exhibits as well. Make sure to try the delicious quiche and pastries at The Peasant and The Pear, located just a few blocks from the museum.

4. Mount Diablo State Park

Located in Contra Costa County, Mount Diablo State Park is a must-visit destination. At 3,849 feet, Mount Diablo is the highest peak in the Bay Area, and visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding hills and San Francisco Bay. The park has a variety of hiking trails for different skill levels, picnic areas, and a visitor center with exhibits and information about the park's natural resources. For a quick bite, stop by the Summit Building to indulge in the famous hot dogs, a park favorite.

5. Children’s Fairyland

Located in Oakland, Children’s Fairyland is a magical theme park for kids and adults alike. Founded in 1950, the park has been enchanting visitors for over 70 years with its whimsical sets and imaginative characters. Visitors can enjoy classic rides like the Jolly Trolley and the Ferris wheel, as well as roaming the delightful gardens and discovering the hidden fairy tale characters. Make sure to try the delicious cotton candy, a park staple for generations of visitors.

Conclusion

This road trip from Brentwood to Fremont is full of surprising and unforgettable experiences, from historic missions and scenic parks to waterparks and magical fairy tale lands. The midpoint stop in Livermore is an excellent opportunity to grab a bite to eat and try some local wines, but don't just stop there. Each of the five places has its charm and offers a unique experience, food, and stories. So embark on this adventure, and we guarantee you'll have a fantastic time!