Community Spotlight: Concord
Why Concord?
An hour’s drive from San Francisco, the town of Concord has the Bay Area’s cosmopolitan perks—international dining, vibrant open-air town square, and flourishing craft beer scene—combined with tranquil reserves offering easy nature escapes and miles of cycling and walking trails.
Things to Do
There is a ton to do in and around Concord, but a few of our favorite activities include shopping or dinning at The Willows and The Veranda. With an abundance of stores and restaurants to choose from, you can easily find something for everyone in the family to enjoy. If getting outdoors and exploring one of Concord’s amazing parks sounds more up your ally, keep reading! We are going to do a deep dive into some of Concord’s parks next. You can also go to the weekly Farmers’ Market in Todos Santos Plaza or spend the evening listening to live music at Concord Pavilion.
Parks To Explore
Markham Nature Park and Arboretum: Markham Nature Park and Arboretum is a place of quiet beauty less located than two miles from downtown Concord. With its main entrance at the south end of La Vista Avenue, much of it is still in its natural state, with vegetation only slightly tamed. Shade-dappled Galindo Creek flows through it.
Lime Ridge Open Space: Looking for an adventurous hike or family outing? Lime Ridge Open Space has 25 miles of great hiking trails, mountain biking trails, running trails, and more. Located just outside the entrance to the Montecito neighborhood on the corner of Ygnacio and Cowell Road. We highly recommend Lime Ridge as it has impressive views overlooking Walnut Creek and Concord.
Contra Costa Canal Trail : One of the most popular trails, this multi-use paved pathway is suitable for bikers, walkers, runners, and equestrians. This trail provides a safe off-road corridor connecting Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, and Concord. Meandering along the Contra Costa Canal, following a horseshoe-shaped path through central Contra Costa County, the trail intercepts a number of local parks in Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, and Concord. It also makes important connections to a number of regional trails including Iron Horse Trail.
Iron Horse Trail: This 32-mile trail extends from Concord to Pleasanton. The trail connects residential and commercial areas, business parks, schools, public transportation (BART, County Connection), open space and parks, regional trails, and community facilities.
Concord Community Park: This busy neighborhood park offers a walking loop, sports fields, tennis courts, playground, off-leash dog area, and picnic tables. Located off Cowell Road, it is a short walk or bike ride from Contra Costa Canal Trail.
Newhall Community Park and Dog Park: Newhall Community Park is 126 acres along Galindo Creek east of Treat Boulevard and great for walking, jogging, picnicking, or watching/playing soccer on the two large fields. The dog park there, better known as the Paw Patch, is a secure fenced area where dogs can exercise off-leash.
Places to Eat
Lima: Located in Todos Santos Plaza, Lima offers authentic Peruvian food, good cocktails, and has a nice outdoor seating area, great for people watching around downtown. Walk down the street to get desert at Beard Papas or CREAM.
Eureka!: Great for burgers, bourbon, beer, and more! Located in The Willows Shopping Center, just off the 680 freeway. You’re sure to find something on the menu to hit the spot. One of our favorites is the Jalapeno Egg Burger and a Mint Julip enjoyed on the patio. They also have a great ‘Hoppy Hour’ every weeknight from 3-6pm.
La Pinata: This local favorite has been serving the Concord community for over 20 years and is known for serving hearty burritos and delicious margaritas.
Puesto: This award-winning Mexican Artisan Kitchen & Bar is located in the heart of The Veranda. It is owned and operated by a Mexican American family and is known for their fabulous handmade blue corn tortillas and specialty tacos. You can never go wrong trying something new here!