What to Do in Danville With Kids

Danville is a family-friendly town about 30 minutes east of Oakland and an hour’s drive from San Francisco. From the playgrounds and libraries to the community events, there are loads of things to do in Danville with kids.

Thanks to the Pat Burgess Team at Compass, a group of trusted real estate advisors, for sharing their expertise with us. For more than 30 years, Pat herself has been deeply involved with Danville-based businesses and non-profit organizations, plus soccer, cub scouts, and her five children’s classrooms. Also on the team is Melanie Bartoletti, a dedicated community member (and local restaurant owner!) who is passionate about making the East Bay the best it can be through her good works. Contact the team with any questions about living in the Danville and San Ramon areas.

Best Family Activities in Danville

Danville parks, playgrounds, and outdoor spaces

Oak Hill Park (next to Monta Vista High School) features a pond with a walking path. This lovely spot hosts summer concerts for the community, so keep your ears open when the days get longer and the evenings get warmer.

Hap Magee Ranch Park is home to a splash pad that runs from April to September in addition to the playground. Plus, there’s a large dog park popular with both dog families and with toddlers who just like to watch the pups play!

Diablo Vista is nicknamed “Snake Park” because of the tile snake climbing structure embedded in the hill. This wonderful playground is a favorite of the community.

Mt. Diablo State Park has a number of entrance points to it’s trails and open spaces; the one closest to Danville is your best way in to visit Rock City Park.

Iron Horse Trail is a picturesque, long paved trail, popular with bikers and runners that goes right through Danville. Plenty of water fountains, restrooms and tables for snacking along the way!

Las Trampas offers hiking trails and views of rolling green hills — or at least this year they’re green!

Sycamore Valley Park Playground also has a water feature from April to September as well as a modern playground.

Danville museums and attractions

Blackhawk Museum
Located in the Blackhawk Plaza, sections of this regional history museum include The World of Nature Gallery, China Gallery, Africa Gallery, “Spirit of the West” Gallery, and the Classic Car Collection, which is popular with kids.

Museum of the San Ramon Valley
With rotating exhibits that may engage different kiddos, we put the Museum of the San Ramon Valley on this list because Summer 2023 brings a train exhibit.

Blackhawk Plaza
An open-air shopping destination with a variety of fine dining, boutique shops, and grocery stores.

Kids Classes & Family-Friendly Activities in Danville

Danville Library
The town library’s calendar is full of special events, crafts, and drop-in family story hours throughout the week.

The Town of Danville
City-hosted events are a wonderful perk of living in Danville from movie nights to Easter Egg hunts. Browse the seasonal Activity Guide online to see what’s coming.

Danville Farmers Market
Saturdays year-round, rain or shine, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Railroad Avenue Municipal Parking Lot, located at the corner of Railroad and Prospect Avenues. More info >

The Next Step Dance Studio
Recreational and competitive dance across genres for kids 4 and up. More info >

I Can Do That Peforming Arts
Musical theater and related programs for students take place year-round. More info >

Sonrise Equestrian Foundation
Supports children with all abilities and challenges in enjoying horses and the skills to ride and care for them. (This special organization was founded by Pat Burgess Team real estate advisor, Melanie Bartoletti!)  More info >

Mustang Soccer Club
Nurtures young players into the world of competitive youth soccer. Learn more >

Pinot’s Palette
This paint-with-instruction studio hosts periodic Family Day events. See the schedule >

Danville kids’ favorite restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops

5 kid-friendly sit-down restaurants in Danville
Our sources recommend Revel Kitchen & Bar, Peasant & the Pear, Hideout Kitchen, and Cocina Hermanas. Oh, and don’t forget Primo’s Pizzeria & Pub if you need to feed a gaggle of hungry kids after a sports or theater event.

Danville Chocolates
One of our favorite, family-friendly destinations, Danville Chocolates makes all of its chocolates by hand. Don’t miss the caramel apples!

Yersen’s Gelato
Pat Burgess’s own favorite (which she asserts rivals Italy’s gelato!) is located on Crow Canyon Road. More details >

Vitality Bowls
Our fave counter-service spot where you can get smoothies and acai bowls for a mid-day snack.

More local favorites from folks who live in Danville

Rakestraw Books
Displays all the latest children’s books in inviting ways and hosts many fun family events!

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids
Technically Danville-adjacent in San Ramon, Sharkey’s is worth the drive from the 510 to experience this over-the-top kid-centric haircutting service. Learn more >

Danville Livery
A community space for local families and businesses, the Livery offers a unique collection of local shops run by friendly merchants. Seasonal events such as a Christmas Zone with snow take place here.

Games Unlimited
An independent toys and games store for kids of all ages.

Thanks to the Pat Burgess company, among the top 1% of realtors nationwide, for helping us get to know Danville! For families ready to build their dream life in the Danville or San Ramon area, feel free to contact the team with questions.