Things to Do with Kids in Walnut Creek

For those of us who don’t live in Walnut Creek, we may know it best for the large upscale shopping center in the middle of the downtown. If you’re up to explore, however, add these Walnut Creek treasures to your list of things to do with kids that merit the drive.

Places to Play

Civic Park
Just outside of Downtown find Civic Park, a 10-acre grassy park surrounded by shady trees. There’s a water-sand area, multiple climbing structures and a train to sit and pretend on. We prefer this to the uber popular Heather Farm Park because of its shade and size, I’d say it’s much better for the toddler crowd.
1375 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek

Larkey Spray Ground, Pool, and Park
This is why people live in the suburbs. The spray ground has interactive water features that allow little ones to get wet without forcing their adult companions into the pool. Game for the pool? The adjacent swimming pool welcomes you. A traditional playground and well-kept lawn sits in Larkey Park. Read our take on Larkey Spray Ground >
2771 Buena Vista Ave, Walnut Creek 

Lesher Center for the Arts & Bedford Gallery
The stage at Lesher Center brings a diverse lineup of performances to East Bay audiences, many of them family friendly. (Pete the Cat was early in 2018. ) The building has multiple spaces dedicated to the arts, including the Bedford Gallery, where my family once enjoyed an engaging exhibition dedicated to superheroes. Current exhibition: The World of Frida, celebrating Frida Kahlo.
1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek

Heather Farm Park
This park’s modern playground features engaging (and photogenic) play structures in addition to unique hills for sliding down. A pond and botanical garden invite stroller-pushers to walk around, while basketball courts and the Clark Memorial Swim Center make it worth the drive for big kids. See our post about Heather Farm Park here >
301 N San Carlos Dr, Walnut Creek

Lindsay Wildlife Experience
This kid-friendly science education center is an animal rescue facility for wildlife in the area. There are live animals to observe and scheduled classes and feedings throughout the day. Check the schedule if your heart is set on touching something specifically creepy or cuddly. More details >
1931 1st Ave, Walnut Creek

Places to Eat

Gott’s Roadside
Tasty burgers and milkshakes plus a kids menu that won’t disappoint. Gott’s is good.
1275 S Main St, Walnut Creek

Coffee Shop
Stop in the Coffee Shop for a morning pick-me-up. Lots of outdoor seating for noisy ones and simple brunch items for hard to please kids.
1321 Locust Street, Walnut Creek

The Olde San Francisco Creamery 
For a real treat, step into The Olde San Francisco Creamery for a mini-sundae to share. Always fun to stop here after a day of playing in the sun.
1370 Locust St, Walnut Creek

Lottie’s Creamery
For more artisanal palates, check out Lottie’s Creamery for flavors like coconut tangerine and roasted banana, vegan-friendly too.
1414 N Main St, Walnut Creek

Ongoing Events

First Wednesdays in Downtown Walnut Creek
The downtown area hosts many seasonal events, and half the year, from April to October, the first Wednesday brings an evening program from 5:30p to 8:30p to families who want to stroll the vibrant shopping district. Live entertainment and special vendors come out to greet the crowds.

Infant and Kids’ Yoga at Sports Basement
Every Tuesday find yoga for all ages at Sports Basement in Walnut Creek. There are four classes ranging from infant to 10 years throughout the day. Just $10 for each hour session. More details here>
1881 Ygnacio Valley Rd, Walnut Creek

Lakeshore Learning
Lakeshore Learning hosts free crafts for kids every Saturday from 11am – 3pm. Drop-in to make bird-feeders, rainbows and bookmarks.
1929 Mt Diablo Blvd, Walnut Creek

Bonus

Walnut Creek Trolly
Hop aboard the Free Walnut Creek Trolley for a free trip around the block. The route makes a complete loop and you can jump on/off at any stop. Hop off at Main and Duncan Street to find Five Little Monkeys, ice cream, coffee, street art and more. My boys love this!

While our event calendar is primarily dedicated to family activities in the Oakland and Berkeley areas, we do sometimes list great things to do in Walnut Creek. Any upcoming activities will be seen below.

Upcoming family events in Walnut Creek, from our calendar