Welcome to Pleasanton
An affluent, mid-sized city with a cute and vibrant downtown
About an hour from San Francisco by car, Pleasanton has long been favored as a day-trip destination, offering big-city residents an escape in the form of beautiful outdoor spaces, a lovely Old Town, and a Mediterranean climate. However, Pleasanton is also a great spot to set down roots, as residents searching for their dream homes quickly fall in love with its charming, quiet streets.
When it comes to architecture, Pleasanton is renowned for its Victorian-style homes. These beautiful homes were built by local architects in the late 19th century and are now some of the most sought-after properties in the city. Pleasanton Old Town is an excellent representation of the city's past and is home to the Pleasanton Heritage Museum, which tells the story of the city's founding. Of late, Pleasanton’s job market has been energized by an influx of corporations — Safeway and Workday have headquarters in Pleasanton.
What to Love
- Cute downtown with vibrant cafes, shops, and a farmers’ market
- One of the wealthiest middle-sized cities in the United States
- Highly-rated, award-winning schools
- Historical and exciting architectural styles
Local Lifestyle
Pleasanton is a vibrant community located near highways I-580 and I-680. The city has two BART stations, making it a great commute location. The overall vibe and personality of Pleasanton is on-the-go yet laid-back; its small-town atmosphere, despite its burgeoning population, is perhaps its most appealing attribute. The friendly community welcomes new residents, and as a newcomer to Pleasanton, it’s easy to get involved. Because they have access to several parks and places for outdoor recreation, locals can get outside to exercise and enjoy the beautiful year-round weather.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
From intimate restaurants and lively bars to upscale shopping centers and beautiful wineries, there is something for everyone in Pleasanton. Try Sabio on Main for an exquisite dining experience if you want something more sophisticated. Sabio on Main is a tapas-style restaurant that offers a variety of small plates perfect for sharing. Another great choice is Hap's Original Steaks & Seafood, which offers hearty steak and seafood dishes. Elia is an excellent option for healthy and flavorful Greek food. Beer Baron Bar & Kitchen, Pairings Wine Bar Restaurant, and Locanda Amalfi are some of the best places for nightlife in Pleasanton. Andy and Yu’s is an excellent choice for Fine Chinese Cuisine and an extensive wine list. No trip to Pleasanton is complete without a stop at Meadowlark Dairy for the best soft serve ice cream. There is no need to get out of the car, you just “drive-thru”!
And, of course, the city is also home to Stoneridge Mall, which features over 165 stores, offering everything from home furnishings and gadgets to clothing for men, women, and children. In addition, various retail centers are found in the surrounding area to suit any shopping spree. Another notable spot is the Pleasanton Gateway Shopping Center. This modern shopping center has an array of amenities, including a grocery store, pharmacy, fast food, and other services.
Things to Do
Pleasanton has no shortage of amenities and natural areas that visitors and residents can enjoy. For fantastic foods and fun, head to the weekly Pleasanton Farmers’ Market, which features fresh produce from local farmers and prepared food, crafts, and other items. Another popular attraction is the Alameda County Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Alameda County Fair, complete with horse races, live music and movies, incredible foods, fireworks, and kid-friendly fun.
Schools