Looking for things to do in Dublin, California? Dublin sits within the boundaries of California State Park, 24 miles south of the breathtaking Mt. Diablo and 35 miles east of San Francisco. Dublin was recently named one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States in 2021 and ranked #7 on Money Magazine's list of "The Best Places to Live" in 2018. Named for the Irish city across the pond, Dublin is home to many unique things to experience, gorgeous natural landscapes to explore, and plenty of high-energy activities for the whole family. Here are ten unique places to visit in Dublin, California.
Dublin Rockin’ Jump
The best family-friendly way to spend a Friday night is at Dublin Rockin’ Jump, an indoor trampoline park offering giant foam pits, endless games, and unparalleled freedom for kids of all ages. Increase your slam dunk talents to superhuman levels or add gravity-defying tricks to a game of dodgeball — the possibilities are endless at this unique (and thrilling) park.
K1 Speed Dublin
K1 is known for its world-class indoor kart racing tracks, and Dublin is home to one of 42 in the United States. There is no need to make a reservation for what they call "arrive and drive," but they offer impressive savings on group bookings for birthdays, private parties, and corporate events. This premier racing venue offers date night specials and food drives, and they even hold their own “G.P. League,” which caters to various age groups.
Dublin Iceland
Dublin Iceland is the home of the Tri-Valley Blue Devils ice hockey team, and their “open skate” facilities are a terrific place to have fun with friends and family. They offer basic training to people of all ages and use the rink for their broomball tournaments (hockey without skates) for those who haven't yet mastered their skating skills.
Regal Hacienda Crossings
If you’re a movie buff, then a visit to The Hacienda Crossings outdoor mall and Regal IMAX Movie Theater is for you! Regal’s Screen X cinemas use multiple projectors to create a 270-degree panoramic viewing experience, with up to 12 extra digital laser projectors for wing pictures (side screens). Their 4DX theatres are some of the best in the world, thanks to motion-activated seats that provide powerful vibrations and other sensations, as well as additional environmental controls for simulated weather and different situations that you have to see to believe. This 4K experience goes unparalleled in Dublin, and you won’t find a better movie-going experience anywhere else in the surrounding counties.
The Dublin Wave Aquatic Center
Six (yes, six) thrilling outdoor water slides can be found at The Wave. The splash zone is an interactive area with sprayers, nozzles, water jets, and designated slides for smaller guests who aren't quite ready for the giant towers. The outdoor sports pool is ideal for team workouts and individual athletic development. The park features eight 25-yard competition lanes with a depth of seven feet and three 25-yard warm-up lanes at a depth of four feet.
Earl Anthony’s Dublin Bowl
Have you ever wanted to try your hand at 10-pin bowling? Earl Anthony's is the place to go for the best experience! With 40 championship lanes and a Brunswick Vector Plus automatic scoring system (a state-of-the-art, professional system), this bowling alley is one of the best around. They have a junior league for residents who wish to get more involved in the community and continuously renew specials throughout the year to entice fans of the game to return.
Dublin Ranch Golf Course
Dublin Range Golf Course was the city's first and sole golf range. Offering 11 unique par-3s, five excellent par-4s, and two difficult par-5s, the Dublin Range Golf Course is a skilled range with stunning views. The estate features large picture windows in the ballroom, and the patio of their full-service bar provides breathtaking views of Mount Diablo and the rolling hills of Livermore Valley. Reserve a morning tee-time, relax at the snack bar, or book the club for a special event. Dublin Range Golf Course is also the area’s premier destination for weddings!
The Arlen Ness Museum and dealership
The late Arlen Ness' custom motorcycle workshop and showroom is located in downtown Dublin and features several unique motorcycles on display. Arlen’s son, Cory Ness, took over the business when his father passed, and the museum highlights many of Arlen's remarkable custom bikes crafted through the years.
Emerald Glen Park
Emerald Glen Park, located across the street from The Wave Aquatic Center, is a large indoor/outdoor complex offering tennis and basketball courts, a skate park, and baseball and soccer fields. An excellent destination for the family, visitors can take advantage of all Emerald Glen Park offers — with two playgrounds, dozens of climbing structures, and barbecue and picnic spots, this complex is the ideal destination during the summer months. Take a stroll through the rose garden along endless, tree-lined paths for a moment of peace, or attend the weekly farmers market to stock up on your local produce. The park also hosts late-night movies and food truck celebrations!
Dublin Heritage Park and Museums
The Dublin Heritage Park and Museum sits on a sprawling ten-acre cemetery and bursts with Gold Rush era history. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Dublin, the museum features the Murray Schoolhouse, a permanent exhibition showcasing Dublin's history. You can also visit St. Raymond's Church, completed in 1859, and Kolb House, the residence of George Kolb, one of the first owners of the Dublin General Store.
Kolb House Historic House Museum
During the 1880's German immigrant George Kolb moved to Dublin. He quickly purchased a general store there and earned a fortune. He then bought 320 acres of farmland. A home was built in the area and it's now a museum for visitors of Dublin, CA. In the exhibition, visitors learn about the life of the Kolb family. The house itself has been redesigned but retains an architectural style bungalow-style reminiscent of the 1910 - 1900s. In the center, there are lovely souvenirs and photographs of Kolb family members.
Iron Horse Trail
The Iron Horse Trail used to be a railroad, but these days it's a pleasant hike and cycling path for kids and adults. Some days you may see ducks, turkeys, and wildlife on the trail. There are long trails with breathtaking views of nature.
Discover Nature at the Tassajara Creek Regional Park
If you are looking for some nature to explore you may want to go to Tassajara Creek Regional Park. Located near the western boundary of Camp Park, this beautiful nature area opened in 1991. Tassajara Creek covers 27 acres, attracting small to moderate foot traffic each day. It's common to spot animals here. Tassajara Creek is perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Why buy a home in Dublin, CA?
If you’re looking to buy a home, location makes all the difference. It's critical to research potential neighborhoods to learn all you can about the area. Are the nearby schools highly rated? Are there plenty of businesses in the community? What about restaurant and shopping opportunities? Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent is crucial when moving to a new neighborhood — they’re the best people to answer all of your questions!
Ask for help!
The assistance of a licensed real estate agent will benefit you and your family in many different ways. Agents can assist you in locating properties that best match your needs in your selected neighborhood within your chosen price range and offer guidance in the following areas:
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Evaluating the real estate market and your home's current value
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Suggesting moving-related services
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Assisting with legal papers and other legal issues related to purchasing your new home
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Helping with financial matters, like obtaining a mortgage or setting up rent payments