The city of Concord, California, located in the East Bay area a 45-minute drive from San Francisco, is home to just 125,000 people, and its downtown has a rustic, small-town feel. This isn’t surprising, given its history.
Back in 1834, rancher Don Salvio Pacheco received an extensive land grant from Mexico that included the area where Concord now stands. He later offered free lots to residents to establish businesses within the new city’s boundaries. The town eventually grew as nearby mines and railroads flourished.
Today, Concord’s 20-block historic core, centered on the lively Todos Santos Plaza, reflects all of those periods and more, even as it offers up-to-date experiences in dining, culture, and the arts.
The Concord Culinary Scene
For a city of its size and with such a strong Mexican heritage, Concord offers impressive culinary diversity, including restaurants serving at least 27 different ethnic cuisines.
Concord’s restaurants
I enjoyed meals at a picnic table outside a tortilla factory and in upscale Italian and Mediterranean restaurants. Doppio Zero was particularly noteworthy.
Concord also has a nationally recognized Taco Trail.
The common denominators were passionate chefs and owners, and the local ingredients they create with.
The Concord Farmers Market
I always visit farmers markets during my travels, since chefs often shop there, making it a good way to gain insight into the flavors served in local restaurants.
The Concord Farmers Market, located in the town’s central Todos Santos Plaza, is a great example. It’s open year-round and features over 30 local vendors and farmers. Community events like the Music and Market series are held there during the summer months.
Concord’s art scene, murals, and gardens
An artistic community thrives in Concord, with support from both locals and visitors. Outdoor lovers will enjoy the city’s scenic parks, gardens, and nearby trails.
The street murals of Concord
You can experience local visual arts by exploring the 12 colorful street murals that tell the story of the city’s history and culture.
The gardens and trees of Concord
Markham Nature Park and Arboretum shows off the greenery of the area’s Mediterranean climate, and includes formal gardens, rustic trails, and a grove of giant redwoods.
Plan your visit to Concord
Before you arrive, learn about the area’s attractions and accommodations at the Concord visitors website. While you’re there, drop into the downtown Concord Visitor Center for information.
Our group of writers from the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association was hosted by Visit Concord.
Peggy Cleveland blogs at Peggy, Where Should I go?
