Orinda is a city located in Contra Costa County, California. It is located approximately 13 miles (21 km) east of Oakland and situated in the hills of the East Bay area. With a population of roughly 19,000 people, Orinda is known for its picturesque scenery, wooded hills, and luxury homes.
1. Orinda Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Walking is always a great way to get to know someone on a first date. Orinda has plenty of beautiful parks and places to take a leisurely stroll and chat. You and your date could visit Wilder Ranch Park, a 126 acre park that has a creek to explore and scenic views of the city. Orinda Woods is another great park to visit, offering miles of trails with breathtaking vistas and lush forests. Other nature parks include Carpenter Park, Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, and Shell Ridge Open Space.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Orinda
Coffee dates are always a great way to break the ice in a casual setting. Luckily, Orinda has plenty of upscale cafes, with cozy seating and delicious treats. One of the most popular spots is the Village Corners Cafe, which offers an idyllic outdoor seating area perfect for people watching and conversation. For something a bit more intimate, try Cafe Barcel, known for its inventive dishes and outdoor patio that overlooks a tranquil pond. There's also Down to Earth Cafe, where you can enjoy delicious baked goods and flavorful coffee drinks.
3. Orinda Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
If you’re looking for something a bit more stimulating, Orinda provides plenty of unique galleries, museums and exhibitions to browse through. The Orinda Historical Museum features a number of interesting artifacts from the city’s history, from early photographs to unique displays of local culture. The Orinda Gallery is another great spot to check out, showcasing a variety of artwork from local artists. And for a truly unique experience, take your date to the Hitchcock Movie Festival, which celebrates the life and works of Alfred Hitchcock with film screenings, lectures, and more.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Orinda
If music is your thing, Orinda has plenty of live entertainment to enjoy. The Orinda Theatre is a popular spot, featuring classic films and plays, as well as a wide range of live music performances. You could also visit the John F. Kennedy Center and listen to renowned performers or the Orinda Community Park, which has free summer concerts and other events.
5. Orinda Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
A dinner or a drink is always a great way to continue getting to know someone. Orinda has plenty of bars, pubs and restaurants to choose from. The popular Orinada Bar & Grill is known for its casual atmosphere and tasty menu of American faire. The Porch is another great option, offering an array of craft beers, wines and classic cocktails. And for something a little more upscale, try the Orinda Fine Dining, which serves up delicious French cuisine and a fantastic wine list.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Orinda
If you’re looking for something a bit more creative, Orinda has plenty of other date ideas to try. You could go to a comedy show at the Orinda Comedy Club or take in a play at the Orinda Theatre. You could also visit the Orinda Bowl for bowling night, or try something more adventurous like the Big Swing at the Orinda Country Club.
