What Makes Up The Tri-Valley?

EAST BAY, CA — We talk about the “Tri-Valley” a lot in this area. But what exactly makes up those three valleys? The Tri-Valley is a giant montage of the San Ramon Valley, the Livermore Valley and Amador Valley, according to experts at the Museum on Main. The three valleys span two counties and includes several cities, one town and some incorporated areas.

The San Ramon Valley, which got its name from a creek coming out of Bollinger Canyon, includes San Ramon, Danville, and Alamo as well as the unincorporated communities of Blackhawk, Camino Tassajara, Alamo Oaks, and Diablo. It also includes part of southern Walnut Creek. Danville is famous as the home of the Nobel Prize winning playwright Eugene O’Neill, who used his prize money to buy his estate in Danville. San Ramon hosts the popular Art and Wind Festival each year.

The Livermore Valley, which was named after an English immigrant, includes the city of Livermore. Livermore is home to the world famous Centennial Light, which has been burning continuously since 1901. Don’t ask us how the light bulb has made it this long, because no one can truly explain it. Needless to say, the bulb, which is housed at Livermore’s Fire Station 6, holds a world record and has its own "bulb cam."

The Amador Valley, which is named after Jose Maria Amador, owner of Rancho San Ramon, includes Pleasanton, Dublin, unincorporated community of Dougherty. Dublin is known for its annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration, which lasts for three days. Pleasanton’s Main Street has made national headlines due to whispers of hauntings in the historic buildings. Years before it turned into a bustling Bay Area suburb, Pleasanton was known as the "The Most Desperate Town in the West."

Each city and town in the Tri-Valley is unique and has so many interesting things to offer the community. Tell us in the comments section about your favorite spots.

Photos by hxdbzxy via Shutterstock