Richmond is a Bay Area city in California just north of San Francisco and Berkley. It has over 111,000 residents and, as you might imagine, plenty of activities for any time of year.

We’ve picked out some relatively popular spots that aren’t quite as well known. Whether you live here or are visiting, we encourage you to check these places out.

Here are 6 Hidden Gems You Should Check Out in Richmond, CA:

Catahoula Coffee Company, Richmond, CA

There’s something magical about cafes. Even when they’re busy, with music playing in the background, people are able to write and study beside tables with people having a lively conversation. Everyone’s drinking caffeine, yet the atmosphere remains relaxed.

There’s a special coffee house in Richmond called Catahoula Coffee Company. You can purchase their award-winning roasted coffee, truffles, stickers, mugs, tumblers, shirts, and gift cards online or in-store. They even have a Rosie the Riveter-inspired poster, which is appropriate because the Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Museum is one of the popular spots to visit in Richmond.

Miller Knox Regional Shoreline

As long as it isn’t raining, it’s a nice day for a picnic in Richmond. So, head over to Miller Knox Regional Shoreline, a local 307-acre picnic park. Bring a picnic basket full enough for you and your friends and take a seat while you enjoy the view of the bay right from the shore.

You’ll find lots of places to relax and eat snacks and sandwiches, this park includes a swimming beach, a model railroad museum, and fantastic, panoramic views of Richmond and the bay. On the fishing pier, you can catch perch, striped bass, sanddab, and flounder. When you’re ready to walk off your lunch, circle the mile-long loop trail a few times and get in your daily steps.

Keller Beach Park

Here’s another lovely park where you can walk along the shoreline. Keller Beach Park, part of Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline, features a sandy beach, picnic areas with BBQ pits, and restrooms. People also come here to enjoy seal watching. You can spot them around a mile away, so bring your binoculars.

Before stepping in the water, however, check the signs. A red sign means to stay out of the water, which may be unsafe due to bacteria carried in surface runoff. As long as you keep this in mind, this is a nice place to visit for some pretty views.

Adventure Kinderland Indoor Playground

Do you have kids? Then take them to Adventure Kinderland Indoor Playground. Despite the name, this is a fun place for children up to 10. There are bouncy houses, wavy slides, tunnels, ball pits, and modern play equipment. It also includes a toddler area, so you can more easily keep your little ones safe.

Children must be accompanied by an adult 18 years old or older, and children under 12 months are not allowed on play equipment for their safety. This site is safe and a great place to let your kids play and burn off energy.

Assemble Marketplace

Talk about a restaurant with a view. When you dine at Assemble, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the San Francisco Bay Area. Hours are limited, and you may have to make a reservation. They’re open Wednesday to Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for lunch only.

Food includes delicious American fare, including chicken, tri-tip, and veggie sandwiches, cheeseburgers, soups and salads, and fish and chips. Drinks include cafe selections like coffee, lattes, mochas, and tea, soda, juice, coffee cocktails, and a selection of beer.

Huong Tra Restaurant

If you’d like something different from American or cafe fare, head over to Huong Tra on San Pablo Avenue. This Vietnamese restaurant is a real hidden gem. Check out their site for pictures of the food you’ll receive, and the full menu. We think the photos alone will sell you on this place. 

Menu items are written in both Vietnamese and English and include food like pork fried spring rolls, chicken salad with minced peanuts, fried shrimp tempura, fried fish cake, garlic fried chicken wings, tofu salad with minced peanuts, and a lot more. You can drink coffee, tea, smoothies, and soda. Beer and wine are also available. Huong Tra serves big portions, so don’t forget to ask for a to-go box.

Once you’ve finished exploring Richmond and decide you want to move here, head over to one of our local storage properties, we’ll make sure to make your move much easier. And, we’re also here for you if you already live in the area but need some extra storage. 

We have units in a range of sizes, from small at 5’x5’ to large at 10’x20’, and parking spaces for your boat or RV, which range from 10’x25’ to 10’x40’. You can rent your unit online or in person, and we’re always happy to help.