Diamond Certified Resource Vallejo Area Guide

Our Vallejoan's Guide to Local Quality

Vallejo is our home and we love it! Here you’ll find the best spots to revisit, the Vallejo events schedule, local social media links, stories of our Vallejo area unsung heroes and much more. Connect with your neighbors and share what you love about our hometown. Plus, join us as a Vallejo Diamond Certified Preferred Member (always free).
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This aerial view of Vallejo’s expansive waterfront showcases the city’s connection to its natural surroundings. Photo: Zenstratus

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Our Vallejo Dashboard

Population as of 2024
123,001
Median Age
39.8
Median Household Income
$100,900
Median Household Size
2.82
Mayor
Robert McConnell
2020-Current
Police Chief
Jason Ta (Interim)
2022-Current
Fire Chief
Kyle Long
2021-Current

Famous Vallejoans

Sly Stone
Sly Stone is a musician, songwriter, and record producer who is most famous for his role as frontman for Sly and the Family Stone, playing a critical role in the development of funk with his pioneering fusion of soul, rock, psychedelia and gospel in the 1960s and 1970s. He was born in Texas but grew up in Vallejo.
E-40
E-40 is a renowned rapper, entrepreneur, and actor. He was born and raised in Vallejo and is known for his contributions to West Coast hip-hop.
CC Sabathia
A former Major League Baseball pitcher, CC Sabathia hails from Vallejo. He had a successful career with several teams, including the Cleveland Indians and New York Yankees.
Mac Dre
Mac Dre was a beloved rapper and hip-hop artist who played a significant role in the Bay Area rap scene. He was born in Oakland but was closely associated with Vallejo.
Jeff Gordon
Jeff Gordon is a stock car racing executive and former professional stock car racing driver who currently serves as the vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports. He was born and raised in Vallejo.
April Bowlby
April Bowlby is an actress and model known for her roles in “Two and a Half Men,” “Drop Dead Diva,” “Titans” and “Doom Patrol.” She was born in Vallejo and moved to Manteca as a child.

City of Opportunity

Vallejo has a rich history that dates all the way back to 1851. We're named after General Mariano Vallejo, a key figure in California's early days. We honor General Vallejo's legacy through various historical sites, including the Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum, where you can dive into our city's past with all sorts of artifacts and exhibits.

One of our most iconic spots is the Mare Island Naval Shipyard. Established in 1854, it was crucial to our growth and played a big part in the nation’s defense. Even though it’s no longer active, the Mare Island Historic Park Foundation offers guided tours that explore the shipyard’s rich history and its contributions to the United States Navy.

Vallejo is like a melting pot of cultures, which you can see in our lively arts and diverse culinary scene. The Vallejo Arts Alliance really shines by promoting our local artists and organizing art events throughout the year. And when it comes to food, you’ll find everything from various ethnic cuisines to fresh farm-to-table dining.

Our waterfront location along San Pablo Bay makes Vallejo a prime spot for outdoor fun. Just a short drive away, the Benicia State Recreation Area offers hiking trails, picnic spots, and the chance to spot wildlife in a peaceful setting.

We’re also proud of our thriving educational community. The Vallejo Unified School District looks after our younger students, while places like Solano Community College provide great higher education opportunities right here in town.

Thanks to our strategic location, Vallejo serves as a key transportation hub for the Bay Area. The Vallejo Ferry Terminal offers a convenient way to zip over to San Francisco, making it super easy to explore more of the region.

Diamond Certified Companies Serving Vallejo

    Diamond Certified Companies Serving Vallejo

    Diamond Certified companies serving Vallejo are rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 14,805 reviews of 50 rated companies.
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    Rating: 4.8 . 14,805 reviews
    Only companies rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Performance Guaranteed.

    Building Codes and Permits

    Chief Building Official: Steve Arnold
    555 Santa Clara Street, Second Floor
    Vallejo, CA 94590
    Phone: (707) 648-4387
    Fax: (707) 552-0163
    Email: building.division@cityofvallejo.net

    Vallejo FAQs

    Q: How far is Vallejo from San Francisco?

    A: Vallejo is approximately 30 miles from San Francisco.

    Q: When is the best time to visit Vallejo?

    A: The best time to visit Vallejo is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

    Q: Are there wineries in Vallejo?

    A: The only winery in Vallejo is Vino Godfather Winery, but the city is located in close proximity to the renowned wine regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma County.

    Q: What are the best areas to explore in Vallejo?

    A: Some of the best areas to explore in Vallejo include the historic downtown district with its Victorian-era architecture, Mare Island with its naval history, the scenic waterfront, and the nearby Benicia State Recreation Area.

    Q: Does Vallejo have a public library?

    A: Yes, Vallejo John F. Kennedy library is open to the public seven days a week.

    Diamond Certified Expert Contributors
    Serving Our Vallejo Area

    Dan Skiles, Jr.

    Dan Skiles, Jr.

    Owner, Master's Touch Upholstery

    Upholstery Cushions

    A simple way to maximize the life span of your upholstery cushions is to regularly flip them over, which will ensure equal wear on both sides. Keep in mind that this pertains to both the cushion’s cover and the filler material inside. If you have a sofa, you should also reverse the cushions end to end.

    David Weiss

    David Weiss

    Owner, Four Paws Pet Ranch

    The Importance of Socializing Your Dog

    Nutrition, exercise, and affection are important for keeping your dog healthy and happy, but another aspect of canine wellness is socialization. Dogs have become domesticated over time, but they’re still pack animals by nature, so it’s important for them to spend time among their own kind.

    William Trbovich

    William Trbovich

    Owner, Acur-it Auto Repair

    Avoiding Unnecessary Caliper Replacement

    Replacing the brake calipers on your car can be pricey, but is it really necessary? The truth is that caliper replacement is rarely (if ever) needed, so if an auto repair shop recommends it, you should get a second opinion before making a final decision.

    Lee Dido

    Lee Dido

    Owner, Wine Country Painters, Inc.

    Interior Painting Tip

    When painting with different colors on neighboring walls and ceilings, a good way to get cleaner lines is with caulking. Applying a bead of caulking into the seam between two sections (for example, where the ceiling meets the wall) provides a smooth surface for cutting in with your paint, resulting in a straight line.

    Our Vallejo Glossary

    “Mare Island”

    A peninsula in Vallejo that was a former naval shipyard and is now being redeveloped with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas.

    “Six Flags Discovery Kingdom”

    A popular amusement park featuring rides, animal attractions, and entertainment.

    “Vallejo Ferry Terminal”

    A transportation hub connecting Vallejo to San Francisco via ferry services.

    “Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum”

    A museum showcasing Vallejo’s history, including its naval heritage and cultural contributions.

    “Empress Theatre”

    A historic theater in downtown Vallejo, known for its cultural events, live performances, and community engagement.

    “Vallejo Waterfront”

    The area along the Mare Island Strait offering scenic views, parks, and recreational spaces.

    “Vallejo Farmers' Market”

    A local market providing fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a sense of community.

    “Blue Rock Springs Golf Course”

    A public golf course offering a challenging layout and picturesque views.

    “Vallejo Admirals”

    An independent professional baseball team based in Vallejo, playing in the Pacific Association of Professional Baseball Clubs.

    Vallejo's Perennial Events

    Vallejo Restaurant Week

    JANUARY

    Vallejo Restaurant Week

    Held in January, this week-long event showcases the diverse culinary scene in Vallejo, with participating restaurants offering special prix-fixe menus and discounts.

    Vallejo Farmers Market

    APRIL – OCTOBER

    Vallejo Farmers Market

    Every Saturday from April to October, the Vallejo Farmers Market offers a variety of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and other fresh produce, as well as handmade crafts, live music, and cooking demos.

    Solano County Fair

    JUNE

    Solano County Fair

    This annual, week-long event showcases agriculture, livestock, and local businesses from Solano County. It features carnival rides, hundreds of exhibits, live music, and a variety of food vendors.

    Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park

    JULY - AUGUST

    Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park

    Held at the Lake Dalwigk Park Amphitheater, this event features free outdoor performances of Shakespeare's plays, as well as workshops and activities for all ages.

    Mad Hatter Holiday Festival

    DECEMBER

    Mad Hatter Holiday Festival

    This unique holiday event takes place in December in downtown Vallejo and features a grand parade, a tree lighting ceremony, a holiday market, and a Mad Hatter-themed costume contest.

    Vallejo Maps

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    Vallejo was founded in 1851, and today, your 118,945 neighbors enjoy rowing, community events, zoos, street fairs and golfing.

    ZIP Codes Within Vallejo City

    • 94591, 94590, 94589, 94592

    Diamond Certified Preferred Members In Vallejo

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    Groups and Clubs Serving Vallejo

    Vallejo Yacht Club

    The Vallejo Yacht Club is a community of boating enthusiasts situated on the waters of the San Francisco Bay. The club offers social events, regattas, and a welcoming atmosphere for all who share a passion for sailing.

    Vallejo Rotary Club

    The Vallejo Rotary Club is committed to making a positive impact through various charitable initiatives and projects. It places a strong emphasis on community service, international cooperation, and fellowship among its members.

    Vallejo Garden Club

    The Vallejo Garden Club is a community of gardening enthusiasts who come together to share their love for plants, flowers, and horticultural knowledge. They organize garden tours, workshops, and community beautification projects to promote gardening in Vallejo.

    Vallejo Arts Alliance

    The Vallejo Arts Alliance is a community of artists and art enthusiasts committed to fostering creativity and cultural engagement. They organize art events, exhibitions, and workshops.

    Religious Organizations
    Serving Vallejo

    Vallejo Central Seventh-day Adventist Church

    Vallejo Central Seventh-day Adventist Church is a faith community dedicated to living by the principles of the Seventh-day Adventist faith. They provide worship services, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives to promote spiritual growth and well-being.

    Islamic Center of Vallejo

    The Islamic Center of Vallejo is a hub for the Vallejo Muslim community, offering prayer services, religious education, and cultural events. It serves as a place for worship, learning, and building bridges of understanding within the broader community.

    Clear Water Temple / Vallejo Zen Center

    Clear Water Temple is a Soto Zen Buddhist Temple in the tradition of Shunryu Suzuki Roshi and the San Francisco and Berkeley Zen Centers. It offers regular meditation, meditation instruction, classes, one-day sittings, work practice, lectures and special workshops.

    St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church

    St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church is a Catholic parish that offers religious services and spiritual guidance.

    Social Vallejo

    Oldest Vallejo
    Businesses

    Empress Theatre

    (Built in 1911)

    Foster Lumber Yard

    (Founded 1920)

    California Glass of Vallejo, Inc.

    (Founded 1941)

    Popular Spots!

    Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

    Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is an amusement park that offers a mix of rides, shows, and opportunities to encounter wildlife. Visitors can enjoy roller coasters, animal exhibits, and live entertainment.

    Mare Island Historic Park Foundation

    Mare Island, a historic naval shipyard, is home to the Mare Island Historic Park Foundation. This organization offers guided tours and access to historic sites, providing insights into the area's maritime history and contributions to the U.S. Navy.

    Empress Theatre

    The Empress Theatre is known for its live performances, concerts, and cultural events. It's a focal point for arts and culture in Vallejo.

    McCune Rare Book and Art Collection

    Founded in 1950 by Albert M. McCune, the McCune Rare Book and Art Collection features over 25,000 rare and valuable books, as well as a wide array of fine art and historical documents. The collection is open to the public and serves as an educational resource for students, researchers, and the community.

    Restaurants We Love

    Napoli Pizzeria

    This family-owned restaurant offers a wide selection of authentic Italian dishes, including wood-fired pizzas.

    Good Day Café

    Serving up classic American breakfast and lunch dishes with a twist, Good Day Café is known for their creative and flavorful dishes.

    Michael Warring

    This upscale restaurant turns food into art with their innovative dishes. The menu features a fusion of traditional and modern flavors.

    Gracie’s BBQ

    Gracie’s BBQ is a popular spot for casual dining in Vallejo. The cozy and rustic atmosphere of the restaurant adds to the overall dining experience.

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