More than 130 of California's native plants speckle the Butterfly Habitat Garden at Civic Park. Their vibrant colors and soft aromas lure in 25 species of butterflies—the real main attraction at the garden. If the Butterfly Habitat is undergoing renovations when you visit, come back later to explore. It's well worth a return visit to see what the city has been working to perfectly cultivate for more than 15 years—the valley oak trees housed within the gardens are much older, some dating back several centuries.

Once you've thoroughly explored the Butterfly Habitat, enjoy the rest of what Civic Park has to offer. The 10-acre park also boasts tennis courts where athletes can face off, a playground for little ones, and a picnic area to stop and enjoy lunch. Plus, the park feeds right into the Iron Horse Trail if you're interested in going for a hike.

Civic Park
1301 Civic Drive
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
www.walnut-creek.org/citygov/depts/ps/parks/civic.asp
www.yelp.com/biz/civic-park-walnut-creek

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr Drongowski