Playground of Dreams

First Street's bakery-cafe: croissants, sandwiches, and showpiece pastries (their seasonal bread sculptures draw crowds). A Benicia morning ritual with kids in tow.

Benicia's old-school pirate-themed pizza parlor in Solano Square: counter-order pies and a casual room where nobody minds a loud table, the easy team-dinner answer.

Benicia's 1880s historic hotel on First Street, with period rooms above the waterfront strip.

A small inn two blocks from First Street, with suite-style rooms steps from the waterfront and bakeries. Guests 12 and older only.

Benicia's full-amenity chain hotel on E 2nd Street: free full breakfast and an outdoor pool near the marina and industrial-park side of town.

A waterfront landmark at the foot of First Street with chowder, seafood and strait views from the dining room or patio. A special-ish lunch that still welcomes strollers.