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Downtown Waterfront:
Room With A View
Cool, salty breezes, vista views and charming historic buildings.
Located on First street, the waterfront downtown district starts at Military East running south to the pier on the peninsula.
The character of downtown is at the core of Benicia's identify. It's a special place brimming with history, dreamy waterfront views along with specialty shops, artist galleries and restaurants.
We're proud of our Main Street and its designation as one of only 25 certified California Main Street Districts. Benicia Main Street, the primary marketing organization for downtown, hosts 27 annual events attracting locals and visitors to enjoy all the heart of Benicia has to offer.
3 Reasons To Locate In Downtown Benicia
STrong tourism development
Traffic through your front door is crucial to success. The City works to drive visitors through ongoing investments in tourism, marketing and promotion, and events. This includes the implementation of VisitBenicia.org and related efforts highlighting Benicia's beautiful waterfront, vibrant arts community, significant historical assets (California’s third state capitol and the famous came barns at the Arsenal), and unique shopping and dining venues.
investment in physical improvements
The City recognizes the importance of maintaining infrastructure to draw and keep visitors engaged. The City of Benicia has invested thousands of dollars in street and lighting maintenance, signage and development of the marina and promenade.
Business improvement district
Formed in 2012, the Benicia Business Improvement District is comprised of business owners from Benicia First Street. A business improvement district is a source of funding which is used to provide special improvements and/or services within the district. The primary improvement of this district thus far is the installation and maintenance of decorative tree lights creating a welcoming ambiance.
Good Fits
Over 90% of downtown businesses are locally owned and operated. There's a healthy mix of clothing boutiques, restaurants, antiques and home furnishings. Downtown office users include architects, real estate companies and financial services, to name a few. There are also a number of spas and salons. 1st Street has become an entertainment venue with new restaurants and live music.
Downtown Properties
Downtown Benicia has about 200,000 square feet of commercial and office space. There is limited vacancy due to the success of restaurants and shops on First Street. Small spaces often don't make it into the database — we hear about it word-of-mouth. We encourage you to either contact us at the Office of Economic Development.
Office of Economic Development: (707) 746-4289
Available listings, business location assistance, retail market data