Hayward Travel Guide

Explore Hayward, California with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, food to try, and tips for staying safe and healthy in Hayward.


Introduction to Hayward

Located in Alameda County, Hayward is a vibrant city that attracts visitors from all over the world. Known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and lively arts scene, Hayward has something for everyone. This comprehensive tour guide offers everything you need to plan your trip to Hayward. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, we cover it all. Read on to discover the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for staying safe and healthy in Hayward.

List of Places to Visit in Hayward

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Hayward has a rich history, and there are plenty of museums and historical sites to explore. The top attractions in this category include:

  • Hayward Area Historical Society Museum: This museum showcases the city’s rich history with exhibits and artifacts that date back to the 1800s.
  • Mural Arts Program of Hayward: This public art project features over 30 murals throughout Hayward, each highlighting the culture and history of the area.
  • Meek Mansion: This beautifully restored Victorian mansion was built in 1869 and is now open to the public for tours and events.

Natural Attractions of Hayward: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Hayward is also known for its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. Here are some of the top natural attractions to check out:

  • Garin Regional Park: This park offers over 4,000 acres of rolling hills, trails, and picnic areas. Visitors can also explore the Garin Barn Visitor Center and learn about the area’s agricultural history.
  • Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center: This center features interactive exhibits and guided tours that educate visitors about the nearby wetlands and the animals that call it home.
  • Lone Tree Cemetery: This historic cemetery features beautiful landscaping and is the final resting place for many notable individuals from Hayward’s past.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hayward

Hayward has plenty of hiking and biking trails to choose from. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Hayward Shoreline: Bay Trail Loop: This 7.2-mile loop trail offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and is accessible year-round.
  • Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Park: This park offers several trails for hiking and mountain biking, ranging from easy to challenging.
  • East Bay Regional Park District: This park district offers over 1,200 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Best Things to Do in Hayward: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling solo or with family and friends, Hayward offers plenty of activities and tours to keep you entertained. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Japanese Gardens: Located in Hayward’s historical Japanese Gardens, visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the tranquil gardens that feature a koi pond, bamboo grove, and other elements of traditional Japanese landscaping.
  • Southland Mall: This indoor shopping mall features over 100 stores, including popular brands like Macy’s and Forever 21. There’s also a movie theater and several dining options.
  • Hayward Area Recreation and Park District: This district offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, sports fields, and community events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hayward

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Hayward:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Hayward Area Historical Society Museum and the Mural Arts Program of Hayward
2 Explore Garin Regional Park and enjoy a picnic lunch
3 Tour the Meek Mansion and shop at the local farmer’s market
4 Hike the Hayward Shoreline: Bay Trail Loop and visit the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center
5 Visit the Japanese Gardens and Southland Mall
6 Attend a concert or event at the Hayward Center for the Performing Arts
7 Enjoy a day trip to San Francisco or Oakland

Food and Drink Scene of Hayward

When it comes to food and drink, Hayward has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hayward Sourdough: This sourdough bread is made with a special starter that is unique to the Hayward area. You can buy it at local bakeries and farmers’ markets.
  • Zucchini Bread from Cannery Café: This café is located in an old canning factory and is known for its homemade zucchini bread.
  • Garlic Fries from the Oakland A’s Coliseum: While not technically in Hayward, the nearby Oakland A’s Coliseum is famous for its garlic fries.

Local Beverages

  • Beer from Buffalo Bill’s Brewery: This brewery has been around since 1983 and is known for its handcrafted beers.
  • Wine from Chouinard Vineyards: This local winery produces award-winning wines from grapes grown in the Hayward hills.
  • Coffee from RoastCo: This coffee roaster has been in Hayward for over 12 years and offers a variety of roasts and brewing methods.

Where to Stay in Hayward: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hayward has plenty of accommodation options for all budgets. Here are some of the top choices:

  • Hampton Inn Oakland-Hayward: This hotel offers comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and a fitness center.
  • HI Oakland East Bay Hostel: This hostel offers affordable dorm-style rooms and private rooms, as well as free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
  • Hayward Executive Inn & Suites: This hotel offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes, as well as a pool and free parking.

What to Buy in Hayward: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to bring home, here are some local products to consider:

  • Honey from Zuckerman’s Farm: This family-owned farm has been producing honey for over 80 years. Their honey can be found at local farmers’ markets and specialty stores.
  • Art from Sun Gallery: This non-profit gallery sells artwork from local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and jewelry.
  • Hayward Sourdough Bread from various bakeries: As mentioned earlier, Hayward is known for its unique sourdough starter, and you can find this bread at several local bakeries and farmers’ markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Hayward

Hayward is a diverse and multicultural city, with a rich history and unique traditions. It’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Respect the Ohlone people: The Ohlone people were the first inhabitants of the area, and their culture and history is still important today. Be sure to learn about their traditions and practices, and show respect for their heritage.
  • Celebrate Cinco de Mayo: Hayward has a large Hispanic population, and Cinco de Mayo is a popular holiday in the city. Be sure to check out the local celebrations and learn about the significance of the holiday.
  • Support the local arts scene: Hayward has a vibrant arts community, and there are plenty of galleries and events to explore. Show your support by attending a concert or visiting a gallery.

Best Time to Visit Hayward

The best time to visit Hayward is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. The summer months can be quite hot, and the winter months can be rainy. However, there are plenty of indoor activities and events year-round, so there’s never a bad time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hayward

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Hayward:

Do:

  • Do support local businesses: Hayward has a vibrant small business community, and there are plenty of unique shops and restaurants to explore.
  • Do visit the parks: Hayward has several beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore, so be sure to take advantage of them.
  • Do learn about the local culture: Hayward has a rich history and a diverse population, so take the time to learn about the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave valuables in your car: Like any city, Hayward has its share of crime. Be sure to keep your valuables with you or store them in a safe place.
  • Don’t litter: Hayward takes pride in its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, so take care to dispose of trash properly.
  • Don’t disrespect the local culture: Be respectful of the local customs and traditions, and show appreciation for the area’s rich history and heritage.

Safety and Health

When traveling to any city, it’s important to prioritize your safety and health. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Hayward:

Safety in Hayward

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Like any city, Hayward has its share of crime. Be sure to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Use caution when driving: Traffic can be heavy in Hayward, so be sure to pay attention to road signs and signals.
  • Follow park rules: Hayward’s parks and outdoor spaces are beautiful, but they can also be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Follow park rules and stay on designated trails.

Health in Hayward

  • Stay hydrated: Hayward can get hot during the summer months, so be sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
  • Get vaccinated: Before traveling to Hayward, check with your doctor to make sure all necessary vaccinations are up to date.
  • Wear sunscreen: The sun can be strong in Hayward, so be sure to wear sunscreen and protect your skin from the harmful rays.

Getting to Hayward: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several options for getting to Hayward, including:

  • Oakland International Airport: This airport is located about 12 miles from Hayward and is serviced by several major airlines.
  • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART): This rapid transit system has a station in Hayward, making it easy to travel to other parts of the Bay Area.
  • Interstate 880: This major highway runs through Hayward and connects to other highways in the area.

How to Get Around in Hayward

Hayward is a car-dependent city, but there are other options for getting around, including:

  • AC Transit: This bus system serves Hayward and the surrounding areas.
  • BART: As mentioned earlier, BART has a station in Hayward, making it easy to travel to other parts of the Bay Area.
  • Rideshare apps: Uber and Lyft are readily available in Hayward and offer a convenient way to get around.

Where to Go Next from Hayward: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hayward is conveniently located near several other popular destinations, including:

  • San Francisco: Just a 30-minute drive from Hayward, San Francisco offers plenty of attractions, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
  • Oakland: This neighboring city is known for its vibrant arts scene and historic waterfront.
  • Napa Valley: Located about 90 minutes from Hayward, Napa Valley is famous for its world-class wineries and beautiful scenery.

Conclusion

Hayward is a dynamic city with something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the local culture and history or taking in the beautiful natural scenery, Hayward has plenty to see and do. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this charming city.

Meek Mansion, managed by the Hayward Area Historical Society, located just outside the city. Meek Mansion, managed by the Hayward Area Historical Society, located just outside the city. Japanese Gardens Japanese Gardens Garin park vista Garin park vista Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center