Downtown Hayward
The heart of Hayward, downtown offers a charming city center with walkable streets lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Start your tour at the historic Hayward City Hall and Centennial Hall, both built in the late 1800s. Next, stop into Buffalo Bill’s Brewery for award-winning craft beers or grab a coffee at Coffee Conscious, a community-focused cafe. Hayward has several city parks, like Memorial Park and its Japanese garden, and Downtown Plaza Park, home to the Hayward Farmer’s Market on Saturdays. End your downtown exploration with a show at the rustic 1944 State Theatre or catch a baseball game at Pioneer Stadium, home to the Minor League Baseball team, the San Jose Giants.
The Cannery
Once home to several fruit and fish canneries, The Cannery district along the San Lorenzo Creek has been revitalized into a lively mixed-use neighborhood. Go back in time by stopping into the Hayward Area Historical Society in the former Hunt Brothers Cannery. Next, stroll down the Creekside Walk and see interpretive exhibits about Hayward’s canning history. Grab a bite at one of the many restaurants at The Cannery like Bijou, which serves French brasserie favorites on its patio overlooking the creek. On summer weekends, listen to live music at the outdoor stage or let the kids play on the green. End your visit with some shopping and a movie at The Cannery Plaza shops and cinema.
Mission Hills
Perched in the East Bay hills with panoramic views, Mission Hills entices visitors with its scenic beauty. Start with a hike up the Hayward Fault Trail in Don Castro Regional Recreation Area and take in stunning vistas of the Bay. Next, drive up Mission Boulevard to admire the mid-century modern homes along the ridge. Stop for a photo-op with the iconic “M” for Mission Hills on the hillside above Cal State University East Bay. End your outing with a hearty German meal and biergarten vibes at Bierhaus Restaurant or a handcrafted cocktail at White Owl Social Club, both located down on Foothill.
San Lorenzo Village
Charming San Lorenzo Village offers a quaint main street district praised for its walkability. Begin your visit at San Lorenzo Pioneer Cemetery to see the area’s history. Stop into Village Art & Coin Gallery to browse regional artwork, then grab an acai bowl at Uforia Café. Don’t miss strolling down Paseo Grande, a picturesque pathway connecting the historic district. Catch a flick at the digitally restored King Theater & Pavilion or see a show at Lorenzo Theatre Company. Wrap up your tour with craft beers at Englander Pub or happy hour drinks at Row of a Kind.
South Hayward
Eclectic South Hayward mixes historic charm with a modern, artistic vibe. Start at the Paulson Park Flea Market, open weekends with vintage finds and tasty bites from food trucks. Take the kids to play at Southgate Park before a photo-op with the colorful Love mural. Grab lunch at La Pinata #5 for authentic Mexican before browsing locally made art at Glass Perfect Gallery. Catch an indie film at Southland Cinema then join the lively scene at Buffalo Bill’s Brewery or Kabila’s for dinner and drinks. End your evening grooving to live music at B Street Music Hall’s intimate venue.
Mt. Eden
Situated in the Hayward hills, Mt. Eden has picture-perfect views of the valley. Begin your visit at the panoramic vista from Carlos Bee Park, the highest point in Hayward. Drive along Kelly Street to admire the mid-century homes dotting the hillside neighborhood. Stop to refuel at colonial-style pub The Englander, with HD TVs and pub grub. Take a side trip to Palomares Canyon for an easy hike under a lush tree canopy leading to a seasonal waterfall. Finish up with more stunning views of the bay at Skywest Golf Course’s scenic restaurant and bar.
Cherryland
Formerly known as the cherry-growing capital, Cherryland maintains its agricultural heritage. Start at Regan Nursery, family-owned for over 50 years, to pick up plants for your garden. Take the kids to play at expansive Cherryland Park or skate at Kennedy Park Skate Park. Grab a hearty breakfast at Nicks Diner before browsing antiques at Ohm Collective. See a show at the historic Cherryland School auditorium or take a workshop at Creative Framing & Welding Gallery. End your visit at Craft Beer Spot for trivia nights and pints on the dog-friendly patio.
Jackson Triangle
Vibrant and diverse Jackson Triangle southwest of downtown has lots to offer visitors. Begin your tour at the Ellis Knight Farmhouse, an 1870s Italianate Victorian estate, before grabbing tacos at family-run Taqueria Los Pericos. Stop to admire the Global Peace Flame Monument in Civic Center Plaza on your way to Hayward City Hall. Let the kids burn off energy on the playgrounds in Greenwood and Tabora parks. Catch a baseball game at Eldredge Field or see cycling races at the Hayward Flatlands Criterium Course. Reward your exploration with Latin comfort food at Duc Huong Restaurant or cocktails and share plates at hip Union Kitchen & Tap.
Industrial South
Historic Industrial South near the San Lorenzo border mixes old and new Hayward. Start your visit at the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District headquarters, housed in a former cannery. Next, walk along the San Lorenzo Creek Trail to spot beautiful public art murals. Fuel up with coffee at Café Caffeine or grab a bite at Taqueria Los Compadres before browsing the Sunday farmers’ market. Let the kids burn energy at Southgate Park or skate at the Kennedy Park Skate Park. End your day with Mexican mojitos on the patio of La Chalupa.
City Center
Bustling City Center by Cal State East Bay offers convenient entertainment options. Begin your visit on campus with a stop at the University Art Gallery and a stroll through lively Quad. Head to Century Theatres nearby to catch a blockbuster flick then grab dinner at Elephant Bar Restaurant. Next, challenge your friends to a game of bowling, laser tag, or billiards at Nickel City. End your night sipping craft beers at Drakes Brewing Company or dancing at Club APT, a lively nightclub open late. Don’t miss Half Price Books and grabs drinks on the patio at Paco’s Tacos nearby.
Industrial North
Gritty-chic Industrial North near the Hayward Shoreline mixes foodie finds with modern makers. Start with brunch tacos and micheladas on the patio of La Penca Azul before browsing art at Glass Onion Art Studio. Stop for a spot of tea at Steep, Cream, Sugar before vintage shopping at Smash Salvage. Catch an independent film at Chabot Cinema or fill up on Southern BBQ, live music, and whiskey at Bison Oak Barbecue. Wrap up your visit with local beers in a dog-friendly setting at Buffalo Bill’s Brewery or cocktails and billiards at White Owl Social Club.
Fairway Park
Tucked away in the hills, Fairway Park offers gorgeous green spaces. Begin your visit at the Hayward Area Historical Society in the city’s oldest home, the Meek Mansion. Next, grab brunch on the patio at Sorella’s Cafe before teeing off at Skywest Golf Course. Let kids enjoy the playground at Fairway Park or explore the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center trails. Catch golden hour views over the bay at Carlos Bee Park then join the lively local scene at Englander Pub for hearty British fare and sports on TV.
Book a Bus With Us
The best way to experience Hayward’s top neighborhoods is together on a party bus rental from Hayward Party Bus Company. Our fun, comfort buses allow your group to stay together while our expert team navigates you around Hayward’s attractions. Contact us at (209) 718-7418 to book your neighborhood exploration of Hayward today!