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Here’s a detailed, activity-rich guide to things to do in Hayward, CA — from nature and parks to culture, museums, events, and local favorites — with website links and plenty of specifics to help you plan your visit or weekend! (Hayward)

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🌳 Nature & Outdoor Activities

1. Hayward Regional Shoreline

Hayward Regional Shoreline Web Address: 3050 W Winton Ave, Hayward, CA 94545 Phone: +18883272757

Explore tidal marshes, bay views, and miles of walking, biking, and bird-watching trails along the San Francisco Bay shoreline. Great for sunrise/sunset strolls or casual cycling with scenic water views.
👉 Managed by East Bay Regional Park District — open daily. (Airtel)
Website: https://www.ebparks.org/parks/hayward

2. Garin Regional Park

Garin Regional Park Web Address: 1320 Garin Ave, Hayward, CA 94544 Phone: +18883272757

A sprawling park in the hills above Hayward: hiking, picnicking, wildlife spots, scenic viewpoints, and remnants of old orchards. Trails connect into Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Park for longer adventures. (Go Travel Daily)
Website: https://www.ebparks.org/parks/garin

3. Don Castro Regional Recreation Area

Don Castro Regional Recreation Area Web Address: 22400 Woodroe Ave, Hayward, CA 94541 Phone: +15105443073

Ideal for fishing, picnicking, swimming, and family outings beside a tranquil reservoir. The park has beach areas, picnic tables, trails, and great views of San Lorenzo Creek. (Travel Lens)
Website: https://www.ebparks.org/parks/don-castro

4. Meek Park

Meek Park Web Address: 240 Hampton Rd, Hayward, CA 94541 Phone: +15108816715

A local favorite for playgrounds, open green space, BBQ areas, and relaxing picnics — perfect for family time or mellow afternoons.

5. Mia’s Dream Come True: All Abilities Playground

Mia’s Dream Come True: All Abilities Playground Web Address: 28377 Huntwood Ave, Hayward, CA 94544 Phone: +15108816700

A beautifully designed, accessible playground that’s great for kids and inclusive play for all ages and abilities.

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🐦 Animal & Nature Learning

6. Sulphur Creek Nature Center

Sulphur Creek Nature Center Web Address: 1801 D St, Hayward, CA 94541 Phone: +15108816747

Free wildlife rehabilitation center and nature spot where you can see native animals up close, including raptors, reptiles, and rehabilitating wild creatures. Educational programs and occasional special events too. (Wikipedia)
Website: https://haywardrec.org/nature

7. Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center

Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center Web Address: 4901 Breakwater Ave, Hayward, CA 94545 Phone: +15106707270

Excellent for interactive nature exhibits, guided bay ecology walks, birdwatching, and access to the San Francisco Bay Trail. Open Fri–Sun; great for families and nature lovers. (Wikipedia)
Website: http://www.haywardrec.org/nature

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🌺 Parks, Gardens & Scenic Spots

8. Hayward Japanese Gardens

Hayward Japanese Gardens - Hayward Area Rec. & Park District Web Address: 22373 N 3rd St, Hayward, CA 94546 Phone: +15108816700

One of the oldest traditional Japanese gardens in California — peaceful ponds, bridges, stone paths, and classic garden design. Open daily with free entry; a wonderful escape in downtown Hayward. (Wikipedia)
Website: http://www.haywardrec.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/Japanese-Gardens-100

9. Hayward Heritage Plaza

Hayward Heritage Plaza Address: 835 C St, Hayward, CA 94541

A newer public space with art installations and interpretive signage celebrating local history and community heritage. It’s a nice spot for art & culture strolls downtown. (Hayward)

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🏛️ Museums & History

10. Hayward Area Historical Society

Hayward Area Historical Society Web Address: 22380 Foothill Blvd, Hayward, CA 94541 Phone: +15105810223

Dive into local history exhibits, artifacts, and stories about Hayward’s past at this well-regarded museum. Opens select days (check website).
Website: http://www.haywardareahistory.org/

11. McConaghy House

McConaghy House Web Address: 18701 Hesperian Blvd, Hayward, CA 94541 Phone: +15105810223

A Victorian-era historic home museum set in scenic parkland. Offers a peek into local life in the late 19th century.
Website: https://www.haywardareahistory.org/mcconaghy-house

12. Hayward Toy Museum

Hayward Toy Museum Web Address: 2008 National Ave, Hayward, CA 94545 Phone: +15107841111

Fun for kids and nostalgic adults alike — vintage toys, interactive exhibits, and playful displays celebrate play across generations.
Website: https://haywardtoymuseum.com/

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🎨 Arts, Culture & Events

Downtown Murals & Art Walks

Hayward has an expanding mural arts program and art walks downtown. Self-guided mural maps are often available at City Hall and highlight vibrant public art. (Airtel)
City arts & events: https://www.hayward-ca.gov/residents/arts-leisure (Hayward)

Community Events

The Hayward Farmer’s Market runs Saturdays year-round (fresh produce, vendors, local food). (Hayward)
Look for seasonal special events like Juneteenth celebrations and Easter egg hunts at Kennedy Park too. (San Francisco Chronicle)

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👨‍👩‍👧 Family & Kid-Friendly Activities

• Jump N Play – indoor play space great for rainy days or younger kids.

• Hayward Library programs – regular storytimes, maker events, and community activities (check the Hayward library site).

• Local petting zoo visits and animal experiences (seasonal mobile events like Little Explorers Mobile Petting Zoo often come to town).

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🍔 Extras & Seasonal Fun

• Zucchini Festival — Long-running local festival with food, contests, and community fun. (Hayward)
  Website: http://zucchinifest.org (check dates/hours).

• Hayward Farmers Market – weekly fresh produce & local makers (Saturday mornings). (Hayward)

• Holiday parades, light displays, and community street fairs often happen in fall and winter — check the City events calendar. (Hayward)

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🗺️ Tips for Visiting Hayward

• Trails & hikes: The Hayward Shoreline trail and park hillside trails are great spots for walking, biking, and birdwatching. (Airtel)

• Plan by season: Some events (festivals, markets, special openings) are seasonal — the city calendar is the best for up-to-date scheduling. (Hayward)

• Combine indoor & outdoor: A museum visit followed by a picnic in Kennedy Park or a bay trail walk makes a full day!

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If you want, I can also create a 1– or 2-day itinerary based on your interests (e.g., nature, family fun, culture), just let me know!