Hayward's Fun-Filled Long Weekend Itinerary
Discover the charm of Hayward, USA – a hidden gem in the heart of California.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Hayward is a charming city located in northern California, known for its scenic parks, outdoor activities, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can enjoy hiking and picnicking at Tilden Regional Park, exploring the Hayward Japanese Gardens, or attending a live concert or theater production. The city also boasts several museums, art galleries, and trendy restaurants, making it a great destination for a diverse range of interests.
Travel plan
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- Stay at the Heritage Inn Express Hayward
- Grab breakfast at Whispers Cafe, a cozy spot with delicious quiches and pastries
- Stroll the streets of downtown Hayward and check out the Hayward Area Historical Society
- Head to the Hayward Japanese Gardens for a peaceful and serene afternoon
- Stop by Buffalo Bill's Brewery for a beer and some bar bites
- End the night at Julia's Mexican Restaurant, a local favorite for tasty grub and margaritas
- Start the day at the Don Castro Regional Recreation Area for a picnic and hiking
- Head to the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center for bird watching and learning about the wetlands
- Get your adrenaline pumping at the Sky High Sports Trampoline Park
- Have a late lunch at CreAsian Bistro, serving up flavorful Asian fusion cuisine
- Catch a movie at the Century at Hayward movie theater
- Grab some dessert at the popular ice cream shop, Loard's
- Take a scenic drive to the nearby Livermore Valley Wine Country
- Visit the Wente Vineyards Estate Winery for a tour and tasting
- Head to Concannon Vineyard for a historic and picturesque setting
- Stop by Page Mill Winery for some excellent pinot noirs and live music
- Finish the day with a dinner at The Vine, a farm-to-table restaurant featuring fresh, local ingredients
- Note: make sure to have a designated driver or use a ride-share service for safe travels.
Length of stay
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How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Hayward by plane is to fly into Oakland International Airport (OAK) and then take a taxi or shuttle to your destination.
Car
Driving to Hayward is easy if you're coming from the Bay Area. From San Francisco, take the Bay Bridge to I-580 East, and then take the Winton Avenue exit to get to Hayward.
Train
There is no train station in Hayward, so taking a train is not an option.
Boat
There are no major ports or marinas in Hayward, so taking a boat is not possible.
Bus
Taking a Greyhound bus to Hayward is convenient and inexpensive. The closest Greyhound station is in Oakland, just a short taxi or bus ride away from Hayward.