Hayward: A 5-Day Adventure on a Budget!

Discover hidden gems in Hayward without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Discover the pleasant Hayward city in the United States, even with a limited budget, by exploring the local parks and recreational sites such as the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center that offers free tours. Also, the Hayward Japanese Gardens should be on your list, with its lush greenery and peaceful ambiance. Lastly, do not leave without experiencing the delectable food at the Burbank Potato Festival, where local farmers gather to showcase their infamous potatoes which are usually sold for a reasonable price.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Hayward

  • Check in to Econo Lodge Hayward for a comfy and affordable stay
  • Get a taste of Hayward’s blend of cultures at Essense Bakery, a Vietnamese-French patisserie
  • Explore the Hayward Japanese Gardens, a serene oasis of authentic Japanese landscaping
  • Learn about the history of the area through art at Hayward Area Historical Society & Museum
  • Catch a movie at Cinemark Century Theatres for an endearing evening
Day 2

Thrills & Chills

  • Get your adrenaline pumping at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, a theme park and wildlife park in one
  • Take the kids to Chabot Space & Science Center to explore exhibits and watch a planetarium show
  • Test your skills at Golden Tee Golfland, a fun miniature golf course with elaborate holes
  • Chill with some brews at Buffalo Bill's Brewery, the oldest operating brewery in the East Bay
  • Savor some of the best pizza in town at Acme Pizza Company
Day 3

Nature Vibes

  • Hike through East Bay Regional Park District’s Garin Regional Park for scenic views of the Bay
  • Get a glimpse of the diverse local flora at Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center
  • Go fishing at Lake Chabot, stocked with trout, catfish, and bass
  • Stroll through Hayward Japanese Gardens at sunset for a romantic ambiance
  • Have a picnic with fresh produce at Hayward Farmers Market, open year-round
Day 4

Arts & Culture

  • Admire the colorful murals in Hayward’s Mural Arts Program, showcasing local talent
  • Enjoy a play or musical at Douglas Morrison Theatre, a small but vibrant community theatre
  • Shop for unique items at Casa Verde, an artsy boutique with handmade jewelry and decor
  • Take a pottery or painting class at Studio One Art Center
  • Grab authentic Mexican cuisine at Taqueria Los Pericos, a local favorite
Day 5

Hidden Gems

  • Marvel at the intricate architecture of Palma Ceia Baptist Church, built in 1915
  • Visit the Hayward Plunge, an abandoned indoor swimming pool turned street art attraction
  • Shop for quirky, handmade items at Grand St. Art Works
  • Relax with a book at Coffee on the Commons, a charming cafe with outdoor seating
  • Enjoy a fusion-style meal at The Bistro, a cozy restaurant with a rotating menu of international flavors

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.

More travel plans

Discover Hayward: Budget-Friendly Adventure Trio

Hayward is a hidden gem that offers a range of affordable activities for budget travelers. Tourists can explore the Hayward Japanese Gardens for free or visit the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center for a small fee. To save money on accommodation, travelers can consider staying at budget-friendly hotels or taking advantage of Airbnb rentals.

Love in Bloom: A Day Trip Guide to Hayward

Hayward in the United States is an ideal destination for a romantic trip, with its picturesque scenery and intimate atmosphere. A visit to the Garin Regional Park is a must, with its breathtaking natural beauty and charming picnic spots, while the Chabot Theater is perfect for a cozy evening enjoying live performances. Additionally, the Hayward Japanese Gardens provide an amazing backdrop for a romantic stroll, making the trip truly memorable.

5 Days of Romance & Adventure in Hayward

Experience a romantic getaway in Hayward, United States, where scenic beauty, delicious cuisine, and outdoor adventure all come together. Explore the stunning Hayward Japanese Gardens or take a stroll around Lake Chabot for spectacular views. Enjoy a romantic wine and dine experience at a local restaurant, with options ranging from charming bistros to elegant fine dining.

The Ultimate 5-Day Guide to Fun-Filled Hayward

Hayward, located in California, offers a variety of cultural experiences for tourists such as the Hayward Japanese Gardens and the Hayward Area Historical Society & Museum. For outdoor activities, visitors can hike in the nearby East Bay hills, play golf at the TPC Stonebrae Country Club, or enjoy water sports on the San Francisco Bay. The city also hosts events throughout the year including the Zucchini Festival and the Thursday night Downtown Street Party.