Things to Do in Hayward
The cultural diversity of Hayward is rich and is represented by superb arts facilities and organizations as well as prominent heritage sites.
At the Hayward Japanese Gardens more than three acres of plants and bonsai are presented in traditional Japanese style. Pathways lead visitors to a koi pond, a teahouse and observation areas.
The Douglas Morrisson Theatre is an outstanding venue for live stage entertainment. Owned and operated by the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District, the theater company presents plays, musicals and concerts in the 250-seat facility.
The visual arts are celebrated at facilities such as the Hayward Area Historical Society Museum of History and Culture, the Hayward Arts Council galleries and the Sun Gallery. Adding to this is public art that can be discovered throughout the community, including stunning murals in the downtown area.
California State University, East Bay and Chabot College offer concerts, theater, dance and art shows. Cal State East Bay is home to the University Theater, an art gallery and sculpture garden. Chabot College boasts an art gallery, bands, choirs and its 1,500-seat Performing Arts Center.
History buffs revel in the McConaghy House Museum, a 12-room farmhouse furnished in the style of 1886 – the date it was constructed. Located adjacent to Kennedy Park, the historic site is owned by the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District and operated by the Hayward Area Historical Society. The society has a year-long schedule of activities, with its main museum located downtown.
Additional historical sites include All Saints Catholic Church, a Spanish-Baroque style church constructed in 1912; the circa 1897 Meek Mansion; the “Old” City Hall, built in 1930; the Veterans’ Memorial Building, dedicated to fallen soldiers in 1932; and the Totem Pole at Weekes Community Park, erected in 1964 to depict the history of the Hayward area from 1849.
Shopping opportunities include the Southland Mall of 150 stores and restaurants and additional shopping areas promoting international foods and goods. A walk downtown reveals a blend of antique stores, salons, restaurants and a movie theater complex.
Places to Eat & Where to Stay
Hayward’s extensive selection of restaurants offers eclectic menus and outstanding service. American classics are intermixed with a host of ethnic establishments.
More than 800 hotel and motel rooms ensure Hayward visitors a comfortable night’s sleep during their stay. Each full-service hotel is conveniently located near major thoroughfares and transportation options, as well as local and regional attractions. Three new hotels are scheduled to open in 2018.
Chamber-recommended restaurants and lodging options can be found by browsing through the directory in the back of this publication, or by visiting the Hayward Chamber of Commerce website at www.hayward.org.