Like the rest of California, Alameda has a strong Spanish and Mexican influence, given the history of Spanish and Mexican occupation in the territory. It is also home to many Victorian houses, making it a melting pot of cultures. As a result, Alameda is one of the top cities to visit in Alameda County and Oakland. If you’re planning to pay this amazing city a visit or if you’re thinking about calling it home, here are eight awesome activities you should never miss.
Immerse in Culture and the Arts
As mentioned earlier, Alameda is home to many cultures. Visit downtown Alameda to see historic buildings side by side with modern infrastructure.
Visit Altarena Playhouse, one of San Francisco’s oldest community theater organizations. They put on classic and contemporary stage production pieces year-round. If you’re into movies and architecture, don’t miss a chance to visit the Alameda Theatre and Cineplex.
Frank Bette Center for the Arts is another awesome place to visit with art classes, exhibits, art shows, workshops, and local artists and craftsmen demos. If the Center is not enough for the day, you can always check the Alameda Art Association Art Gallery to see the city’s pride in visual arts.
Linger on the Beaches
If you love beaches, don’t miss the Crown Memorial State Beach. The remodeled beach is the perfect place for trail rides, swimming, boating, fishing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. You can also visit the manicured lawns and picnic areas for a stress-free afternoon of enjoying the beach vibe.
Don’t leave the area without dropping by at the Crab Cove, an aquarium and education center that educates visitors about the natural marine life of the area. The center also has interactive exhibits and an outdoor observation area for a firsthand experience of the natural world.
Revisit History
Alameda also boasts of several museums to visit. First on the list is the USS Hornet Museum, most popular for its historic role in the recovery mission of Apollo 11. You can also join the flight simulations and stay overnight in the ship’s bunk for a full experience. Aside from the breweries and distilleries in the facility, a part of Alameda Naval Air Base also houses a museum of its contribution to US warfare history.
To learn more about Alameda’s history, visit the Alameda Museum and Meyers House and rediscover the island’s rich history.
Indulge in Good Food
Every tourist wants a sample of the food offered in the city he visits. Pasta Pelican, Asena, Trabocco, and Speisekammer are some must-visit restaurants if you’re into fine dining. Jim’s Coffee Shop, Scolari’s, and Homeskillet are some of the most recommended places for cheap eats.
Feeling more adventurous? Check out the Off the Grid food trucks for a great selection of cuisines.
Imbibe in Spirits and Beer
Nightlife is a must in any city. Alameda combined history and the love for spirits and converted the decommissioned Alameda Naval Air Base into wineries and distilleries. The base became home to the Rock Wall Wine Company and Hangar 1 Vodka Distillery. Join the scheduled tours to sample Rock Wall’s wine and Hangar 1’s vodka.
Faction Brewing found its home in the same facility. Book a seat at the brewery’s outdoor and indoor seating to enjoy your fresh pint of beer. For a small fee, you can also join a guided tour at St. George Spirits, known for their work-of-art distillery and facility.
Shop Til You Drop
A trip is never complete without some shopping. For antique lovers, Antiques By The Bay is the place to visit. From vintage clothing to jewelry and trinkets, books, and other collectibles, each item sold at these shops is at least twenty years old.
Alameda hosts a monthly antique fair (1st Sunday) for more than 800 vendors. Even if you’re not a serious antique collector, you’re sure to find something at the fair.
Alameda is also a crafting haven. Shops like Michaels, ReCrafting, Needle in a Haystack, and Bead Inspirations are go-to shops for crafters. For those who want a touch of Asian culture, visit The Singing Bowl House for authentic products from Nepal.
Be a Child at Play
For something lighter and fun, take a trip down memory lane at the Pacific Pinball Museum and learn how to play pinball machines from different decades, some of them going back to the 1940s.
Another experience you shouldn’t miss is the Subpar Miniature Golf. Each hole boasts a handmade replica of San Francisco and East Bay landmarks. The facility also offers arcade games and raceable slot cars.
Spend a Spa Day
After a day outdoors, spend a relaxing spa session at some of Alameda’s top spas. Siam Orchid and Oakland Foot Health Center offer traditional massage and reflexology, while European Wax Center and the Rejuvenate Wellness Spa offer excellent skincare and waxing, so you’re bikini-ready when you go home.
Conclusion
Looking for a reason to visit Alameda? Solidifying your decision to live here? There are many wonderful things to witness and discover in this modest city in the Golden State. If you wish to know more beyond this list, visit the Alameda County website to check out many upcoming events in the county.
Cover photo courtesy of BWChicago on Flickr.