Top 30 Things To Do In Alameda, California

1. Go to Frank Bette Center for the Arts

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Frank Bette was an accomplished and famous restorer of antique furniture. Since he was such a creative individual and loved the arts, he decided to donate this lovely yellow Victorian building to people of the arts. Here, artists and authors can meet and showcase their works to the public. Throughout the year, you’ll have an opportunity to view amazing paintings at the center’s galleries or take part in its many exciting programs.

Frank Bette Center For the Arts

Address: 1601 Paru St, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Frank Bette Center for the Arts

Opening hours: Thu - Sun: 11am - 5pm (closed from Mon - Wed)

2. Visit the Old Masonic Temple

Many striking buildings in Alameda will impress those that have an eye for architecture. The Old Masonic Temple, built in 1891, certainly caught our eye due to its impressive Victorian style that encompasses an arched stone entrance and an imposing tower by its southern side. Also, there’s a newer lodge featuring Spanish Renaissance architecture in an adjacent position, that’s worth checking out. But do keep in mind that you’ll only be able to view the exterior of these buildings, as only members of the lodge are allowed entrance.

Masonic Temple and Lodge

Address: 1329–31 Park St. and 2312 Alameda Ave., Alameda, California

3. Learn some history at Alameda Museum

The city of Alameda boasts a rich history and culture, and no better place better preserves this history than the Alameda Museum. It was founded in 1948, serving as an important repository for historical documents that give us a clear picture of what happened here in the past. A short tour through the museum reveals much about the art, ethnic groups, indigenous sites, and historic homes of this fascinating city.

Alameda Museum

Address: 2324 Alameda Ave, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Alameda Museum

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 1:30pm - 4pm; Sat: 11am - 4pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

4. Check out the interactive exhibits at Pacific Pinball Museum

Nowadays, everyone seems to be playing games on their mobile phones, which is great, but that’s a very digital experience that lacks the tactile feel of an analog alternative. That’s where the humble pinball machine comes in, which offered previous generations endless hours of fun. Fortunately, the Pacific Pinball Museum offers young and old the opportunity to play flipper games from legendary manufacturers such as Bally, Chicago Coin, Genco, Gottlieb, Midway, and Sega. Not only are the machines well-maintained, but they’ll impress you with their amazing artwork and hyperkinetic lighting on display.

Pacific Pinball Museum

Address: 1510 Webster St, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Pacific Pinball Museum

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 15 - 20 USD

5. Catch a movie at Alameda Theatre & Cineplex

Tinseltown isn’t far away from Alameda, but this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t watch an entertaining movie while spending your time here. Pop over to the Alameda Theatre & Cineplex and watch the latest blockbuster in the comfortable and spacious theatre. Once you’ve finished watching the movie, then head over to the on-site Cinema Grill and enjoy a delicious meal. And, if you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday, then you’ll have an opportunity to catch a live music performance at the grill’s patio area.

Alameda Theatre & Cineplex

Address: 2317 Central Ave, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Alameda Theatre & Cineplex

Opening hours: Check showtimes for dates and times

Price: 9 - 13 USD

6. Visit Alameda Naval Air Museum

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

It’s no secret that the United States is a military superpower that plays a major role in the global geopolitical landscape. And, there’s a big presence of museums in Alameda that showcase this military might. If you only have time to visit one of these museums, then we recommend the Alameda Naval Air Museum that will impress you with its comprehensive display of aircraft, helicopters, naval air depots, and ships. You’ll have the opportunity to peruse documents and photographs detailing all aspects of past wars and military equipment. Depending on the time of year that you visit, there’s the possibility that you’ll experience an event commemorating past military successes.

Alameda Naval Air Museum

Address: 2151 Ferry Point, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Alameda Naval Air Museum

Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed from Mon - Fri)

Price: 10 USD

7. Explore USS Hornet Museum

If you’re fascinated by the air, navy, and space achievements of the United States, then head over to the USS Hornet Museum during your upcoming trip to Alameda. Now, the best part of this museum is that it’s housed in a massive carrier with plenty of fighter jets on display. And if you’re visiting with the kids, then they’ll have a blast at the on-site paranormal tour and escape room. But don’t leave without learning about the fascinating Apollo program that changed the world and altered our perceptions about space travel.

Explore USS Hornet Museum

Address: 707 W Hornet Ave, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Explore USS Hornet Museum

Opening hours: Thu: 10am - 3pm (members and special tours only); Fri - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed from Mon - Wed)

Price: 5 - 15 USD

8. Drive through Posey Tube

Alameda and Oakland are separated by a large pool of water, which made travel between these two areas difficult over a century ago. But in 1928, an underwater tunnel known as the Posey Tube was built, which allowed people to easily travel between Alameda and Oakland. The tunnel was named after George Posey, who was the surveyor of the local county. While the tunnel is meant to predominantly serve drivers, cyclists and pedestrians can cross via a narrow walkway, but it’s not recommended.

Posey Tube

Address: Posey Tube, Alameda, CA, United States

Website: Posey Tube

9. Learn about the distilling process at St. George Spirits

In recent years, we’ve seen the rise of independent brewers, which is great for those of us who enjoy unique and quality-orientated alcoholic beverages. If you happen to be part of this group of connoisseurs, then we recommend you check out St. George’s Spirit, which has been in business since 1982. With four decades of experience in crafting the finest American craft spirits, this brewery will introduce you to the tastiest gins, liqueurs, malts, vodkas, and whiskeys, to name a few.

St. George Spirits

Address: 2601 Monarch St, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: St. George Spirits

Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 12pm - 7pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed from Mon - Wed)

Price: 20 USD

10. Buy antiques at Antiques By The Bay

There’s never a good reason to sit around and be bored when visiting Alameda. With its fantastic weather and energetic locals, there’s always something exciting happening here throughout the year. If you’re in the mood to spend a bit of money on unique and valuable items, then we recommend the Antiques By The Bay open-air flee market. Here, you’ll find a wide range of antiques ranging from artworks, books, clothing, collectibles, furniture, jewelry, and pottery, to name a few. Since there are over 800 dealers at this market, you’re sure to find even the most obscure items at reasonable prices.

Antiques By The Bay

Address: 2900 Navy Way End of Main Street, Alameda, CA 9450, United States

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

11. Go windsurfing at Crown Memorial State Beach

Alameda’s locals and out-of-town visitors love Crown Memorial State Beach, and it’s easy to see why. It features a lovely sandy shore that stretches for 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), and its inviting warm waters appeal to all. There are many activities that one can take part in here since there are many walking trails and parking facilities by the beach. But on a clear day, you’ll probably want to soak in those rays while windsurfing on the tranquil waters of the San Francisco Bay Water Trail.

Crown Memorial State Beach

Address: 8th Street, Otis Dr, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach

Opening hours: 5am - 10pm (daily)

Price: 4 - 25 USD

12. Sample beers at Alameda Island Brewing Company

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

After visiting St. George’s Spirits and enjoying their excellent brews, you’ll probably want to sample the tasty delights of other breweries in the area. We recommend you check out Alameda Island Brewing Company that was established in 2015, and specializes in quality beers. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to order a refreshing Alameda’s IPA, American Pale Ale, Big Paddle Pilsner, Hef-D, or Island Haze. The staff are friendly and passionate, and more than willing to help you choose the right brew that will satisfy your taste buds.

Alameda Island Brewing Company

Address: 1716 Park St, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Alameda Island Brewing Company

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 12pm - 7pm (closed on Mon)

13. Buy fruits & veggies at Dan's Fresh Produce

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

We all need to eat healthier foods to sustain ourselves during these stressful times. The good news is that Dan’s Fresh Produce stocks up on the freshest and tastiest fruits and vegetables in Alameda. You can pick up organic apples, asparagus, avocados, bananas, broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, eggplants, kale, lettuce, limes, mushrooms, parsley, potatoes, scallions, tomatoes, yams, watermelons, and zucchini, to name a few. If you can’t make it to the actual store, then no need to worry, as you can order online and have your fruits and veggies delivered directly to your doorstep.

Dan's Fresh Produce

Address: 2300 Central Ave, Alameda, CA 94501-4514, United States

Website: Dan’s Fresh Produce

Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)

14. Admire the fish exhibits at Crab Cove

We all know how important it’s to protect our environment, given the immense damage that humanity has already done. That’s why we need to constantly educate ourselves to gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the creatures, ecosystems, and food chains of our world. If you’re in Alameda, then we recommend you pop by the Crab Cove that features plenty of display cases and exhibits of sea life of the area. The aquarium strives to teach young and old about the importance of preserving marine life in a comprehensive and entertaining manner, so do bring the kids along.

Crab Cove Visitor Center

Address: Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach, 1252 McKay Ave, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Crab Cove Visitor Center

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

Price: 4 - 25 USD

15. Jog along Shoreline Park

Don’t spend your time cooped up in the Airbnb or hotel when visiting Alameda. Instead, enjoy the fantastic weather by heading out to Shoreline Park and jogging along its beautiful shore. Also, you’ll be spoiled by amazing views of the tranquil waters and the San Francisco skyline. The park features several niceties such as a drinking fountain, restrooms, and walking trails, which makes it easier for you to hang out here longer than usual.

Shoreline Park

Address: Highway 61, Alameda, CA 94502, United States

Website: Shoreline Park

Opening hours: 6am - 8:30pm (daily)

16. Head to Alameda Art Association Art Gallery

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you love art, then you’ll find plenty of amazing paintings on display by notable artists at the Alameda Art Association Art Gallery. This non-profit gallery makes it easy for visitors to view artworks created using acrylics, giclee, oils, pastels, pencils, and watercolors. The gallery displays works from artists such as Ron Bang, Tavia Garitano, Carol Marlin, Nelly Spiro Nassif, Sharon Peters, Ken Smith, John Trimingham, and Amelia Williams, to name a few. Furthermore, it sells a variety of cards, jewelry, mugs, and various handmade goods that might make for the perfect gift.

Alameda Art Association Art Gallery

Address: 2242 S Shore Center, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Alameda Art Association Art Gallery

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 12pm - 5:30pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

17. Catch a play at Altarena Playhouse

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Altarena Playhouse is a cozy and quaint theater that dates back to 1938. It offers locals and out-of-town visitors the opportunity to watch live theatrical productions performed by talented actors. Expect enthralling and unique stories that are a major departure from the mainstream fare that you’ll see at the cinema or on television. But that’s a good thing, as these theatrical productions will engage your brain and emotions at a deeper level, and there’s just something magical about watching a live show.

Altarena Playhouse

Address: 1409 High St, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Altarena Playhouse

Opening hours: Check schedule for dates and times

Price: 27 - 30 USD

18. Go fishing at Rock Wall

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Since Alameda is pretty much surrounded by water, it’s the ideal place for going out and doing some fishing. And, if you’re inclined to spend your time with a fishing rod, attempting to catch the biggest lingcod or rock bass you can imagine, then we recommend Rock Wall. It’s considered the best fishing spot in the city, and you’re bound to come across others applying their fishing skills here. But if you’re not having much luck with catching that massive halibut, then don’t be too hard on yourself, as you’ll still be spoiled by stunning views of the sunset.

Rock Wall

Address: Alameda, CA 94501, United States

19. Taste Mediterranean cuisine at Asena Restaurant

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

There are many excellent eateries in Alameda catering to all kinds of customers. If you’re in the mood for Mediterranean cuisine, then do try out Asena Restaurant, which is renowned for its tasty delicacies. The restaurant operates with a weekly menu that changes regularly, which should keep regulars excited as there’s always something new to try out. A few of Asena’s specialties include their Mushroom Ravioli, Paella with Chicken, and Seared Haloumi Cheese. And, wash that down by ordering a bottle of Fred Loimer Lois Grüner Veltliner Kamptal, Graffigna Malbec Reserve, or Martin Ray Pinot Noir.

Asena Restaurant

Address: 2508 Santa Clara Ave, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Asena Restaurant

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 5pm - 9pm (closed on Sun)

20. Drop by Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary

If you’ve followed our advice and visited the Crab Cove with the kids, then don’t end your day trip there. Pop into Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary, which is situated at Crown Memorial State Beach. Here, you’ll have an opportunity to do some bird-watching, enabling you to view various bird species such as blackbirds, cormorants, and ducks. Do bring along your binoculars, but we recommend that you visit on a day that’s not too cold or windy.

Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary

Address: Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary

Opening hours: 5am - 10pm (daily)

Price: 4 - 25 USD

21. Enjoy classic games at High Scores Arcade

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

There’s no denying that playing games on your console, mobile phone, or PC can be a ton of fun. But there’s something special about playing classic arcade games that date back to the 80s. High Score Arcade provides patrons with a quintessential retro vibe that’s been missing in their lives. Take the time to get good in legendary games such as Altered Beast, Asteroids, Burger Time, Centipede, Defender, Discs of Tron, Dragon Spirit, Duck Hunt, Final Fight, Frogger, Galaga, Gauntlet, Joust, Moon Patrol, Ms. Pac Man, Paperboy, Pole Position, Popeye, Q*Bert, Rampage, Robotron 2084, and Smash TV, to name a few. And, if you achieve an impressively high score, then it will be posted on the local pro board for others to check out.

High Scores Arcade

Address: 1414 Park St, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: High Scores Arcade

Opening hours: Wed - Thu: 3pm - 10pm; Fri: 3pm - 11pm; Sat: 12pm - 11pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm

Price: 6 - 12 USD

22. Attend the Alameda Classic Car Show

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Classic arcade games aren’t the only thing that you can experience in Alameda. If you’re a petrolhead, then you’ll absolutely love the Alameda Classic Car Show that features over 400 vehicles ranging from antique trucks through to hot rods. Most car fans visit the show predominantly for the muscle cars that are the embodiment of American car design. However, in recent years, electric cars have grown in popularity, and these are showcased at the show’s new section, which is aptly called ‘Electric Alley.’

Alameda Classic Car Show

Address: Park Street, Alameda, CA, United States

Website: Downtown Alameda

Opening hours: Sat: 10am - 4pm (October 20, 2020)

23. Take part in "Off the Grid" at South Shore Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Nothing brings people together quite like good food. And, one of the coolest places to discover and purchase tasty delicacies is at Off the Grid: Alameda @ South Shore Center. Here, you’ll find a plethora of food trucks preparing meals and quick snacks based on a large variety of ethnic and modern cuisines. The following food trucks will be at this year’s market: Curveball Sliders, Humphry Slocombe, Kabob Trolley, Lobsta Truck, Oaxacan Kitchen Mobile, Southern Comfort Kitchen, and The Rolling Duck.

Off the Grid: Alameda at South Shore Center

Address: 535 S Shore Center, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Off the Grid: Alameda at South Shore Center

Opening hours: Sat: 11am - 3pm (closed Sun - Fri)

24. Relish authentic Italian dishes at Trabocco

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you enjoy fine dining, then we recommend spending an evening at Trabocco with good company. It’s a stylish restaurant that’s operated by an attentive and passionate team who strive to deliver the best. A few choice dishes include their mouthwatering Bistecca alla Brace, Gnocchi all’ Abbruzzese, and Rapini e Salsiccia pizza. But don’t leave without ordering at least one of their amazing cocktails such as the Agro Dolce, Dante’s Daiquiri, or Ferrari Margarita.

Trabocco Kitchen and Cocktails

Address: 2213 S Shore Center, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Trabocco Kitchen and Cocktails

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11:30am - 8:30pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 9:30pm (closed on Mon)

25. Sample vintage wines at Rock Wall Wine Company

Everyone knows that California produces some of the best wines in the world. And since Alameda is situated here, it’s incredibly easy to get hold of quality wines sourced from the region. We recommend popping by the Rock Wall Wine Company and picking up a bottle of Mama’s Reserve California, Ski King California, and White Wine Tehama County. Furthermore, the store also has a wine club, which provides members with discounts, exclusive offers, and access to wines only available through the club.

Rock Wall Wine Company

Address: 2301 Monarch St, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Rock Wall Wine Company

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11:30am - 8pm; Sun: 11:30am - 6pm

26. Enjoy indoor golfing at Subpar Miniature Golf

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you’re traveling to Alameda with the kids, then you’ll probably be looking around for entertainment options to keep them busy. We recommend Subpar Miniature Golf, which features a golf course that offers quite the challenge; a glow in the dark golf ball for playing in the dark, and an arcade that has a wide range of pinball machines and video games. And when the kids get hungry, they can order delicious BBQ Wings, Mozzarella Sticks, or a Veggie Special pizza.

Subpar Miniature Golf

Address: 900 North Point Street #F-201, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Website: Subpar Miniature Golf

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 11:30pm

Price: 8 - 12 USD

27. Go shopping in South Shore Center

South Shore Center is one of the premier shopping destinations in Alameda. And that’s a good enough reason to visit the center and spoil yourself with a few choice items. There are several upscale retailers and top brands here, such as Bed Bath & Beyond, Bon Voyage Luggage, Carter’s, Kohl’s, Mancini’s Sleepworld Design, Old Navy, Ross, San Francisco Salt Company, and Whales & Friends, to name a few. And if you get hungry, there are also many good eateries at the center, such as Bowl’d BBQ, Five Guys, Ohgane Korean BBQ, Panera Bread, South Shore Cafe, and Sushi House.

South Shore Center

Address: 523 South Shore Center W, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: South Shore Center

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm

28. Have drinks at Lucky 13

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

One of the most popular bars and nightspots in Almeda is Lucky 13. Locals love gathering here to mix and mingle while enjoying the tasty drafts on offer. Several of the drinks that you can order include Bombay Sapphire, Delirium Tremens, Golden State Mighty Dry Apple Cider, Humboldt Brown Hemp Ale, Jack Daniels, La fin du Monde, Meantime Coffee Porter, Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout, Pabst Blue Ribbon Longneck, Sambuca Romana, and Woodford Reserve, to name a few. The bar also features a jukebox, pinball machines, and a pool table.

Lucky 13

Address: 1301 Park St, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Lucky 13 Alameda

Opening hours: 12pm - 2am (daily)

29. Buy souvenirs at Modern Mouse

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Handmade items often make for the best and most unique gifts. After all, there’s just something special about a product that displays facets of the creator’s personality versus a mass-produced alternative from a large corporation. That’s why we recommend Modern Mouse for its many endearing products made by over 250 talented artists. These products include apparel, books, cards, edibles, home decor, jewelry, stationery, toys, and wallets.

Modern Mouse

Address: 2223 S Shore Center, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Website: Modern Mouse

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 12pm - 6pm; (closed on Sun & Mon; deliveries in Alameda on Thu from 3pm - 6pm)

30. Stroll down Christmas Tree Lane

If you’re visiting Alameda over the Christmas period, then head over to Thompson Avenue. Here, you’ll find a series of beautifully decorated Christmas trees that adorn the sidewalks of the lane. Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone along to take photographs of the trees and their stunning lights that are quite the spectacle. While the lights installations are generally safe, we do recommend that you steer clear from any exposed electrical wires.

Christmas Tree Lane

Address: 3200 Thompson Ave, Alameda, CA 94501, United States

Opening hours: 5:30pm - 10pm (daily)

A fantastic Californian city

Alameda won’t disappoint those who want to spend time outdoors due to its many excellent beaches, fishing spots, and parks. But it’s also a good option for those who enjoy admiring artwork, bargain hunting, eating out, shopping, playing games, watching theatrical productions, and visiting museums. And beyond that, there’s no shortage of excellent bars, breweries, and shops that stock the finest brews and wines from the region.