Who would have thought that this little gem would be tucked away in Hayward? I've got to say, I was…read morequite surprised! The Hayward Historical Society is a local Hayward history museum that features 4 different exhibits. There are two permanent exhibits (History exhibit and children's exhibit) and two that are rotating (the community exhibit and the special exhibit). The history exhibit is filled with tons of old Hayward artifacts, photos, historical excerpts, and replicas of what daily life and activities were life in Hayward back in the day. I was really fascinated by their Hayward Community exhibit and I loved watching snippets of the documentary at the mini movie theater. The children's exhibit is very interactive and features a vintage cash register along with a mini grocery store with fake vegetables and other items for sale. It's a recreation of ancient Hayward civilization and I was impressed with how they were able to incorporate this into a kid's play area. The two rotating exhibits were quite intriguing as well. During the time that I attended, they were displaying both a risqué exhibit and a women's rights exhibit. I thought it was ironic that they displayed both of these exhibits at the same time since they kind of contradicted each other, but I thought that it made for a great juxtaposition. The risqué exhibit was known as their special exhibit and no photos were allowed for this one. Admission is $5 and you can easily spend over an hour exploring the museum in its' entirety. They have a parking lot located behind the building and there's also a small cafe, but of course, so food or drink is allowed while inside. All in all, I really enjoyed learning about the history of Hayward and I encourage anyone to come out and visit to get informed (especially if you're a Hayward local!).

It was awesome but kinda sad that they didn't have the kids play area anymore but over all nice…read morequiet place to look threw history

Located at the San Carlos Airport, this museum offers a plethora of simulators and exhibits on…read moreaviation and its history. There was also a special event on the day I visited, an exotic car show featuring a collection of luxury and high-performance vehicles that fascinated me, particularly a Kindred Bronco beauty and Cirrus Aircraft, all of which made my trip this past weekend worth the $24 price of admission. Inside the museum, the setup was inviting and immersive with unique lighting filling the large multilevel space. There was plenty to learn about and explore including John Montgomery's study of birds combined with his expertise in math and physics to understand flight (and the creation and experimentation of multiple gliders in the 19th century with curved wings like a bird), WW1 and NASA aircraft, rockets and space travel, military flight demos like the Blue Angels, the story of the hijacking of United Flight 796 in 1971 in a Boeing 737, an airport beacon display noting its requirements, a Bell 47 helicopter as seen in the MASH series, a detailed overview of women in aviation including Amelia Earhart who disappeared in 1936 after departing Oakland Airport for an around-the-world flight on a Lockheed Electra, and an interactive paper airplane exhibit. There were TV screens showing informational videos and documentaries with seated viewing, but there were no captions and low volume so it could not be heard in the echoey hall with lots of noise from the movement and chatter of guests. I did appreciate the benches and passenger aircraft seats available throughout, to take breaks during my visit. There was also a restoration shop on site, as well as a library and gift shop selling a range of products. The fact that they do special events here regularly is a plus. And though staff was available for assistance, I enjoyed the freedom and convenience of taking a self-guided tour at my own pace.

Hiller Aviation Museum is an aeronautic historical museum that displays notable jet aircraft and…read moreengine components, including an Aero L-39C Albatros military jet trainer and the forward fuselage and cockpit of a historic Boeing 747-100. Similarly, they have a Czech training jet L39C Albatross which was very cool. Visitors who are into aeronautics this is the museum for you. IMHO this museum is great for families and young kids. Ample of parking spot in the lot. Admission ticket is affordable. Staff are nice. Overall, this is a nice little museum to spend the afternoon. I recommend if you're in the bay area.

This is a very well-run entertaining and informative local museums of the Hayward area…read more They bring in special speakers on a regular basis primarily Saturdays for information of Interest in the local area. A very diverse selection of artwork that are all some local artists. This is some of the most popular artists in the East Bay Area. They also have a focus for children's activities for entertainment for education and enjoyment.

This wonderful location must be the best kept secret in Northern California…read more Upon entering this old train depot building, I was immediately greeted by several nice club members. They gave a fantastic tour of all the levels of this wonderful model railway. It's far more complicated and sophisticated than I would have thought. These are smart people who obviously love their hobby. This is one of the more interesting things I've done in recent years. Thanks for making this such a wonderful asset to our community

I checked out the San Leandro Historical Railway Society during their open house on Sun 12/6/15…read more It was 2 days: Sat 12/5/15 and Sun 12/6/15 from 10am-4pm. Donation of $2 the sign said, Up to you what you want to give them there is a box you can give them some money or not. They have one main area for the model trains. Only the members can use the remote so the public can only watch the trains go by. Upstairs is for members only too. Another room is where they have some museum items: old typewriter, some old dishes, and some train items. Outside there's another area for trains, but because it rained a tiny bit they weren't running them. Boo for me. FREE parking in the lot and it's next to a park.

If you're looking for a nice walk, this is a good place to go. Love the variety of beautiful…read moreflowers, plants, and historical buildings. Pet friendly too! The bathrooms are also clean!

We came here to take some photos for my parents' 50th Anniversary on a hot Saturday afternoon. The…read moreparking was mostly vacant. We only had enough time to go to the rose garden. It's pretty small, but you can find some interesting shots. There's the windmill, the pergola, a bench. There was some side location with a nice lawn and fountain, (California Nursery Park Museum & Office), but there was a guy smoking weed there, so it became unpleasant to take photos in the succulent area. The rose garden is on the right as you drive in to the nursery. From the parking lot, you'll have to walk back towards Niles Blvd. It's not Filoli, but hey, no one is stopping you from volunteering to make something better in your community. We need more doers and less complainers.

Hours aren't correct. Came on Saturday at 2 and they were…read morenot open. There's no phone number listed to verify before coming. I also emailed and didn't get a response. Drove 45mins here for nothing....

Who knew the UC had a museum! Actually to be honest, I have seen it many times over the years but…read morenever got a chance to visit until yesterday. I was at the farmer's market and was strolling after and decided to check it out. It is small and has a lot of history regarding UC. My favorite one was a newspaper clipping from the 70s that was about a cop who went undercover as a student at Logan and busted some drug dealers. 21 Jump Street is based on a true story!!!!!! 5 stars for effort and intent and being FREE.

Staff is very knowledgeable, museum is kid friendly and interactive. Train layout is spectacular…read morewell detailed.

This is a tiny museum in the Niles Town Plaza, with extremely limited days/hours of operation…read more(select Sundays 10-4pm), so we had to take advantage on Sunday afternoon while I was in the area for Charlie Chaplin Days and the steam engine train ride nearby. This place offers the opportunity to learn about the history of the Niles Depot and several displays to explore related to the trains and railway, including the top section of a Southern Pacific semaphore signal, pot-belly stove, departure signs from 1909, old photos of passenger trains in Niles, model trains, dvd's, Niles dispatcher, old phones and typewriters, and a train that visitors can control (for a fee). There was also a model railroad which was cute, and it had a drive-in theatre which I've never seen before in similar exhibits, so that was cool. The museum pretty much consists of just two rooms, so it shouldn't take more than 30 minutes to check it out, though if you have a kid who's going to play with the train, it may take longer. Also, free admission.

I came here for the first time to see a comedy show and it's a neat little location to visit,…read moreespecially if you're local to the area. They host a variety of events here, including art galleries (there was one on display when I came), shows, and community events. Parking is along the street since there's no designated parking lot but after a designated time (8 pm I believe) it's free. It's a nice space with potential - a little sparse when I went but it's new and still getting its footing. I liked the show and it was nice to see it in a new venue with sparkling interiors and an intimate feel.

Immerse yourself in artistic creations by local artists at Studio 11! Often showcasing paintings,…read moredrawings, and sculptures commemorating current observances, you'll have plenty to see and appreciate throughout the year. We recently attended their exhibit for art of hip hop music and culture. It was fascinating and refreshing to see so many brilliant pieces of work in full display (and some available for purchase). It's also conveniently located near BART, parks, and great places to dine, snack and shop. Parking can be a bit of a trouble since all the parking nearby are paid parking. But if you happen to be in the area or want to walk from Kennedy park, it's not that long of a walk! The studio also hosts camps and offers up their space for private events as well. Check them out and inquire about those opportunities!

Recently went there to chaperone a field trip. The children had a wonderful time. Started with a…read morelittle hands on art lesson. I learned some things, as well. Followed by a tour of the gallery. It is good exposure for children who have never been to an art gallery. Very good to support your local artists.

Wonderful, summer camps great art local artists a gym for the community. Especially love their day…read moreof the dead exhibits.

10/10 -- Worth Every Penny (Parlor/Dome Car Experience)…read more If you're considering the Niles Canyon Train of Lights, do yourself a favor and splurge on the Parlor Car or Dome car. It completely transforms the experience. From the moment you board, you're treated like a VIP: dedicated seating in a fully enclosed caboose, attentive service throughout the ride, and complimentary warm drinks and sweets that are perfect for a cold, wet winter night. Being waited on while rolling through a glowing canyon? Yes, please. One of the biggest perks is having your own reserved space, while still being free to explore the rest of the train--knowing your seat is secure and shared only with fellow Parlor Car Riders. It strikes the perfect balance between comfort and adventure. I've done both the 4:30 pm and 7:30 pm departures, and while both are enjoyable, 4:30 pm is the clear winner for me. You get to take in the scenery before the sun fully sets, which adds a magical transition from daylight to twinkling lights. The 7:30 pm ride feels more social and cozy--great for lingering conversations with family and friends--but the earlier ride lets you truly appreciate your surroundings. As for the cost, it's important to note that this railway is 100% donation-funded and entirely volunteer-operated. Knowing that every dollar goes directly toward preserving the historic railway, maintaining the trains, and supporting the volunteers who make this experience possible makes the price feel even more justified. You're not just paying for a ride--you're supporting a piece of living history. Bottom line: Cozy Thoughtfully curated For a great cause Perfect for winter evenings If you're on the fence about the Parlor Car or Dome Car upgrade--it's absolutely worth it.

All aboard! If you…read moreare looking for a low key outing that's suitable for all ages then consider booking a ride on Niles Canyon Railway. Enjoy a slow ride Sunol to downtown Niles and back, approx 1.5 hours. A docent will share tid bits of history during the ride. There are snacks for purchase and you can bring your own. I prepared a simple charcuterie for me and mom, gotta have something to nosh on as we enjoy the view. It's June and the hills are brown already but oh well it's still pretty. I was a little worried about whether my mom would struggle boarding the train as I didn't book ADA as she is not in wheelchair. The steps are slightly deeper than ours at home but she made it up without difficulty, there is a railing for support. Conductor did offer us to go to the car with the lift if we wanted. My next anxiety was holding up the boarding as mom navigated the stairs slowly and there quite a few people behind us. Everyone was patient thankfully and no one scoffed. Would love to do their holidays lights ride sometime but I haven't been successful in last few years to get tickets, they go fast.