36 minutes in Hayward

Inside the John O'Lague Galleria. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

Hayward Station is steps away from the downtown commercial district, making it the perfect stop to exit and explore. The city's robust arts programs, including the non-profit Hayward Arts Council, offer an opportunity to view various art mediums in city buildings. The local government also supports a mural program where small- and large-scale pieces can be appreciated all over the city’s canvases. Several murals are within walking distance of the Hayward station.

The city’s diverse restaurant scene reflects its population, so set aside some time to explore B St and grab a bite or beer. On Saturdays, there’s a year-round downtown farmer's market with fresh produce and prepared food.

We think that many hidden gems in the Bay Area can be experienced during part of your day, often in just 36 minutes. You’ll find that some spots won’t take long to enjoy, while other spots will motivate you to spend an entire day exploring a new area. The next time you see “Hayward” as the upcoming stop and you've got 36 minutes to spare, consider hopping off and giving the city’s downtown a visit.

Let's go.

To see more features in our 36 minutes series, click here.

Some of the art on display at the John O'Lague Galleria. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

Walk a block northeast from the Hayward station on B St and you’ll find the Hayward City Hall building. During the warmer months, the fountains are a welcoming sight as you make your way to the John O’Lague Galleria. Named after one of the city’s most vocal art advocates, the art gallery offers a rotating assortment of pieces. Several exhibitions pop up there throughout the year.

The gallery’s focus is on East Bay artists and members of the Hayward Arts Council, yet the depictions portrayed go beyond the Bay. Many artists take advantage of the Bay Area’s coastal beauty and represent it through oils, watercolor and photography. The different mediums are displayed and pieces are clearly labeled (including prices). There are instructions posted if you are interested in purchasing something and carrying a piece back with you!

One of several areas to discover at Heritage Plaza. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

At the corner of Watkins and D St is Heritage Plaza, the city’s new public art space. It’s the perfect spot to take a break, people watch and decide where to go next. Since it was enhanced in 2021, the park and city have added pieces, many of which pay tribute to interned Japanese  Americans and the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe that have ties to this historic location. Informational markers are spread out through the park.

Hayward's library boasts three floors of enrichment. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

Across the street from Heritage Plaza is the Hayward Public Library. The three-story building is a fantastic resource for residents and has over 250,000 items in their collection. This stunning building has plenty of places to park yourself for a rest or read. There are two spots on the second floor where art is displayed. Both are managed and under the direction of the Hayward Arts Council.

One of several art exhibitions on display at the Hayward Library. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

Both gallery spaces offer local artists affiliated with the city's art scene an opportunity to promote and sell their work. Often, the library hosts receptions for new exhibits. Check the council's site to see what's showing.

Enjoy coffee while visiting the Hayward Library. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

A bonus for anyone visiting the Hayward Library is having quick access to a cup of coffee or a pastry or breakfast treat. Hippies Brew Express sits at the corner of Mission Blvd and C St, just adjacent to the library, and serves all with a nice selection of goodness and a happy greeting in an enjoyable atmosphere.

Beer and delicious pub food are available at the newly re-opened Buffalo Bill's. Photo courtesy of Buffalo Bill's.

As the country's oldest brewpub, Buffalo Bill's devastated patrons when they closed their doors in 2022. Months later, a new owner surfaced and now the historic restaurant and brewery at the end of the B St commercial corridor is back open and welcoming longtime patrons and new fans. It's a great place to drop in for a house brew, especially when the weather is warm and the sun is out.

Retro hot dogs are on the menu at the old-school Caspers. Photo courtesy of Caspers.

Just past Mission Blvd on C St is one of the East Bay's legacy businesses—Caspers. Look for the unusually shaped building with the neon sign, enter and you'll see why this three-generation hot dog chain is still going strong. Nothing much has changed in the last few decades and that is perfectly fine for fans of this no-fuss spot. Hot dogs—the perfectly portable food as you head back to Hayward station.

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