1. Honor Wartime Heroes at Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park
Recognized on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and as a U.S. National Historical Park, Rosie the Riveter/ World War II Home Front National Historical Park can be found in the heart of Richmond, California. The park preserves the legacy of the United States home front during World War II, in particular, the role of African Americans and women during the tumultuous times. Park attractions include the Ford Richmond Plant, Richmond Shipyards, SS Red Oak Victory, the Atchison Village Housing Project, the Kaiser Richmond Field Hospital, and Rosie Memorial which honors ‘Rosies; or the women who made up much of the workforce in the shipyards.
Visitor Center: 1414 Harbour Way South, Suite #3000/ Oil House, Richmond, CA 94804, Phone: 510-232-5050
2. Bike or Stroll with Bay Views Along the Marina Bay Trail
The Marina Bay Trail gives visitors the opportunity to explore the scenery, wildlife, and history of Richmond’s dynamic southeastern shore. Walk by the water’s edge and visit all eight historical sites, where you can learn about the area’s history from the many markers that are filled with information. Some of the sites you’ll come across include the Ford Assembly Building, Lucretia Edwards Park, Marina Bay Park, Barbara & Jay Vincent Park, Shimada Peace Park, and the Rosie the Riveter Memorial. If you’re a passionate bird watcher be sure to bring your binoculars or if you’re an angler, you can go fishing at high tide with the locals.
3. Attend an Event or Enjoy the Scenery at The Craneway Pavilion
The Craneway Pavilion is one of Richmond’s iconic event venues and has been the site of many of the area’s most prominent concerts, productions, and other festivities. The renowned world-class space spans over 45,000 square feet and is sustainably designed in a central location. While attending events at the pavilion, you’ll find yourself right on the waterfront surrounded by breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline and the Bay. In addition to concerts and productions, the Craneway Pavilion also hosts a number of expos, art shows, and public festivals for people to enjoy. Just visit their website prior to your holiday there to see what’s on the schedule.
1414 Harbour Way S, Richmond, CA94804, Phone: 510-215-6000
If you are traveling with kids:
4. Explore Nature and Trails at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline
Point Pinole is a regional park that was created in 1973 and includes the Point Pinole Lagoon and the Dotson Family Marsh. Spanning at 2,315 acres, the park is a scenic destination that is popular with the residents and visitors of Richmond. You can spend your time walking the trails through aromatic woods filled with eucalyptus or breezy meadows overflowing with wildflowers. Visitors love the amazing views they’ll come across of the Marin shoreline, Mount Tamalpais, and the San Pablo Bay which is busy with sailboat and shipping traffic. Other features include a visitor center, designated parking area, several picnic sites, restrooms, and more.
5551 Giant Hwy, Richmond, CA 94806, Phone: 888-327-2757, (website link)
5. Step Aboard a Historic Ship at the SS Red Oak Victory
SS Red Oak Victory is a U.S. military cargo ship that was used during World War II. The ship was built by the Permanente Metals Corporation and is the last surviving ship that was built in the Kaiser Richmond Shipyards during that time. It was saved from the Naval Reserve Fleet and is now a monument dedicated to the people who worked in war-related industries. There are so many amazing aspects of the ship which you can explore including working cranes, the Captain’s quarters, the bridge, a theatre, a great dance floor, a fascinating engine room, and a working 1944 Morse tube radio which can still receive emails and text messages.
1337 Canal Blvd, Richmond, CA 94804, Phone: 510-237-2933
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
6. Hike Through Hills and Canyons at Wildcat Canyon Regional Park
Open throughout the year, the Wildcat Canyon Regional Park is one of Richmond’s most stunning natural attractions. The park encompasses 2,427 acres and can be found amidst breathtaking hills, ridges, and the Wildcat Creek watershed. It’s a wonderful place to have a quiet evening outdoors and attracts hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. While there, you can also visit the historic Alvarado Park within it which has historic stonework to explore, a wonderful play area for children, designated picnic areas, and access to Wildcat Creek. Hiking and biking along Nimitz Way will let you see picturesque views of the East Bay hills while getting in your exercise.
5755 McBryde Ave, Richmond, CA 94805, Phone: 888-327-2757
7. Sip Local Wines with a Waterfront View at Riggers Loft Wine Company
Urban winemaking at its best, the Riggers Loft Wine Company is one of Richmond’s most renowned wineries, cideries, tasting rooms, and collective wine bars. It is one of the most beautiful places on the bay to enjoy wine and food; you’ll be able to see dream-like views of San Francisco as drifting sailboats and sea lions pass you by. Enjoy flights or glasses of award-winning wines and ciders by the Far West Cider Co., Irish Monkey Cellars, Carica Wines, and R&B Cellars. Live music featuring Bay Area musicians can be enjoyed on Fridays and Saturdays, while events such as Paint Night, Trivia Night, Game Night, and Oyster Sunday can be enjoyed the rest of the week.
1325 Canal Blvd, Richmond, CA 94804, Phone: 510-233-2065
8. Picnic, Walk, or Watch the Sunset at Miller Knox Regional Shoreline
Miller Knox Regional Shoreline is a 307-acre picnic area that can be found right along Richmond’s shoreline. The park offers visitors an array of features and amenities such as a fishing pier, a secluded cove with swimming beach, a model railroad museum, and a historic hilltop which, once you’re there, will give you panoramic views of the north Bay Area. You’ll love having a peaceful picnic on the tree-shaded lawn overlooking the saltwater lagoon, taking a walk through the mile-long trail loop, or seeing the local flora and fauna. Anglers can try to catch popular species such as perch, striped bass, sand dab, and flounder from the park’s fishing pier.
900 Dornan Dr, Richmond, CA 94801, Phone: 888-327-2757, (website link)
9. Relax on the Sand or Swim at Keller Beach Park
Located within Miller Knox Regional Shoreline, Keller Beach Park is an excellent destination for visitors looking to spend the day outdoors enjoying the lovely weather of Richmond. The wide sandy beach is a popular place for families and has numerous amenities to ensure you have a great visit. Facilities include several designated picnic areas, BBQ pits, drinking fountains, shower tower, boat washing area, restrooms, and benches. While there, you’ll come across an array of flora and fauna and may even be able to see one of the largest harbor seal pupping sites in the area just a few miles off the beach.
900 Dornan Dr, Richmond, CA 94801, Phone: 888-327-2757
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