Hayward
There are tons of things to do with kids in the San Leandro Hayward area. We’ve rounded up the best playgrounds, parks, beaches (all free!) plus tons of other activities for families.
Best Kid-Friendly Places in Hayward and San Leandro
Upcoming Events for Hayward / San Leandro Kids & Families
Friday, June 20, 2025
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Visit with Wildlife @ Sulphur Creek Nature Center, HaywardSaturday, June 21, 2025
10:00 am – 1:00 pm: Family Art Day @ Adobe Park, Castro Valley10:30 am – 12:30 pm: Build: Cardboard Village @ Cherryland Library, Hayward
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Puppet Art Theater @ Hayward Public Library, Hayward
1:30 pm – 3:30 pm: Summer Pool Party @ Arroyo Viejo Recreation Center and Park, Oakland
2:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Juneteenth Street Party @ Hayward Heritage Plaza, Hayward
More Family-Friendly Hayward / San Leandro / San Lorenzo Stuff to Know
Opening Memorial Day 2025: Spray Ground at Cannery Park in Hayward
The water feature at Cannery Park in Hayward is the big draw on hot days, operating specific days from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Half-day Trip: Sulphur Creek Nature Center in Hayward
This wild animal rehabilitation center in Hayward allows kids to get up close and personal with drop-in hours and special programs.
Cold or Wet Day? Go Indoor Swimming
My kids love to go to an indoor swimming pool even if the weather outside is frightful. Here are some fave East Bay pools.
Indoor Fun: 10+ Things to Do on Rainy Days in the East Bay
On a rainy day, here are some great indoor fun East Bay destinations to make your kids happy and run off those ya-yas!
A Rookie’s Guide to Kids Baseball & Softball in the East Bay
If you're thinking you'd like to give your child the opportunity to play baseball, but don't know how to get started, keep reading. We'll walk ...
Where Can New Parents Meet Each Other in the East Bay?
Looking for an opening to connect with other new mothers? Here are some resources including support groups and activity groups in the East Bay.
Best Pizza in the East Bay for Families
50 favorite East Bay pizza places beloved by kids & families sliced up by type of crust including 10 for half-baked!
Holiday Outing: 3Crosses in Castro Valley
The Christmas Festival at 3Crosses is merry and bright with ice skating, holiday lights, Santa Claus, and a train.
Where to Mail Your Letters to Santa
Here's how to send your children's letters to Santa Claus, some with special mailboxes to the North Pole and some ways even easier!
8+ All-Abilities Playgrounds and Play Spaces Near Oakland
Inclusive playgrounds are designed with innovative features to welcome children of all ages and capabilities. These are within an hour of Oakland.
