The most impactful moments oftentimes happen in the simplest settings. Whether it be a walk in the park or a visit to the museum, a little time and a shared adventure goes a long way. Luckily, the Bay Area is home to a variety of different activities for our volunteer mentors and youth to get into!
For new volunteers looking to break the ice with a young person, or long-standing duos looking for a new hangout spot, Alameda County is packed with gems that offer everything from hands-on science to peaceful retreats!
Here are our top 5 recommendations for Alameda County Matches to explore together.
1. Dive Into Discovery at Crab Cove Visitor Center & Aquarium!
Located in Alameda, the Doug Siden Visitor Center at Crab Cove provides a window into the underwater world of the San Francisco Bay. Matches can explore an 800-gallon aquarium, use interactive stations to see microscopic bay life, or even ‘build a crab’ from the inside out. It’s a fantastic way to spark a conversation about our local history.
- Insider Tip: Take a stroll or a bike ride along the 2.5-mile Crown Memorial State Beach – but check the tide charts before you go!
2. Level Up at the Pacific Pinball Museum
For a dose of interactive art and history, head to the Pacific Pinball Museum in Alameda. With over 100 pinball machines dating from the 1940s to today, this museum’s a must-see for science and art enthusiasts alike. It’s the perfect place to bond over some friendly competition while admiring hand-painted murals and vintage jukeboxes.
3. Step Back in Time at Ardenwood Historic Farm
Ever wondered what life was like on a family farm 100 years ago? Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont offers a glimpse into life between 1890 and 1930. You can visit the farm animals, watch a blacksmith at work, or even help with a seasonal harvest. It’s a beautiful, sprawling space that helps Littles connect with where their food comes from and the history of our region.
4. Escape to the “Lakeside Resort” at Del Valle Regional Park
Nestled in a valley just south of Livermore, Del Valle Regional Park feels like a getaway without leaving the county. The 5-mile-long lake is the centerpiece, offering swimming, windsurfing, and boating. If your Little prefers land over water, there’s over 4,000 acres of hills for hiking and nature study.
5. Find Tranquility at the Gardens at Lake Merritt
Tucked away in the heart of Oakland is a 7-acre ‘hidden jewel’. The Gardens at Lake Merritt feature a collection of themed gardens, including Mediterranean, Sensory, and Succulent gardens. It’s a peaceful place to walk and talk, located within the nation’s first wildlife refuge.
BONUS: Volunteer in the Community – Deliver Meals on Wheels to Seniors
If you’d like the opportunity to engage in community service together, you may enjoy delivering meals to isolated seniors through Meals on Wheels of Alameda County. With a growing senior population, the need for services like these continues to increase. Bigs can help in the delivery process with their Little helpers!
Alameda County offers a vast amount of opportunities to build stronger bonds through shared experiences. These local spots are the perfect backdrop for making lasting memories in the community!
Ready to start your own adventure? Whether you’re looking to volunteer, enroll a child, or support our mission, you can make a difference today.