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Albany Bulb: Where Art Meets Bay Views

Explore a unique waterfront park with stunning bay views, urban art, and walking trails on a former landfill transformed by nature and creativity.

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The Albany Bulb is a unique waterfront park born from a former construction debris landfill. Transformed by nature and human creativity, it offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, eclectic art installations, and a network of trails perfect for walking and exploring.

A brief summary to Albany Bulb

  • Monday 5 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-10 pm
  • Friday 5 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven and rocky due to the landfill debris.
  • Bring a windbreaker, as the exposed location can be breezy, especially near the water.
  • Take your time to explore the art installations, as they are constantly changing and evolving.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially birds, in the mudflats and along the shoreline.
  • There are no water fountains, so bring your own water.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the end of Buchanan Street, where the parking lot is located, the Albany Bulb is easily accessible on foot. Follow the main dirt path towards the water. You'll quickly see the trails branching off to explore different parts of the Bulb. The main loop around the perimeter is approximately 2 miles. Be aware that the terrain can be uneven, so wear sturdy shoes. There is no cost for accessing the Albany Bulb.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the area near the Albany Bulb, including the 18, 52, 72, and 72M. From the bus stops on San Pablo Avenue, walk west on Buchanan Street towards the waterfront (approximately 15-20 minutes). Buchanan Street goes under the I-80 freeway and leads directly to the Albany Bulb. There is no cost for accessing the Albany Bulb, but a single ride on AC Transit is $2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Berkeley, a taxi or ride-share to the Albany Bulb will take approximately 7-8 minutes and cost between $21-$25. From San Francisco, the ride will take approximately 18 minutes and cost $55-$70. The driver can drop you off at the parking lot at the end of Buchanan Street, which is the main access point for the Albany Bulb. There is no cost for accessing the Albany Bulb.

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Discover more about Albany Bulb

The Albany Bulb is a testament to the transformative power of nature and art. Once a construction debris landfill jutting into the San Francisco Bay, it has evolved into a vibrant and unique public space. Located at the foot of Buchanan Street in Albany, California, the Bulb offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and urban art. Created between 1963 and 1983, the Bulb's landscape is dominated by concrete chunks, rebar, and other discarded materials. However, these remnants have become canvases for artists, resulting in a constantly evolving outdoor art gallery. Visitors can explore a variety of sculptures, murals, and graffiti art, including the iconic "Mad Marc's Castle" and the driftwood sculptures along the shoreline. Beyond the art, the Albany Bulb provides habitat for a surprising array of wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot various species, and the Albany Mudflats, created by the Bulb's formation, are an important habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds. The Bulb also offers stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay. Trails wind through the area, providing opportunities for walking, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors. The park is open from 5 am to 10 pm.

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