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Old Alvarado Park: A Historic Oasis

Discover Union City's historic heart at Old Alvarado Park, offering recreation, nature, and community events in a charming setting.

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Old Alvarado Park in Union City is a verdant escape with deep historical roots, marking the heart of the original Alvarado settlement from the mid-19th century. Today, it offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a weekly farmers market, blending recreation with local charm.

A brief summary to Old Alvarado Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the Union City Farmers' Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and local crafts.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park's designated picnic areas with BBQ grills.
  • Explore the nearby historic Smith Street for a glimpse into Union City's past.
  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, especially if you prefer solitude in nature.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Union City BART Station, take AC Transit Bus Line 97 or 99 towards the Alvarado area. Disembark at Alvarado-Niles Road & Smith Street. Walk south on Smith Street for approximately 0.2 miles. Old Alvarado Park will be on your left. A single ride on AC Transit costs $2.50.

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Alvarado-Niles Road and Smith Street, head south on Smith Street for about 0.2 miles. Old Alvarado Park will be on your right. The walk is flat and straightforward.

  • Driving

    If driving, approach Old Alvarado Park via Smith Street. Limited street parking is available near the park. Check for parking restrictions and time limits. Free parking is available, but can be limited during peak hours and events.

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Discover more about Old Alvarado Park

Old Alvarado Park, a cherished green space in Union City, California, provides a tranquil retreat steeped in local history. More than just a park, it marks the center of the original Alvarado settlement, a community dating back to the mid-1800s. Founded as New Haven in 1851, Alvarado became the first county seat of Alameda County, thriving due to fertile farmlands and its location along Alameda Creek. Over time, Alvarado evolved into a bustling commercial hub. In 1959, it merged with Decoto to form Union City, leaving Old Alvarado Park as a link to the city's origins. Visitors can explore well-maintained walking trails, enjoy ample green space, and utilize picnic areas with tables and barbecue grills. Children can enjoy playgrounds with slides, swings and climbing structures. The park hosts the Union City Farmers' Market every Saturday, offering fresh produce and local crafts. The park also features a gazebo that can be rented for group events. The park's diverse flora and fauna make it ideal for birdwatching and nature photography. Smith Street, the heart of Old Alvarado, features well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, while the Union City Historical Museum, housed in the original Alvarado Firehouse, provides insights into the area's past.

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