Shining Destination in the Bay Area
Alameda, Calif,- Looking for a uniquely fun day trip adventure this summer? How does one that includes epic views, cool breezes paired with delicious wines, brews and bites sound?
At first glance, the community of Alameda may not come to mind. However, this ten square mile island perched on the East Bay packs a whole lotta fun while soaking up some of the most incredible views of the San Francisco skyline. Let’s Visit Alameda!
Things to Do in Alameda
Naval Air Station
From World War II through the end of the Cold War, the Naval Air Station Alameda played an important role for the U.S military. Closed in 1997, this sprawling complex offers a fascinating step back in time in American History. Old abandoned buildings now coexist alongside hangars that have been repurposed for modern entrepreneurs. A photographer’s playground, it’s fun to capture and enjoy the present as you imagine a bygone era.
Once you’ve snapped your pics and completed your history tour, it’s the perfect time to grab some local refreshments along the waterfront hangars that have been infused with new energy.
Faction Brewing: Brew with a View
Sitting atop our list of craft beer destinations to visit, we finally arrived at Faction Brewing. What better way to refurbish a naval air hangar than by brewing a bountiful array of thirst-quenching brews. It naturally follows that the best way to enjoy those brews is sitting outdoors absorbing magnificent and unimpeded views of the San Francisco skyline as your centerpiece.
We arrived on a clear, sunny day and could easily see from the San Mateo Bridge to the Bay Bridge and beyond. The spacious, outdoor patio can accommodate hundreds of patrons and never feels cramped. Rotating food trucks are the perfect complement while quaffing a few cold ones with your companions.
With a wide assortment of brews, there’s something tasty to discover for every palate. We discovered a few notable favorites. The Brontes aged 7 years was among the surprising favorites with its similarities to a good port wine. At 14.8% ABV it is definitely a slow sipper treat. For those aiming for refreshing, the very aptly named Hipster Conformant is a top choice.
- Hipster Conformant: Light and refreshing
- Faction Pale: Smooth and light
- Penske File: Crisp and hoppy
- Spring IPA: Full flavor and not overpowering
- Nitro Anomaly Stout: Star Anise, Cacao Nibs, Coffee
- Brontes: Barley Wine aged 7 years in Whiskey Barrels
One visit and its easy to understand why Faction Brewing is ubiquitous on every craft beer aficionados lists. It also stands out as a fun destination for couples and friends looking to enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing among a friendly crowd with one hell of an amazing view.
Begin your own adventure @ https://www.factionbrewing.com/
Rock Wall Wines – Hospitality
Learning how to make wine from the “King of Zin” has its benefits. Today in Alameda, Shauna Rosenblum carries on the art and tradition of winemaking she fully credits to her father Kent Rosenblum.
Sourcing grapes from throughout the Golden State, Shauna has taken the art of urban winemaking in a 40,000 square foot airplane hangar with a delightful selection of varietals that provide visitors a taste of California in one scenic location.
Wine Tasting
Upon our arrival, Genevieve at Rock Wall Wines warmly greeted us for a laughter-filled tasting and informative tour. Rock Wall’s great tasting wines were matched by a welcoming and familial-style hospitality. It’s pure fun to visit!
Impressive Wines
An enjoyable and tasty experience from start to finish, we discovered some varietals that were new to our palate along with stellar versions of some of our favorites.
At Rock Wall Wines, you have the opportunity to samples wines created from grapes grown in world renowned locations such as Alexander Valley to lesser known Viticultural Areas.
Choosing a single favorite was an impossible task!
- 2019 Fiano – Refreshing white from Sutter County.
- 2018 Sangiovese – Alexander Valley, cherry flavors in this incredible smooth finishing Sangiovese
- 2018 Reserve Zinfandel – Bright red with cherry and raspberry notes.
- 2017 Cabernet- Alexander Valley, cola, cinnamon notes.
- 2017 Tannat – Yolo County, tobacco, graham cracker, cacao notes in this full-bodied treat.
The love of winemaking and hospitality really shines at Rock Wall Wines. Perfect for couples or just grab your friends for an unforgettable experience in Alameda!
Grab a taste of California @ https://rockwallwines.com/
Scolari’s Good Eats at the Point
Adjacent to Rock Wall Wines, Scolari’s Good Eats is the popular choice for those bringing a Rock Wall Bottle of Wine to Dine. With a backdrop of San Francisco, it’s easy to see why.
With famous classics such as the blueberry bacon blue cheese burger to chicken wings and the Good Ol Boy, Scolari’s serves up comfort food. They also offer butter lettuce salad for those seeking a little healthier fare.
Learn more @ http://www.scolarisgoodeats.com/point
Crown Memorial Beach Park
Yes, an uncrowded, warm water and shallow swimming beach on the San Francisco Bay exists. Pictured at the top of this article is Crown Memorial Beach Park which features a 2.5-mile beach with sand dunes bordering a bicycle trail. Outstanding views of San Francisco.
Crown Beach is a stunning bayside park for recreation and relaxation. Millions have been been spent over the past decade to help restore this Bay Area gem.
No boat launch facilities. Experienced windsurfing location.
Location: Eighth Street and Otis Drive
(21+ years strong)
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