Park Street
The heart and soul of Alameda, Park Street offers a myriad of shops, restaurants, and entertainment for everyone. From tacos and wine bars to an arcade and miniature golf, from a local-favorite book store to an art deco movie theater, vibrant and bustling Park Street is a destination unto itself. There are also a variety of events that take place along Park Street regularly, keeping the area a hub for community gatherings. Some past events include the famous Fourth of July Parade, Downtown Alameda Art & Wine Faire, Rock & Roll Beer Stroll, Whiskey Stroll, and Small Business Saturday. The upcoming Thursday night Farmer’s Market on Alameda Ave has residents excited for another excuse to spend their evenings downtown.
Short History of Park Street — From Railroad Stop to Downtown Hub
Around 1864, the local San Francisco & Alameda Railroad stop in Alameda was located at what is now the intersection of Lincoln Avenue and Park Street. Alameda was a residential suburb at the time, but shops and commerce hubs started appearing along the transportation route. In the late 1880s, commercial buildings were being built on Park Street, and by 1905 there were over 150 structures in the area. In 1935, a huge development to the area came in the form of the Park Street bridge, connecting Alameda to Oakland for those in automobiles. Take the downtownalameda.com’s self-guided walking tour to learn more, and to see what original structures still exist today.
Park Street Restaurants & Eateries — It’s All Here (Really!)
What are you hungry for? Because chances are, you’ll find it on Park Street. New eateries are always popping up, and there are a host of tried and true favorites that have been around for years — everything from Mexican, Burmese, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine to pizza, burgers, tacos, and sushi.
Some of the staples along Park Street include Dragon Rouge Vietnamese Bistro, East End Pizza, La Penca Azul, Lola’s Chicken Shack, The Star on Park, Poke Koma, Alley & Vine , Burma Superstar, Cholita Linda, Yellowtail Sushi, Hobnob, Scolari’s Good Eats, Julie’s Tea Garden, Spinning Bones, and the new local East End hangout Park Station Alameda, with live music beer-garden style and many brews on tap.
Want to experience a breakfast/brunch spot that’s also a local institution? Ole’s Waffle Shop has been around since 1927 and is an Alameda favorite. Go early to avoid the line. This busy diner is old-fashioned and charming, and yes, the waffles and pancakes are worth the hype.
Visit downtownalameda.com to view all of the current (and new) eateries, coffee shops, and more.
Fun for Kids on Park Street — Games & Toys
Good news for parents! Bring the kids along when you head to Park Street, as there’s lots to do! Reopened in 2022 in a new space, Subpar Miniature Golf offers hours of fun with its 19-hole mini golf course, arcade, laser maze, and pool tables. Speaking of arcade, High Scores Arcade has been offering Alameda a retro-inspired good time since 2013. Asteroids, Centipede, Donkey Kong, Pole Position, Super Mario Brothers, Tempest, and so many more – you’ll find over 400 playable games here!
Looking for games and toys? Toy Safari is a wonderland of all types of new, used, and collectible toys. Plan to spend some time here, as the inventory is plentiful and there’s a lot to experience!
Before you head home, don’t forget to stop by Tucker’s Ice Cream. Tucker’s has been an Alameda favorite since 1941. From fudge and brownies to sorbets and sherbets, a trip to Tucker’s is always a treat!
Fun for Adults on Park Street — Bars & Live Music
Yes, there is life after dark along Park Street, and there’s several destinations to choose from! Town Tavern is a delightful neighborhood corner bar known for its craft cocktails and shareable plates. Park Street Station and Southie offer live music, events, wine, and fresh eats. Hobnob, along with offering California comfort food, has seasonal craft cocktails and events, including live music on weekends.
Steps from Park Street, the Cinema Grill features live music, karaoke Fridays, and meals you can order to enjoy while you watch a movie at the historic Alameda Theater.
On any given night, pop into Lucky 13 for a drink with friends and neighbors. This popular bar (with patio) is a great place to enjoy a meal from Scolari’s Good Eats located next door. A beer and a blueberry bacon blue cheese burger, anyone? Yes, please!
Other popular spots along (or close to) Park Street include Alameda Island Brewing, Speisekammer traditional German meals and beer, Monkey King Pub & Grub, the NY Times acclaimed Fikscue Craft Barbeque, McGee’s Bar and Grill, and Wine and Waffles.
Shopping on Park Street — Gifts, Books, & More
It’s easy to support local businesses along Park Street! Books Inc., founded in 1851, is one of the oldest bookstores in the country and a longtime Alameda favorite. It’s a fantastic spot not only for books and magazines, but also for cute and quirky gifts. Make sure to check the store for a list of upcoming events!
From scented lotion and jewelry to small home decor and special gifts, Daisy’s is a wonderfully-curated shop filled with something for everyone. Curated is the place to go for mid-century modern furnishings and accessories, and Lauren’s Closet also offers new and used clothing, accessories, toys and more.
In the market for some new wheels? Find your new ride at Alameda Bicycle. Looking for something a little faster? Scooter Importer may be the place for you! Like we said, you can get just about anything on Park Street! There’s even a few auto sales and auto repair shops along the main strip.
Visit downtownalameda.com to view all of your shopping options on Park Street.
