Ardenwood Historic Farm offers a glimpse into life on a family farm between 1890 and 1930. Step back in time as you explore the remnants of the once vast estate of George and Clara Patterson, whose family farmed the land for over 100 years, beginning in the 1850s. East Bay Regional Park District has operated the property as a fully functioning, turn-of-the-last-century farm since 1985.
Today, Ardenwood demonstrates the role farms play in providing vital resources, driving innovation, and bringing together communities. Using carefully restored farm machinery, staff and volunteers invite visitors to join in the harvest and processing of crops once common in the region, including corn, wheat, and hay. A farmyard with a variety of animals, a large hay barn, an outdoor kitchen, and a working blacksmith shop create opportunities to make connections between everyday life, local farming history, and the land. Historic buildings and grounds, including the Patterson’s lovely Victorian farmhouse and surrounding formal gardens, give a glimpse of life at the turn-of-the-last-century.
Since Ardenwood is a working farm, the daily activities change from season to season so no two visits will be exactly alike. Visit our Naturalist Program page for more information and schedules before your next visit.
Ardenwood Historic Farm is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays, year-round, including Labor Day and Memorial Day. Ardenwood is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For picnic reservations call 1-888-EBPARKS or 1-888-327-2757, press option 2. There is no parking fee. Dogs are not allowed in the Ardenwood Historic Farm.
Note: Dogs are not permitted in the park. Modern recreational equipment (e.g., frisbees, footballs, soccer balls, bicycles, balloons, and BBQs) are prohibited.
Restoration and operation of the Patterson House Museum is a project of the city of Fremont. For information call (510) 791-4196.
Ardenwood Bird Checklist
Ringed by major roads and industrial and residential areas, Ardenwood Historic Farm is an island of agricultural land, providing critical habitat for wildlife. It is a refuge for birds that feed, roost, nest or just pass through. Over 99 species have been spotted around the park’s orchards, gardens, fields and groves. This handy checklist includes seasonal information and abundance on everything from red-shouldered hawks and western bluebirds to Nuttall’s woodpeckers and Allen’s hummingbirds. Download: A Guide to the Birds of Ardenwood Historic Farm [PDF]
Entry Fees
January through March, and the Wed. before Thanksgiving through December:
Tues. through Sun.: $4/adults (18+ years), $3/seniors (62+ year), $2/children (4-17 years), under 4 years - free.
April through the Tues. before Thanksgiving:
Tues., Wed. & Sat.: $4/adults (18+ years), $3/seniors (62+ year), $2/children (4-17 years), under 4 years - free.
Thurs., Fri. and Sun.: $6/adults (18+ years), $5/seniors (62+ year), $4/children (4-17 years), under 4 years - free.
Special Event Entry Fees
$8-$30/adults* (18+ years), $6-$30/seniors* (62+ year), $5-$25/children* (4-17 years)
*Special event entry fees may vary. Please call (510) 544-2797 or email [email protected] for updated information.
