Hidden Fremont: Unique Attractions & Things to Do

From Little Kabul and Niles Street to the Sunday Farmer's Market, explore more of Fremont's hidden gems.

1. Explore Local Galleries & Museums

Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum -This small museum in the Niles district celebrates Fremont's history as the birthplace of silent films in the early 1900s. It has exhibits on famous silent film stars like Charlie Chaplin who filmed movies here. Be sure to watch an old silent film in their tiny theater.
Olive Hyde Art Guild - This volunteer-run art gallery hosts rotating exhibits showcasing local talent. Catching one of their shows allows you to experience Fremont's vibrant art scene in an intimate setting.
Shinn Historical Park & Arboretum - Offers a glimpse into Fremont's agricultural past through its Victorian-era ranch house, gardens containing plants from around the world, and grounds representing the lives of an influential pioneering family in the region.
Mission San Jose Visitors can take guided tours and experience the rich history of this 1797 Spanish mission through its property gardens, church, cemetery, and indigenous exhibits.

2.Explore "Little Kabul"

Sometimes referred to as "Little Kabul", Fremont has a thriving Afthan community. It's home to largest Afghan population—and some of the best Afgthan food—in the entire United States. Check out some of the local culture and cuisine at:

De Afghanan - This family-owned Afghan restaurant has been serving authentic dishes like kabobs, qabuli palau, and mantu since 1993.
Afghan Awasana Kabob House - Customers travel for miles to eat the golden Afghan noon bread at this popular local spot lauded by the SF Chronicle.
Afghan Kabob - Known for its luscious kabobs and traditional Halal food.
Khorasan Market and Maiwand Market - Local shops where you can pck up fresh Afghan breads, spices, dried fruits, produce, Halal food, and other ingredients.

3. Shop for Antiques in the Niles District

Fremont's charming Niles district has a high concentration of vintage and antiques shops:

Lost In the Attic - This well-reviewed antique store is a standout for its diverse selection of vintage items and curiosities.
Niles Antique Co-Op - This co-op with multiple dealers offers a large inventory and wide variety of antiques and vintage finds under one roof.
Memory Lane - Another shop with a varied selection of vintage items and antiques.
Cottage Charm - Embrace cottagecore at this cute store full of china dishes, trinkets, vintage linens, jewelry and more.
Paula's Grandtiques - Grandma's best collection of antique collectibles!
Mantiques - Specializes in vintage toys, action figures, oddities, and other one-of-a-kind items.

4. Have a Farmer's Market Sunday

Located on the area near Bay St. and Chapel Ave, the Irvington Farmer's Market is open year-round on Sundays from 9am - 2pm. Locals describe it as an "absolute delight" with lots of fresh produce, fruit, vegetables, cut flowers, "mouth watering bakery items", and also a variety of gifts and crafts from local artisans. Live music and river views provide a vibrant community vibe.

Popular vendors include Crazy Block Cheesecakes, Avila Farms, Winters Fruit Tree, Hummus Heaven, and many more.

5. Hit the Trail

Fremont is home to some gorgeous natural areas and parks, including these popular spots:

Marshes at Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge - This urban national wildlife refuge offers fascinating trails through marshes and wetlands, with opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife.
Scenic Summit of Mission Peak - A rite of passage for Bay Area hikers, this strenuous but rewarding 6.2-mile round-trip hike culminating in breathtaking 360-degree views from the 2,517-foot summit that span the entire Bay Area.
Coyote Hills Regional Park Trails - This park offers several easy to moderate loop trails like the 5 mile Quail and Bayview Loop through rolling hills with bay views.
Vargas Plateau Regional Park Trails This park features grassy hills and wildflowers in spring, with trails offering bay views like the Vargas Plateau Loop.
Alameda Creek Regional Trail- This paved 12-mile trail follows Alameda Creek and is popular for walking, running and cycling.