Trip Ideas

Trip Ideas for Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park

These trip ideas will help you make the most of your visit to Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park, offering a blend of education, recreation, and historical exploration.

1. Historic Sites Tour:

- Start at the Visitor Education Center: Begin your visit with an orientation at the Visitor Education Center. Pick up a map and explore interactive exhibits about the WWII Home Front.
- Visit the Richmond Shipyard No.3: Explore the Richmond Shipyard, where you can see historic buildings that were part of the WWII Home Front production line, as well as visit the SS Red Oak Victory ship.
- Ford Assembly Plant: Take a tour of the historic Ford Assembly Building, which played a crucial role in wartime production. The building can only be viewed from the outside.

2. Walking and Biking Trails:

- San Francisco Bay Trail: Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along the San Francisco Bay Trail, which offers stunning views of the waterfront and historical markers along the way.
- Kaiser Shipyards: Visit the former site of the Kaiser Shipyards, now part of the trail, and learn about the innovative industrial techniques used during the war.

3. Educational Programs:

- Junior Ranger Program: Children can participate in the Junior Ranger program, where they can learn about the Home Front history through fun, interactive activities.
- Guided Tours for Classes: Arrange for your class to experience a guided tour led by park rangers to get an in-depth understanding of the park's historical significance.

4. Interactive Exhibits and Films:

- Orientation Films: Watch the orientation films Home Front Heroes and The War at Home at the Visitor Education Center to gain a deeper appreciation of the park’s history.
- Interactive Exhibits: Explore the various interactive exhibits that showcase artifacts, personal stories, and multimedia presentations.

5. Special Events and Workshops:

- Attend Special Events: Check the park’s calendar for special events, such as historical reenactments, guest speakers, and commemorative ceremonies.
- Workshops and Demonstrations: Join workshops and demonstrations that provide hands-on learning experiences about life on the Home Front during WWII. These programs are not hosted all the time. Please check with the staff for any that may be available.

6. Picnic and Relaxation:

- Picnic Areas: Bring a picnic and relax in one of the designated picnic areas within the park. Enjoy the scenic views and peaceful surroundings.
- Waterfront Views: Spend some time by the waterfront, taking in the beautiful views and reflecting on the historical significance of the area.

7. Red Oak Victory Ship:

- Tour the Ship: Visit the SS Red Oak Victory, a restored WWII cargo ship, for a guided tour. Learn about the ship's history and the role it played during the war.
- Special Programs: Participate in special programs and events hosted on the ship, such as historical presentations and educational activities.

8. Photography Opportunities:

- Historic Landmarks: Capture photos of historic landmarks, including the Rosie the Riveter Memorial, the Ford Assembly Building, and the shipyards.
- Scenic Views: Take advantage of the scenic waterfront and industrial backdrop for unique and memorable photographs.

Short on Time? Here's a list of Four Signifant Sites:

For detailed information, see our "Places to Go" page.

1. Ford Assembly Plant: Once produced military vehicles, now a testament to the city's industrial heritage, visible when visiting the Rosie the Riveter Visitor Education Center.
2. SS Red Oak Victory Ship: A preserved WWII cargo ship offering tours and events. Note that it is not owned by the park.
3. Kaiser Richmond Shipyards: Among the most productive shipyards during the war, embodying innovation and hard work.
4. Rosie the Riveter Memorial: Dedicated to women who worked in factories and shipyards, a powerful tribute to their contributions and sacrifices.