The Ardenwood Historic Farm is a working farm found in Fremont. It is a great educational place that is open to the public. This farm was built in 1849 by a man named George Washington Patterson. George had gone to Fremont in search for gold during the gold rush. He did not find gold, but he did find fertile farmland. And, did quite well for himself. Today, the farm is fully operational and run by the city of Fremont. The farm was given to the city in 1978 as a historical site.
When you visit Ardenwood Historic Farm, you will be taken back in time. This is a beautiful Victorian mansion complete with volunteers and staff that are dressed how they would in the Victorian era. The daily activities of the farm are done just as they were in 1870’s to the present day. With this area being a working farm, guests of the farm will enjoy different experiences with each visit. This farm still grows the same produce as it always has. And, the interpretive staff and volunteers will guide guests through the house and demonstrate what chores would be like on the farm in that beautiful Victorian era. Enjoy this beautiful Victorian mansion and elegant Victorian Gardens just as they were so many years ago.
Park’s Opening Hours and Rules
The park is open between Tuesdays through Sunday’s year around. They are also open Labor and Memorial day for your convenience as well. You can make picnic reservations and there are no parking fees. The park does not allow dogs at it, so leave them home. They also don’t allow modern recreational equipment such as frisbees, footballs, bicycles, balloons and BBQ’s are not permitted.
Ardenwood Historic Farm is a refuge for many types of birds. Some of the birds stay here and make their homes, while others are just passing. The park has amazing orchards, gardens, groves, and fields. You can visit the park’s website to get a downloadable list of the birds you might find here and at what time.
There is the Farmyard Cafe that is perfect to stop and grab a quick snack or drink. They also serve lunch and birthday catering is available as well. And, there are animals on the farm. You will have the opportunity to see chickens, rabbits, goats, cows, pigs, and sheep.
The History of the Park
The home was the home of three generations of the Patterson family. The original bachelor home was built in 1857 and it was added on to with a Queen Anne addition in 1889. The garden looks as it did at the turn of the 20th century. And, with everyone in Victorian costumes, it truly gives guests a feeling of time travel.
Take an afternoon and visit the Ardenwood Historic Farm, enjoy the rich history of the farm as well as farm animals, fields, and gardens. Take a tour and enjoy a snack at the Farmyard Cafe. In the fall, there are Pumpkin patches and haunted railroads to keep everyone entertained as well. This is a place that everyone should experience in the Fremont area.
If you’ve already visited this location, another suggestion might be Coyote Hills regional park for a nice day out.
Driving Directions to Smile Matters – Preet Sahota DDS from Ardenwood Historic Farm:
- Head east toward Ardenwood Blvd
- Turn left at the 1st cross street onto Ardenwood Blvd
- Turn left to merge onto CA-84 E
- Take the exit onto CA-84 E/I-880 S toward San Jose/Fremont
- Take the Stevenson Blvd exit
- Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto Stevenson Blvd
- Turn right onto Stevenson Pl
