Hayward is a small town located in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area in California. The town is primarily residential, with a population of around 149,000. The city is best known for its association with the California Gold Rush, as it was the first town in the region to be struck by gold. The city is also home to a large number of parks and open spaces, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Hayward is also home to a number of museums and cultural attractions, including the Hayward Area Historical Society Museum and the California Arts Council’s Hayward Gallery.