Welcome to Emeryville
Pixar Animation Studios
Beginning in 1979, Pixar Animation Studios has been the birthplace of some of the most cherished characters in modern animation history. In 1995, Disney and Pixar released Toy Story, their first collaborative project and the first ever computer-animated feature film. In 2000, Pixar moved to its current 22-acre home in Emeryville. Several local hangouts and eateries including Arismendi (Inside Out) and Fenton’s Creamery (featured in Up) make brief appearances in Pixar films, so be vigilant.
Golden Gate Park
Over three miles long and about half a mile wide, it was designed in 1871 by park commissioner William Hall, who incorporated winding walking trails through more than 1,000 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, woods, and lakes. Golden Gate Park is a lush and laidback refuge from the bustle of San Francisco, stretching all the way from the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood to the Pacific coast.
Marina Park
When you’re looking for a picnic lunch or a sunset stroll, look no further than Emeryville’s Marina and Marina Park. Marina Park is smaller and lesser known than Eastshore, with residents frequenting the area for a jog or a quiet break from the day. On a clear day, visitors are rewarded with views of the Bay Bridge, San Francisco, and the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance. Make sure to bring a jacket or two; in true San Francisco fashion, when the winds pick up, the temperature drops drastically.
Emeryville at a Glance
Emeryville’s past is as colorful and exciting as its present. In 1859, Joseph S. Emery, a stonecutter from New England and a prominent Bay Area builder, purchased a 185-acre tract north of Oakland. A small, prosperous community emerged along with a flourishing residential area known for its ornate Victorian houses.
Today, as Emeryville looks to the future, several development projects are being planned, and the city and school district have joined forces to create a magnificent new, state-of-the art school and community center complex. These efforts will accommodate a growing population while adhering to regional "smart growth" principles.
