On any given day in Alameda, makers are cutting wood to build teardrop-shaped motorcycle trailers or master-quality wooden percussion instruments.

Dancers from Maze Daiko are swaying to the music near the Fruitvale Street Bridge. And distillers from St. George Spirits are looking out on the bay from a decommissioned airplane hangar as they work on their Terroir Gin.

Known as the Island City, Alameda not only has views of the San Francisco skyline but it is a vibrant, colorful city.

With the upcoming “Island City Waterways” celebration, Second Friday Art Walk, a film festival and other events, Alameda is highlighting its dynamic art scene.

Two former warehouses at Alameda Point have allowed the maker scene to take root with affordable workspace and the tools to create.

Spirits Alley remains popular, offering space for wineries, a brewery, distilleries and specialty beverage companies at the Alameda Naval Air Station.

Museums, including the USS Hornet Sea, Air and Space Museum and the recently relocated California Historical Radio Society, provide learning opportunities.

The food scene has grown and continued to thrive with the new Crispian Bakery and Trabocco, a beacon of fine Italian dining since 2013.

Gardeners have also discovered Ploughshares Nursery, which sells native plants, fruits and vegetables in all organic matter and also offers classes.

In the following pages, learn more about the East Bay city before planning a day, or even a weekend, exploring Alameda.

- Maggie Creamer; mcreamer@sfchronicle.com