Things To Do
in Oakland
Oakland sits on the eastern shore of the San Francisco Bay, just across the water from San Francisco. The city is known for its diverse neighborhoods, thriving arts scene, and waterfront buzz, with a strong emphasis on community and innovation. Its skyline and hills offer dramatic city views, while its food culture reflects the Bay Area's global mix.
From stunning views at Lake Merritt to vibrant Uptown nightlife, Oakland combines urban energy with natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the scenic waterfront at Jack London Square, enjoying views of the Oakland Estuary. Visit the historic Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon, where Jack London once spent time. Grab a freshly brewed coffee at one of the local cafes to energize your morning.
Explore the vibrant farmers market if it’s a Saturday, sampling local produce and artisanal goods. Take a relaxing boat tour or rent a kayak to experience the estuary from the water. Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant offering fresh seafood with panoramic views.
Watch the sunset over the Bay Bridge while dining at a chic bistro in the square. Later, catch a live music performance or outdoor event often hosted in this lively neighborhood. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely walk along the piers, soaking in the night lights reflecting on the water.
Begin your day with a visit to the Oakland Museum of California, immersing yourself in exhibits about local history, art, and natural science. Wander through the nearby Uptown district, admiring the vibrant street art and murals that tell the city’s story. Stop by a trendy café for a light breakfast and people watching.
Spend the afternoon exploring art galleries and boutique shops lining Telegraph Avenue. Visit the Paramount Theatre to admire its stunning Art Deco architecture, and if possible, take a guided tour to learn about its history. Grab lunch at a local eatery that features farm-to-table cuisine.
Experience Uptown’s lively nightlife with dinner at a modern restaurant serving diverse international dishes. Attend a live jazz or indie music show at one of the district’s intimate venues. Conclude your night with a craft cocktail at a rooftop bar overlooking the city skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel 1 night | $120-250 |
| 🚗Ride from airport to city center | $40-60 |
| 🛍️Casual weekend shopping | $50-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant, diverse neighborhoods and food scene
- Waterfront activities and easy access to nature
- Some neighborhoods are hilly and car-dependent
- Street parking and traffic can be challenging in peak times
Places to Visit in Oakland
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic lakefront with boathouse, palm trees, and city backdrop; great reflection shots.
Marina views, warehouses, and boats; capture sunset with the water as a mirror.
Historic ornate theater with dramatic architecture ideal for night photography.
Vibrant storefronts, lanterns, and busy street scenes for candid street photography.
Colorful street art and murals in Temescal for urban photography.
Food in Oakland
Oakland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic Cantonese-style dumplings and small plates, best in Oakland's Chinatown area.
Must-Try!
Seafood-forward stews common at waterfront spots around Jack London Square.
Southern comfort favorites at Oakland restaurants like Brown Sugar Kitchen.
Ethiopian specialties found in Little Ethiopia along Grand Avenue.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vendors, dumplings, noodles, and Chinese produce along and near Harrison and 7th Streets.
Latin American and international groceries with fresh produce and prepared foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Oakland is culturally diverse; be respectful of local customs, neighborhoods, and languages; ask before photographing individuals in private settings.
Safety
Tipping in Oakland
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tip 15–20% at restaurants, bars, and taxis (tip higher for excellent service). Some venues add a gratuity for larger groups.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful in markets and small vendors; mobile pay (Apple Pay, Google Pay) is common in many places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Oakland enjoys warm daytime temperatures with cooler evenings. Expect low to mid-70s°F, occasional heat waves and coastal fog that can cool parts of the city. Outdoor dining and events are common; stay hydrated and protected from sun.
Mild weather with decreasing sea breeze; pleasant for outdoor exploration and street fairs. Nights start to get cooler; layers recommended.
Wet season with rainfall and short bursts of chilly days. Temperatures typically range in the 40s–50s°F; carry a light rain jacket.
Pleasantly mild with blooming gardens and iconic green hills. Occasional showers; layered clothing is advised.
Oakland at Night
Hiking in Oakland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Old-growth redwood forest with several loops and easy to moderate hikes near the hills.
Scenic choices with city views and forest paths in the Oakland Hills.
Popular network of hikes including scenic overlooks and a broad variety of terrain nearby.
Airports
How to reach Oakland by plane.
Conveniently located across the Bay, offering domestic flights and good access to downtown Oakland.
Major international hub with broad connections; about 20-30 miles from Oakland depending on route.
Southern Bay Area hub with many domestic routes; about 40–60 miles from Oakland depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Oakland is known for its diverse communities, including African American, Asian American (Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Indian), Hispanic/Latino, and a growing immigrant population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Seasonal games at the Oakland Coliseum; baseball fans enjoy a classic Bay Area experience.
Bay Area NBA team; games are typically held at Chase Center in San Francisco; fans also gather around the region.
Local college teams and nearby Bay Area NFL events draw crowds across the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oakland.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Oakland offers many vegetarian and vegan options; look for plant-based menus, ex. veggie bowls, tofu dishes, and dairy-free sauces; ask to substitute meat with mushrooms or extra veggies.