Things To Do
in Piedmont
Piedmont is a small, affluent city surrounded by Oakland, known for its tree-lined streets and picturesque residential blocks. It offers a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with high-quality schools and active neighborhood associations. The city centers around Piedmont Avenue, where charming shops, cafes, and bakeries create a village-like vibe.
While Piedmont itself is residential and walkable, it serves as a gateway to the broader East Bay, including Oakland’s parks, culture, and outdoor spaces.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Piedmont and check into your hotel, taking a moment to appreciate the charming small-town atmosphere. Stroll around the local park and enjoy a coffee at a cozy café. Prepare for an exciting journey by gathering maps and guides about the area.
Explore the historic downtown area, visiting unique boutiques and art galleries that showcase local talent. Stop for lunch at a family-owned restaurant, savoring traditional Southern cuisine. Spend some time interacting with friendly locals who can offer insights into the hidden gems of Piedmont.
Dine at a well-reviewed bistro known for its fresh, seasonal dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, enjoying the sights and sounds of the town as it transitions into night. End your day with a visit to a local bar for a taste of regional craft beers.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike at Talladega National Forest, surrounded by breathtaking views and the sounds of nature. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at a scenic overlook after your hike. Take time to capture the beauty of the landscape with photos.
After your morning adventure, head to a nearby lake for some kayaking or fishing. Spend the afternoon immersed in outdoor activities while soaking up the sun. Treat yourself to lunch at a lakeside pavilion, experiencing the serenity of the water.
Return to Piedmont and relax at your hotel before heading out again. Enjoy a casual dinner at a barbecue joint, celebrating the day's outdoor activities. Wrap up the evening by attending a local music event or open mic night to enjoy regional talents.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🚌Public transportation fare (one ride) | $2-4 |
| 🏠Monthly rent (1-bedroom outside city center) | $1800-2600 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, safe, family-friendly neighborhood with strong schools
- Proximity to Oakland’s cultural attractions and outdoor spaces
- Walkable streets on Piedmont Avenue with charming shops and cafes
- Easy access to San Francisco Bay Area landmarks and natural areas
- Limited nightlife within Piedmont itself; longer trip to Oakland’s clusters for evening entertainment
- Higher cost of living and dining compared to many nearby areas
- Hilly terrain can be challenging for some pedestrians and drivers
- Parking can be competitive on busy weekends and near commercial corridors
Places to Visit in Piedmont
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic Bay Area residential charm with dappled light and colorful façades, ideal for portraits and street photography.
Elevated vantage points with sweeping views of the East Bay hills and Oakland skyline.
Ancient redwoods, mossy trunks, and quiet forest light—great for nature photography.
Water reflections, joggers, and birds with city silhouettes in the distance.
Food in Piedmont
Piedmont Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crisp crusts with locally sourced toppings at neighborhood pizzerias.
Must-Try!
Simple, comforting Italian pastas made with regional ingredients.
A Bay Area staple featuring fresh seafood and shellfish.
Farm-to-table preparations highlighting local produce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, fresh bread, and prepared foods from local farmers and vendors (check schedule).
Diverse produce, snacks, and ready-to-eat options within a short drive from Piedmont.
Rotate through popular spots around Piedmont and neighboring Oakland neighborhoods offering eclectic bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect neighborhood quiet hours and avoid loud gatherings in late evenings in purely residential streets.
Queue patiently, greet staff politely, and thank service workers; personal space is valued.
Safety
Tipping in Piedmont
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard in the U.S. is 15-20% at restaurants; more for exceptional service. Tip with card or cash; some places automatically add gratuity for large groups.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and mobile wallets; cash is widely accepted for small retailers and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and warm days with cooler evenings. Expect coastal fog on some mornings; dress in layers and carry water during outdoor activities.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage in parks. Ideal for city strolls and hill hikes; outdoor scenes glow in golden hour light.
Mild to cool with occasional rain. Pack a light waterproof layer and prepare for slick pavement after showers.
Blooming landscapes and longer daylight hours. Great for photography along Piedmont Avenue and in nearby parks; bring a light jacket.
Piedmont at Night
Hiking in Piedmont
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Redwood groves and rolling hills with several scenic routes.
Coastal redwoods, shaded trails, and options for longer hikes.
Varied terrain with lake views, ridgelines, and picnic areas.
Accessible viewpoints and forested trails with city panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Piedmont by plane.
Convenient, city-adjacent airport about 15-20 minutes from Piedmont; easy connections to domestic routes and regional flights.
Major international hub about 25-35 minutes away by car depending on traffic; broad international and domestic options.
Southern Bay Area hub about 40-60 minutes away; convenient for some cross-state or domestic trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong emphasis on education, safe neighborhoods, and community events.
Commuters who value proximity to Oakland and San Francisco while living in a quieter enclave.
Oakland and surrounding areas contribute to a rich cultural tapestry with diverse languages and cuisines.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong community leagues and school programs; urban parks host pickup games and youth leagues.
Popular at local parks and youth leagues; weekend matches common in schools and clubs.
Public courts and club facilities; many neighborhoods feature well-maintained courts.
Extensive trail networks and flat or rolling routes around the lakes and hills; popular with locals for long runs and bike rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Piedmont.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Piedmont-area eateries offer vegetarian entrees; look for veggie-forward plates, salads, and pasta dishes. Inform staff of restrictions and ask about house-made dressings or broths to avoid animal products.