Jack London Square: Oakland's Waterfront Gem
Explore Oakland's vibrant waterfront at Jack London Square: history, dining, events, and stunning bay views await!
Jack London Square, named after the famous author, is a vibrant waterfront destination in Oakland, California, offering a mix of dining, retail, recreation, and historical charm. It's a place where visitors can enjoy stunning bay views, explore literary history, and partake in various events and activities.
A brief summary to Jack London Square
- 472 Water St, Oakland, California, 94607, US
- +1510-645-9292
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon, a historic bar where Jack London himself used to frequent.
- Check the event calendar for outdoor movies, live music, and farmers' markets.
- Take a stroll along the waterfront for beautiful views of the Oakland Estuary and San Francisco Bay.
- Consider taking the ferry from San Francisco for a scenic arrival.
- Explore the replica of Jack London's Klondike cabin to learn about his adventurous life.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown Oakland, Jack London Square is accessible via BART and the free Oakland Alameda Water Shuttle. Take BART to the 12th Street Oakland City Center Station or Lake Merritt Station, then transfer to a connecting bus line (such as the 12, 72, or 72R) that stops near the square. Alternatively, from Alameda, take the Oakland Alameda Water Shuttle to the Jack London Square dock. A one-way BART fare from downtown Oakland is approximately $2.50-$4.00, and the bus fare is around $2.50. The Water Shuttle is free.
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Walking
From downtown Oakland, Jack London Square is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head southwest on Broadway towards the Oakland Estuary. Follow Broadway until it terminates at Water Street, which marks the beginning of Jack London Square. The walk is straightforward and offers views of the city and waterfront. No costs are associated with walking.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a direct route to Jack London Square from anywhere in Oakland. A taxi or ride-share from downtown Oakland typically costs between $7 and $15, depending on traffic and distance. The trip usually takes around 5-10 minutes. Be sure to confirm the fare before starting your trip.
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Driving
If driving, take I-880 to the Broadway exit and follow the signs to Jack London Square. Several parking garages and lots are available in the area. Parking rates vary, with hourly rates ranging from $1.50 to $3.00 and daily maximums between $15 and $20. Street parking is also available, but may be limited. Some garages offer validated parking with purchases from local businesses.
Discover more about Jack London Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Embrace
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Visit Oakland
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Port of Oakland
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Jack London Park
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Chinese Garden Park
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8th St & Broadway
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Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce
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Oakland Marriott City Center
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Wilma Chan Park (formerly Madison Square Park)
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Lincoln Square Park
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Alameda County Historical Society
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Preservation Park
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Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
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Oakland City Hall
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First Unitarian Church of Oakland
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Unmissable attractions to see
Jack London Statue
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Commemorating Jack London's adventurous life and literary legacy in the heart of Oakland's waterfront.
Jack London's Cabin
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Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon
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USNS John Glenn
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Original Pattern Brewing
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Old Oakland Farmers' Market
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The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment - (The MADE)
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Estuary Park
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Museum of Children's Art
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Pardee Home Museum
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The Jack London Oak
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Oakland Museum of California
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African American Museum and Library at Oakland
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Oakland History Center
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Remembrance is Power Mural
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Essential places to dine
Scott's Seafood Grill & Bar
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Forge Pizza
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Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine
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Left Bank Brasserie
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Yoshi's
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The Fat Lady Bar & Restaurant
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Oakland Grill
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Chop Bar
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New Gold Medal Restaurant
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Saucy Oakland
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Gum Kuo
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Narrative
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H way gift shop
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Elegant Studio & Boutique
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ChinaVille
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Book/Shop
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Oakland Chinese Book Store
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Fonzie's Artisanal Goods
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I Tone
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B&Q Shop
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House of Fortune
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Milam Gift Shop
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Merchants' Saloon
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The Kon-Tiki
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Bar Shiru
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Cafe Van Kleef
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Spice Monkey Restaurant & Bar
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