Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon
Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon: A Historic Gem in Oakland
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.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Jack London Square
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Jack London Square
Getting There
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Discover more about Jack London Square
Jack London Square, located on Oakland's waterfront, is a vibrant mixed-use area named after the celebrated author Jack London, who spent much of his childhood in this very district. The area officially became Jack London Square in 1951, commemorating London's connection to the waterfront, which served as his playground and source of inspiration.
Originally a warehouse and industrial hub in the mid-1800s, the square has transformed into a destination featuring restaurants, shops, hotels, and entertainment venues. Visitors can explore the historic Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon, a favorite haunt of Jack London and one of the oldest bars in California. A replica of the cabin where London lived in the Klondike is also on display.
The square hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including farmers' markets, outdoor movies, and live music. With its beautiful views of the Oakland Estuary and the San Francisco Bay, Jack London Square provides a unique blend of history, culture, and recreation. The USS Potomac, Franklin D. Roosevelt's former presidential yacht, is also moored nearby and available for tours.
A brief summary to Jack London Square
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Berkeley
Discover Berkeley, California: A vibrant blend of academic excellence, culinary delights, and cultural richness nestled on the San Francisco Bay's eastern shore.
Tell me more about Berkeley