Oakland History Center: Unearthing the East Bay's Stories
Explore Oakland and the East Bay's past through extensive collections at the Oakland History Center.
The Oakland History Center, located within the Oakland Public Library's Main Branch, is a treasure trove for anyone seeking to delve into the rich history of Oakland and the East Bay. With extensive collections of photographs, documents, and artifacts, the center offers a unique glimpse into the region's past.
A brief summary to Oakland History Center
- 125 14th St, Oakland, Civic Center, California, 94612, US
- +1510-238-3222
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8 pm
- Friday 12 pm-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Check the Oakland Public Library's website for upcoming events, exhibits, and lectures at the History Center.
- Take public transportation, as parking can be limited in downtown Oakland.
- Consider making an appointment, although it is not required, to ensure access to specific resources or assistance from the staff.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Oakland History Center is easily accessible by public transportation. Take BART to the 12th St/Oakland City Center station. From the station, walk north on Broadway, then turn left onto 14th Street. The Main Library, housing the History Center, will be on your left. AC Transit buses also serve the area. A single adult AC Transit fare is $2.10. Clipper cards are accepted on both BART and AC Transit.
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Walking
If you are already in downtown Oakland, the Oakland History Center is within walking distance of many major landmarks and attractions. From Frank Ogawa Plaza (City Hall), walk north on Broadway to 14th Street, then turn left. The Main Library is a few blocks west on 14th Street.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach the Oakland History Center. Simply provide the driver with the address, 125 14th Street, Oakland, CA 94612. A short ride within downtown Oakland typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and distance.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that parking in downtown Oakland can be limited. Metered street parking is available, but can be competitive. There are also several parking garages and paid lots in the vicinity. Parking fees typically range from $3 to $5 per hour, with daily maximums between $15 and $25. The Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) garage at 1000 Oak St. offers parking and is a short walk away. The parking garage beneath City Center, accessed via entrances on 14th Street between 1300 Clay Street and 505 14th Street buildings, or via 11th Street just past Clay Street, charges $4.00 every 15 minutes, with a $40.00 maximum rate.
Discover more about Oakland History Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lincoln Square Park
0.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Lincoln Square Park in Downtown Oakland, a perfect urban retreat for relaxation and recreation.
Wilma Chan Park (formerly Madison Square Park)
0.4 km
Discover Wilma Chan Park, an urban oasis in Downtown Oakland offering serene green spaces, walking paths, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, a cultural hub celebrating rich traditions and local businesses in the heart of Oakland.
Chinese Garden Park
0.7 km
Explore the tranquil Chinese Garden Park in Oakland, a serene escape with beautiful landscapes, koi ponds, and a touch of cultural heritage.
Lakeside Park
0.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Lakeside Park in Oakland, California, where nature meets recreation in a picturesque urban setting.
Oakland Marriott City Center
0.8 km
Discover comfort and convenience at the Oakland Marriott City Center, your ideal destination for business and leisure in Downtown Oakland.
Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
0.9 km
Explore Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Oakland's vibrant city park, a hub of culture, art, and community events in the heart of downtown.
8th St & Broadway
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant intersection of 8th St & Broadway in Downtown Oakland, where culture, cuisine, and community converge in a lively urban atmosphere.
Oakland City Hall
0.9 km
Explore the stunning architecture and vibrant culture at Oakland City Hall, a historic landmark in the heart of Downtown Oakland, California.
Remember Them
1.1 km
Explore the inspiring Remember Them landmark in Oakland, a tribute to courage and resilience through powerful art and history.
Jack London Square
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant waterfront of Jack London Square, a cultural gem in Oakland showcasing dining, shopping, and rich history.
African American Museum and Library at Oakland
1.3 km
Uncover the vibrant history and culture of African Americans at the African American Museum and Library at Oakland, a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.
Jack London's Cabin
1.3 km
Discover the legacy of Jack London at his historic cabin in Oakland, California, where literature and nature come alive in a breathtaking waterfront setting.
Jack London Park
1.3 km
Explore the scenic beauty and historical charm of Jack London Park in Oakland, a perfect escape for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Preservation Park
1.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Preservation Park, a historic memorial park in Downtown Oakland, perfect for relaxation and cultural reflection.
Unmissable attractions to see
Camron-Stanford House
0.1 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the Camron-Stanford House, a captivating museum and historical landmark in Oakland, California.
Oakland Museum of California
0.2 km
Explore California's art, history, and natural science at this Oakland museum, a vibrant cultural hub showcasing the state's diverse stories and heritage.
Lake Merritt
0.5 km
Unwind at Lake Merritt in Oakland, California, where nature meets urban charm, offering scenic views, recreational activities, and vibrant wildlife.
Remembrance is Power Mural
0.5 km
A vibrant Oakland mural honoring influential artists and community leaders, fostering remembrance and inspiring future generations.
Snow Park
0.7 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of Snow Park in Downtown Oakland, a perfect urban getaway for nature lovers and families alike.
Bonsai Garden
0.7 km
Discover a tranquil oasis of miniature trees at the Bonsai Garden, a unique living art museum in Oakland's Lakeside Park. Free admission!
The Gardens at Lake Merritt
0.7 km
Explore the lush landscapes and tranquil beauty of The Gardens at Lake Merritt, a serene escape in the heart of Oakland, California.
Cathedral Building
0.8 km
Discover Oakland's iconic Cathedral Building: a historic Gothic Revival skyscraper with stunning architecture and a vibrant downtown location.
Children's Fairyland
0.8 km
Step into a world of fairy tales and imagination at Children's Fairyland, one of America's first storybook theme parks, located on the beautiful shores of Lake Merritt.
The Jack London Oak
0.8 km
Visit the Jack London Oak in Oakland: a historic tree honoring the famous author and Oakland's vibrant literary past.
Pine Knoll Park
0.9 km
Escape to Pine Knoll Park on Lake Merritt for serene views, relaxing picnics, and a tranquil retreat in the heart of Oakland.
Original Pattern Brewing
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant craft beer culture at Original Pattern Brewing in Oakland, CA, where unique flavors and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Museum of Children's Art
0.9 km
Discover the magic of creativity at the Museum of Children's Art in Oakland, where every child can unleash their artistic potential in a vibrant, interactive environment.
Old Oakland Farmers' Market
0.9 km
Explore the Old Oakland Farmers' Market for fresh produce, delicious street food, and unique artisan crafts every Friday in the heart of Oakland.
The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment - (The MADE)
0.9 km
Discover the intersection of art and technology at The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment, where interactive exhibits bring digital creativity to life.
Essential places to dine
The Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill
0.2 km
Experience fresh seafood with breathtaking lakeside views at The Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill in Oakland.
Town Fare by Chef Michele McQueen
0.3 km
Experience delightful dishes crafted from local ingredients at Town Fare by Chef Michele McQueen in Oakland's Civic Center.
Dinner House
0.5 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Dinner House in Downtown Oakland – where every meal tells a story of flavor and community.
Shan Dong
0.6 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Shan Dong in Oakland - a culinary gem offering diverse Asian dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Ming's Tasty
0.6 km
Experience authentic Cantonese cuisine at Ming's Tasty, Downtown Oakland’s favorite spot for delicious dumplings and Asian fusion delights.
Peony Seafood Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience the best of Cantonese cuisine at Peony Seafood Restaurant in Oakland, featuring exquisite dim sum and fresh seafood delights.
Sobre Mesa
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Caribbean and Latin American flavors at Sobre Mesa in Downtown Oakland – where every dish tells a story.
Gum Kuo
0.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of China at Gum Kuo, Oakland's beloved spot for authentic and affordable Chinese cuisine.
Parlour
0.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of Italian cuisine and Californian flavors at Parlour in Downtown Oakland.
Oakland Street Food Co.
0.7 km
Explore diverse culinary delights at Oakland Street Food Co., where fusion meets flavor in the heart of Downtown Oakland.
New Gold Medal Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience vibrant flavors and authentic dishes at New Gold Medal Restaurant in Downtown Oakland – a true gem for Chinese cuisine lovers.
Chop Bar
0.8 km
Discover Chop Bar in Oakland - where American comfort food meets vibrant cocktails in a welcoming waterfront setting.
Portal
0.8 km
Discover Portal in Oakland: where inventive brunch meets inviting ambiance for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Iron & Oak Restaurant and Bar
0.8 km
Discover Iron & Oak Restaurant: A Culinary Delight in Downtown Oakland Offering American and Californian Cuisine with Craft Cocktails.
Saucy Oakland
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant tastes of Pan Asian cuisine at Saucy Oakland – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Queen Hippie Gypsy
0.5 km
Explore spiritual supplies and holistic wellness at Queen Hippie Gypsy, a mystical gem in Downtown Oakland offering crystals, incense, and more.
Exotic Gift Shop
0.5 km
Explore the Exotic Gift Shop in Downtown Oakland for unique souvenirs and local treasures that embody the spirit of the region.
I Tone
0.5 km
Explore the charm of I Tone, a gift shop in Downtown Oakland offering unique local treasures and artisan creations for every traveler.
B&Q Shop
0.5 km
Explore B&Q Shop in Downtown Oakland for trendy women's clothing and a unique shopping experience that reflects the city's vibrant fashion scene.
Milam Gift Shop
0.6 km
Explore Milam Gift Shop in Downtown Oakland for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the city's vibrant culture.
Oakland Chinese Book Store
0.6 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage at Oakland Chinese Book Store, a hidden gem for literature lovers in Downtown Oakland.
House of Fortune
0.6 km
Explore the serene House of Fortune in Oakland, a unique gift shop and Buddhist temple offering cultural treasures and a tranquil atmosphere.
ChinaVille
0.7 km
Explore the exquisite chinaware and unique gifts at ChinaVille, Downtown Oakland’s premier cultural and shopping destination.
Elegant Studio & Boutique
0.7 km
Explore the unique offerings of Elegant Studio & Boutique, a stylish shopping haven in the vibrant heart of Downtown Oakland.
Oaklandish
0.8 km
Explore Oaklandish for unique gifts and clothing that celebrate the vibrant culture of Oakland, California.
Oakland gift and smoke shop
0.8 km
Explore the vibrant Oakland Gift and Smoke Shop for unique clothing and accessories that embody the local culture and creativity.
Fonzie's Artisanal Goods
0.9 km
Explore Fonzie's Artisanal Goods for unique, locally crafted gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Downtown Oakland.
Book/Shop
0.9 km
Discover a literary gem in Downtown Oakland at Book/Shop, where a curated selection of books and friendly staff await every visitor.
Uptown Station
1.0 km
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Proper Fashions Boutique
1.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard
0.2 km
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The Kon-Tiki
0.5 km
Experience a tropical oasis in Downtown Oakland at The Kon-Tiki, where exotic cocktails and vibrant ambiance create unforgettable memories.
Spice Monkey Restaurant & Bar
0.6 km
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19th Street Station
0.7 km
Explore the lively cocktail culture at 19th Street Station, Downtown Oakland's go-to spot for crafted drinks and an inviting atmosphere.
The Hatch Oakland
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oakland at The Hatch, a lively bar offering a diverse drink selection and an inviting atmosphere.
Bar 355
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar 355, Oakland's premier cocktail bar, offering innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Lounge Chinatown
0.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional Chinese flavors and contemporary lounge vibes at Lounge Chinatown in Downtown Oakland.
DREXL
0.8 km
Discover DREXL in Downtown Oakland, a lively bar offering creative cocktails and an electric atmosphere perfect for any night out.
Hello Stranger
0.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and creative cocktails at Hello Stranger, Oakland's vibrant bar perfect for a night out with friends.
Bar Shiru
0.9 km
Experience the art of cocktail making at Bar Shiru, Oakland's premier cocktail bar, where unique flavors and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Cafe Van Kleef
0.9 km
Experience the eclectic charm and lively nightlife at Cafe Van Kleef, a must-visit cocktail bar in Downtown Oakland.
The Miranda
0.9 km
Discover The Miranda, a lively cocktail bar in Downtown Oakland, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await your visit.
The Punchdown Wine Bar + Bottle Shop
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant taste of California wines at The Punchdown Wine Bar + Bottle Shop in Downtown Oakland, where every sip tells a story.
Everything But Hugs & Kisses
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oakland at Everything But Hugs & Kisses, where great food, strong drinks, and sports come together.
First Edition
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at First Edition in Downtown Oakland, where exquisite cocktails meet electrifying dance vibes.
