Oakland Museum of California (OMCA)
Explore California's art, history, and natural science at this Oakland museum, a vibrant cultural hub showcasing the state's diverse stories and heritage.
The Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is an interdisciplinary museum dedicated to the art, history, and natural science of California, located in the heart of Oakland. With over 1.9 million objects, OMCA tells the extraordinary stories of California and its people, from its natural landscapes to its culture of creativity and innovation.
A brief summary to Oakland Museum of California
- 1000 Oak St, Oakland, Civic Center, California, 94607, US
- +1510-318-8400
- Visit website
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-9 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free general admission to OMCA's core galleries and discounted special exhibition tickets.
- Take advantage of free, on-street bike parking available outside the Oak Street entrance.
- Check the OMCA website for information about special programs and after-hours offerings.
Getting There
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Public Transport
OMCA is conveniently located one block from the Lake Merritt BART station. From the station, walk south on Oak Street between 8th and 9th streets. The museum will be on your left at the corner of Oak and 10th Street. BART fares vary depending on the distance traveled; consult the BART website for fare information. AC Transit also serves OMCA with multiple bus lines. Check the AC Transit website or use the 511.org trip planner for schedules and fares.
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Walking
From the Lake Merritt area, head west on 12th Street towards the Oakland Museum of California. Turn right onto Oak Street, and walk one block to 10th Street. The museum's main entrance is located at 1000 Oak Street. Alternatively, you can enter through the Lakeside entrance at 12th Street and Lake Merritt Boulevard. Walking is free.
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Driving
The Oakland Museum of California is located at 1000 Oak Street, between downtown Oakland and Lake Merritt. From I-880, exit at Oak Street and follow the signs to the museum. From Highway 24, get on 980 West/Downtown Oakland. Take the Jackson Street exit (you will be on 5th Street). Continue straight on 5th Street to the third stoplight (Oak Street). Turn left and continue on Oak to 10th Street. Parking is available in the OMCA garage at 1000 Oak Street, with entrances on Oak and 12th Streets. Parking fees are $5 per hour, with an early-bird discounted flat rate of $20 (in before 10 am, out before 5 pm). Additional parking is available at the Alco Parking Garage located at 165 13th Street at Jackson Street.
Discover more about Oakland Museum of California
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wilma Chan Park (formerly Madison Square Park)
0.3 km
Discover Wilma Chan Park, an urban oasis in Downtown Oakland offering serene green spaces, walking paths, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Lincoln Square Park
0.5 km
Experience the tranquility of Lincoln Square Park in Downtown Oakland, a perfect urban retreat for relaxation and recreation.
Chinese Garden Park
0.6 km
Explore the tranquil Chinese Garden Park in Oakland, a serene escape with beautiful landscapes, koi ponds, and a touch of cultural heritage.
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.
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 Marriott City Center
0.9 km
Discover comfort and convenience at the Oakland Marriott City Center, your ideal destination for business and leisure in Downtown Oakland.
Lakeside Park
1.0 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Lakeside Park in Oakland, California, where nature meets recreation in a picturesque urban setting.
Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
1.0 km
Explore Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Oakland's vibrant city park, a hub of culture, art, and community events in the heart of downtown.
Jack London Square
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant waterfront of Jack London Square, a cultural gem in Oakland showcasing dining, shopping, and rich history.
Oakland City Hall
1.1 km
Explore the stunning architecture and vibrant culture at Oakland City Hall, a historic landmark in the heart of Downtown Oakland, California.
Jack London Park
1.2 km
Explore the scenic beauty and historical charm of Jack London Park in Oakland, a perfect escape for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.
The Embrace
1.3 km
Discover The Embrace in Oakland, a striking landmark symbolizing unity and community spirit, perfect for reflection and memorable photographs.
Remember Them
1.3 km
Explore the inspiring Remember Them landmark in Oakland, a tribute to courage and resilience through powerful art and history.
Henry J. Kaiser Memorial Park
1.3 km
Discover tranquility and history at Henry J. Kaiser Memorial Park in Oakland, a perfect blend of nature and remembrance.
Jack London Statue
1.3 km
Discover the Jack London Statue in Oakland, a historical landmark celebrating the adventurous spirit of the famed author amidst scenic waterfront views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oakland History Center
0.2 km
Explore Oakland and the East Bay's past through extensive collections at the Oakland History Center.
Camron-Stanford House
0.3 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the Camron-Stanford House, a captivating museum and historical landmark in Oakland, California.
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
0.8 km
A vibrant Oakland mural honoring influential artists and community leaders, fostering remembrance and inspiring future generations.
Original Pattern Brewing
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant craft beer culture at Original Pattern Brewing in Oakland, CA, where unique flavors and a welcoming atmosphere await.
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.
Bonsai Garden
0.9 km
Discover a tranquil oasis of miniature trees at the Bonsai Garden, a unique living art museum in Oakland's Lakeside Park. Free admission!
Snow Park
0.9 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of Snow Park in Downtown Oakland, a perfect urban getaway for nature lovers and families alike.
The Gardens at Lake Merritt
0.9 km
Explore the lush landscapes and tranquil beauty of The Gardens at Lake Merritt, a serene escape in the heart of Oakland, California.
Old Oakland Farmers' Market
1.0 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 Jack London Oak
1.0 km
Visit the Jack London Oak in Oakland: a historic tree honoring the famous author and Oakland's vibrant literary past.
The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment - (The MADE)
1.0 km
Discover the intersection of art and technology at The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment, where interactive exhibits bring digital creativity to life.
Cathedral Building
1.0 km
Discover Oakland's iconic Cathedral Building: a historic Gothic Revival skyscraper with stunning architecture and a vibrant downtown location.
Estuary Park
1.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Estuary Park, an urban oasis in Downtown Oakland with stunning waterfront views and recreational activities for all ages.
Museum of Children's Art
1.0 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.
Essential places to dine
Town Fare by Chef Michele McQueen
0.1 km
Experience delightful dishes crafted from local ingredients at Town Fare by Chef Michele McQueen in Oakland's Civic Center.
The Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill
0.4 km
Experience fresh seafood with breathtaking lakeside views at The Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill in Oakland.
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.
Chop Bar
0.7 km
Discover Chop Bar in Oakland - where American comfort food meets vibrant cocktails in a welcoming waterfront setting.
Dinner House
0.7 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Dinner House in Downtown Oakland – where every meal tells a story of flavor and community.
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.
Gum Kuo
0.8 km
Discover the rich flavors of China at Gum Kuo, Oakland's beloved spot for authentic and affordable Chinese cuisine.
Portal
0.8 km
Discover Portal in Oakland: where inventive brunch meets inviting ambiance for an unforgettable culinary experience.
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.
NIDO's BackYard
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at NIDO's BackYard in Oakland - where culinary delight meets lively outdoor ambiance.
Oakland Street Food Co.
0.9 km
Explore diverse culinary delights at Oakland Street Food Co., where fusion meets flavor in the heart of Downtown Oakland.
Sobre Mesa
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Caribbean and Latin American flavors at Sobre Mesa in Downtown Oakland – where every dish tells a story.
Iron & Oak Restaurant and Bar
0.9 km
Discover Iron & Oak Restaurant: A Culinary Delight in Downtown Oakland Offering American and Californian Cuisine with Craft Cocktails.
Parlour
1.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of Italian cuisine and Californian flavors at Parlour in Downtown Oakland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
I Tone
0.6 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
0.6 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.
Queen Hippie Gypsy
0.7 km
Explore spiritual supplies and holistic wellness at Queen Hippie Gypsy, a mystical gem in Downtown Oakland offering crystals, incense, and more.
Oakland Chinese Book Store
0.7 km
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Exotic Gift Shop
0.7 km
Explore the Exotic Gift Shop in Downtown Oakland for unique souvenirs and local treasures that embody the spirit of the region.
Milam Gift Shop
0.7 km
Explore Milam Gift Shop in Downtown Oakland for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the city's vibrant culture.
ChinaVille
0.7 km
Explore the exquisite chinaware and unique gifts at ChinaVille, Downtown Oakland’s premier cultural and shopping destination.
House of Fortune
0.8 km
Explore the serene House of Fortune in Oakland, a unique gift shop and Buddhist temple offering cultural treasures and a tranquil atmosphere.
Elegant Studio & Boutique
0.8 km
Explore the unique offerings of Elegant Studio & Boutique, a stylish shopping haven in the vibrant heart of Downtown Oakland.
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.
Oaklandish
0.9 km
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Book/Shop
1.0 km
Discover a literary gem in Downtown Oakland at Book/Shop, where a curated selection of books and friendly staff await every visitor.
H way gift shop
1.0 km
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Oakland gift and smoke shop
1.0 km
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LAKE VIEW GIFT SHOP
1.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard
0.2 km
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The Kon-Tiki
0.7 km
Experience a tropical oasis in Downtown Oakland at The Kon-Tiki, where exotic cocktails and vibrant ambiance create unforgettable memories.
Lounge Chinatown
0.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional Chinese flavors and contemporary lounge vibes at Lounge Chinatown in Downtown Oakland.
Spice Monkey Restaurant & Bar
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Spice Monkey Restaurant & Bar, a top spot for food and fun in Downtown Oakland.
Seawolf Public House
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Oakland at Seawolf Public House, where local craft beers meet delicious seasonal dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
The Hatch Oakland
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oakland at The Hatch, a lively bar offering a diverse drink selection and an inviting atmosphere.
19th Street Station
0.9 km
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Bar 355
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar 355, Oakland's premier cocktail bar, offering innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere.
DREXL
1.0 km
Discover DREXL in Downtown Oakland, a lively bar offering creative cocktails and an electric atmosphere perfect for any night out.
Hello Stranger
1.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and creative cocktails at Hello Stranger, Oakland's vibrant bar perfect for a night out with friends.
Bar Shiru
1.1 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
1.1 km
Experience the eclectic charm and lively nightlife at Cafe Van Kleef, a must-visit cocktail bar in Downtown Oakland.
The Miranda
1.1 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
1.1 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
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oakland at Everything But Hugs & Kisses, where great food, strong drinks, and sports come together.
