Cathedral Building: Oakland's Gothic Gem

Discover Oakland's iconic Cathedral Building: a historic Gothic Revival skyscraper with stunning architecture and a vibrant downtown location.

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Cathedral Building

The Cathedral Building, a striking Gothic Revival skyscraper built in 1914, stands at the intersection of Broadway and Telegraph in Oakland. Originally named the Federal Realty Building, its unique architecture and terra cotta spires have earned it the nickname 'Wedding Cake'. Today, it houses offices and residences, a testament to its enduring appeal.

A brief summary to Cathedral Building

1615 Broadway, Oakland, Downtown Oakland, California, 94612, US
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Local tips

Visit during the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Explore the nearby shops, cafes, and art galleries for a complete Downtown Oakland experience.
Admire the Zio Ziegler mural on the building's north-facing wall, commemorating the signing of the United Nations Charter.

Getting There

Public Transport

The Cathedral Building is easily accessible by public transportation. From the 19th Street BART station, walk south on Broadway for about two blocks. The building will be on your right. AC Transit also provides frequent bus service to the area. Several bus lines stop near the intersection of Broadway and Telegraph. A single ride on AC Transit costs $2.10. Clipper cards are accepted on both BART and AC Transit.
Walking

From Jack London Square, head east on Broadway for approximately 0.8 miles. You'll pass various shops and restaurants along the way. The Cathedral Building will be on your left-hand side at 1615 Broadway. The walk should take about 15-20 minutes.
Parking

Several parking garages are located near the Cathedral Building. The Kaiser Plaza lot at 325 22nd St is about a 3-minute walk away and charges around $9. Street parking may also be available, but it can be limited and metered. Parking rates at the Cathedral of Christ the Light garage are $6 per hour, with a $16 daily maximum on weekdays and a $5 flat rate on weekends.

Discover more about Cathedral Building

The Cathedral Building, located at 1615 Broadway in Oakland, is a captivating historical landmark that showcases a unique blend of Gothic Revival and Beaux-Arts architectural styles. Designed by Benjamin Geer McDougall and completed in 1914, it was originally known as the Federal Realty Building. Its distinctive appearance, featuring delicate terra cotta spires, led to its popular nickname, the 'Cathedral Building'. Some locals also call it the 'Wedding Cake' due to its ornate details. Standing twelve stories high, the Cathedral Building was the first Gothic Revival skyscraper west of the Mississippi River. Its narrow, triangular shape is a result of its location on Latham Square, where Telegraph Avenue branches off from Broadway, resembling New York's Flatiron Building. The building's facade is adorned with intricate stonework and large arched windows, creating a striking visual impact. Over the years, the Cathedral Building has witnessed Oakland's evolution, serving various purposes. The ground floor has housed a variety of businesses, including a Doggie Diner in the 1960s and 70s. In 2008, the building was renovated to include residential and commercial units. In 2015, artist Zio Ziegler created a mural on the building's north-facing wall commemorating the signing of the United Nations Charter in San Francisco. The Cathedral Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and designated an Oakland landmark in 1983.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Frank H. Ogawa Plaza

0.2 km

Explore Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Oakland's vibrant city park, a hub of culture, art, and community events in the heart of downtown.

Oakland City Hall

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Explore the stunning architecture and vibrant culture at Oakland City Hall, a historic landmark in the heart of Downtown Oakland, California.

Remember Them

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Explore the inspiring Remember Them landmark in Oakland, a tribute to courage and resilience through powerful art and history.

Oakland Marriott City Center

0.5 km

Discover comfort and convenience at the Oakland Marriott City Center, your ideal destination for business and leisure in Downtown Oakland.

First Unitarian Church of Oakland

0.6 km

Discover serenity and community at the First Unitarian Church of Oakland, a historic site of worship and inclusivity in the heart of the city.

Preservation Park

0.6 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Preservation Park, a historic memorial park in Downtown Oakland, perfect for relaxation and cultural reflection.

Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce

0.6 km

Explore the vibrant Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, a cultural hub celebrating rich traditions and local businesses in the heart of Oakland.

Lincoln Square Park

0.7 km

Experience the tranquility of Lincoln Square Park in Downtown Oakland, a perfect urban retreat for relaxation and recreation.

Alameda County Historical Society

0.7 km

Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Alameda County at the Alameda County Historical Society in Oakland, California.

8th St & Broadway

0.7 km

Discover the vibrant intersection of 8th St & Broadway in Downtown Oakland, where culture, cuisine, and community converge in a lively urban atmosphere.

Wilma Chan Park (formerly Madison Square Park)

1.0 km

Discover Wilma Chan Park, an urban oasis in Downtown Oakland offering serene green spaces, walking paths, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Wilma Chan Park (formerly Madison Square Park)

Chinese Garden Park

1.0 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

1.0 km

Experience the tranquil beauty of Lakeside Park in Oakland, California, where nature meets recreation in a picturesque urban setting.

Jack London Park

1.1 km

Explore the scenic beauty and historical charm of Jack London Park in Oakland, a perfect escape for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.

Jack London Square

1.3 km

Discover the vibrant waterfront of Jack London Square, a cultural gem in Oakland showcasing dining, shopping, and rich history.

Unmissable attractions to see

Fox Theater

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Experience the grandeur of Oakland's Fox Theater, a beautifully restored movie palace turned premier concert hall, showcasing world-class performances in a historic and opulent setting.

The Jack London Oak

0.2 km

Visit the Jack London Oak in Oakland: a historic tree honoring the famous author and Oakland's vibrant literary past.

Henry J. Kaiser Memorial Park

0.3 km

A downtown Oakland park honoring champions of humanity with the 'Remember Them' monument, featuring civil rights icons.

Remembrance is Power Mural

0.3 km

A vibrant Oakland mural honoring influential artists and community leaders, fostering remembrance and inspiring future generations.

Museum of Children's Art

0.4 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.

Paramount Theatre Oakland

0.4 km

Discover the iconic Paramount Theatre in Oakland - a stunning venue for live performances, classic films, and rich architectural history.

Snow Park

0.5 km

Experience the tranquility and beauty of Snow Park in Downtown Oakland, a perfect urban getaway for nature lovers and families alike.

African American Museum and Library at Oakland

0.5 km

Explore the rich history and culture of African Americans in California and the West at this Oakland treasure.

African American Museum and Library at Oakland

The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment - (The MADE)

0.6 km

Discover the intersection of art and technology at The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment, where interactive exhibits bring digital creativity to life.

The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment - (The MADE)

Old Oakland Farmers' Market

0.6 km

Explore the Old Oakland Farmers' Market for fresh produce, delicious street food, and unique artisan crafts every Friday in the heart of Oakland.

Pardee Home Museum

0.7 km

Discover the Victorian charm and historical significance of the Pardee Home Museum in Oakland, a gem for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

The Cathedral of Christ the Light

0.8 km

Discover the architectural splendor and spiritual tranquility of the Cathedral of Christ the Light in Oakland, a must-see destination for every traveler.

Oakland History Center

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Explore Oakland and the East Bay's past through extensive collections at the Oakland History Center.

Children's Fairyland

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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.

Camron-Stanford House

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Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the Camron-Stanford House, a captivating museum and historical landmark in Oakland, California.

Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Shan Dong in Oakland - a culinary gem offering diverse Asian dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Oakland gift and smoke shop

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Explore the vibrant Oakland Gift and Smoke Shop for unique clothing and accessories that embody the local culture and creativity.

Oaklandish

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Explore Oaklandish for unique gifts and clothing that celebrate the vibrant culture of Oakland, California.

Uptown Station

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Discover the eclectic shopping and dining experience at Uptown Station, a vibrant shopping mall in Downtown Oakland that reflects the city's unique spirit.

Exotic Gift Shop

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Explore the Exotic Gift Shop in Downtown Oakland for unique souvenirs and local treasures that embody the spirit of the region.

Proper Fashions Boutique

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Explore the latest trends at Proper Fashions Boutique, where unique styles and personalized service create the perfect shopping experience in Downtown Oakland.

Queen Hippie Gypsy

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Explore spiritual supplies and holistic wellness at Queen Hippie Gypsy, a mystical gem in Downtown Oakland offering crystals, incense, and more.

Milam Gift Shop

0.4 km

Explore Milam Gift Shop in Downtown Oakland for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the city's vibrant culture.

House of Fortune

0.5 km

Explore the serene House of Fortune in Oakland, a unique gift shop and Buddhist temple offering cultural treasures and a tranquil atmosphere.

14th Stop & Shop

0.6 km

Experience convenience and comfort at 14th Stop & Shop in Downtown Oakland, your essential stop for snacks and necessities.

Fonzie's Artisanal Goods

0.6 km

Explore Fonzie's Artisanal Goods for unique, locally crafted gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Downtown Oakland.

I Tone

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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

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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.

Book/Shop

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Discover a literary gem in Downtown Oakland at Book/Shop, where a curated selection of books and friendly staff await every visitor.

Oakland Chinese Book Store

0.7 km

Explore the rich cultural heritage at Oakland Chinese Book Store, a hidden gem for literature lovers in Downtown Oakland.

McMullen

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Experience contemporary women's fashion at McMullen, Oakland's premier boutique, showcasing unique designer collections in a stylish setting.

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Penelope, a trendy bar and cocktail lounge in Downtown Oakland, perfect for relaxation and socializing.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Cathedral Building: Oakland's Gothic Gem

A brief summary to Cathedral Building

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Parking

Unlock the Best of Cathedral Building

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Cathedral Building

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Frank H. Ogawa Plaza

Oakland City Hall

Remember Them

Oakland Marriott City Center

First Unitarian Church of Oakland

Preservation Park

Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce

Lincoln Square Park

Alameda County Historical Society

8th St & Broadway

Wilma Chan Park (formerly Madison Square Park)

Chinese Garden Park

Lakeside Park

Jack London Park

Jack London Square

Unmissable attractions to see

Fox Theater

The Jack London Oak

Henry J. Kaiser Memorial Park

Remembrance is Power Mural

Museum of Children's Art

Paramount Theatre Oakland

Snow Park

African American Museum and Library at Oakland

The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment - (The MADE)

Old Oakland Farmers' Market

Pardee Home Museum

The Cathedral of Christ the Light

Oakland History Center

Children's Fairyland

Camron-Stanford House

Essential places to dine

Sobre Mesa

Duende

Curry Up Now

Parlour

Shinmai

Oakland Street Food Co.

Clove and Hoof

Dinner House

Hopscotch Catering & Takeout

Iron & Oak Restaurant and Bar

Agave Uptown

Peony Seafood Restaurant

Gum Kuo

Rio California

Shan Dong

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Oakland gift and smoke shop

Oaklandish

Uptown Station

Exotic Gift Shop

Proper Fashions Boutique

Queen Hippie Gypsy

Milam Gift Shop

House of Fortune

14th Stop & Shop

Fonzie's Artisanal Goods

I Tone

B&Q Shop

Book/Shop

Oakland Chinese Book Store

McMullen

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Cafe Van Kleef

Bar Shiru

Everything But Hugs & Kisses