Discover Oakland: The Heart of East Bay
Experience the vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and stunning waterfront views in Oakland, the heart of California's East Bay.
Nestled along the stunning waterfront, Oakland is a vibrant city that offers a rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for tourists. With its dynamic arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, and easy access to outdoor adventures, visitors will find endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.
A brief summary to Visit Oakland
- 481 Water St, Oakland, Produce and Waterfront, California, 94607, US
- +1510-839-9000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Be sure to check out the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and unique local goods.
- Explore the diverse neighborhoods by using public transport, especially the BART system for convenient access.
- Visit local art galleries during the First Friday Art Walk for a vibrant showcase of Oakland's artistic talent.
- Try the local cuisine; don't miss out on the food trucks offering a variety of international dishes.
- Take advantage of Oakland's beautiful parks, like Lake Merritt, for a relaxing day outdoors.
Getting There
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Public Transit (BART)
If you are near a BART station, take the BART train towards 'Warm Springs/South Fremont' or 'Daly City'. Get off at the 'West Oakland' station. Once you exit the station, head southeast on 7th St towards Mandela Pkwy. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Water St. Turn left onto Water St, and you will find Visit Oakland at 481 Water St.
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Public Transit (Bus)
Find a nearby AC Transit bus stop. You can take bus lines 62 or 26, both of which have stops in the downtown area. If you are taking bus 62, get off at the 'Water St and 5th St' stop. From there, walk east on Water St for about 5 minutes until you reach Visit Oakland at 481 Water St. If you are on bus 26, disembark at 'Water St and 7th St' and walk south on Water St for about 3 minutes.
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Walking
If you are already in the downtown area, you can walk to Visit Oakland. Start at Frank Ogawa Plaza, then head west on 14th St. Turn left onto Broadway, and continue until you reach the intersection with 7th St. Turn right onto 7th St and walk until you reach Water St. Turn left onto Water St, and Visit Oakland will be on your left at 481 Water St.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to cycle, use the bike lanes available throughout Oakland. Start from the downtown area, heading west on 14th St. Then, take a left onto Broadway and continue until you reach 7th St. Turn right on 7th St, and proceed to Water St. Turn left onto Water St. Visit Oakland will be located at 481 Water St. Make sure to follow all bike regulations and use bike racks available near the location.
Discover more about Visit Oakland
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visit Oakland
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Experience the vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and stunning waterfront views in Oakland, the heart of California's East Bay.
The Embrace
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Discover The Embrace in Oakland, a striking landmark symbolizing unity and community spirit, perfect for reflection and memorable photographs.
Port of Oakland
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Explore the Port of Oakland, a bustling maritime hub with stunning waterfront views and rich cultural experiences in the heart of the Bay Area.
Jack London Park
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Explore the scenic beauty and historical charm of Jack London Park in Oakland, a perfect escape for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.
8th St & Broadway
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Discover the vibrant intersection of 8th St & Broadway in Downtown Oakland, where culture, cuisine, and community converge in a lively urban atmosphere.
Chinese Garden Park
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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
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Explore the vibrant Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, a cultural hub celebrating rich traditions and local businesses in the heart of Oakland.
Oakland Marriott City Center
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Discover comfort and convenience at the Oakland Marriott City Center, your ideal destination for business and leisure in Downtown Oakland.
Lincoln Square Park
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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)
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Discover Wilma Chan Park, an urban oasis in Downtown Oakland offering serene green spaces, walking paths, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Alameda County Historical Society
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Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Alameda County at the Alameda County Historical Society in Oakland, California.
Preservation Park
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Preservation Park, a historic memorial park in Downtown Oakland, perfect for relaxation and cultural reflection.
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.
Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
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Explore Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Oakland's vibrant city park, a hub of culture, art, and community events in the heart of downtown.
First Unitarian Church of Oakland
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Discover serenity and community at the First Unitarian Church of Oakland, a historic site of worship and inclusivity in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jack London Square
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Experience the vibrant waterfront atmosphere at Jack London Square, a hub for dining, shopping, and cultural events in Oakland, California.
Jack London's Cabin
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Explore the historical significance of Jack London's Cabin, a literary landmark in Oakland, California, and delve into the life of a legendary author.
Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon
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Experience the rich history and lively atmosphere of Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon in Oakland's Jack London Square.
USNS John Glenn
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Discover the USNS John Glenn in Oakland, CA, a historic naval ship that embodies maritime heritage and innovation, perfect for history enthusiasts and travelers.
Original Pattern Brewing
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Experience the vibrant craft beer culture at Original Pattern Brewing in Oakland, CA, where unique flavors and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Old Oakland Farmers' Market
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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)
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Discover the intersection of art and technology at The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment, where interactive exhibits bring digital creativity to life.
Pardee Home Museum
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Discover the Victorian charm and historical significance of the Pardee Home Museum in Oakland, a gem for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Museum of Children's Art
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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.
Estuary Park
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Experience the serene beauty of Estuary Park in Oakland, a perfect urban retreat for relaxation, recreation, and enjoying nature's wonders.
The Jack London Oak
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Explore the historic Jack London Oak in Downtown Oakland, a majestic tribute to the literary great and a serene escape in the urban landscape.
African American Museum and Library at Oakland
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Discover the rich history and cultural contributions of African Americans at the African American Museum and Library in Oakland, a must-visit for every traveler.
Oakland Museum of California
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Discover California's art, history, and nature at the Oakland Museum of California, a vibrant hub for culture and education in Oakland.
Cathedral Building
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Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Cathedral Building, a must-see landmark in the heart of Oakland, California.
Oakland History Center
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Explore Oakland's history at the Oakland History Center, where past and present intertwine in fascinating exhibits and engaging resources.
Essential places to dine
Scott's Seafood Grill & Bar
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Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning waterfront views at Scott's Seafood Grill & Bar in Oakland.
Yoshi's
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Discover Yoshi's in Oakland: where exquisite Japanese cuisine meets vibrant jazz entertainment in a stunning waterfront setting.
The Fat Lady Bar & Restaurant
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Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Fat Lady Bar & Restaurant in Oakland's Produce and Waterfront district.
Forge Pizza
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Experience the art of pizza making at Forge Pizza in Oakland—where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity in every slice.
Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine
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Savor authentic Thai cuisine at Farmhouse Kitchen in Oakland - where every dish tells a story and every bite is an adventure.
Left Bank Brasserie
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Discover authentic French cuisine and exquisite wines at Left Bank Brasserie in Oakland's vibrant waterfront area.
Oakland Grill
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Experience delightful breakfast and brunch at Oakland Grill, where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality in the heart of California.
Saucy Oakland
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Discover the vibrant tastes of Pan Asian cuisine at Saucy Oakland – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
New Gold Medal Restaurant
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Experience vibrant flavors and authentic dishes at New Gold Medal Restaurant in Downtown Oakland – a true gem for Chinese cuisine lovers.
understory oakland
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Discover unique flavors at Understory Oakland, where tradition meets innovation in a cozy downtown setting.
District Oakland
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Explore District Oakland: A Culinary Gem Offering Exquisite Tapas, Craft Cocktails & An Inviting Atmosphere in Downtown Oakland.
Chop Bar
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Discover Chop Bar in Oakland - where American comfort food meets vibrant cocktails in a welcoming waterfront setting.
The Cook and Her Farmer
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Experience the freshest seafood at The Cook and Her Farmer in Downtown Oakland—where sustainability meets exquisite flavor in every dish.
Gum Kuo
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Discover the rich flavors of China at Gum Kuo, Oakland's beloved spot for authentic and affordable Chinese cuisine.
Peony Seafood Restaurant
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Experience the best of Cantonese cuisine at Peony Seafood Restaurant in Oakland, featuring exquisite dim sum and fresh seafood delights.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Narrative
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Explore Narrative in Oakland for a unique blend of home goods and antiques that capture the spirit of the city.
H way gift shop
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Explore the heart of Oakland at H Way Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local artistry await every visitor.
Elegant Studio & Boutique
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Explore the unique offerings of Elegant Studio & Boutique, a stylish shopping haven in the vibrant heart of Downtown Oakland.
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.
ChinaVille
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Explore the exquisite chinaware and unique gifts at ChinaVille, Downtown Oakland’s premier cultural and shopping destination.
Fonzie's Artisanal Goods
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Explore Fonzie's Artisanal Goods for unique, locally crafted gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Downtown Oakland.
Oakland Chinese Book Store
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Explore the rich cultural heritage at Oakland Chinese Book Store, a hidden gem for literature lovers in 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.
House of Fortune
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Explore the serene House of Fortune in Oakland, a unique gift shop and Buddhist temple offering cultural treasures and a tranquil atmosphere.
Milam Gift Shop
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Explore Milam Gift Shop in Downtown Oakland for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the city's vibrant culture.
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.
Oaklandish
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Explore Oaklandish for unique gifts and clothing that celebrate the vibrant culture of Oakland, California.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Plank
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Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Plank in Oakland, where great food and craft beer meet lively entertainment in a stunning outdoor beer garden.
Sláinte Irish Pub Oakland
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Discover the heart of Ireland in Oakland at Sláinte Irish Pub, where authentic food and drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Merchants' Saloon
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Experience the lively atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails at Merchants' Saloon, Oakland's vibrant cocktail bar.
Elbo Room Jack London
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at Elbo Room Jack London, where live music meets a lively bar atmosphere in the heart of Oakland.
Seawolf Public House
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Oakland at Seawolf Public House, where local craft beers meet delicious seasonal dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Oeste - Bar
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Discover the lively ambiance of Oeste - Bar in Oakland, blending delicious drinks with local flavors and vibrant nightlife for an unforgettable experience.
Binny's Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
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Discover the culinary delights and vibrant nightlife at Binny's Cocktail Bar & Restaurant in Downtown Oakland, where every visit is a celebration of flavor.
Lounge Chinatown
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Experience the perfect blend of traditional Chinese flavors and contemporary lounge vibes at Lounge Chinatown in Downtown Oakland.
Penelope
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Penelope, a trendy bar and cocktail lounge in Downtown Oakland, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
The Kon-Tiki
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Experience a tropical oasis in Downtown Oakland at The Kon-Tiki, where exotic cocktails and vibrant ambiance create unforgettable memories.
Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard
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Discover the lively Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard in Downtown Oakland - a perfect blend of craft drinks, delicious bites, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Hatch Oakland
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oakland at The Hatch, a lively bar offering a diverse drink selection and an inviting atmosphere.
Bar Shiru
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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
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Experience the eclectic charm and lively nightlife at Cafe Van Kleef, a must-visit cocktail bar in Downtown Oakland.
Everything But Hugs & Kisses
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oakland at Everything But Hugs & Kisses, where great food, strong drinks, and sports come together.
