Jack London Square: Oakland's Waterfront Gem
Explore Oakland's historic waterfront at Jack London Square: dining, events, and maritime charm await!
Jack London Square, named after the famous author, is a vibrant waterfront district in Oakland offering a mix of dining, recreation, and historical charm. With stunning views of the Oakland Estuary and a lively atmosphere, it's a destination for locals and tourists alike.
A brief summary to Jack London Square
- 472 Water St, Oakland, California, 94607, US
- +1510-645-9292
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the event calendar for outdoor movies, live music, and festivals, especially during the summer months.
- Visit Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon, a historic bar with a unique, leaning structure and a connection to Jack London.
- Take a walk along the waterfront for views of the Oakland Estuary and the chance to see massive container ships.
- Consider taking the San Francisco Bay Ferry for a scenic ride to San Francisco.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From 12th Street Oakland City Center BART station, several bus lines (12, O, 72, 72M, 72R) will take you to Jack London Square. Get off at Embarcadero W & Franklin St or Broadway & 3rd St, both a short walk to the square. AC Transit local fares are typically around $2.50. Alternatively, take Amtrak to the Oakland-Jack London Square station, located directly in the square.
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Walking
From downtown Oakland (e.g., near City Hall), Jack London Square is a pleasant 15-20 minute walk south along Broadway. Follow Broadway until it ends at the waterfront. The walk is mostly flat and offers views of the city and the estuary.
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Ride Share
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide convenient access to Jack London Square. A ride from downtown Oakland typically costs $10-$15, depending on traffic and demand. Simply enter 'Jack London Square' as your destination.
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Parking
Several parking garages and lots are available in and around Jack London Square. Rates vary, but expect to pay around $3.00 for the first hour and $1.00 for each additional 30 minutes, with a 12-hour maximum of $16.00. Some garages offer validated parking with purchases from local businesses. Monthly parking options are also available.
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Ferry
The Oakland Alameda Ferry offers service to Jack London Square from San Francisco. Check the schedule for departure times and fares, which typically range from $7-10 for a one-way trip. The ferry terminal is located right on the waterfront in Jack London Square.
Discover more about Jack London Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Embrace
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Visit Oakland
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Port of Oakland
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Jack London Park
0.4 km
Explore the scenic beauty and historical charm of Jack London Park in Oakland, a perfect escape for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Chinese Garden Park
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8th St & Broadway
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Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce
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Oakland Marriott City Center
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Wilma Chan Park (formerly Madison Square Park)
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Lincoln Square Park
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Alameda County Historical Society
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Preservation Park
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Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
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Oakland City Hall
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First Unitarian Church of Oakland
1.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Jack London Statue
0.1 km
Commemorating Jack London's adventurous life and literary legacy in the heart of Oakland's waterfront.
Jack London's Cabin
0.2 km
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Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon
0.2 km
Experience the rich history and lively atmosphere of Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon in Oakland's Jack London Square.
USNS John Glenn
0.5 km
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
0.9 km
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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.
Estuary Park
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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
1.2 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.
Pardee Home Museum
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The Jack London Oak
1.3 km
Visit the Jack London Oak in Oakland: a historic tree honoring the famous author and Oakland's vibrant literary past.
Oakland Museum of California
1.3 km
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African American Museum and Library at Oakland
1.4 km
Explore the rich history and culture of African Americans in California and the West at this Oakland treasure.
Oakland History Center
1.4 km
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Remembrance is Power Mural
1.5 km
A vibrant Oakland mural honoring influential artists and community leaders, fostering remembrance and inspiring future generations.
Essential places to dine
Scott's Seafood Grill & Bar
0.0 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning waterfront views at Scott's Seafood Grill & Bar in Oakland.
Forge Pizza
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Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine
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Left Bank Brasserie
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Yoshi's
0.3 km
Discover Yoshi's in Oakland: where exquisite Japanese cuisine meets vibrant jazz entertainment in a stunning waterfront setting.
The Fat Lady Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Fat Lady Bar & Restaurant in Oakland's Produce and Waterfront district.
Oakland Grill
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Chop Bar
0.7 km
Discover Chop Bar in Oakland - where American comfort food meets vibrant cocktails in a welcoming waterfront setting.
New Gold Medal Restaurant
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Saucy Oakland
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understory oakland
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NIDO's BackYard
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District Oakland
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The Cook and Her Farmer
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Gum Kuo
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Narrative
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H way gift shop
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Elegant Studio & Boutique
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ChinaVille
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Book/Shop
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Oakland Chinese Book Store
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Fonzie's Artisanal Goods
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I Tone
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B&Q Shop
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House of Fortune
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Milam Gift Shop
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Proper Fashions Boutique
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Queen Hippie Gypsy
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Exotic Gift Shop
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Oaklandish
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Plank
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Merchants' Saloon
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Sláinte Irish Pub Oakland
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Elbo Room Jack London
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Seawolf Public House
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Oeste - Bar
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Lounge Chinatown
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Binny's Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
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Penelope
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Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard
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The Kon-Tiki
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The Hatch Oakland
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Bar Shiru
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Cafe Van Kleef
1.5 km
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Spice Monkey Restaurant & Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Summer Bar & Lounge
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Parliament Event Venue
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Lux Oakland
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Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Oakland at Lux Oakland, where stylish ambiance and dynamic music create an unforgettable experience.
Level 13 Ultra Lounge
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New Karibbean City
1.3 km
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Qué Rico Nightclub
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Qué Rico Nightclub, Oakland's premier gay bar and nightclub, offering great food, drinks, and unforgettable parties.
Ruby Room
1.4 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at The Ruby Room in Oakland, where stylish decor meets delicious drinks and unforgettable memories.
Fluid510
1.5 km
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Torch Oakland Rooftop Bar
1.5 km
Experience breathtaking city views and vibrant nightlife at Torch Oakland Rooftop Bar - a perfect blend of style, drinks, and atmosphere.
The Legionnaire Saloon
2.2 km
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Thee Stork Club
2.3 km
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AU Lounge
2.5 km
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Eli's Mile High Club
3.6 km
Experience the soulful sounds and delicious bites at Eli's Mile High Club, Oakland's premier blues venue and bar & grill.
Kona Club
4.8 km
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La Frontera Night Club
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Frontera Night Club in Oakland, featuring live music, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere.
