Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon
Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon: A Historic Gem in Oakland
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.
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A brief summary to Jack London Square
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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Getting There
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Local tips
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Check the event calendar for outdoor movies, live music, and festivals, especially during the summer months.
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Visit Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon, a historic bar with a unique, leaning structure and a connection to Jack London.
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Take a walk along the waterfront for views of the Oakland Estuary and the chance to see massive container ships.
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Consider taking the San Francisco Bay Ferry for a scenic ride to San Francisco.
Discover more about Jack London Square
Jack London Square, located on the Oakland waterfront, is a vibrant mixed-use area named after the celebrated author Jack London, who spent much of his childhood in this very neighborhood. The area, owned by the Port of Oakland, blends maritime history with modern attractions, offering something for everyone.
Originally a warehouse and industrial district in the mid-1800s, the area transformed into a bustling entertainment hub by the 1950s. Today, visitors can explore a variety of restaurants, shops, hotels, and entertainment venues. A piece of Jack London's original Klondike cabin stands as a tribute to his adventurous spirit, alongside Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon, a historic landmark he frequented.
Enjoy waterfront views, stroll along the boardwalk, or catch a ferry to San Francisco. With regular events, including outdoor movie nights and live music, there's always something happening at Jack London Square. The USS Potomac, Franklin D. Roosevelt's former presidential yacht, is also moored nearby, offering tours for history enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Jack London Square
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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