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City in California, United States
Photo: Joe Parks from Berkeley, CA, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Oakland is a port city in the Bay Area of California in the United States. Once an industrial area overshadowed by San Francisco, its larger neighbor to the west, this city of 440,000 people (2020) has begun to step out from under San Francisco's shadow with its notable natural and architectural features and its rise as the multicultural "hipster" city of the Bay Area.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
This is a beautiful building, one of the libraries donated by Andrew Carnegie, and its exterior merits a look before or after you visit the interior. The museum is on the second floor. Some of the temporary exhibits are quite worthwhile, and the permanent exhibits, which tell the black history of Oakland in text, pictures, and videotaped interviews, are really well done. Check the AAMLO web site for information on special exhibits, programs and events, such as an African American walking tour of downtown Oakland.
Opened in August 2000, the Center is a state-of-the-art science and technology education facility on a 13-acre site in the hills of Oakland. Visitors can watch planetarium shows and/or Megadome movies, simulate space missions in the Challenger Learning Center, explore a variety of changing hands-on exhibits and observe the sky through the center's telescopes. In addition, the Science Discovery Lab (for children 7 and under and their parent/guardian) is fantastic. Discounts for first Fridays of the month, during evening hours.
The MADE
A museum dedicated to the entire history of video games, from the days of Pong and Donkey Kong to their own VR rig, available to the public. Arcade games, consoles, PC games, imports, big screens - whatever your age or your interests, there's always something to see and do.
Civilian and military aircraft both large and small, even the Flying Boat. Flight simulators, flight lessons, even open cockpit days make this stop in Oakland Airport's old North Terminal a memorable one for anyone interested in flying or the history of aviation.
A startlingly good museum dedicated to the art, history, and culture of California. The building itself is an admirable piece of architecture, and the exhibits are almost uniformly excellent and engaging. Free for everyone on the first Sunday of each month. One thing to know is that the concrete construction of the building blocks cell signals, so be aware that you will likely lose contact for your stay in the museum.
With branches in neighborhoods throughout the city (check their website for specific branch locations and hours), the Oakland Public Library hosts numerous public events that make use of their facilities and vast resources.
The mission of the Oakland Zoo is to inspire respect for and stewardship of the natural world, while providing a quality visitor experience. At the Oakland Zoo, you can explore together, learn together, and have fun together.
The home of the Pardee family, beginning with a California State Senator in 1868, and made into a museum in 1981. The main attraction is the accumulation of knick-knacks that the family gathered from traveling the world, as well as the history of the family, and the vintage of the house and grounds.
Peralta Hacienda Historical Park
Check website for tour hours and special events. Once headquarters of the Rancho San Antonio Spanish land grant, this six-acre park contains the 1870 Antonio Peralta House and interpretive exhibits, a native plant garden, and changing exhibits on history and culture.
Historic cruises on the bay are available Apr-Oct Th & Sa, while dockside tours run year-round. Book on the website or by phone. The Potomac was built as a Coast Guard cutter, and remodeled as Franklin Delano Roosevelt's presidential yacht in 1936. It served in that role until his death in 1945. In 1941, a fishing trip on the Potomac served as a cover story for Roosevelt's secret meeting with Churchill in Newfoundland waters; this meeting led to the Allied partnership during World War II and eventually to the formation of the United Nations.
Redwood Regional Park
The hills behind the Mormon Temple and to the east of Oakland's bustling streets are home to this, where redwood groves and trees and trails and wildlife help even the most weary traveler forget that a city lies at the elbow of the wilderness. Redwood is just one of a string or regional parks running along the crest of the Oakland Hills. To the north are Huckleberry Botanical Preserve and Sibley Volcanic Regional Park while to the south is Anthony Chabot Regional Park. All have trails that interconnect with Redwood. Renamed in 2019.
The Dunsmuir House
An out of the way large mansion and grounds dating to the sunset of the 19th century, the Dunsmuir House is home to a variety of events year-round, from classic car shows to Scottish Games. Open from March–September.
A beautiful park in the Oakland hills, made up in part of "The Hights", the old estate of California poet Joaquin Miller. The park has some of the few remaining old-growth redwood groves in the East Bay. Lots of hiking and bike-riding opportunities.
A large tidal lagoon that is surrounded by parkland and city neighborhoods. A popular 3.1-mile (5-km) walking and jogging path runs along its perimeter and gives you a warts-and-all picture of Oakland: nature, art, culture, and diversity; gleaming skyscrapers and historic rowhouses; but also occasional run-down sections and visible homeless encampments. The lake was the United States' first official wildlife refuge, designated in 1870. In the winter it's a good place for birdwatching, as birds migrating south from Canada and Alaska use it as a rest stop or a winter home. Look for grebes, pelicans, cormorants, hawks, and various types of ducks.
A peaceful and picturesque oasis of color, near Grand Lake, often a site for weddings. Seven acres of roses, a few benches and quiet, nestled into a residential area. The garden may be reserved after Mother's Day through October 31. Reservations are booked on a first come first serve basis.
A preserved and gated Victorian neighborhood and gardens open to the public (on foot). Popular spot for weddings, and offers space for other events.
One of the best places for birdwatching in Oakland.
An enormous labyrinthine columbarium designed by Julia Morgan, more famous as the architect of Hearst Castle. Hosts the yearly Garden of Memory experimental music festival. Open to the public, but be respectful as this is a burial site.
A modest art gallery focused on the local art, crafts and artists of Oakland, the focus primarily being the urban consciousness of the city.
A commercial fine art gallery that showcases the Bay Area's cultural and social diversity. Also hosts artistic events.
Special events on weekends.
Formerly Vessel Gallery
As the name says, exhibitions from all over the country and the world, focusing on contemporary art.
Large venue that has exhibitions from many local artists.
Locally famous for its boldly yonic design.
A former movie theatre, the Fox was built in 1928. It closed its doors in 1970 and stood empty until 2009, when it reopened as a 1,500-2,800 seat music venue, following a two-year, $75-million renovation. One block from the 19th St BART stop, it is in the heart of Oakland's Uptown neighborhood, which is also being re-named the Arts and Entertainment district.
Live performing artists, DJs and readings abound at this venue a stone's throw away from the Financial District.
Check website for performance dates, venues and tickets.
An improv theater that offers acting classes as well as live comedy performances.
This gorgeous Depression-era theater, completed in 1931, has been completely restored and is maintained in almost mint condition. It's worth just looking at the sculpture, the paintings, even the carpets. Shows include classic movies, concerts, and other live performances.
Free Harbor Tours
The Port of Oakland offers once a month a 90-minute free harbor tour of the Oakland harbor. A free reservation must be made online, reservation opens on the first Monday of each month at 8PM. Harbor tour dates for 2023 are: June 9, July 21, August 11, September 15, October 13.
Four stages worth of live music, in a city with a long history in the arts. Blues, Jazz, Rap, R&B and Indie performances abound.
A celebration of many cultures. Local bands, singers, demonstrations by local acrobats and even the Shao Lin monks, Taiko drumming, Polynesian dance, all reflecting the amazing diversity of Oakland.
A celebration of food and food culture, especially locally-grown ingredients. A combination county fair, food festival and block party, by their own admission.
The Dimond District's answer to Oktoberfest; biergartens, stuff from local breweries and even a root biergarten for those who want to celebrate without alcohol.
The entire length of Piedmont Avenue from West MacArthur Blvd. to Pleasant Valley Ave. including Mountain View Cemetery participates in this event. Trick-or-treating is allowed at many of the stores, pumpkin patches, haunted houses, special movies at Piedmont Theater and so on. Security handled by a local biker group.
An outdoor festival that draws 100,000 people to celebrate Hispanic history and culture in the Fruitvale neighborhood. Live music, family-friendly games, rides and activities, traditional Latin American artisans, and the altar artistic installations created by community members. October 31.
This beautiful Art Deco theater (built in 1926) shows first-run movies. It has a spectacular neon sign that is lit on weekends, and is famous for the ultra-liberal (and sometimes conspiracy-minded) weekly sign proclamations from the theater owner. At Friday and Saturday evening shows, an organist plays standards in the main theater.
A second-run movie theater, the Parkway does not have screens in the traditional sense. Movies are projected at the flat white concrete walls, with large comfy couches to sit on. Best of all, they serve pizza, salads, and beer that you can eat and drink while you watch a movie.
The oldest still-operating theater in Oakland (built in 1917), completely restored and renovated in 2010 shows first-run movies. Saturdays are frequently marked by the showing of art-house and independent films.
Very large theater that shows first run movies, and usually has weekly rebate days that tend to lead to the place being full of kids.
Mixed seasonal hours, almost always open on weekends. Amazing, dynamic playground and destination for children, right on Lake Merritt. Fairyland was one of the earliest themed amusement parks, and was an inspiration for everything from Disneyland to the Jejune Institute. Please note that only adults with children can enter. Make sure you get a Magic Key to activate audio stories on the various displays.
MOCHA
A hands-on art workshop aimed at kids ages 6-15, covering topics like illustration and architecture and sculpture and even DIY art to wear!
Very no-frills burger stop that has all the basics and its own parking lot.
Come for the Wot and Ye Tibs, stay for the honey wine. Try the combo platters. Vegetarian-friendly. Online ordering. Delivery available.
A large menu of Korean delights and excellent service, good if you want noodles or marinated meat or want to do all you can eat. Online reservations. Local parking problematic. Cheaper lunch specials.
A Vietnamese restaurant that does its best to serve 100% vegan and organically-grown dishes on a budget. Online ordering.
Decent to great Cantonese food with fast service, open late. A reasonable option after a late show or club night if you're already downtown. If you like duck, make sure to get some roast duck, and their BBQ pork is equally good. Excellent lobster, too.
Although former California Governor Jerry Brown visited this place during his term as Mayor of Oakland (a framed picture of him and the restaurant owner is proudly displayed), this restaurant has the characteristics of a local, "dirty but delicious" gem. Noodles are made fresh, right in the restaurant. Often crowded with local Chinese, and so when busy one may have to wait a while to get a table.
This is the best restaurant in Chinatown for a mix of Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine. Be sure to order a noodle soup and fish cake (with a sweet and sour salad). Cash only.
Delicious Cambodian food in a quiet, clean, casual room with white tablecloths.
Just as the name implies, spicy Szechuan food and hot pot, home of the Gangsta Casserole. Online ordering. Delivery.
Big portions, low prices. Online ordering.
A small Indian restaurant that delivers. Online ordering.
Small taqueria with low prices and large portions. Try the wet burritos.
A classic French bakery, La Farine is rich in crusty sourdough, flavorful sweet bread, tarts and numerous sweet treats. The sour batard, rustic baguette and morning buns are highly recommended for a first survey of their offerings.
Formerly Nama
A full service Japanese restaurant and sushi bar that is a frequent stop for shoppers at Farmer Joe's. Online ordering.
A little hole-in-the-wall that serves up authentic Salvadorean food at excellent prices.
A small, outdoor patio restaurant that features seafood but has the regular fare of typical Mexican restaurants. Authentically spicy, so make sure you request no salsa or jalapeños if that is your preference. A former burger joint turned-taqueria, this eatery is good for lunch and best enjoyed in fair weather with a refreshing agua fresca, as tables are exclusively on the outdoor patio.
Could be considered the best taco truck in Oakland, with fare that by far surpasses most restaurants. Their burritos are over 12" and unbeatable. Contrary to popular belief, taco trucks (especially this one) are sanitary and often have food as good or better than what one can find in standard restaurants. As there is no place to sit, people eat standing up next to the taco truck, or in their cars. There is a parking lot with free parking.
Authentic Mexican food, best known for its tacos, salsa bar and low prices.
This Fruitvale landmark is a full-service Mexican spot that serves from a gigantic menu that covers everything from simple salads to large seafood platters. There is on-site parking, a full tequila bar, vegetarian-friendly dishes and they even cater. If visiting during the later hours, be judicious.
Native American restaurant owned by a James Beard award finalist (2022) from the Kickapoo Nation, Crystal Wahpepah. The restaurant serves intertribal Native American cuisine, with dishes from the Kickapoo, Lakota, and Navajo nations, among others. There are several options for vegans on the menu. Sometimes gets busy on weekends, so plan ahead and call to see if you need to book a table if you are going then.
A worker-owned bakery well-known for cheap and delicious baked goods and pizza. Pizza is made daily, with only one set of toppings available on a given day. Thankfully, they're all good.
One of the best Japanese restaurants in the Bay Area. Usually a long wait for a table on the weekend.
Great family-run Vietnamese restaurant with good food at good prices, and a ridiculously good beer selection. Local delivery, but it's always better fresh out of the kitchen. Online ordering.
Mexican restaurant serving burritos, tacos, etc. Try the nopal (cactus) tacos or burrito.
A nice, well-decorated little Chinese spot that's good for lunch or dinner. Online ordering.
A spacious, quiet spot with low lights and good service. Vegetarian-friendly. Catering. No substitutions. Online reservations.
An unusual mixture of bowling alley, bocce court, pizza and sandwich restaurant and cocktail bar, all rolled into one.
Large, upscale, seafood restaurant on the waterfront, frequented for wedding receptions and business luncheons. They have a decent happy hour. Old school surf and turf. Full catering. Online reservations. Private space available. Full florist service.
Delicious and authentic no-fuss Chinese food. Good Sichuan-style dishes among others. Come for chewy noodles and tingly-spicy flavors – the specialty is the Chongqing Street Noodle. Like in China, pay when you order, not after you eat.
Victoriana themed restaurant that has been open since 1970. Fine art lines the walls, yet it's casual and fun for a nice dinner out. House made cocktails are delicious, a great wine list. They also have brunch. Banquet services available.
Casual Haitian food. The chef is Haitian, and you might hear snatches of conversation in Kreyòl from the kitchen. Vegetarian and vegan options.
A small Japanese spot that does nightly omakase (chef's choice) with seasonal local ingredients. Reservations recommended. Online reservations.
An avenue institution with lines sometimes out the doors for their great and innovative Baja style seafood and other Mexican food. The fish tacos are legendary and the lobster burritos hit home like nothing else. The portions are big and the prices are reasonable. Try the agua frescas too.
Barney's is a restaurant specializing in every kind of burger, from the simple to the exotic. They have more than just the simple neapolitan trio of flavors for shakes as well, and the same can be said of their fries. Vegetarian, too! Catering services available. Online ordering.
Formerly Doña Tomás
A relocated and newly-themed Mexican place with a polished modern look and a decidedly polished and modern menu. Take-out is available, but from a different door (both are clearly marked).
This hundred-year-old ice cream parlor is a cornerstone of Oakland culture—one of those places that East Bay folks point to as making the region special. The parlor is mentioned in the 2009 Pixar film Up. Huge bowls of ice cream and sundaes of various sorts are served in this always-crowded eatery. Sugar-amped kids roam the aisles all day and into the evening, and although the place attracts a cannabis-enhanced college crowd towards the end of the night, it always has a sweet and wholesome atmosphere. An expensive treat, but the servings are huge. Online reservations. Private parties and full catering available.
A small, simple venue with dim lights and exceptionally friendly and attentive service. Look for the daily specials on sushi and drinks.
A classic French bakery, La Farine is rich in crusty sourdough, flavorful sweet bread, tarts and numerous sweet treats. The sour batard, rustic baguette and morning buns are highly recommended for a first survey of their offerings.
A small sushi house with a wide range of choices for specialty sushi, as well as more standard Japanese fare. Popular with locals, family friendly, and laid back.
Swanky, cramped spot well-known for their sommelier service and often-incredible combination of flavors. Online reservations.
Formerly Bay Wolf
A cozy and well-lit and ventilated place for French-American haute cuisine.
Charming small portion French meals in great ambiance. Online reservations. Private event space available.
Barney's is a restaurant specializing in every kind of burger, from the simple to the exotic. They have more than just the simple neapolitan trio of flavors for shakes as well, and the same can be said of their fries. Vegetarian, too!
A family-friendly Mexican restaurant dedicated to freshness and sustainability while maintaining traditional flavors. Everything at Cactus Taqueria is made from scratch with no artificial ingredients or fillers. Top your taco, burrito, quesadilla, or enchilada with one of the multiple house-made salsas, and cool your mouth with a delicious glass of horchata.
A classic French bakery, La Farine is rich in crusty sourdough, flavorful sweet bread, tarts and numerous sweet treats. The sour batard, rustic baguette and morning buns are highly recommended for a first survey of their offerings.
Well-crafted Ramen bowls with flavorful broth. Typically includes at least one vegetarian option. Excellent cocktail bar. Can be crowded during evenings.
Expansive selection of dishes at affordable prices especially given prompt service, simple and pleasant ambiance, solid wine by the glass list. A weeknight favorite. Seafood items among strongest on menu. Online reservations. Space for large groups.
No one will dispute that Zachary's biggest fans come for their Windy City deep dish pizza (thin crust is also available). Not to be confused with "Sicilian" style, "Stuffed Crust" or other "deep dish" pizzas, Zachary's stuffed pizza starts with a thin layer of fresh made-from-scratch dough in a deep pan filled with a blend of quality cheeses and any combination of fresh ingredients. Another thin layer of dough is then added to cover the filling. The pizza is then topped with a mildly spicy, tangy tomato sauce and is cooked in an oven. This is one of the most popular spots in Oakland, so if you visit on a weekend, be prepared for a long wait. The best way around the crowd, if you aren't planning to dine in, is to call considerably ahead of time and place a take-out order and a window of time for pickup. Online ordering. Third-party online delivery.
Eritrean cuisine served by friendly staff. Tasty vegan options.
Friendly little place well-known for their fish tacos and mix and match frescas.
Local bakery started by a father-son duo with roots in Guadalajara, serving a mix of French viennoiseries and Mexican sweet breads. Conchas meet croissants, including some with fun fillings like mushrooms or pistachios, depending on what's in season. Plenty of plant-based options. Also makes tea and coffee drinks, some with a Mexican twist.
Delicious and affordable Vietnamese cuisine. Some dishes are served by robots.
East Coast style bagels.
Yummy, inventive, and affordable tacos. Good vegan options.
Nice, modern Korean pub, best remembered for their bulgogi and chicken feet.
A cozy restaurant that does proper Burmese cuisine, as well as several Chinese and Thai dishes. Vegan/vegetarian-friendly, no reservations. Catering available.
Delicious Eritrean and Ethiopian food with a couple of twists. Good vegetarian options. Try the honey wine. Reservations recommended.
Popular and well-known local restaurant specializing in macaroni and cheese. You can get a classic, plain mac 'n' cheese or try creative additions like truffles, crab, or jalapeño poppers. Vegan and/or gluten-free mac and cheese is available too. And if not everyone in your group is into the theme, there are also various salads and sides on the menu.
Extensive sushi menu and good service. Has their own private parking lot - a rare sight in Oakland. Online ordering.
Cheap pizza that boasts a delivery area that includes Oakland, Alameda, Emeryville and Albany. Online ordering and delivery.
Vegan, organic, macrobiotic food. But if that sounds like a mouthful, don't worry - it's just simple, fresh, and well-cooked nutritious meals. The food's unprocessed simplicity gives you the feeling that someone could have eaten exactly the same thing hundreds of years ago, and the skillful cooking and seasoning make it surprisingly delicious. The menu has only one dish, a combo of cooked veggies, rice, beans, salad, and soup, but the exact ingredients change twice a day (check the website to see the current offerings). Free herbal tea and Tibetan decor round out the experience.
A small Thai restaurant with simple decor, low prices and a massive menu. Take-out orders welcome.
A little lunch spot not far from the Financial District that does salads, sandwiches and wraps on the cheap. Catering available. Online ordering.
It's in a residential neighborhood. This cozy restaurant that has a flair of Southern Asia flavors. The mix of Vietnamese, Lao, Thai and Mien cuisine makes this restaurant a unique one. Make sure to get an order of Pad Thai.
Ethiopian food served traditionally on injera, with an excellent selection of vegetarian dishes, friendly wait staff and excellent decor. Try the mitten shuro. Full catering services available. Online ordering. Third party online delivery.
Elegant dining room overlooking Lake Merritt. When the weather is warm you can have lunch or happy hour outside on the pier. The food itself (seafood and steaks) is mediocre. The wine list is rather generic, but they do have their own local beer. You can also take a gondola ride around the lake. Online reservations. Space for private parties.
A restaurant to see and be seen. In an old warehouse, it's decorated in funky contemporary art and features a live DJ performing while you enjoy dinner on the weekends. Make a reservation, this place gets out of control busy on the weekends. A mix of small and large plates. Highlights include the ahi tuna sashimi and their house made veggie burger. Online reservations. Space for large parties. Online ordering.
Some of the best Vietnamese food in town, served in a subdued atmosphere. The pho bo and carpaccio are definitely worth trying.
Tasty and beautifully presented diner food in a lively, casual atmosphere. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Very popular, so expect a 15–30 minute wait for a table on the weekend.
Often-visited for their considerable beer list and well-stocked menu.
A local pub that would look at home in nearly any century, with a long list of both local brews and quality imports. Regular live music events. Online ordering for food pickup.
A friendly pub that serves brunch and dinner, in addition to cheese, wine and whiskey.
A standard Irish Pub in Rockridge.
Sing along with pianist Rod Dibble as he plays the oldies. One of the last piano bars in town. Also has decent steaks.
Prohibition-era atmosphere bar with early-20s clientele, reasonable prices.
Artsy bar with live music. Greyhounds are the house drink--their margaritas are good too. Vodka Greyhounds are the default; if you want gin, you must specify.
A neighborhood dive, full of interesting characters behind and above the bar. Allows dogs and food from the outside.
An old-fashioned saloon dating all the way to the 1880s. The building is fashioned out of the remnants of a ship with a bar that tilted from one of the earthquakes and was never repaired. Purported to have been a frequent stop for a young Jack London.
Enjoy a tropical drink in this tiki bar, and lift up the grass skirt on the anatomically correct hula girl statue.
Low lights, tropical and/or pirate decorations and interesting art compliment the wide drinks selection.
A larger bar with a similar ambiance to the Radio Bar (with which it shares an owner), this includes a pool (billiards) room.
Friendly gay bar in North Oakland, beware of the $25 minimum charge when paying with a credit card. Frequent stop for karaoke and live music.
Though they serve sushi and drinks, the real draw is the music - Yoshi's is among the most well-known jazz clubs on the West Coast. Online ticketing available for events.
A chill bar with the aesthetic of a bookstore. The walls are lined with shelves of books for sale, and some visitors play chess at their tables. Popular for a date or for a night out in a calming, friendly atmosphere.
An old-school Italian coffeehouse that does all-day breakfast and desserts right from the old country. Meals can be a little above average, especially dinner.
A nice, friendly little coffee shop and bakery that is in a good spot for having breakfast or lunch inside or outside, depending on the weather. Also has live jazz on Sunday evenings.
A small cafe that specializes in all things chocolate. Relaxing atmosphere, good vegan options.
Formerly Peet's Coffee and Tea
Based in nearby Berkeley, Peet's is an East Bay favorite for coffee, tea and pastries.
An upscale coffeehouse and bakery known best for brunches and hand-made vegan pastries.
Single origin coffees prepared well.
No frills.
In an industrial neighborhood. Free breakfasts. Very clean and professional.
High-speed Internet and pool on a budget. Free shuttle to and from Oakland Airport.
Surprisingly pricey for a budget motel chain.
The hotel offers airport shuttle service for easy access to and from the Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport. Full fitness center. Outdoor pool. Free Internet available throughout the lobby and in all guest rooms. The Bistro serves breakfast, dinner, cocktails and Starbucks coffee.
Steps from BART subway, traveling to San Fran in minutes. Property offers: outdoor pool, fitness center, & 3 meeting rooms.
Waterfront-side executive-class hotel, as the name implies. Choice of waterfront or city view. Complimentary breakfasts and Wi-fi. Full space for meetings and banquets. Free shuttle service to Jack London Square and Oakland Airport.
Airport shuttle service and a swimming pool. Kids under 18 staying in their parents' room stay free.
Good, nice business-class hotel with a lot of amenities.
Waterfront view.
An all-suite, extended stay hotel with fully-equipped kitchens. Complimentary hot breakfast daily, dinner with beer and wine M-Th, and high-speed Internet. Pets allowed, with fee.
Central location. Onsite restaurant, fitness center and heated swimming pool. Access to downtown shuttle system. Paid parking.
Locally owned, friendly no-attitude service and reasonable prices.
A friendly little shop near the bustle of Piedmont Ave, that offers full repair service, regardless of how old your bike is, or how much work it needs.
A not-for-profit DIY bike workshop that also offers classes and programs for cyclists of any level of experience.
Friendly full service bike store and repair shop. Service estimates free, appointments available by phone or email. No weekend appointments.
Used bookstore with a Victorian look and shelves full of vintage (and spendy) volumes frequently from the 1930s and earlier.
Local hole-in-the-wall shop in Montclair Village, densely packed with well-curated books and just disorganized enough to be charming. The owner is friendly and knowledgeable, and the offerings range from classics to recent bestsellers, as well as some quality guides to the local area.
A nice not-for-profit used bookstore associated with the Oakland Public Library.
Specialists in books in languages other than English, predominantly French, German and Spanish; selections from many nations.
A branch of the nation's oldest black-owned bookstore, this continues the long-standing tradition. Shelves full of excellent works from authors of color, posters and a consciousness of black history in both Oakland and the country.
A used bookstore with a somewhat Victorian look, and a focus primarily but not exclusively on psychology, philosophy and the occult.
Formerly Pendragon Books
Once a friendly neighborhood used book store, now a trendy hipster chain used book store.
A small but well-organized used book store that has a variety of subjects available and even sells used DVDs and VHS tapes as well as local postcards.
A large used book store with friendly staff and an absolutely amazing selection.
Friendly little store with a wide variety of new vinyl.
Old-fashioned record and CD nook - stacked high with boxes of LPs.
Neat hole in the wall store with a surprisingly wide selection of vinyl and nothing else.
Eclectic thrift shop with a focus on art supplies. You'll find typical thrift shop buys like dishes and books as well as extensive arrays of yarn, fabric, magazines, office supplies, tools and all manner of arts and crafts materials. And then there are the more eccentric items: X-ray sheets, dental molds, bottle caps, zippers, old keys, barrels of corks priced by the pound.... Founded in 1979, the Depot is run by a non-profit with the twin goals of reducing community waste and providing low-cost supplies to artists and teachers.
Oakland-themed clothing and other local souvenirs. In addition to its downtown branch, Oaklandish has a branch at 3419 Fruitvale Avenue in the Dimond District and one at 601 Brush Street in West Oakland. Some of their products are also sold at Oakland Airport.
Charming shop with a wide range of high-quality spices, herbs, and seasonings, from standards like sage and oregano to specialty products like long pepper and Cypriot lemon salt. Also has a selection of teas, hot sauces, syrups, and other high-end cooking ingredients. There are samples for you to smell as you peruse the shelves, and the friendly staff can give you recipe cards tailored to specific spices.
JLS's mix of gentrification, working warehouses, and tourism make it a place to find pricey and stylish restaurants that give San Francisco a run for its money. You'll also find some off beat and interesting fusion restaurants, too.
An apartment complex and shopping center at the heart of Chinatown.
Home to the area's largest Safeway, this shopping center is about halfway between Rockridge and Piedmont Ave. and is frequented by residents from both. Ignore the grim look of the fenced-off parking lot; the mall itself is small but thriving. The Starbucks has nice views of the old quarry nearby.
A friendly little strip-mall that makes a good starting point for those exploring or navigating the neighborhood.
By train
Amtrak, the United States' main train operator, has a few lines that stop in Oakland.
By car
From San Francisco, Interstate 80 east leads over the beautiful Bay Bridge to I-580, I-880, and I-980, which go respectively to east, west, and downtown Oakland.
By bus
The West Oakland BART Station is also the bus stop location for the following intercity bus lines in Oakland:
By ferry
The San Francisco Bay Ferry has departures from both Pier 41 and the Ferry Building in San Francisco. Its Oakland terminal is at the foot of Clay St.
Transit payment
All transit agencies allow for payment by credit or debit card or by the local Clipper transit card. See Bay Area public transit for more details.
By bicycle
Oakland has a wide and increasing infrastructure of bicycle lanes. If you need a bike, rental shops are close to nonexistent (but try Sports Basement in Berkeley).
By bus
By car
Unlike the often-tightly packed and crowded streets of nearby San Francisco, many locations of Oakland are much more friendly to cars.
By subway
By taxi
Taxi services in Oakland tend to be a very mixed experience. Prices tend to be high, and even the more reliable taxi companies can be very hit and miss for reliability and prompt response time.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
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