Oakland

Travel Guide

Oakland
Oakland
Oakland
Oakland
Oakland showing modern architecture

Farmers markets, a multicultural culinary scene, stunning art deco architecture and an exciting zoo make Oakland a must-visit location for Bay area visitors.

Visit Oakland to discover one of America’s most beautiful theaters or explore the country’s first wildlife refuge. Enjoy waterfront dining and shopping inJack London Square or relax in one of the city’s many live music bars.

Oakland is the third-largest city in the San Francisco Bay area. Once infamous as home to the Hell’s Angels motorcycle gang, the city has reinvented itself and now combines historical treasures such as City Hall with modern wonders like theChabot Space & Science Center.

Learn about the city’s past in the Oakland Museum, which features historical exhibits, a display on California’s ecology and a rooftop sculpture garden. Discover the stories of Oakland’s black population in the African American Museum & Library.

Take a walk or a jog aroundLake Merritt, a saltwater lagoon in the middle of the city. This was also the first nature reserve in the United States. The city has about 260 sunny days a year, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.

Families will enjoy theOakland Zoo, while couples and friends can attend a live performance in the splendidParamount Theatre. Go to Jack London Square and stop in at the saloon where the novelist used to drink. This waterside square has a Sunday farmers market in addition to its fine dining and shopping.

Oakland’s creative side is highlighted at the annual August Art + Soul, a festival featuring musical performances, arts and crafts, food and more. Take advantage of the monthly event known as the First Friday Arts Festival, when galleries stay open late, performers line the streets and pop-up food stalls offer a variety of delicious treats.

Get around on the Bay Area Rapid Transportation (BART) rail system or use the good network of buses. Some BART stations, most notably the one on 16th Street, are attractions in themselves, showcasing interesting architecture and ornate facades.

Oakland’s warm weather, arts and multiculturalism give you the best ingredients of the modern California city.

Where to stay in Oakland

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Downtown Oakland

Theaters, art galleries, and live music highlight some notable features of Downtown Oakland. Make a stop by Oakland City Center or Fox Theater while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at 12th Street/Oakland City Center Station or 19th St Station to get around town.

Downtown Oakland
Berkeley featuring general coastal views, a bridge and a sunset

Downtown Berkeley

Take time in Downtown Berkeley to visit attractions like Historic Berkeley and Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive. You might also appreciate the abundant dining options, and you can hop on the metro at Downtown Berkeley Station to see more of the city.

Downtown Berkeley
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Albany

The seaside views and shopping are a few reasons travelers visit Albany. Want to see more of the surrounding area? Golden Gate Fields and Berkeley Marina are a few top sights nearby.

Albany
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Piedmont

You'll enjoy the lake views and architecture in Piedmont. You might want to make time for a stop at Davie Tennis Stadium or Piedmont Sports Field.

Piedmont
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North Berkeley

If you're spending some time in North Berkeley, Historic Berkeley and Aftel Archive of Curious Scents are top sights worth seeing.

North Berkeley
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Fruitvale

While you're in Fruitvale, take in top sights like Côte West and jump on the metro at Fruitvale Station to see more of the city.

Fruitvale
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina

4 out of 5
200 Marina Blvd, Berkeley, CA
The price is P7,724 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
P7,724
P8,897 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified hotel in Berkeley. Enjoy free WiFi, a marina, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the restaurant ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (3,240 reviews)
"Beautiful view of marina. Staff of restaurant were so friendly and orofessional"

Reviewed on Aug 16, 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
Claremont Resort & Club

Claremont Resort & Club

5 out of 5
41 Tunnel Road, Berkeley, CA
The price is P13,933 per night from Aug 18 to Aug 19
P13,933
P19,443 total
Aug 18 - Aug 19
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Berkeley. Enjoy 3 outdoor pools, 3 restaurants, and 3 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)
"Clean room and good eating options on site."

Reviewed on Aug 16, 2025

Claremont Resort & Club
Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge

Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge

3 out of 5
1800 Powell Street, Emeryville, CA
The price is P8,684 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
P8,684
P9,743 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Emeryville. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,194 reviews)
"Clean, comfortable"

Reviewed on Aug 13, 2025

Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Coral Reef Inn & Suites

Coral Reef Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
400 Park St, Alameda, CA
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Alameda. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
6.8/10 (2,785 reviews)
"Fine room."

Reviewed on Aug 13, 2025

Coral Reef Inn & Suites
8 Mi to Bay Bridge: Couple's Getaway w/ Mtn Views!

8 Mi to Bay Bridge: Couple's Getaway w/ Mtn Views!

3 out of 5
Alameda
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Alameda. Enjoy free parking, an in-room coffeemaker, and housekeeping. Popular attractions San Francisco Bay and Oakland Arena ...
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
Wonderful Stay
"Well appointed, comfortable and located just right for us. Perfect for a couple in a quiet, nice neighborhood. Parking was easy. I recommend this property.--Rick"

Reviewed on Jul 29, 2025

8 Mi to Bay Bridge: Couple's Getaway w/ Mtn Views!
Walk to Crab Cove Beach: Alameda Home w/ Game Room

Walk to Crab Cove Beach: Alameda Home w/ Game Room

3 out of 5
Alameda
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly cottage in Alameda. Enjoy free parking, a garden, and balconies. Popular attractions San Francisco Bay and Chase Center ...
Walk to Crab Cove Beach: Alameda Home w/ Game Room
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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