Things to do in Oakland

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Oakland

Types of activities

Where to stay

Oakland Travel Guide

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What to do in Oakland

Popular places to visit

Jack London Square

Shop, dine and stroll to your heart’s content in this waterside square, named after the novelist who spent his childhood here.

University of California, Berkeley

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit University of California, Berkeley, during your trip to Berkeley. Attend a sporting event or discover the beautiful sunsets in this vibrant area.

Oakland Arena

Catch an event at Oakland Arena during your trip to Oakland. Experience the acclaimed theater scene and entertainment choices in this walkable area.

Fox Theater

You can enjoy a show at Fox Theater during your stay in Oakland. Experience the fascinating museums or attend a sporting event in this vibrant area.

Berkeley Marina

Explore the waterfront in Berkeley with a trip to Berkeley Marina. Discover the acclaimed theater scene and shops in this vibrant area.

Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum

Catch an event at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum during your trip to Oakland. Experience the acclaimed art scene and entertainment choices in this walkable area.

Greek Theater

You can enjoy a show at Greek Theater during your trip to Berkeley. Experience the acclaimed art scene and entertainment choices in this vibrant area.

Oakland Zoo

Watch alligators being fed, ride a train through the Australian outback and see a herd of elephants on the African savannah at this animal park.

Paramount Theatre

Come and see the ballet, a concert or a stand-up comedy performance at this spectacular art deco theater in the heart of Oakland.

Areas of Oakland

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.

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.

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.

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.

North Berkeley

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

Bay Area which includes outdoor art and a pond

West Oakland

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

Alameda

Hayward

Berkeley

Fremont

Newark

San Leandro

San Francisco

Frequently asked questions

Is Oakland worth visiting?

Oakland has an interesting mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into the outdoors, history or local cuisine, there are many things you'll enjoy here.

How do I spend a day in Oakland?

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Oakland Zoo and USS Hornet Museum. Then, tour other parts of Oakland for local dining and some shopping.

What is the top tourist attraction in Oakland?

The top tourist attraction in Oakland is Greek Theater, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing agenda.

Is three days enough to stay in Oakland?

Three days in Oakland is enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many travelers book for two days on average. Greek Theater, Oakland Museum of California and Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive are top-rated sights. Want to see more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as San Francisco.

Is Oakland a walkable city?

With vibrant neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, Oakland is a great place to see on foot. Wander between Oakland Museum of California and Children's Fairyland. Then take a stroll around Downtown Oakland, located 0.16 kilometers from the center, and Lake Merritt, which is roughly 2 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Oakland with kids?

Whether you're vacationing with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, a schedule filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Oakland with kids.

What to do in Oakland for adults?

Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or thrill seeker, there's no shortage of things to do in Oakland for adults including Rosenblum Cellars and St. George Spirits.

Are there free things to do in Oakland?

In Oakland, Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the local parks and neighborhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's an easy way to find out about the best free things to do in Oakland.