Oakland

Why is it worth visiting Oakland?

Oakland is an amazing city with a mix of everything. It has the perfect combination for local culture, creative spaces, cool museums and scenic getaways. It’s right next to San Francisco but is way more laid-back, and honestly, that’s what sets it apart. 

You should definitely visit and hangout at Lake Merritt, where locals go to chill by the water. The lake’s surrounded by scenic views, walking paths, palm trees and a variety of food spots that you can enjoy with your loved ones. Oakland’s great for creative travelers who will definitely find something fun here everyday. If you are an art lover, surely visit the Oakland Art Murmur on First Fridays as it turns the streets into a full-on block party with food trucks and live music. The city’s murals and street art are basically an open-air gallery. Movie buffs and theatre lovers should absolutely check out Oakland’s theatre scene like the famous Grand Lake Theater in the city. 

And then there’s Temescal Alley, a street lined with tiny boutiques, vintage shops, and filled with cute cafés. A trip here is pretty budget-friendly too, with tons of amazing eats that don’t cost a ton. You’ll also find gorgeous redwood trails just minutes away at Redwood Regional Park, for a quick nature escape. A trip here is highly recommended as not only will you make lasting memories but you'll also get to be part of the local culture that makes the city special.

Best time to visit Oakland

The best time to visit Oakland is Spring from March to May and fall from September to November. You’ll get mild, sunny days without the summer fog that rolls over from San Francisco. May and October are especially nice for outdoor events, with Art + Soul Festival usually happening in late summer.

Winters are cool and wet, but not freezing. Summers, specifically June to August, can be warm inland but cooler near the Bay. First Fridays Art Murmur runs year-round but feels best with good weather and if you want that perfect picnic day at Lake Merritt or redwood hikes, go in April or October.

What to souvenir buy in Oakland

The best souvenir from Oakland is something that actually feels like the city.

1. Oakland is known for its local art scene and serious coffee culture.
2. You can grab a graphic tee from Oaklandish, because that’s what locals actually wear.
3. You can also pick up handmade ceramics, soaps or candles from small artists at Temescal Alley.
4. Food-wise, small-batch hot sauce or coffee beans from Red Bay Coffee make great gifts.
5. And if you’re into music, flipping through old records at Amoeba Berkeley nearby is a whole experience.
6. Also, if you like art you can bring home some Street art prints from First Fridays vendors, especially around Telegraph Avenue between West Grand Avenue and 27th Street. Look for stalls closer to 27th Street, that’s where a lot of the independent artists and printmakers hang out. They sell everything from poster-sized prints to stickers featuring Oakland murals, local icons, and original designs. It is best to go early around 5-6 pm for the best picks before the crowds hit. 

How to reach

• By Air 

You can fly straight into Oakland International Airport, just 15 minutes from downtown by car or BART train. You can also land at San Francisco International Airport if you don’t mind a longer ride across the Bay. 

• By Train 

By train, Amtrak’s Jack London Square Station connects you to major cities like Sacramento or Los Angeles. 

• By Bus 

Buses like Greyhound and Megabus stop near West Oakland BART, making it easy to get downtown. 

• By Car

And if you’re driving, you should take I-880 or I-580, depending on which part of the Bay you’re coming from and enable google maps for a better experience.