Things To Do
Lake Merritt
Roughly 3 miles in length, Lake Merritt is a great spot to visit during your stay in Oakland. Grab a coffee on Grand Ave, stop by the Farmers Market and enjoy a beautiful lap around the lake.
Oakland Museum of California
The Oakland Museum is known for it's culturally relevant exhibits and artwork. If you have time it's worth checking out it before or after you walk around Lake Meritt.
Bakesale Betty
A local favorite, Bakesale Betty's is renowned for its fried chicken sandwiches and homemade, delicious mustard based coleslaw. Nothing beats their homemade lemonade on a hot day. The line is worth the wait so be sure to get there early!
Hiking in the Oakland Hills
There are SO many beautiful hiking trails in Oakland. If you're interested in exploring, download the All Trails app, grab a water bottle and some friends, there's much to see!
Jack London Square
Right on the water (and where you can hop the ferry to SF), there is tons to see, do, and eat in Jack London Square. Jack London Square has a statue of the writer, who frequented the area. Nearby, Old Oakland features restored Victorian architecture and boutiques. Near Chinatown, the Oakland Museum of California covers state history, nature and art. Uptown contains the art deco Fox and Paramount theaters, restaurants, bars and galleries.
Oakland Zoo
Inside the 490-acre Knowland Park, the Oakland Zoo is home to over 850 native and exotic species residing in natural habitats, including an African savanna, tropical rain forest, and the Australian outback. Park visitors can get a bird's-eye view of the California Trail educational area and its herd of bison on a gondola that travels 650 feet above sea level, or hop on the Sky Ride that glides over the African savanna, home to giraffes, zebras, and elephants. The gondola ride ends up at the Landing Café, which serves artisanal pizzas, burgers, sandwiches and salads. From the café's outdoor deck, guests can admire sweeping views of the landscape.
College Avenue
Home to a ton of local shops and restaurants, this is a great place to window shop and stroll. Grab a coffee to go or stop at one of the great bars to sip on a cocktail and enjoy the east bay weather. Pro Tip: Start your stroll at the Temescal Library and walk up from there.
Market Hall Foods Oakland
Anyone could spend hours here walking around, trying their cheeses, bread and pastries. Stop here for a coffee and pick up some great snacks and treats.
Bold Lagree Fitness Studio
Kelsey's FAVORITE workout studio the bay area for it's challenge 50 minute pilates class, if you're hoping to get some physical activity during your stay this is the place to go! You can easily book on Classpass or MindBody.
Fentons Creamery
World renowned and also featured in the final scene of Up! (where the main character is sitting on the curb eating ice cream), Fentons makes all kinds of insanely delicious and decadent ice cream sundaes with brownies, fudge and more!