Things To Do
Plank
We went here on our first date. Fun beer garden outside and an arcade inside. Walk around Jack London Square to grab some good food and drinks.
San Francisco Bay Ferry
Take a ferry from Jack London Square to San Francisco. Grab a drink and scoot off. This is the most fun way to get to the city(Plus no traffic).
Oakland Museum of California
One of our favorite all-time museums (History, art, everything)
Cafe Van Kleef (& Nearby Bars)
A classic Oakland bar. Grab their famous greyhound. Lots of nearby bars as well (Diving Dog, Woods, etc.) Like wine? Try organic wine shops like: Ordinaire or the Punchdown Dim and JB's favorite bars: Mad Oak (Rooftop bar across the street from our apartment) Ruby Room (dive bar, also across the street from our apartment) Kon Tiki (Tiki bar 2 blocks from our apartment)
Joaquin Miller Park (& other hiking spots)
Excellent nearby hiking spot, minutes from Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Beautiful Redwoods galore! Julia Beth HIGHLY recommends the French Trail starting at the Skyline staging area. Warning: do not leave valuables in your vehicle, and drive safely up these winding (but gorgeous) roads! Other favorite hiking spots: Lake Chabot (close), Marin Headlands (far) , Mt. Tamalpais, and Muir Woods (farthest).
Lake Merritt
Go for a stroll and enjoy some prime bay area people watching
Children's Fairyland
This is the kid's park that inspired Walt to create Disneyland Other kid ideas: the Oakland Zoo
Sobo Ramen - (& other food spots)
Our favorite 'night out' spot. Dim loves the Spicy Black Tonkatsu and JB is all about the vegan coconut ramen! Other nearby (walking distance) options: Shan Dong (Our favorite Chinese food - get their hand made noodles) Vegan options (and still our favorite spots): Golden Lotus & Souley Vegan (Great brunch!) Dinner: Oakland Grill BBQ: Everet & Jones Japanese Fried Chicken: Aburaya Oakland If you're wanting to travel a bit, try these places out. 900 Grayson - The best Chicken in Waffles in the Bay