Welcome to Oakland
Eclectic bayside city suffused in off-beat vibrancy
A historic town with access to urban delights, Oakland is anything but insignificant. The city’s walkable neighborhoods brim with architectural beauty, many flaunting vintage Victorian homes that have been beautifully restored. Known as the largest city in the East Bay Area, Oakland serves as a trade center for the SF Bay Area, boasting the busiest port in all of San Francisco Bay. Today, the city buzzes with artistic vibrancy, home to eclectic galleries and museums while also being a culinary hotbed for continental cuisine.
With sunny skies and sweeping outdoor spaces cloaked in nature’s beauty, outdoor living in Oakland is a norm. At its heart, Downtown Oakland boasts an assortment of dive bars, nightclubs, lounges, and landmark theaters. Explore the charming streets for sprawling estates in a myriad of architectural styles, from Spanish-Mediterranean hillside retreats to modern homes flaunting luxury finishes and understated elegance.
What to Love
- Varied architecture
- Walkable neighborhoods
- Serene outdoor spaces for fun recreation
- Abundant sunshine all year round
- Vibrant arts and music scene
- Delicious culinary landscape
Local Lifestyle
Oakland offers residents access to a city’s greatest delights—-convenience, community, and a myriad of amenities, making it a top destination for those looking for a slice of urban living with ample space for outdoor adventures. Almost everyone here spends their weekends kayaking at the lake, picnicking in the park, or strolling the scenic paths of the city’s parks, shaded by trees and a tranquil atmosphere.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Enjoy the best and most authentic Japanese ramen at Marufuku Ramen, where meals are made to accommodate individual tastes and from the freshest ingredients.
The seafood platter, prime steaks, and cheesy burgers at Lake Chalet are a must-try. With a delicious kids' menu, this is a perfect spot even for big families. There are private dining spaces where you can host your business dinners or even a romantic date night.
The garden-themed decor at Drake's Dealership brings a more relaxed vibe to dining. Enjoy handmade pan-seared pizzas in a traditional outdoor setting, washed down with handcrafted local beers, and soft music playing in the background. Settle in for tacos and margaritas at the vibrant Nidos Backyard. Homeroom lives up to its name with homey vibes and yummy mac and cheese.
Things to Do
Plan a family day out at Lake Merritt with an endless list of activities. Kayak across the lagoon or lay down your blanket for a picnic at the lakeside. Take in nature by exploring the trails around open spaces to walk your dog or throw a Frisbee.
Waterfront dining at The Jack London Square is a local favorite. Rows of locally-owned restaurants line the waterfront, attracting patrons with the mouth-watering aromas wafting from their kitchens. Be it a full-course dinner, or a Ben and Jerry's ice cream, there's something to suit your taste. Visit the Chabot Space and Science Centre for an immersive and interactive experience popular with kids for its massively domed space artifact exhibit, the impressive high-density telescope, and the symposium to learn about extraterrestrial life.
Attend the Chinese New Year Festival or the Dragon Boat Race at Chinatown, and treat your kids to a fun day at Children’s Fairyland, a theme park with everything from merry-go-rounds to attractive souvenirs and cotton candy!
Schools
Oakland is served by some of California’s top-rated schools, renowned for their innovative academic programs and outstanding extracurricular activities. Top educational opportunities include:
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