About Oakland

Oakland is located south of Berkeley and east of San Francisco Bay.

Oakland is a giant city, an urban cultural mecca that stretches from the coast to redwood-covered rolling hills. It has a deep, complicated history and culture, its own local slang, absolutely incredible food, and plenty to see and do – which we’ve covered in detail in this post. But all too often, Oakland is overlooked and misunderstood.

Another common error is to lump Oakland’s story in with San Francisco’s. Although Oakland and San Francisco are neighbors, located just minutes apart across the Bay, the two cities could not be more different. Oakland has its own distinct history, sounds, tastes, its own social movements – but its story has too often been overshadowed by its larger-than-life neighbor, and not given the attention it deserves.

What is known in Oakland?

Oakland is known for beautiful locations such as Lake Merrit, Morcom Rose Garden, and Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Park. The city has a vibrant art and music scene with numerous murals, Art Murmur walks, and Brooklyn Basin events. Oakland is famous for being home to the Oakland A's and the Black Panthers.

It's known, of course, for the towering redwood trees that are common here, though the 1,800-acre region also includes evergreens, chaparral and various grasslands as well.

Oakland has it all: massive parks, ancient redwoods, salty sea air from the bay, urban grandeur, suburban quaintness, and of course, that natural landmark the residents are fiercely proud of, Lake Merritt, the 155-acre lagoon in the middle of the city.

What makes Oakland attractive to visit?

With the diverse food scene, natural and manmade attractions, and beautiful streets, Oakland deserves the recognition of being a top destination in the region. One of the best places to visit in the San Francisco Bay Area is the vibrant city of Oakland.

Often referred to as "Brooklyn by the Bay," Oakland, California, is thriving and has an abundance to offer in terms of food, creative energy, and natural beauty. There is something definitely happening in this city just across the San Francisco Bay beyond vegan ice cream, men's barber shops, and slow coffee.