BOCANOVA FORGE PIZZA HAVEN IL PESCATORE JACK’S OYSTER BAR KINCAID’S LUNGOMARE PLANK SCOTT’S SEAFOOD STEEL RAIL CAFE YOSHI’S
OAKLAND’S WATERFRONT DESTINATION TO SIP, SAVOR, DINE AND PLAY Broadway and Embarcadero | jacklondonsquare.com
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Oakland
Taste of the Culture
Drew Bird
Whether it’s food or art, Oakland is a feast for all the senses. Take a crash course in the city’s food and art scenes at Friday Nights @ OMCA, where you can enjoy Off the Grid food trucks, art and live music, or branch out and sample some of Oakland’s many fantastic art galleries and restaurants. So come hungry, because you’ll definitely want to make room for seconds.
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What Food trucks are here This Week? offthegrid.com
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Parks and Rec
Rain or shine, there’s always plenty to see and do when it comes to Oakland’s outdoor spaces. Show off on Lake Merritt’s slack line, or find the perfect spot for a picnic or a morning workout. Once you’re out here, you’ll never want to go back inside.
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Oakland
Drew Bird
Lake Merritt Slackers meet up Saturdays at the pergola; newbies welcome
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Oakland
After Hours
Drew Bird
When the sun goes down, the locals let loose. Unique and vibrant bars and venues like the New Parish (pictured), live music, and plenty of new friends to make—Oakland’s got all you need to make your night one to remember.
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j Check the concert calendar at thenewparish.com
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Oakland
Jack London
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Drew Bird
Steeped in history and filled with a modern energy, Jack London Square reflects the vital spirit of Oakland. Join a dance party on the old stomping grounds of Jack London himself, and discover the many spots to eat, drink and play along the dynamic waterfront.
#o a k l a n d l o v e i t
See upcoming events, including free Dance lessons, at jacklondonsquare.com
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where hospitality meets the square Located in downtown Oakland’s historic Jack London Square, and not far from the San Francisco bay, this intimate boutique hotel offers 100 contemporary rooms with privacy in a tranquil setting surrounding a beautifully landscaped courtyard.
233 Broadway, Oakland innatthesquare.com • 510.452.4565
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The Vibe word on the street
Reflections on Oakland, from the people who know it best
Glynn Washington
“Oakland gets everything first. It’s on the cutting edge of every societal trend—sexuality, class, labor, gender. It’s a peek into the future. You can have 130 languages within four blocks. Mixed together, you will get clashes, amazing communities, great food. And lots and lots of stories. “Kids who come up in Oakland’s school system can talk to anybody. They can flip between all kinds of groups in a way I never could. They are able to talk to straight, gay, black, Chinese, throw some Spanish in there, Punjabi. It’s not ‘I tolerate this’; it’s more of an embrace.”
Libby Schaaf
Robert Ogilvie
Mayor of Oakland @LibbySchaaf
Director of SPUR Oakland, an urbanplanning research organization @SPUR_Urbanist
“It’s easy to fall in love with Oakland. From the redwoods to the shores of Lake Merritt, Oakland’s beauty makes it a playground for nature lovers and urbanites alike. Our diversity, creative energy and down-to-earth authenticity add to Oakland’s ‘secret sauce,’ which includes world-class artists, entrepreneurs and activists of every stripe. It’s part of how we make everyone feel at home.”
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“There are so many different types of people in Oakland, and they have an open attitude toward each other. It’s stimulating and refreshing; you learn something new all the time. The city is trying to grapple with change in a way that will keep its soul. “I love downtown. You turn a corner, and there is a new building, an old building that’s been rehabbed, a new business that’s popped up.”
o
Clockwise from top: Steve Babuljak; Courtesy of Justin Metoyer-Mullon; Kara Brodgesell; Courtesy of the office of mayor libby schaaf
Executive producer of NPR’s Snap Judgment @glynnwashington
Behind Washington is a mural planned by Attitudinal Healing Connection
Justin Metoyer Mullon Muralist and educator with Attitudinal Healing Connection @AHC_oakland “We have a strong arts community that gets a lot of support—a lot of energy and appreciation go into art and artists here. We love doing what we’re meant to do. There are a lot of art galleries, art events and artists; in my neighborhood in West Oakland, there are at least five artists living within a few blocks. All cultures come together to make Oakland what it is.”
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Located in the hear t of Jack London Square, the Waterfront Hotel celebrates the adventurous spirit of the San Francisco Bay, with all of our guestrooms, public spaces, and meetings rooms embodying the maritime atmosphere and soul of the waterfront through our nautical inspired dĂŠcor and breathtaking
10 Washington Street Oakland, CA 94607
view of the Bay.
Tel 510.836.3800 waterfronthoteloakland.com
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Refreshing, locally-inspired, brand new guestrooms and suites are designed to reflect our travelers’ changing needs. Plus, enjoy our flexible meeting
OAKLAND MARRIOTT CITY CENTER
space for your
Oakland Convention Center
special event.
ph: 510-451-4000 | www.oaklandmarriott.com
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1001 Broadway Oakland, California 94607 USA
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Oakland Museum of
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redefining entertainment...
Diverse urban cuisine Restaurant plus beer garden featuring more than 50 handcrafted beers State-of-the-art bowling, bocce ball and interactive games Great for parties/events up to 1,000 guests Located on Jack London Square’s historic waterfront setting 98 Broadway Oakland • 510.817.0980 • plankoakland.com
hours: Brunch Saturday & Sunday 10:30a.m. - 2:30pm Happy Hour @ bar Tuesday - Sunday 4:00 - 6:00pm Lunch Wednesday - Friday 11:30a.M. - 2:30pm Reservations: Dinner Tuesday - Saturday 5:30 - 10:00pm www.shakewellbar.com Dinner Sunday 5:00 - 9:00pm 510-251-0329 Mond Closed Monday
shakewee
Oakland’s Neighborhood Mediterranean-Spanish Restaurant & Bar
Taking Beer to the Next Level
rom its beginning in 2009, Ale Industries brewery in Fruitvale has been working to shake up the beer industry in the East Bay and beyond. And that’s exactly what owners Morgan Cox and Steve Lopas have done. Among the first local brewers to experiment with barrel-aging beer, Cox and Lopas are also pioneers in another way—almost everything at the brewery is powered by fuel converted from vegetable oil. What’s more, you won’t find traditional labels for beers here, like “pilsner.” Instead, the brewery favors straightforward language about flavor (its Golden State of Mind is
What’s Brewing
Morgan Cox and Steve Lopas, co-owners of Ale Industries
described as “earthy, citrus, herbal”). The brewery’s Jingletown Jazz taproom, next to the Fruitvale BART station, also defies traditional classification. “We’re just as likely to have a grandma come in as we are to have her grandson on leave from the Marines,” Cox says. The brewers agree that there are few better places to push boundaries than Oakland. “I’ve lived here for about a decade,” Cox says. “As the Bay Area progresses with craft beer, I see Oakland as one of the gathering points.” 3096 E. 10th St., (510) 479-3185, aleindustries.com
Mad Oak
The Perfect Beer Crawl
Steve Babuljak
Beer Revolution
The revolution is alive and well at this bar near Jack London Square. With 50 taps, a back wall of hundreds of chilled bottles and all the punk rock music you could want, this is the spot to find new and rare beers.
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Frequent tap takeovers feature beverages from across the country. 464 Third St., (510) 452-2337, beer-revolution.com
Diving Dog
In addition to 30 taps pouring primarily American craft beer, this Uptown beer bar helps you unleash your inner beer geek with meetthe-brewer nights and tap takeovers, as well as beer-making classes with top brewers from around the U.S. 1802 Telegraph Ave., (510) 306-1914, divingdogbrew.com
Drake’s Dealership
Housed in a former car dealership in Uptown’s buzzing new Hive complex, this outpost of a brewery in nearby San Leandro invites you to chill out. The beer selection is impressive, with 32 taps offering a mix of Drake’s beers and specialty brews. Grab a pint to pair with a wood-fired pizza or poutine. 2325 Broadway, (510) 833-6649, drinkdrakes.com/visit/ dealership
One of the few places in the East Bay where you can lounge on a rooftop while throwing back pints, this multilevel beer bar near Lake Merritt draws in the crowds with its multiple TVs and projector for sports events. But the fun doesn’t stop at Mad Oak when the game’s over. With a patio, game room and two bars downstairs; 40 taps highlighting local brews; and a cocktail program big on fresh produce and ingredients, there’s plenty to keep you coming back for more. 135 12th St., (510) 924-2047,madoakbar.com
The Trappist
Go exploring at this mecca for Belgian-style beer, where bartenders pour from a selection of hard-to-find taps from around the world. The Old World ambience— taxidermy looming over the tables, shelves of European knickknacks— is transporting, but the outdoor patio can’t be beat on a warm day. 460 Eighth St., (510) 238-8900, thetrappist.com 41
DON ’T BE A T OU RIST.
E AT A ND D R INK LIK E A LO C AL .
S I GN U P TODAY! Join a local foodie on a walking tour and eat and drink Oakland’s finest, while hearing from the makers themselves what inspired their creations. Drink matéinfused beers with a Brewmaster, eat New American Seafood with Asian- Dominican twists with the Chef de Cuisine and savor melt-in-your-mouth donuts with a DonutMaking Genius. Just a few of the many delights you’ll s eeea t l o v e . c o m get to experience. Now offering tours in four distinct Oakland neighborhoods. 5 1 0 .9 8 5 .4 92 3
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Chabot Space & Science Center
Oakland Zoo
Spend a day with the emus and the elephants, and enjoy a few rides while you’re at it. Float above bison and giraffes on a gondola, take a spin on the carousel, and ride the mini train. Let the little ones gawk at the playful otters and turn into frogs by hopping across the Lily Pad Pond at the Children’s Zoo, then head to the African Savannah, where the lions roam. 9777 Golf Links Road, (510) 632-9525, oaklandzoo.org
@hedda_b
#FamilyTime
Fentons Creamery and Restaurant
Plank
What do you get when you combine a bowling alley; a video game arcade; a bocce ball court; and a menu of well-made burgers, pizza and tacos? An adrenalized, fistpumping destination in Jack London Square for all ages— at least until 9 p.m., when you must be over 21. 98 Broadway, (510) 8170980, plankoakland.com @symlink
A leafy storybook-themed park for the smaller set, Fairyland—a Lake Merritt attraction since 1950—exhibits a sweet, old-fashioned charm. Young visitors explore an Alice in Wonderland rabbit-hole tunnel; ride a multicolored train that looks like it has chugged right out of a Little Golden Book; and wander past Little Miss Muffet’s garden, inhabited by real bunnies and goats. 699 Bellevue Ave., (510) 452-2259, fairyland.org
@feedthefishco
Plunder the pirate’s-treasure cache of beads and string your own adornments. The shop also teaches jewelry-making techniques (crafters 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult). 4167 Piedmont Ave., (510) 652-2583, bluedoorbeads.com
@leahhardesty
Children’s Fairyland
Blue Door Beads
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Every weekend, gamers gather to play video games, from 1977’s Atari 2600 to more recent releases. Serious competitors gear up for Smash 4 or Street Fighter 5 tournaments. Sat.–Sun., 3400 Broadway, (510) 210-0291, themade.org
@ordinairewine
The ice cream parlor/restaurant is a local institution; it even made a cameo in the Pixar movie Up. The Fenton family started a horse-drawn dairy business here in 1894 and, with a few changes (like cookies ‘n’ cream), the restaurant has been scooping out rich deliciousness since 1922. 4226 Piedmont Ave., (510) 658-7000, fentonscreamery.com
@jillkarjian
The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment @charlesnaut
@mei_jenks
At this complex in the Oakland Hills, kids can construct Lego cars, touch a model of the sun and sit at the controls of a replica 1961 Mercury space capsule. On clear weekend nights, the observatory domes roll open for visitors to view the skies through high-powered telescopes. Wed.–Sun., 10000 Skyline Blvd., (510) 336-7300, chabotspace.org
Homeroom
Get schooled in variations of mac and cheese that will satisfy appetites of all ages. Compare and contrast the Classic with the Gilroy Garlic or the Mexican Mac (chorizo and chipotle sauce). 400 40th St., (510) 597-0400, homeroom510.com; $$
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Photo: R.Maness
One of Oakland Zoo’s 3 female sun bears
Asian Bears in Northern California? Only at Oakland Zoo oa k la ndzoo.org
Dancing Under the Stars
Get your groove on, with instructors who teach different styles, from salsa to swing, every summer Friday in Jack London Square. June–August, 8:30 p.m., Broadway at Embarcadero West, jacklondonsquare.com
turetrip
Woodminster Summer Musicals
@squareslam
If your playlist favors Broadway classics, this outdoor arena is for you. Amid the redwoods in Joaquin Miller Park, the theater presents musicals under the night sky. July–September, 3300 Joaquin Miller Road, (510) 531-9597, woodminster.com
The African American Museum & Library at Oakland
@ms.arroyo_
Videos, photos and archival items tell the story of black Oakland—from the turn-of-the-century community settled by the Pullman porters, to the jazz and blues clubs of the ’20s through ’50s, the 1966 founding of the Black Panthers, and beyond. Tues.–Sun., 659 14th St., (510) 637-0200, oaklandlibrary.org
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@um_spec_coll
Art Murmur
Oakland’s red-hot art scene is on view during Art Murmur’s Saturday Stroll, a self-guided walk through galleries that’s a less-crowded version of First Fridays. Artists and gallery owners talk to viewers on themed guided tours that take place on the third Saturday of each month. oaklandartmurmur.org
Bookstore Row
After ice cream at Fentons on Piedmont Avenue, give your head a treat, too. With its floor-to-ceiling shelves of used volumes, Owl & Company Bookshop (pictured above) looks like Professor Dumbledore’s study at Hogwarts. Black Swan offers antique books, while Spectator Books sells mostly new ones. And Issues supplies thousands of magazine titles. Owl, 3941 Piedmont Ave., (510) 788-5821, owlandcompanybookshop.com. Black Swan, 4236 Piedmont Ave., (510) 428-2881. Spectator, 4163 Piedmont Ave., (510) 653-7300, spectatorbooks. com. Issues, 20 Glen Ave., (510) 652-5700, issuesshop.com
@wandereatrepeat
Flora
For pre-show dining with a cinematic flair, try Flora. Located in the heart of Uptown, the art deco–style restaurant looks like the kind of establishment where Sam Spade might arrange to meet a mysterious dame. He’d order a juicy T-bone, the most traditional item on a varied menu. 1900 Telegraph Ave., (510) 286-0100, floraoakland.com; $$$
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The Flight Deck: special thanks to Poetry Slam Inc. and the National Poetry Slam
@coffeeandbookss
An intimate black box theater, Flight Deck is shared by four resident theater companies (and the occasional visiting group) whose productions reflect Oakland's many dramatic voices and points of view. 1540 Broadway, (510) 858-7383, theflightdeck.org
@fiveseas
The Flight Deck
#culturetrip
@odettemayo
OMCA will expand your ideas about California’s art and history, flora and fauna. Special exhibitions look at the front-line movements that created this pioneering, contradictory state. Friday Nights bring musicians, food trucks and art projects for kids. Wed.–Sun., 1000 Oak St., (510) 318-8400, museumca.org
@karenmaebales
Oakland Museum of California
The Night Light
Make Westing
If you want to talk to locals, this is the place. The dark, cavernous Uptown venue has a friendly vibe, not to mention tasty bar food (habanero popcorn is popular) and two indoor bocce ball courts, which promote plenty of mingling. 1741 Telegraph Ave., (510) 251-1400, makewesting.com
@wildwestside
Era Art Bar & Lounge
Club BNB
Artwork, black leather couches and salvaged wood give this space a boho feel. A diverse crowd sips well-made cocktails and gets down to R&B, hiphop and other genres. Dubs fans pack the Warriors Watch nights. 19 Grand Ave., (510) 832-4400, oaklandera.com
A mostly LGBT crowd turns out for the hiphop, house, R&B and old-school funk played on several dance floors in this large venue. 2120 Broadway, (510) 4442266, club-bnb.com
@paultlayland
@deathvalleygirls
With a look that borrows from a bordello, Night Light keeps its atmosphere going with blood-red leather couches and paintings of naked ladies. Choose between the DJ-powered bar downstairs and the larger live-music scene upstairs. 311 Broadway, (510) 433-0340, thenightlightoakland.com
#dontstop ptheparty @sergexx
@julietstarrett
New Karibbean City Nightclub and Restaurant
Starline Social Club
Jerk chicken, goat stew and Red Stripe represent the islands at this dance hall. A spirited clientele comes for the DJs and live reggae, hip-hop, R&B, salsa and soca. 1408 Webster St., nkcoakland.com
In a beautifully restored 1883 former Odd Fellows hall—with a pressed-tin ceiling and long bar downstairs, and lots of room for dancing upstairs—Starline serves excellent cocktails and an ambitious menu. The lineup leans toward pop, folk and rock, plus costume nights and literary readings. 645 W. Grand Ave., starlinesocialclub.com
@somethinglikeaclassic
Rudy’s Can’t Fail Cafe
Luka’s Taproom & Lounge
Looking for breakfast at almost any hour? Rudy’s—which takes its name from a Clash song—produces eggs and pancakes from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. The buoyant decor includes a long shelf of dolls sporting badges that read “I am Rudy.” 1805 Telegraph Ave., (510) 251-9400, iamrudy.com
One side of this welcoming spot offers burgers, spicy shrimp with grits and other unpretentious fare, while the adjacent room features DJs and dancing on Thursdays through Saturdays. 2221 Broadway, (510) 451-4677, lukasoakland.com @amyruthmarsh
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Club BNB: Special thanks to @_sameoldg
@ionoyoumfs
Fine east Bay Homes
GRUBBCo.Com Oakland - Montclair Office 1960 Mountain Boulevard 510.339.0400
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Berkeley - Claremont Office 3070 Claremont Avenue 510.652.2133
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is
Oakland welcomes meeting planners to discover why Oakland was named one of the top destinations in the country to visit in 2015 by Lonely Planet. Book your meeting now to take advantage of a number of unique incentives available for a limited time to meeting planners.* Contact sales@visitoakland.org or learn more at visitoakland.org. ‘Visit www.visitoakland.org/meet/meetings-incentive/ for latest offers. Contact sales@visitoakland.org for details.
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The Town
Business
Shipping Out
Mitch Kapor thinks big picture. He co-founded Lotus Development Corporation in 1982 and helped start the Electronic Frontier Foundation, protector of digital civil liberties, in 1990. He’s now based in Oakland, where he runs Kapor Capital and invests in companies pursuing social good. He and his wife, Freada Kapor Klein, opened the Kapor Center for Social Impact in 2016 to increase the presence of underrepresented people in tech startups. Why Oakland? We foresaw Oakland becoming a new tech hub for the Bay Area, one that could reflect the diversity of its community. How is it different from other Bay Area cities? I think Oakland can do a much better job than what we’ve seen elsewhere in fostering an innovation economy that values diversity and creates companies whose impact benefits the local community. Oakland’s history has placed it on the cutting edge of social movements. Today there’s an opportunity to set an example for economic growth that doesn’t make us more unequal, but brings us together. How would you describe Oaklanders? “Resilience” is the word that comes to mind. Oakland’s working-class roots and progressive traditions run deep, yet there’s an appetite to embrace change. kaporcapital.com, kaporcenter.org
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The GoldieBlox Standard
Engineer Debbie Sterling looked at the girls’ toys aisle—filled with pink princess dolls—and thought, Why can’t we encourage girls to build, the way we do boys? So a few years ago, she introduced GoldieBlox, construction toys aimed at girls, and set up her firm in Oakland. “GoldieBlox’s inventor culture fits well in Oakland,” Sterling says. “There are artists and engineers, all here working to create wonderful things.” Another important factor in the mix: “We’ve connected with a great set of kids. We learn a lot from the community.” goldieblox.com
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Clockwise from top left: Courtesy of Kapor Center for Social Impact; Courtesy of the Port of oakland; courtesy of goldieBlox
a progressive force
The sculptural cranes poised over the Port of Oakland are the city’s biggest landmarks, symbols of its roots and hardworking pride. The port got its modest but ambitious start in 1852, with three wooden wharves. In early 2016, the largest ship ever to dock at a U.S. port arrived, the first of six megaships that now rotate in and out of Oakland—one of only a few American ports that can receive vessels as massive as these. (For port tour info, see page 47.)
The Town
Lodging
Comfort Zone
Need a place to stay? Find the perfect spot to recharge at the end of the day.
Downtown Go where the action is
Furnished in classic cherrywood, the Clarion Hotel gives excellent value for its price. You’ll find a good Indian restaurant in the building, too. Perks: free breakfast, fitness center. 371 13th St., (510) 279-1700, choicehotels.com
Courtyard oakland Downtown Set between Old Oakland and Chinatown, this hotel is, like Marriott City Center, a great choice for upperend lodging downtown. The Bistro cafe menu features fresh fare, from scrambled eggs in the morning to burgers at night. Perks: outdoor pool, fitness center. 988 Broadway, (510) 625-8282, marriott.com
Oakland Marriott City Center You get a view of the Tribune Tower or San Francisco from many of the rooms in this 21-story hotel. Bright pops of color accent the contemporary guest rooms. Level Two restaurant serves a breakfast buffet and, at lunch and dinner, steak and other classics, while Twelve Bar Lounge supplies bar bites. Perks: outdoor pool, fitness center. 1001 Broadway, (510) 451-4000, marriott.com
The Washington Inn Situated across from the convention center on one side and the food hall Swan’s Market (see page 36) on the other, the Washington Inn is in a renovated 1913 building in Old Oakland. Rooms, in golds and reds, have a traditional flavor. The attached Seison restaurant serves a solid menu of standards with a Left Coast spin. Perk: free breakfast. 495 10th St., (510) 452-1776, thewashingtoninn.com
Jack London Square Discover the invigorating waterfront Best Western Plus Bayside Hotel
The Inn at Jack London Square
The hotel provides a serene setting beside the estuary separating Oakland from Alameda. Rooms are modern and fresh, and the breakfast buffet is great. Perks: outdoor pool and hot tub, fitness center, free breakfast. 1717 Embarcadero, (510) 356-2450, baysidehoteloakland.com
This handsome inn attracts guests with inviting details like striped upholstered lounge chairs and umbrellas beside an outdoor pool landscaped with hydrangeas and the like. Perks: pool, fitness room. 233 Broadway, (510) 452-4565, innatthesquare.com
Executive Inn & Suites Embarcadero Cove
Get marina views from the waterfront rooms at Motel 6, one of the lodgings just south of Jack London Square. Perks: outdoor pool, hot tub. 1801 Embarcadero, (510) 436-0103, motel6oakland.com
Large photos of sailboats emphasize the waterfront location. Breakfast here includes a waffle bar. Perks: kids under 14 free, free breakfast, fitness room, outdoor pool, hot tub, electric car charging station. 1755 Embarcadero, (510) 536-6633, executiveinnoakland.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton Oakland Waterfront Make a comfortable extended stay at Homewood Suites, overlooking the estuary. Stop in at the free breakfast and evening get-togethers—the manager pours beer at night—or use the suite’s kitchen. Perks: outdoor pool, fitness room. 1103 Embarcadero, (510) 663-2700, homewoodsuites.hilton.com
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motel 6
Waterfront Hotel With a breezy style—blue-striped facade, a crow’s nest atop the hotel, oar-patterned wallpaper—the Waterfront immerses guests in its marina-side setting. Sharing the building is Lungomare, which covers everything from breakfast to dinner and late drinks (see page 28). Perks: outdoor pool, sauna, fitness center. 10 Washington St., (510) 836-3800, waterfronthoteloakland.com
Airbnb Sleep aboard the sailing ketch owned by Airbnb host Shaun—all brass fittings and teak woodwork— for an exhilarating stay among the boats at Embarcadero Cove. Shaun takes guests for a spin on the bay if they wish, or they can paddle out in the kayaks he provides. Perk: marine breeze. airbnb.com
#o a k l a n d l o v e i t
Greg Linhares/city of oakland
Clarion Hotel Downtown Oakland City Center
Airport, Arena and Coliseum
Get both comfort and convenience Best Western Plus Airport Inn & Suites The generously sized rooms here highlight handsome wood, and breakfast features make-your-own waffles. Perks: free breakfast, pool, hot tub, fitness room. 170 Hegenberger Loop, (510) 633-0500, bestwesternoakland.com
Comfort Inn & Suites Oakland Airport Close to Oracle Arena and the Coliseum, the inn and suites are well kept; breakfast includes eggs and waffles. Perks: free breakfast, fitness room. 8452 Edes Ave., (510) 568-1500, hoteloaklandairport.com
Clockwise from Top Right: Greg Linhares/city of oakland; Courtesy of Fairmont hotel and resorts; Courtesy of Hilton hotel and resorts
Courtyard by Marriott Oakland Airport This cheerful lodging features a pretty, palm-tree-edged outdoor pool. The Bistro serves sandwiches and other easygoing fare. Perks: whirlpool tubs, fitness center. 350 Hegenberger Road, (510) 568-7600, marriott.com
Days Hotel Oakland Airport The newly renovated Days is the closest of the hotels within walking distance of the Arena and Coliseum, and on game nights, enthusiastic fans journey there and back together. Perks: free breakfast, outdoor pool, fitness center. 8350 Edes Ave., (510) 568-1880, dayshoteloakland.com
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Oakland Airport Its rooms accented in persimmon and red, the Holiday Inn Express is comfortable and welcoming. Breakfasters go for the buffet's cinnamon rolls. Perks: free breakfast, fitness room. 66 Airport Access Road, (510) 569-4400, oaklandhiexpress.com
Holiday Inn Oakland Airport
With its proximity to the Coliseum and Arena, this large Hilton attracts sports fans, who like the shuttles to those venues, the generous-sized fitness room, outdoor pool and Sports Edition Bar & Grill. Amelia’s Cafe provides a breakfast buffet, plus lunch and dinner. Perks: noted above. 1 Hegenberger Road, (510) 635-5000, hilton.com Visitoakland.org
Feel at home in this lively district
This Holiday Inn gets its game on with Diamonds Sports Bar & Grill, which lines its walls with TV screens so diners can keep track of the score. Don’t miss the happy hour specials. Perks: outdoor pool, fitness room. 77 Hegenberger Road, (510) 638-7777, hioaklandairport.com
Inn at Temescal
La Quinta Inn Oakland Airport
Settle into a spot near the Bay Bridge
The inn’s been given an appealing, lighthearted update that suits the neighborhood. Each room features a floor-to-ceiling photo of an Oakland landmark. Perk: free loaner bikes. 3720 Telegraph Ave., (510) 652-9800, innattemescal.com
West Oakland
With a turquoise, kidney-shaped outdoor pool and bright decor, La Quinta works a colorful vibe. Perks: free breakfast, including waffles; fitness room. 8465 Enterprise Way, (510) 632-8900, laquintaoaklandairportcoliseum.com
Extended Stay America Oakland– Emeryville
motel 6
The Hills
This Motel 6 offers modern rooms and a convenient location three miles from the Oakland International Airport. Perks: kids stay free, outdoor pool. 8480 Edes Ave., (510) 638-1180, motel6.com
Quality Inn Oakland Airport
Hilton Oakland Airport
Temescal
Planted with roses and jasmine, the recently renovated Quality Inn has a Spanish feel with its wraparound porches and tile roof. Perks: free breakfast, outdoor pool, fitness room. 8471 Enterprise Way, (510) 254-3122, oaklandqi.com
Spread out in one of the good-sized rooms at Extended Stay—each includes a kitchenette, a little desk/table and a comfy armchair. Perks: free breakfast, laundry facilities. 3650 Mandela Parkway., (510) 923-1481, extendedstayamerica.com (search “Emeryville”)
Find yourself in the parklike Oakland Hills Claremont Club & Spa, a Fairmont Hotel A grand, rambling complex that first opened in 1915, the Claremont offers classic resort pastimes (tennis, spa, three swimming pools, kids’ activities) with modern polish. Tea in the lobby is a local tradition, and from either of the two restaurants, you’ll catch sunset views over the bay. Perks: pool, fitness room, the spa’s soaking tub, massages and more. 41 Tunnel Road, Berkeley; (510) 843-3000, fairmont.com/claremont-berkeley
Red Lion Hotel Unpretentious and convenient to the airport, Red Lion provides the tried-and-true at its Bistro 150: roast chicken, pasta, salmon and steak. Perks: outdoor pool, fitness room. 150 Hegenberger Road, (510) 635-5300, redlion.com/Oakland 65
The Town
Events
Mark Your Calendar
A year-round guide to local festivals and fun
Pedalfest A bike-powered soundstage, a kids’ bike rodeo, unicycle feats and more. pedalfestjacklondon.com
January Lunar New Year Bazaar Ring in 2017, the Year of the Rooster, with music and dance; booths sell good-luck plants and other traditional gifts. oaklandchinatownchamber.org Oakland Restaurant Week Explore the culinary scene everyone’s talking about, during a week when great local restaurants offer special deals. oaklandrestaurantweek.org
February Black History Month Discover African-American history through film, music, talks and more. visitoakland.org/black-history-month Lunar New Year Celebration and Other Asian Traditions at Oakland Museum of California OMCA celebrates with dragon dancers, martial arts, crafts projects, Asian food trucks and more. museumca.org
March
April
June
Bay Area Dance Week Dozens of shows highlight Oakland’s trailblazing dance scene; at some, the audience joins the pros busting a move. bayareandw.org
Burger Boogaloo Festival of punk and indie musicians (hosted in past years by John Waters). burgerboogaloo.com
Earth Day at the Zoo Hands-on activities, fun with a giant “Earth ball,” live music, animal presentations and protect-the-planet info. oaklandzoo.org
Garden of Memory Concert Stroll through the beautiful Chapel of the Chimes columbarium as experimental-music performers celebrate the summer solstice. gardenofmemory.com
j
Oakland Dance Festival Eye-popping dance skills and choreography. dance-a-vision. weebly.com/eventsperformances
May
Art + Soul Four music soundstages—featuring everything from gospel to hip-hop— plus a BBQ smackdown, kidfriendly carnival rides and more. artandsouloakland.com
September Eat Real Festival Three days of cooking demos, fantastic food trucks, and local beer and wine. eatrealfest.com
Painting by
Oakland artist Aeolian Day Rtystk Handmade wind-powered instruments to delight you and the kids. thingamajigs.org/ programs#Aeolian
Eastlake Music Festival Catch local stars and up-andcomers performing in all genres. eastlakemusicfestival.org Oakland Book Festival Lively discussions, readings, music and children’s projects. oaklandbookfestival.org
Pro Arts Open Studios Meet the artists powering the East Bay’s vibrant art scene. proartsgallery.org
Oakland Running Festival Lace up for a marathon, halfmarathon and kids’ fun run—or cheer ’em on. oaklandmarathon.com
Temescal Street Fair Food, music and performances, including circus arts. temescaldistrict.org
Oakland Zoo’s Feast for the Beasts Visitors help feed the elephants and observe animal meals throughout the zoo (the event has an encore in July). oaklandzoo.org
July
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August
July 4th Festival of Family Fun Enjoy a greeting from Uncle Sam on stilts, while clowns and magicians entertain the crowd. jacklondonsquare.com
#o a k l a n d l o v e i t
clockwise from bottom right: Damon Tighe; Courtesy of the Oakland Zoo; Ken Katz; Visit Oakland (2); Rtystk
(check websites for exact dates)
Clockwise from top: Aubrey McClellan (2); Greg Linhares/City of Oakland (2); Tom Tomkinson; Greg Linhares/City of Oakland; Sabrina Merlo; Greg Linhares/City of Oakland
December
Oakland Pride Parade + Festival The LGBTQ procession is followed by music at themed soundstages, local food vendors and a family area with kids’ carnival rides. oaklandpride.org
Fairy Winterland Children’s Fairyland welcomes the season with a Festival of Lights Parade and crafts projects—plus visits by the jolly fellow with the beard. fairyland.org
October Autumn Lights Festival Roam the Gardens at Lake Merritt at night and take in the dramatically lit art installations. gardensatlakemerritt.org (search “autumn lights”) East Bay Mini Maker Faire Tap into the DIY movement (from robotics to urban farming), with projects, workshops and inventor demos. ebmakerfaire.com
November Día de los Muertos The fiesta showcases Mexican food, music, Aztec-style dancers and commemorative altars. unitycouncil. org/dia-de-los-muertos
Let Us Break Bread Together Holiday songs from many traditions, by Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Oakland Symphony and others. oigc.org; oaklandsymphony.org (search “break bread”) Lighted Yacht Parade Boats decked out in holiday lights sail past Jack London Square. lightedyachtparade.com ZooLights The Oakland Zoo is transformed into a wonderland every evening with thousands of twinkly lights. oaklandzoo.org
Oakland Black Cowboy Parade & Festival Stetson-sporting riders bring the Old West to town in this tribute to African-American cowboys. blackcowboyassociation.org Oaktoberfest Festival of craft beer, with live music and German-inspired food. oaktoberfest.org Rockridge Out & About Live music, street entertainment and good eats. rockridgeoutandabout.com
Walking Tours
Dive deep into Oakland’s neighborhoods, architecture and history. City-sponsored tours are twice weekly from May through October. Oakland Urban Paths heads out the second Saturday of every month. oaklandnet.com/ walkingtours; oaklandurbanpaths.org
Clockwise from left: Historic buildings in Old Oakland (left and above), the streets of Chinatown, the Fox Theater on Telegraph Avenue
Visitoakland.org
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For Work. For Play.
The Easy Way to Cross the Bay. From Oakland’s Jack London Square to SF Ferry Building Pier 41 AT&T Park (Seasonal Service) For Ferry Route, Schedule, (415) 705-8291 Ticket & Terminal Information www.SanFranciscoBayFerry.com
Temescal is a vibrant neighborhood leading the Oakland renaissance, full of innovative and diverse people creating small independent thoughtfully-curated shops, restaurants and services, celebrating emerging arts and culture in our community.
#gritty #beautiful #eclectic #Temescal
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www.TemescalDistrict.org
#oaklandloveit
Capitol Corridor.org
12th St Station
DAY ROUTE Mon-Fri 7a-7p NIGHT ROUTE Mon-Th 7p-10p, Fri 7p-1a, Sat 6p-1a
Broadway
19th St Station
LAKE MERRITT
VALDEZ TRIANGLE
27 th St
25 th St
Gr an dA ve
KONO
22 nd St
20 th St
17 th St
UPTOWN
Gr a We nd A bs ve te @ r
We bs te r
CHINATOWN
14 th St
12 th St
9t hS t
CENTRAL DOWNTOWN
We 20 bste th r St @
To Ferry
Jack London Square
OLD OAKLAND 7t hS t
From Ferry
Em ba rca de ro 3rd St
JACK LONDON
SanFrancisco BayFerry.com