Jack London District

Try this section of town for bay views, stellar eats, and much more.

One of the more scenic destinations in Oakland, Jack London District’s waterfront location and pedestrian-friendly Jack London Square are a huge draw for visitors and locals alike. Thanks to its marina setting and access to Alameda, Jack London is a hub for social gatherings, community events, and business commuters. And it’s no wonder why, with its fantastic food (be sure to hit up Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine for a meal), entertainment venues, and recreational activities. You might say this neighborhood is the whole package. (Don’t forget to peep the Port of Oakland cranes across the way.) And if you like beer, then you’re in luck. Thanks to the area’s warehouse buildingclad blocks, several breweries (like Original Pattern Brewing and Oakland United Beerworks) have set up shop here (see p. 56 for more). And for those who dig drinks with a different kind of buzz, there’s no shortage of homegrown coffee shops — Timeless Coffee, Bicycle Coffee, Mr. Espresso — all within walking distance of each other (see p. 53 for more).

HEINOLD'S FIRST AND LAST CHANCE SALOON

Drink or no, this haunt is a must. Once frequented by Oakland resident Jack London, this 1880 saloon sits in the middle of the square and is a time capsule of an era gone by. Look for the clock that broke at the exact time of the 1906 earthquake.

Can’t-Miss Events

There is no shortage of things to do at Jack London Square, including movie nights (Waterfront Flicks), weekly makers’ and farmers’ markets, and October’s annual DogFest

Everett & Jones Barbeque

A true Oakland original, this joint is what Bay Area barbecue is all about. Order the pork ribs and links, tuck in your napkin, and dive in.

Brooklyn Basin

Another waterfront location adjacent to Jack London District is Brooklyn Basin, a cool, multi-use space in the old Port of Oakland ferry terminal building that hosts food vendors, music events, LGBTQ+ roller skating, yoga, and more.

Plank

Whether you want to brush up on your arcade, bowling, or bocce skills, or just want some pizza with water views, this centrally located spot is a crowd-pleaser.

U.S.S. POTOMAC

Referred to as “the floating White House,” this ship once belonged to Franklin Delano Roosevelt and served as his presidential yacht. Book a cruise around the bay or a dockside tour.

The Next Gen

The Golden State Warriors may have moved to San Francisco, but Steph and Ayesha Curry continue to support The Town. In 2019, the Curry’s launched their Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation, promoting healthy childhood through nutrition, education, and physical activity.

All that Jazz

Wine Time

Oakland is less than an hour drive to wine country, but you can get a taste of Golden State wines here on the Urban Wine Trail. See what’s pouring at Brooklyn West Winery, Rosenblum Cellars, and minimo wine shop before moseying on. And if you prefer to sip wine while painting, check out Wine & Design Oakland

Word-class jazz meets Japanese fare at Yoshi’s. One of the Bay Area’s premier jazz venues, this 310-seat space brings a whole new meaning to dinner and a show.