Montclair & Oakland Hills

Wilderness walks and manicured abodes are the sights to see in this area.

As soon as you hit the winding roads, you know you’ve entered into a whole new realm of Oakland — and it’s just a short drive away! With some of the most coveted real estate in the entire Bay Area, the Montclair and Oakland Hills area’s storybook homes and oak canopy-covered streets are a departure from the buzz of Downtown.

The main hub is Montclair Village, a little downtown that has all the charm of a European village.

For a slow Sunday morning, savor coffee at local favorite Highwire Coffee Roasters before browsing the year-round Montclair Village Farmers’ Market, featuring local growers, purveyors, and makers.

Then, hit up Montclair Egg Shop for brunch or lunch. A community staple since 1974, this restaurant has all the classics, like house-made corn beef hash and Belgian waffles. Kick back at Crogan's, a friendly neighborhood bar. And for a lovely date night, consider Daughter Thai Kitchen (try the street food) or Perle Wine Bar for caviar and a bottle of Champagne.

Laurel District

A quiet, yet happening, residential area.

Every August, this neighborhood hosts the Laurel StreetFair World Music Festival, a seven-block celebration of music, dance, food, and art from all over the world. Free and fun for the whole family, this festival (which takes place August 12, 2023) is a must when you’re in town.

Anytime of year is a good time to stop in for a spooky-themed pint from Ghost Town Brewing. But before beer, fuel up with an exceptional breakfast at Sequoia Diner, which serves seasonal fare and makes most things from scratch, like house-cured bacon, naturally fermented bread, and organic jams.

And before you go, be sure to snap a selfie with A Bear Shaped Hole mural (California grizzly bears decorated with the cosmos) at the back of High Street Pharmacy

CHEESE, PLEASE

If selecting artisan cheeses and fine wines sounds right up your alley, head to Farmstead Cheeses and Wines

This casual shop is anything but stuffy, and the friendly staff can guide you on selecting the perfect picks.

TRAILS, TRAILS, AND MORE TRAILS

By far, the most unexpected thing about Oakland is the acres upon acres of rolling open space, forested trails, and abundant wildlife. Montclair Railroad Trailhead runs right through the middle of town through Shepherd Canyon Park. From the Palos Colorados Trailhead, explore Joaquin Miller Park, or drive up Skyline Boulevard for access to Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park

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URBAN ESCAPE

Redwoods? In Oakland? Yep! See where.

Fun Fact

Grand Lake

The neighborhood immediately adjacent to Lake Merritt, Grand Lake was made for exploring.