Lake Merritt

This natural saltwater lake is a scenic gathering place right in the middle of town.

Perfect for a picnic, a paddle, or a stroll, Lake Merritt is where people come to just hang out. Encircled by art deco buildings and 1950s flats, this saltwater and freshwater lake, fed by the estuary and bay, is the first official wildlife refuge in the United States. Take a gondola ride with Dolce Vita Gondola around the lake, watch some salsa dancing in Lakeside Park, or stroll part of the more than three-mile path at dusk to see the Necklace of Lights — ’20s-era lampposts and thousands of cafe lights — illuminate the water’s edge. Or head to Children’s Fairyland (see p. 32) or The Gardens at Lake Merritt. For lakeside dining and views, reserve a table at The Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill, Grand Lake Kitchen, or Sidebar

Oaktown Spice Shop

With unobstructed views of Lake Merritt, this beautifully curated spice shop has an old-school apothecary feel with its jar-filled shelving. After perusing and smelling the exotic spices, salts, and teas, you’ll definitely want to take a blend or two home. See p. 25 for more.

Stairway to Heaven

Did You Know?

Grand Lake Theatre

The only thing that could steal Lake Merritt’s thunder is the glowing facade and painted art deco interior of the Grand Lake Theatre. Catch a film or walk in to gaze at this architectural beauty.

Walden Pond Books

Oakland’s largest independent bookstore is a perennial “Best of” winner and has been selling used, new, and rare books since 1973. It’s known for carrying titles by local authors and, of course, its shop dogs.

Local Voices

AMY SCHNEIDER

Forty-time Jeopardy champion and Adams Point resident

“I have never been to any other city where I’ve seen so many people repping it with t-shirts and hats. That’s for tourists in other places. Here, people are just really proud of their town and you can feel it. I think part of that is the diversity: Whoever you are, you’re going to find your people here in Oakland.”

The Gardens at Lake Merritt have a bonsai garden. Plus, free admission!

Opa!

Colonial Donuts

Fancy a doughnut at 3 a.m.? Lucky for you, the family-run Colonial Donuts is open 24/7 and fries up everything from maple bars to mochi and ube-flavored morsels.

Morcom Rose Garden

If you’re here late May through October, don’t miss this eight-acre municipal rose garden featuring thousands of rose varieties. Plus, there’s a secret set of stairs here.

House-made Greek and Mediterranean dishes are on the menu at Ikaros.