
Things to know
Discover Oakland.

Lake Merritt
NatureThe heart of the city and America's oldest official wildlife refuge. The 3.4-mile path around the 'Jewel of Oakland' is a social hub for joggers, paddle-boaters, and picnickers, surrounded by gardens and the iconic Lakeside Park.

First Friday Art Walk
CultureOn the first Friday of every month, Telegraph Avenue transforms into a massive, free block party. Galleries open their doors, food trucks line the streets, and thousands gather to celebrate Oakland's world-renowned art and music scene.

Temescal Dining
FoodThis vibrant neighborhood is a food lover's paradise. From legendary Burmese tea leaf salad at Burma Superstar to inventive Californian fare at Shakewell and perfect tacos at Cholita Linda, Temescal offers an incredible culinary journey in just a few blocks.

Jack London Square
NightlifeA historic waterfront district named for the famous author who once haunted its shores. Today, it's a lively spot for waterfront dining, catching a ferry, browsing the Sunday farmers' market, or having a drink at Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon.

Red Bay Coffee
FoodMore than just a coffee roastery, Red Bay is a community institution championing sustainability and representation. Their flagship location in the Fruitvale district serves exceptional pour-overs and espresso in a bright, plant-filled space that embodies Oakland's entrepreneurial spirit.

Joaquin Miller Park
NatureEscape into 500 acres of coastal redwoods and winding trails right in the Oakland hills. Hike to the Stone Circle or the lookout point for breathtaking views of the entire Bay Area, a serene counterpoint to the urban energy below.
things to do
Things to Do in Oakland
Oakland rewards the curious. Beyond its famous festivals and food, you'll find hidden stairways, historic theaters, and spaces that celebrate the city's rich legacy of arts and activism.
Explore the Oakland Museum of California
Arts & HistoryThis dynamic museum brilliantly intertwines art, history, and natural sciences. Don't miss the incredible galleries dedicated to California's social movements and the vibrant Friday Nights @ OMCA event with live music and food trucks.
Walk the Bay Bridge Trail
OutdoorsExperience unparalleled views from the Bay Bridge's pedestrian and bike path. Starting near the Port of Oakland, this engineering marvel offers a stunning, wind-swept perspective of the city skyline, Yerba Buena Island, and San Francisco.
Catch a Show at the Fox Theater
CultureStep into a lavishly restored 1928 Art Deco masterpiece in Uptown. This national historic landmark hosts major musical acts in an opulent setting, complete with a giant Buddha statue and a celestial ceiling.
Tour the Original Ghost Town Brewing
Food & DrinkSample hyper-local beer in the heart of West Oakland. This community-focused taproom in a historic industrial space is a cornerstone of Oakland's craft beer scene, often hosting pop-up food vendors and local artists.
Browse the Oakland Vintage Market
ShoppingHunt for treasures at this monthly market held at the Portuguese Hall. With dozens of curated vendors, it's the best place to find vintage Levi's, 70s furniture, rare vinyl, and unique Oakland-made goods.
Visit the Morcom Rose Garden
NatureA hidden oasis in the Grand Lake neighborhood, this eight-acre garden is a serene escape with thousands of rose varieties, fountains, and olive tree-lined walkways. It's a favorite spot for quiet contemplation and wedding photos.
neighborhoods
Neighborhoods to Explore
Oakland's character is defined by its distinct neighborhoods, each with its own history, architecture, and vibrant street life. From historic districts to creative corridors, exploring them is key to understanding the city.
Old Oakland
Historic & EclecticCentered around 9th Street and Washington, this district features beautifully preserved Victorian commercial buildings from the 1870s. Today, it's a mix of boutique shops, acclaimed restaurants like Belcampo, and a vibrant Friday farmers' market.
Uptown
Creative & HipThe epicenter of Oakland's nightlife and arts revival. By day, browse artisanal shops and cafes. By night, the streets come alive with people heading to the Fox Theater, art galleries, and legendary dive bars like The Ruby Room.
Fruitvale
Vibrant & CulturalThe vibrant heart of Oakland's Latino community. Explore the Fruitvale Village transit hub for authentic taquerias and panaderías, visit the Dia de los Muertos annual altar exhibit, and feel the neighborhood's strong sense of place and history.
Rockridge
Upscale & LeafyA charming, walkable neighborhood centered on College Avenue. Known for its boutique shopping, excellent cafes like A Cote, and the iconic Market Hall food emporium, it blends a small-town feel with sophisticated urban amenities.
West Oakland
Industrial & ArtisticA historically significant area undergoing transformation, known for its legacy in the blues and the Black Panther Party. Today, it's a hub for artists' studios, innovative manufacturing, and some of the city's most exciting new restaurants and coffee roasters.
Browse by category
Every need, covered in Oakland.
Beauty & Grooming
Independent salons and barbershops reflect the city's diverse styles, from classic cuts to bold, artistic expression.
Shopping
Discover one-of-a-kind finds at vintage boutiques, artisan markets, and Black-owned businesses along Telegraph and Piedmont Ave.
Food & Dining
A global pantry where innovative Californian cuisine meets deep culinary traditions from Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Home Services
A hub for skilled artisans and sustainable design, supporting everything from historic home restoration to modern urban gardening.
Health & Wellness
From lakeside yoga to hilltop hikes, wellness here is rooted in community and access to stunning natural spaces.
Professional
A collaborative ecosystem of creatives, tech innovators, and social entrepreneurs driving change.
Featured near you
Businesses Oakland loves.
Local stories
Articles about Oakland.

Best Moving Companies in Oakland
Planning a move in Oakland? From navigating the hills to securing parking, our guide covers the top local moving companies and essential tips for a smooth relocation in the Town.

Top Electricians & Electrical Services in Oakland
Find reliable, licensed electricians in Oakland for everything from historic home rewiring in Rockridge to EV charger installation in Jack London Square. Our guide covers what to look for and the best neighborhoods to search.

Best Gyms & Fitness Studios in Oakland
From hardcore strength gyms and inclusive yoga studios to outdoor boot camps and cycling clubs, discover where Oakland gets fit.

Best HVAC & Air Conditioning Services in Oakland
Your guide to finding reliable heating, cooling, and air quality services in Oakland. From historic homes in Rockridge to modern condos in Jack London Square, learn what to look for and how to choose the right local HVAC company for Oakland's unique climate.
Own a business in Oakland?
Get found by local customers searching for services in Oakland, CA. Join thousands of businesses already on Poyst.
- ✓Free business listing with photos & reviews
- ✓Appear in local search & city guides
- ✓Analytics dashboard to track visibility


