What to do in Oakland, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

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Things to do

City Sightseeing San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

City Sightseeing San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Rp965.085
per adult
City Sightseeing San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
San Francisco First Timer Tour Highlights and Hidden Gems

San Francisco First Timer Tour Highlights and Hidden Gems

Rp1.908.699
per adult
San Francisco First Timer Tour Highlights and Hidden Gems
All Day Unlimited Mini Golf and Games in Bay Area

All Day Unlimited Mini Golf and Games in Bay Area (East)

Rp421.128
per adult
All Day Unlimited Mini Golf and Games in Bay Area (East)
San Francisco Gin Cocktail Class: Views and Gin History

San Francisco Gin Cocktail Class with Bay Views | Gold Bar

Rp1.502.619
per adult
San Francisco Gin Cocktail Class with Bay Views | Gold Bar
Half Day San Francisco City Overview Tour

Half-Day San Francisco City Overview Tour

Rp2.088.093
per adult
Half-Day San Francisco City Overview Tour
San Francisco: Shared Deluxe Bus sightseeing Tour with 20 Stops

San Francisco: Shared Deluxe Bus sightseeing Tour with guide

Rp963.105
per adult
San Francisco: Shared Deluxe Bus sightseeing Tour with guide
Golden Gate Bridge at night

San Francisco Night Tour

Rp835.117
per adult
76% of travellers recommend
San Francisco Night Tour
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What to do in Oakland

Stay near popular Oakland attractions

A street intersection with a large sign reading "JACK LONDON SQUARE" and a hotel in the background.

Jack London Square

8.4/10 (1,318 reviews)
This waterfront district honours author Jack London with harbourside dining and maritime heritage. Stroll the boardwalk at sunset, then savour fresh seafood while watching boats glide across Oakland Estuary.
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Where to stay in Oakland

Find the best Oakland areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Oakland
Learn more about Oakland
A street scene with a prominent building featuring a large marquee sign reading "OAKLAND."

Downtown Oakland

Theatres, art galleries and live music highlight some notable features of Downtown Oakland. Make a stop by Oakland City Center or Fox Theater while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at 12th Street/Oakland City Center Station or 19th St Station to get around town.

A street intersection with a large sign reading "JACK LONDON SQUARE" and a hotel in the background.

Jack London District

If you're spending some time in Jack London District, Jack London Square and Plank are top sights worth seeing.

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Temescal

If you're spending some time in Temescal, Temescal Alley and Oakland Floats are top sights worth seeing.

The Art Museum Pacific Film Archive building with a modern design, located at the corner of a street with a traffic light and pedestrians nearby.

Downtown Berkeley

Take time in Downtown Berkeley to visit attractions like Historic Berkeley and UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall. You might also appreciate the abundant dining options, and you can hop on the metro at Downtown Berkeley Station to see more of the city.

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Downtown Alameda

While Downtown Alameda isn't home to many top sights, Alameda Island Brewing Company and AMF Southshore Lanes are some notable places to visit nearby.

Day trip destinations from Oakland

A modern building with a glass facade and a sign reading "Rosebloom Cellars".

Alameda

The Golden Gate Bridge at night with city lights in the background.

Hayward

A waterfront with a dock, a house, and a bridge.

Fremont

The Golden Gate Bridge with a clear view of the towers and cables, spanning across the water.

San Francisco

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Sunol

Frequently asked questions

Is Oakland worth visiting?
Oakland has an interesting mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into the outdoors, history or local cuisine, there are many things you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Oakland?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Oakland Zoo and USS Hornet Museum. Then, tour other parts of Oakland for local dining and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Oakland?
The top tourist attraction in Oakland is Greek Theatre, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Oakland?
Three days in Oakland is enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many travellers book for two days on average. Greek Theatre, Oakland Museum of California and Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive are top-rated sights. Want to see more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as San Francisco.
Is Oakland a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, Oakland is a great place to see on foot. Wander between Oakland Museum of California and Children's Fairyland. Then take a stroll around Downtown Oakland, located 0.16 kilometers from the centre, and Lake Merritt, which is roughly 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Oakland with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, a schedule filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Oakland with kids.

What to do in Oakland for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or thrill seeker, there's no shortage of things to do in Oakland for adults including Rosenblum Cellars and St. George Spirits.
Are there free things to do in Oakland?
In Oakland, Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the local parks and neighbourhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's an easy way to find out about the best free things to do in Oakland.