Ultimate 3-Day Oakland Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See
Oakland pulses with vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods, and a creative spirit, offering visitors a unique blend of art, cuisine, and Bay Area beauty.
Day 1: Downtown, Lake Merritt & Uptown Arts
Morning
Start your Oakland journey at Lake Merritt. Enjoy a walk or jog around the scenic urban lake, watch the birdlife at the nature center, and soak in views of the city skyline reflected on the water.
Lake Merritt
Grab a hearty breakfast at Grand Lake Kitchen, a beloved local spot offering inventive comfort food and lake views.
Grand Lake Kitchen
Afternoon
Explore the fascinating Oakland Museum of California, where interactive exhibits bring the state's art, history, and natural sciences to life.
Oakland Museum of California
Evening
Dine at Duende in Uptown, a stylish Spanish-inspired restaurant known for creative tapas, paella, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Duende
Catch a show or admire the Art Deco architecture at the legendary Fox Theater.
Fox Theater
Day 2: Temescal, Rockridge & Gourmet Delights
Morning
Begin at Temescal Alley, a charming lane filled with indie boutiques, coffee shops, and hipster vibes—perfect for browsing and a morning pastry.
Temescal Alley
Fuel up with coffee and a donut at Doughnut Dolly, famed for their made-to-order cream-filled treats.
Doughnut Dolly
Afternoon
Stroll down College Avenue in Rockridge, a lively neighborhood with artisan shops, bookstores, and local flavor.
Rockridge
Enjoy lunch at Wood Tavern, an acclaimed spot for rustic California cuisine and a cozy bistro atmosphere.
Wood Tavern
Evening
Experience inventive cocktails and a welcoming local crowd at Kingfish Pub and Cafe, a quirky and historic dive bar that’s a true Oakland original.
Kingfish Pub and Cafe
Day 3: Redwood Forests, Waterfront, & Jack London Square
Morning
Start with a peaceful hike beneath towering redwoods at Redwood Regional Park, an unexpected natural haven just minutes from downtown.
Redwood Regional Park
Afternoon
Head to Jack London Square, a lively waterfront district filled with shops, restaurants, and maritime history. Walk along the estuary and check out Jack London’s cabin.
Jack London Square
Enjoy lunch at Souley Vegan, a local favorite for creative, flavor-packed vegan soul food right near the water.
Souley Vegan
Evening
Cap off your trip with sunset cocktails at Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon, a historic bar with quirky charm and fascinating maritime lore.
Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon
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