PRACTICAL WANDERLUST
Although Oakland and San Francisco are neighbors, located just minutes apart across the Bay, the two cities could not be more different. Oakland has its own distinct history, sounds, tastes, its own social movements.
Keep on reading because you’ll find some of my favorite things to do in Oakland.
It always comes as a surprise to anyone who has yet to visit Oakland that there’s a giant lake in the middle of downtown. Yep, that’s right: Lake Merritt is right smack downtown.
Go Hiking in the Redwoods
There are two parks, and the redwoods you’ll find in the are some of the oldest in the Bay Area, dating back to the 1880s.
Attending one of the A’s baseball games is one of the best things to do in Oakland. Oh, and don’t forget to stuff yourself silly with snacks and beer.
There are plenty of amazing food tours in Oakland, where you can get to know Oakland through chicken & waffles, shrimp & grits, dumplings, spongy Ethiopian injera bread, sizzling Korean bulgogi, and deep-fried vegan soul food.
Check it out at Oakland’s monthly First Fridays street event, where art, music and dance come alive in a celebration of Oakland’s culture and heritage!
Most of the city is walkable, bikeable, and transit-able, which means you can easily explore all of Oakland’s many neighborhoods!