Oakland has always prided itself on being a progressive city, standing up for the rights of its communities at all costs. Take the Black Panther Party of Self Defense for example, which originated right here in 1966.
Though the Party officially disbanded in 1982 the legacy and presence remains today. Over the course of
If Brooklyn is the arts hub of the East Coast, Oakland is the arts and culture mecca of the West.
Two days in Oakland? With so many great neighborhoods, activities, restaurants, and things to do, it seems impossible to see it all in just 48 hours. Have fun exploring and discovering Oakland with this list of suggested activities.
Just one day in Oakland? Our nightlife, galleries and restaurants alone can fill up an entire day. Add the rich history, diverse neighborhoods, outdoor recreation and sports into the mix, and you’ve just filled up at least a week. It’s a bit ambitious, but if you must do it all in a day, take a cue from your personal tour guides. Just make sure you come back—we’ve just barely scratched the surface.
Oakland’s thriving arts and culture scene offers great live music, events, eats and outdoorsy fun all year round, but we are always super excited for the summer festivities. From dancing and day drinking at festivals and sampling food from all different cuisines to museum and gallery hopping, Oakland has got you covered. Whatever their interests, family members of all ages will make exciting discoveries and great memories while spending the day on the Sunny Side of the Bay. Here is our list of outdoor street fairs, music festivals and other specially curated experiences to put on your calendar this summer. This list may not include every summer event in Oakland. We welcome you to share your favorites down below.
*content updated by Visit Oakland.
1.Experience the Fruitvale Night Markets! Enjoy music, kids’ activities and live performances at Avenida de La Fuente every second and fourth Thursday of the month (June-August). The markets only happen during the summer, so make sure to stop by soon.
2. Enjoy a mangonada at Nieves
When visiting Oakland, we know you’re going to want to indulge. There’s a nationally-acclaimed restaurant on nearly every corner, a classic dive bar or new brewery calling your name.
Not to worry – just outside your hotel room door, there are also several simple and fun running routes to help you maintain your exercise regimen, while also giving you a chance to explore the surrounding neighborhoods. And, with 260 sunny days a year, it’s always a good time to hit the pavement in The Town.
Oakland is certainly not a one-note town - its diversity and multicultural tapestry are legendary, and the creativity that flows from that influences everything in the city, including the vintage clothing stores.
And those aren’t one note either. Almost all feature additional temptations including vinyl records,
Oakland's thriving arts scene is reflective of the diversity and creativity that lives within the city and community. From fiery industrial art makers to bone breaking turf dancers, Oakland's artistry can also be found inside bars!
Oakland has a proud and resilient Black history/community that celebrates the influence on cultures past, present and future. This is certainly reflected and embraced in its food. With everything from Caribbean jerk chicken and plantains to Ethiopian injera with wat and comforting Southern fried chicken, Oakland’s
