KONO

Just the facts
 

Main strip: Telegraph Avenue, between 20th and 35th Streets
Who dwells here: artists, dancers, hipsters
Founded: 2007
Main architecture: Early to mid 1900s, with loads of Art Deco masterpieces
Neighborhood giants: Oakland First Fridays
Where to mingle with locals: Oakland First Fridays

The vibe
 

KONO is a thriving stretch of community that's a quintessential embodiment of The Town’s culture and influence in the Bay Area. This neighborhood features a large and active arts community, vibrant nightlife, and strong ties to the Korean community. Located near the 19th Street BART station, visitors and residents can easily explore KONO by foot and car, or can take advantage of the recently constructed designated curbside bike lanes.

The inside inside scoop
 

Oakland has the second highest per capita of artists in the country and KONO houses  20+ art venues, several murals and public art displays. Along with the arts, KONO features Oakland’s most popular craft beer gardens and pubs.

If you only have three hours
 

If you can't make it to Oakland on a first Friday, or if you want to avoid Art Murmur crowds, do the self-guided Saturday Stroll to many galleries, including 25th Street Collective, Creative Growth Art Center, and Vessel Gallery.

In the mood to watch a movie within the comforts of home at The New Parkway Theater, a unique dine-in cinema complex. Featuring comfy couches, American diner food, and beer and wine, your food is served while you relax and enjoy your film.

Hungry? Head to Cafe Dareye, a charming Ethiopian restaurant  that has been around for 17 years, where everything is made from scratch, and you can smell the appetizing spices and scents wafting outside before you arrive. If you're looking for a late-night cocktail, we suggest checking out Friends and Family Bar.

How to get here

Bart stop: 19th Street