Uptown Oakland

Fast Facts About Uptown Oakland
 

Main strip:  Broadway and Telegraph (between 17th and 25th streets
Who dwells here: hipsters, techies, student-artists, empty nesters
Population: Exceeds 21,533, including neighboring areas
Founded: 1900s
Main architecture: Early to mid 1900s, with loads of Art Deco masterpieces
Neighborhood giants: Paramount and Fox theaters
Where to mingle with locals: Sweet Bar Bakery, Parche the Hive Oakland

The Local Vibe at Uptown Oakland
 

Once a shopping district in the early 20th century, Uptown is the hottest neighborhood in Oakland. A new restaurant, indie boutique, or bar seemingly opens every other week, with nearly 125 opened in the past decade. Billed as the arts and entertainment district of Oakland, it fulfills its promise, particularly during the boisterous Art Murmur on First Fridays. But the prettiest art may be the Art Deco buildings themselves, with the crown jewels being the show stopping Fox and the Paramount theaters. The former is mostly a live music venue; the latter channels its inner flapper often (classic movies with a live organ player). Art galleries, run by the artists or by volunteers, are opening in brick warehouses. Down side streets are scenes of the start-up, DIY revolution with co-ops, an urban winery, entrepreneur hubs, and creative centers.

Fun Facts: Uptown Oakland Historic Firsts
 

Tucked away on 26th street, Classic Cars West is home to a vintage and classic car sales and consignment, on site vegan restaurant and beer garden.

Things to Do in Uptown Oakland in Just a Few Hours
 

Come hungry! You could literally throw a rock in Uptown and hit an amazing restaurant or bar. There’s a little bit of everything to try here: mezcal flights at Mixe, mole at Agave Uptown, authentic Afghanistan cuisine at Jaji, Colombian food at Parche, and inventive ice cream flavors at Humphry Slocombe. You can also head to Drake's Dealership for a cold beer or to Viridian for amazing cocktails.

Atop a five-story garage that’s part of the Kaiser Center is three acres of greenery and a reflecting pond. It’s a nice place to take in the sunny Oakland weather.

Uptown Oakland is also home to many shops including Ramsess Art Garden for lovers of plants, music, design, magic and art. While record lovers can head out to Econo Jam Records.

Getting to Uptown Oakland: Directions & Public Transit

Freeway exit: From 1-80 E, take I-880 S and continue on W Grand Ave; from  1-880 S, head north and take ramp right for Broadway toward Downtown, turning right onto Broadway.
Bart stop: 19th Street
Bus lines: 11, 51A, 672, 682, 688, 696