Uptown Oakland

Just the facts
 

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, Duende, the Hive Oakland

The vibe
 

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.

The inside inside scoop
 

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.

If you only have three 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 Calavera, mole at Agave Uptown, a bucket of fried chicken at Hopscotch, paella at Duende, Asian-fusion tacos at Belly, and inventive ice cream flavors at Humphry Slocombe. Or head to Hi Felicia, a Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant offering a unique dining experience featuring an eclectic tasting menu whose flavors span Latin America and beyond.

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 McMullen, an all inclusive concept shop for luxury fashion featuring emerging and established designers from around the world. Or head to Ayesha Curry's Sweet July where alongside their our own products, you’ll also find thoughtfully curated items from some of their favorite Black-owned brands, as well as products created by Bay Area-based makers.

How to get here

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