If you’re looking for a great place to visit in Oakland, California, consider the African American Museum. Located in the heart of the city, the museum features exhibits related to Oakland’s history, politics, and social justice movements. You can even take a free tour of the museum! Although the weather in Oakland is generally hot, the museum is free to visit. However, be aware that it can be a bit chilly and foggy during the colder months.
For those looking for a taste of old-fashioned Americana, head to Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon. This historic building dates back to the 1800s and is known for its famous French 75 cocktail. Oakland’s vibrant and diverse neighborhoods are home to a variety of ethnic restaurants and shops. You can also take a walk through the quaint pedestrian alleyways and enjoy the beautiful scenery while sipping your favorite drink.
You’ll also want to explore the Pardee Home, an historic building with a clock tower face. Despite being abandoned, the Oakland Tribune Tower still houses businesses in the former newspaper’s home. High-tea parties and ghost tours are available here. Oakland is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. In addition, you’ll be able to enjoy the Oakland Symphony, an orchestra of famous singers.
If you’re planning to bike around Oakland, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to do so. The city’s bike-friendly infrastructure and abundant bike parking make cycling easy and convenient. For those who don’t own a bicycle, there are Bay Wheels bike-share stations everywhere. The program is operated by Lyft and is available in other Bay Area cities. You’ll never have to worry about where to park your bike because you can simply park it at one of these stations.
Amidst Oakland’s gentrification process, the city saw the formation of the Black Panther Party in the 1960s. It was a revolutionary party, which declared black is beautiful and formed the Chicano-Black Panther Party. Oakland’s youth were also instrumental in the emergence of the Black Power Movement. As a result, a portion of the city is now known as “Oakland.”
While the city has numerous attractions for the entire family, families will find a number of places to visit to enjoy a day together. Downtown Oakland is home to the Oakland Museum of California, which includes three galleries focusing on history, art, and culture. The museum has special exhibits relating to the ‘Summer of Love’ and Yosemite National Park. You can take the kids to Children’s Fairyland, an amusement park established in 1950.
One of the coolest things to do in Oakland is explore the city’s thriving botanical gardens. Oakland is home to the oldest wildlife refuge in the US, Lake Merritt. There’s plenty of space to stroll around, while admiring the lush landscaping. A Japanese garden, succulent gardens, bonsai trees, and an edible community garden are great places to stroll and visit. The Bay Area Rapid Transit serves Oakland, making it easy to get around on public transportation.