A- Overview:
Oakland’s landscape is a picturesque mix of lovely hillside neighborhoods; exciting and diverse architecture; a bustling waterfront; two shimmering lakes; 19 miles of shoreline along the San Francisco Bay; unparalleled Bay views; and more parks and open space per capita than any other city in the Bay Area. Everyone loves the year round vacation weather with temperatures in the gentle 50’s and 60’s in the winter and spring, and 70’s throughout summer and fall.
A city on the move, Oakland has emerged as a major economic force in the region. Long a center for international trade, the Port of Oakland is one of the nation’s busiest container ports in the Bay Area. The Oakland International Airport is served by many major domestic and international airlines.
The arts are alive in Oakland as well. The city has one of the largest visual and performing arts communities on the West Coast, and the arts are celebrated on every level; from acclaimed symphony and ballet to museums, galleries, and small arts organizations. The Old Oakland district includes many of the finest examples of Victorian commercial architecture on the West Coast. Oakland’s population boomed after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, and the Broadway Historic District showcases a range of architectural treasures constructed between 1900-1949. Bold new buildings now shine in Oakland’s modern skyline.
There is definitely no shortage of things to see and do, and there is weather to match. Visitors can explore the universe at The Chabot Space and Science Center. The Center houses one of the largest public telescopes in the United States, a 230-seat planetarium, and the large-screen Tien MegaDome Theater. Every child’s fantasy comes true at Children’s Fairyland. Here young children can enjoy the enchanting, three-dimensional fantasy world where popular nursery rhymes come to life, set in picturesque Lakeside Park.
Speaking of Lakeside Park, this large saltwater lake, one of the largest in the country, and the adjoining 122-acre park is home to wildlife, formal gardens, and a children’s amusement park. All of these draw scores of walkers, joggers, bikers, rowers, sailors, and windsurfers, year round. For a little romance, visitors can experience Gondola Servizio where they glide across Lake Merritt in a beautiful Venetian craft accompanied by a serenading gondolier.
Of course, everyone needs a chance to relax, shop and enjoy a good meal. A wonderful place for this is in Oakland is at Jack London Square. This busy site at the water’s edge has dining, entertainment, shopping, and more than a few spots for daydreaming. Take a ferry ride, stroll the scenic boardwalk, catch a movie, or just rest and refresh at a sunny sidewalk café. For a little history in a nostalgic setting, the historic Grand Lake Theatre is a must see. A mainstay of the community since its construction in 1926, this first-run movie theater is graced with a colorful, lighted marquee and a sweeping staircase in the main hall. Look for the ornately decorated walls, brass chandeliers, and faux opera boxes. Prior to curtain on Friday and Saturday nights, an organist serenades the audience on a Wurlitzer. Rent a sailboat on Lake Merritt, stroll along the waterfront, explore the fantastic Oakland Museum: These are all great reasons to spend fog-free days exploring one of California’s largest and most ethnically diverse cities.
Oakland has near perfect weather to enjoy all of the spectacular offerings of the city. “Sunny California” applies to Oakland’s climate. With the sun shining an average of 95% of the time in the summer, it’s the time to experience the numerous outdoor activities available. The fall offers a chance to view Nature in transition. With the temperature dropping only slightly from the summer, visitors can enjoy the out of doors day or night. Winters are mild with the average temperature around 55 F. Snow is almost never seen, except in the higher elevations and then only briefly. Spring brings an abundance of sunshine, warmer temperatures and very low humidity. It’s an ideal time for a relaxing stroll in one of the areas many excellent parks.
History, events, great entertainment, sports, scenery and an ideal climate in which to experience it all, Oakland, the City by the Bay, has it.
B- City Information:
Population: 399,484
Elevation: 42 feet above sea level
Land Area: 56.1 square miles
Location: Located in the northwestern portion of California,
Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (when it’s noon in Oakland, it’s 2pm in Chicago and 3pm in New York City). Oakland observes Daylight Savings Time from April – October
Weather:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average temp. (°F)
50.7
54.0
55.7
58.1
60.7
63.4
64.7
65.6
66.1
63.4
56.4
51.0
High temperature (°F)
57.1
61.0
63.0
66.2
68.7
71.5
72.8
73.5
74.5
72.1
63.9
57.7
Low temperature (°F)
44.3
47.0
48.3
49.9
52.6
55.1
56.5
57.7
57.6
54.7
48.8
44.3
Precipitation (in)
4.9
4.4
3.7
1.4
0.6
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.3
1.4
3.2
3.3
Climate:
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Days with precipitation
10
9
9
5
3
1
0
0
1
3
7
9
Wind speed (mph)
7.0
7.2
8.3
8.6
9.0
9.5
8.8
8.3
7.3
6.3
5.9
6.3
Morning humidity (%)
91
89
86
83
81
77
76
77
77
79
87
88
Afternoon humidity (%)
70
61
53
44
37
32
30
29
31
37
57
67
Sunshine (%)
48
65
74
82
90
94
97
96
93
86
66
49
Days clear of clouds
7
8
10
12
17
22
27
26
24
19
10
8
Partly cloudy days
6
7
9
10
9
6
3
4
4
6
8
6
Cloudy days
19
13
12
8
5
2
1
1
2
6
12
17
Snowfall (in)
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Local Seasons:
Oakland also has near perfect weather to enjoy all of the spectacular offerings of the city. “Sunny California” applies to Oakland’s climate. With the sun shining an average of 95% of the time in the summer, it’s the time to experience the numerous outdoor activities available. The fall offers a chance to view Nature in transition. With the temperature dropping only slightly from the summer, visitors can enjoy the out of doors day or night. Winters are mild with the average temperature around 55 F. Snow is almost never seen, except in the higher elevations and then only briefly. Spring brings an abundance of sunshine, warmer temperatures and very low humidity. It’s an ideal time for a relaxing stroll in one of the areas many excellent parks.
How to Get There:
By Air
Oakland International Airport
1 Airport Drive
Oakland, CA 94621
510-563-3300
Conveniently located to downtown, the airport is served by many of the nationally known airlines, as well as certain international, charter, local and regional carriers.
Ground Transportation
Most of the major car rental companies as well as taxi, limousine, and shuttle bus services are available at the airport as well as throughout the city.
By Car
Oakland is located across San Francisco Bay on the eastern side of the Bay Bridge. From San Francisco, follow I-80 to the Bridge. From the north and south, Oakland is accessible by way of I-880, and from the east via Highway 24.
By Train
Amtrak
245 Second Street
Oakland, CA 94607
800-USA-RAIL
By Bus
Greyhound
2103 San Pablo Avenue
Oakland, CA 94612
510-832-4730
How to Get Around:
Due to the many sites to see and attractions to experience, the best way to get around is by either personal or rental car. A car affords the visitor the opportunity to experience all that Oakland has to offer in a convenient fashion.
National Holidays:
New Year’s Day, January 1
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the third Monday in January
President’ Day, the third Monday in February
Memorial Day, the last Monday in May
Independence Day, July 4
Labor Day, the first Monday in September
Thanksgiving Day, the fourth Thursday in November
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, December 24 and 25
New Year’s Eve, December 31
C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd.
Oakland, CA 94619
510-336-7300
Hours: Open Friday, 5pm – 10pm, Saturday, 10am -10pm, Sunday, noon – 5pm, Wednesday – Friday 10am – 5pm
Admission Charged
The 86,000-square-foot center houses one of the largest public telescopes in the United States, a 230-seat planetarium, and the large-screen Tien MegaDome Theater. There are also numerous hands-on science and technology exhibits.
Children’s Fairyland
699 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
510-452-2259
Hours: Summer: Mon. – Fri., 10am – 4pm, Sat. and Sun. 10am – 5pm. Other seasons: hours vary, call for additional information
Admission Charged
Young children will enjoy this enchanting, three-dimensional fantasy world where popular nursery rhymes come to life, set in picturesque Lakeside Park.
Chinatown
Broadway, Alice, 13th, and Seventh Sts.
Admission Free
Experience Asian culture and character by exploring the restaurants, specialty shops, markets, and bakeries in this vibrant neighborhood. Be sure to visit the elegant Chinese Presbyterian Church (265 Eighth St.) and Pacific Renaissance Plaza (388 Ninth St.), which houses shops, restaurants, and the Oakland Asian Cultural Center.
City Center
Broadway and 14th St.
Admission Free
Glimpse a mix of 19th-century buildings standing proud alongside modern skyscrapers and elegant landscaping. Eye-catching buildings of note include Tribune Tower, the art deco financial center building, the federal building, the historic and recently restored City Hall, the Rotunda, and Frank H. Ogawa Plaza. The City Center pedestrian plaza boasts outdoor seating, restaurants, shops, and summer concerts.
Gondola Servizio
568 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
510-663-6603
Hours: Call for days and hours of operation
Admission Charged
Glide across Lake Merritt in a beautiful Venetian gondola accompanied by a serenading gondolier. Enjoy an evening cruise for two or an afternoon group (up to six) event.
Jack London Square
Broadway and Embarcadero
510- 814-6000
Admission Free
This busy site at the water’s edge has dining, entertainment, shopping, and more than a few spots for daydreaming. Take a ferry ride, stroll the scenic boardwalk, catch a movie, or just relax at a sunny sidewalk café.
Lake Merritt/Lakeside Park
Grand and Bellevue Aves.
510-238-7275
Admission Free
This large saltwater lake-one of the largest in the country-and the adjoining 122-acre park are home to wildlife, formal gardens, and a children’s amusement park, all of which draw scores of walkers, joggers, bikers, rowers, sailors, and windsurfers. See also Children’s Fairyland and the Rotary Nature Center.
Morcom Amphitheater of Roses
700 Jean St.
Oakland, CA 94610
510-238-3187
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Charged
Opened in the late 1920s, this eight-acre municipal rose garden features more than 6,000 rose bushes of all varieties. Bloom season is late April through October.
Oakland Mormon Temple and Visitors Center
4770 Lincoln Ave.
Oakland, CA 94602
510-531-1475
Hours: Visitors center open daily 9am – 9pm
Admission Free
This architectural standout offers panoramic views of the Bay Area and is adorned with breathtaking lights at Christmas.
Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Rd.
Oakland, CA 94605
510-632-9525
Hours: Open daily, 10am – 4pm
Admission Charged
Nestled in the 525-acre Knowland Park in the Oakland Hills, the zoo houses more than 400 native and exotic animals. The exhibits are organized geographically and reflect the ecosystems of the animals’ native habitats. Visitors can enjoy rotating cultural exhibits in the education center, and kids will love the butterfly garden and the “rides area,” with a roller coaster, an “endangered species carousel,” and a train.
Jack London Water Taxi
Foot of Broadway, Jack London Square
510-839-7572
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Charged
Take a relaxing ride on the estuary on this pontoon boat and see the city from a unique perspective. Enjoy views of the waterfront, harbor facilities, and estuary wildlife.
Rotary Nature Center
600 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
510-238-3739
Hours: Open daily, 10am – 5pm
Admission Charged
This wildlife refuge, the oldest in the United States, is located in downtown’s Lakeside Park.
African American Museum and Library at Oakland
659 14th St.
Oakland, CA 946
510-637-0200
Hours: Tues.-Sat. noon – 5:30pm
Admission Free
This division of the Oakland Public Library is devoted to organizing, preserving, interpreting, and sharing the African American experience in California.
California Genealogical Society
1611 Telegraph Ave.
Oakland, CA 94612
510-663-1358
Hours: Thursday – Saturday 9am – 4pm
Admission Free
This organization, which helps people trace their family histories, maintains a vast library of genealogical documents, maps, reference books, periodicals, and other materials.
Ebony Museum of Art
1034 14th St.
Oakland, CA 94607
510-763-0141
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 11am – 6pm
Admission Charged
This downtown museum preserves both African American and African art and promotes greater appreciation of African American heritage.
Mills College Art Museum
5000 MacArthur Blvd.
Oakland, CA 94613
510-430-2164
Hours: Sept. – May: Tues. – Sat. 11am – 4pm, Sun. 1 – 4pm
Admission Charged
At the college’s museum, guests can view local and international touring exhibits as well as the permanent collection.
The Museum of African American Technology Science Village
630 20th St.
Oakland, CA 94612
510-893-6426
Hours: Mon. – Fri. 10am – 5pm, Sat. noon – 6pm, Sun. 2 – 6pm. Tours Sat. and Sun., and by appointment.
Admission Charged
This museum exhibits the technical achievements of African Americans.
The Museum of Children’s Art (MOCHA)
538 Ninth St.
Oakland, CA 94607
510-465-8770
Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Admission Charged
Tucked away in a quaint courtyard in Old Oakland, this museum offers art classes for kids and drop-in working studios, as well as rotating exhibits of art created by children.
Oakland Museum of California
1000 Oak St.
Oakland, CA94607
510-238-2200
Hours: Open Wednesday – Sunday, call for exact hours of operation
Admission Charged
Surrounded by 51/2 acres of landscaped greenery, this museum is devoted to the arts, environment, and history of California.
Pro Arts
461 Ninth St.
Oakland, CA 94607
510-763-4361
Hours: Open Wednesday – Saturday, 11am – 5pm
Admission Charged
This downtown exhibit space features local and regional artists, and sponsors the annual East Bay Open Studios every June, when some 400 artists around the Bay Area open their workplaces to the public.
Western Aerospace Museum
8260 Boeing St. (Oakland International Airport, North Field)
Oakland, CA 94621
510-638-7100
Hours: Open Wednesday – Sunday, 10am -4pm
Located in a vintage hangar at Oakland International Airport, this museum houses aircraft displays, artifacts, a giant flying boat, and an Electra similar to the one flown by Amelia Earhart, who took off from this airfield and disappeared over the Pacific Ocean.
Camron-Stanford House
1418 Lakeside Dr.
Oakland, CA 94612
510-444-1876
Hours: Wednesday, 11am – 4pm, Sunday, 1pm – 5 pm
Admission Charged
This beautifully restored building is the last of the Victorians that once dominated the Lake Merritt area. Built in 1876, the house features period rooms and restoration exhibits.
Cohen-Bray House
1440 29th Ave.
Oakland, CA 94601
510-532-0704
Hours: Fourth Sunday of every month and by appointment.
Admission Charged
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Cohen-Bray House has been owned by one family since it was built in 1883 and offers views of its original interior décor and gardens.
Dunsmuir House and Gardens Historic Estate
2960 Peralta Oaks Ct.
Oakland, CA 94605
510-615-5555
Hours: Grounds open Feb.-Oct.: Tues. – Fri. 10am – 4pm. Mansion open April-Sept.:
Wed. 11am – noon
Admission Charged
This 37-room colonial revival mansion, built in 1899, along with its surrounding horticultural park and gardens, allows visitors to see how the wealthy lived a century ago.
Grand Lake Theater
3200 Grand Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
510-452-3556
Hours: Call for additional information
A mainstay of the community since its construction in 1926, this first-run movie theater is graced with a colorful, lighted marquee and a sweeping staircase in the main hall. Look for the ornately decorated walls, brass chandeliers, and faux opera boxes. Prior to curtain on Friday and Saturday nights, an organist serenades the audience on a Wurlitzer.
Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon
48 Webster Street in Jack London Square
Oakland, CA 94607
510-839-6761
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Free
Built in 1880 and once frequented by Oakland resident Jack London, this saloon is a popular hangout for Jack London Square denizens and visitors alike. It was designated a national literary landmark in 1998.
Old Oakland
Between Broadway and Clay Sts., from Seventh to 10th Sts.
This historic neighborhood of elegantly restored Victorian commercial buildings dates back to the 1870s and is now home to unique shops, galleries, Washington Street Restaurant Row, and a farmers market on Fridays.
Peralta Hacienda Historical Park
2465 34th Ave.
Oakland, CA 94601
510-532-9142
Hours: Tours Wed. 2 – 4pm, and first Saturday of the month at 1pm
Admission Charged
This six-acre park is the focal point of the historic 44,000-acre Rancho San Antonio, established through a Spanish land grant to Luis Peralta and his family.
USS Potomac
540 Water Street
Oakland, CA 94607
Located at the foot of Clay St. Jack London Square
510-627-1215
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Charged
Affectionately dubbed the Floating White House by the press; Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s presidential yacht is one of the few floating museums in the country. The restored 165-foot vessel, a national historic landmark, is a memorial to FDR and his accomplishments.
D- Family Fun Attractions:
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd.
Oakland, CA 94619
510-336-7300
Hours: Open Friday, 5pm – 10pm, Saturday, 10am -10pm, Sunday, noon – 5pm, Wednesday – Friday 10am – 5pm
Admission Charged
The 86,000-square-foot center houses one of the largest public telescopes in the United States, a 230-seat planetarium, and the large-screen Tien MegaDome Theater. There are also numerous hands-on science and technology exhibits.
Children’s Fairyland
699 Bellevue Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
510-452-2259
Hours: Summer: Mon. – Fri., 10am – 4pm, Sat. and Sun. 10am – 5pm. Other seasons: hours vary, call for additional information
Admission Charged
Young children will enjoy this enchanting, three-dimensional fantasy world where popular nursery rhymes come to life, set in picturesque Lakeside Park.
Jack London Square
Broadway and Embarcadero
510-814-6000
Admission Free
This busy site at the water’s edge has dining, entertainment, shopping, and more than a few spots for daydreaming. Take a ferry ride, stroll the scenic boardwalk, catch a movie, or just relax at a sunny sidewalk café.
Lake Merritt/Lakeside Park
Grand and Bellevue Aves.
510-238-7275
Admission Free
This large saltwater lake, one of the largest in the country, and the adjoining 122-acre park are home to wildlife, formal gardens, and a children’s amusement park, all of which draw scores of walkers, joggers, bikers, rowers, sailors, and windsurfers. See also Children’s Fairyland and the Rotary Nature Center.
Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Rd.
Oakland, CA 94605
510-632-9525
Hours: Open daily, 10am – 4pm
Admission Charged
Nestled in the 525-acre Knowland Park in the Oakland Hills, the zoo houses more than 400 native and exotic animals. The exhibits are organized geographically and reflect the ecosystems of the animals’ native habitats. Visitors can enjoy rotating cultural exhibits in the education center, and kids will love the new butterfly garden and the “rides area,” with a roller coaster, an “endangered species carousel,” and a train.
Jack London Water Taxi
Foot of Broadway, Jack London Square
510-839-7572
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Charged
Take a relaxing ride on the estuary on this pontoon boat and see the city from a unique perspective. Enjoy views of the waterfront, harbor facilities, and estuary wildlife.
Western Aerospace Museum
8260 Boeing St. (Oakland International Airport, North Field)
Oakland, CA 94621
510-638-7100
Hours: Open Wednesday – Sunday, 10am -4pm
Located in a vintage hangar at Oakland International Airport, this museum houses aircraft displays, artifacts, a giant flying boat, and an Electra similar to the one flown by Amelia Earhart, who took off from this airfield and disappeared over the Pacific Ocean.
Grand Lake Theater
3200 Grand Ave.
Oakland, CA 94610
510-452-3556
Hours: Call for additional information
A mainstay of the community since its construction in 1926, this first-run movie theater is graced with a colorful, lighted marquee and a sweeping staircase in the main hall. Look for the ornately decorated walls, brass chandeliers, and faux opera boxes. Prior to curtain on Friday and Saturday nights, an organist serenades the audience on a Wurlitzer.
USS Potomac
540 Water Street
Oakland, CA 94607
Located at the foot of Clay St. Jack London Square
510-627-1215
Hours: Call for additional information
Admission Charged
Affectionately dubbed the Floating White House by the press; Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s presidential yacht is one of the few floating museums in the country. The restored 165-foot vessel, a national historic landmark, is a memorial to FDR and his accomplishments.
E- Events & Entertainment:
Events
January
Chinese New Year’s Bazaar
Held in late January
Location: Chinatown
510-893-8979
Call for additional information
Enjoy this rich cultural event featuring ongoing music, foods, arts and crafts.
February
Animal Amore
Held in mid February
Location: Oakland Zoo
510-632-9525
Call for additional information
Walking tours, steamy animal facts, crafts, tattoos and face painting.
Pacific Coast Classic Men’s Gymnastics Open Competition
Held in mid February
Location: Oakland Convention Center
510-451-4000
Call for additional information
An event for the National Gymnastics Foundation Men’s Scholarship Program and Men’s Intercollegiate Gymnastics Support Program, featuring hundreds of registered athletes.
March
Annual White Elephant Sale
Held in early March
Location: Oakland Museum of California
510-238-2200
Call for additional information
A world famous sale featuring acres of bargains, benefiting the Oakland Museum of California.
Tall Ships
Held early – mid March
Location: Jack London Square
415-331-3214
Call for additional information
Tall Ships – Hawaiian Chieftain and Lady Washington will be available for dockside tours and bay excursions.
Old Fashioned Easter Celebration
Held at Easter time
Location: Dunsmuir Historic Estates
510-615-5555
Call for additional information
Tour the Mansion, enjoy a colorful Easter egg hunt and other festivities for kids.
April
Annual California Wildflower Show
Held in mid April
Location: Oakland Museum of California
510-238-2200
Call for additional information
The annual exhibition includes a profusion of native flowers brought into the museum, sorted, identified and labeled by botanists.
Pacific Sail Expo
Held in mid April
Location: Jack London Square
866-295-9853
Call for additional information
One of the largest on the West Coast, with hundreds of sailboats and products on display.
Pacific Power Expo
Held in late April
Location: Jack London Square
510-834-1000
Call for additional information
Anything and everything you’ve every wanted to know about powerboats!
May
Cinco de Mayo Festival and Parade
Held in early May
Location: International Blvd. Between 33rd and 40th avenues
510-536-4477
Call for additional information
A culturally rich festival celebrating Hispanic tradition, food and music.
MG Car Show
Held in mid May
Location: Jack London Square
866-295-9853
Call for additional information
Featuring over 100 MG’s from antiques to classics.
Festival of Greece
Held in mid May
Location: Greek Orthodox Church, 4700 Lincoln
510-531-3400
Savor the many flavors of authentic Greek cuisine; immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Greek culture.
June
Walk in the Wild
Held in mid June
Location: Oakland Zoo
510-632-9525
Call for additional information
Tastings from some of the East Bay’s finest restaurants.
Montclair Village Fine Arts Festival
Held in late June
Location: Montclair Village
510-339-1000
Call for additional information
Enjoy charming Montclair featuring beautiful art work by local artists.
July
Fourth of July at Pardee
Held on the fourth of July
Location: Pardee Home Museum
510- 444-2187
Call for additional information
Enjoy an old fashioned, patriotic picnic at the Historic Pardee Home Museum.
Scottish Highland Games
Held in early July
Location: Dunsmuir Historic Estates
510-615-5555
Call for additional information
In celebration of Scottish heritage; enjoy festive music, traditional foods, and arts and crafts.
August
Annual Salsa Festival
Held in late August
Location: Fruitvale Village/ Fruitvale BART Station
510-535-6900
Call for additional information
Celebrating everything salsa; food, dance and music.
Chinatown Street Fest
Held in late August
Location: Chinatown, 9th and Franklin
510-893-8979Call for additional information
Taste the cuisine of Asia and shop for unique gifts.
September
Art & Soul Festival
Held in early September
Location: Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
510-444-2489
Call for additional information
The City’s premier art and music festival, featuring multiple stages of live, diverse, music, crafts of over 150 artisans and an eclectic selection of tempting foods!
Fall Boat Show
Held in mid September
Location: Jack London Square
866-295-9853
Call for additional information
This annual sailboat and powerboat show is one of the largest on the West Coat.
December
Holidays at Dunsmuir
Held in early December
Location: Dunsmuir Historic Estates
510-615-5555
Call for additional information
Mansion tours, holiday teas, children’s teas, lunch carolers, horse-drawn carriages, and children’s activities.
Christmas Revels
Held in mid December
Location: Scottish Rite Center
510-893-9853
Call for additional information
Celebrate the winter solstice with a lively cast of adults and children performing dance, drama, ritual, and song.
Fairy Winter Wonderland
Held in mid December
Location: Children’s Fairyland
510-452-2259
Call for additional information
Come and enjoy this special holiday celebration. In the days just before Christmas, the storybook park is transformed into a magical winter wonderland for kids, with twinkling fairy lights, rides open after dark, special holiday performances and decorations, and hot apple cider and cocoa for everyone!
Entertainment:
Calvin Simmons Theatre
Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center
10 10th St.
Oakland, CA 94607
510-238-7765
Call for performance schedule
Established to honor the legacy of the late Oakland Symphony conductor, this historic hall seats 1,860 people.
Four Seasons Concerts
10 10th Street
Oakland, CA 94607
510- 601-7919
Season runs September – May, call for performance schedule
Four Seasons Concerts presents world-acclaimed classical music performances at the Calvin Simons Theatre.
Holy Name College
3500 Mountain Blvd.
Oakland, CA 94619
510-436-1254
Call for performance schedule
Located high in the Oakland Hills, with a spectacular view of San Francisco Bay, the college presents choral and orchestral concerts, lecture series, and lively dance performances.
Malonga Saselourd Center for the Arts
1428 Alice St.
Oakland, CA 94612
510-238-7219
Call for performance schedule
This restored 1920s building is a popular multicultural, multidisciplinary performing-arts complex sponsored by the city. The 400-seat theater and five rehearsal and class spaces showcase drama, ballet, and African and contemporary dance. Several long-standing arts organizations-Axis Dance Company, Bay Area Blues Society, CitiCentre Dance Theater, Dimensions Dance Theater, and Oakland Youth Orchestra-call the center home.
Network Associates Coliseum and the Arena in Oakland
7000 Coliseum Way
Oakland, CA 94621
510- 569-2121
Call for performance schedule
This complex comprises the 63,000-seat stadium (home to the Oakland Raiders and the Oakland A’s) and the recently renovated 18,300-seat arena (home of the Golden State Warriors). Both are major concert and entertainment venues, and both sponsor special events year-round.
Oakland Ballet
2025 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612
510-452-9288
Call for performance schedule
The city’s ballet company performs in town September through December at the Paramount Theatre. The troupe’s unusual repertoire-which includes revivals of Diaghilev-era ballets-has garnered worldwide notice.
Oakland East Bay Symphony
2025 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612
510-444-0801
Call for performance schedule
The symphony presents classical and inventive new works for small orchestra and chamber ensembles in six annual performances at the Paramount Theatre and in numerous concerts at other venues throughout the year.
Oakland Youth Orchestra
Alice Arts Center
1428 Alice St.
Oakland, CA 94612
510-832-7710
Call for performance schedule
The orchestra presents five shows a year, including its popular pops concert in January or February.
Paramount Theatre
2025 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612
510-893-2300
Call for performance schedule
This beautiful art deco landmark, built in 1931, screens classic films and hosts performances by both up-and-coming and well-known entertainers.
Woodminster Amphitheater
3300 Joaquin Miller Rd.
Oakland, CA 94602
510- 531-9597
Call for performance schedule
Nestled among the redwoods of Joaquin Miller Park, this natural amphitheater hosts musicals throughout the summer.
Sports:
Golden State Warriors Basketball
Games played at The Arena in Oakland
Season runs October – April
888-479-4667
Call for game schedule and additional information
Oakland A’s Baseball
Games played at the Network Associates Coliseum
Season runs April – October
510-762-2255
Call for game schedule and additional information
Oakland Raiders Football
Games played at the Network Associates Coliseum
Season runs September – January
510-762-2277
Call for game schedule and additional information
UC Berkeley Intercollegiate Athletics
Events take place at Berkeley
510-762-2277
Call for a complete list of sports, schedules, and additional information
Golden Gate Fields Racetrack
1100 Eastshore Hwy.
Albany, CA 94710
Season runs November – March
510-559-7300
Call for schedule and additional information
Thoroughbred racing at this track features the sport’s top jockeys and horses. Racing season runs from November through March, and the track is open Wednesday through Sunday.
