12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Oakland, CA (2026)
1. Wander around Lake Merritt
One of the first places I gravitated toward was Lake Merritt—an urban lake right in the heart of Oakland with paths, rowing boats, bird life, and sunshine. It spans about 3.4 miles around so you can stroll, jog or just sit by the water.
Highlights:
- Enjoy the boating center where you can rent rowboats or pedal boats.
- Pass by the Bonsai Garden and Gardens at Lake Merritt (free entrance) for a calm, green interlude.
- Evening, or golden hour, walks are especially magical.
Tip: Bring a jacket—even a sunny day by the lake can get breezy.
See Also: Best 12 Romantic Things to Do in Tucson
2. Explore Jack London Square
If you want a lively waterfront hub, Jack London Square delivers. Set on the waterfront, it mixes restaurants, shops, and history (yes, the author Jack London is part of the story).
What stood out to me:
- The Farmers’ Market (Sunday mornings) where you can grab local produce and people-watch.
- Waterfront dining and breezy patios perfect for brunch or sunset.
- A relaxed vibe during the day, more animated at night.
Tip: Get there earlier in the day to beat parking and enjoy a calmer vista.
3. Visit the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA)
For a dose of culture, art, history and nature all under one roof, OMCA hits the mark. It explores California’s story through interactive and engaging exhibits.
Why it’s worth a stop:
- The blend of art, science and California heritage gives you a deeper context of the region.
- Great for both rainy afternoons or a thoughtful interlude between outdoor adventures.
Tip: Check for “First Fridays” or discount nights if you’re on a budget.
4. Escape to the redwoods at Redwood Regional Park
One of my favorite surprises: you don’t have to leave Oakland to immerse in stunning forest. Redwood Regional Park offers shaded trails under towering redwoods.
What to do:
- Pick a trail for a gentle hike or a more vigorous outing depending on your mood.
- Bring water and maybe snack stops since services are minimal.
Tip: Do this early in the morning for cooler air and fewer crowds.
5. Check out the food & craft-beer scene in Temescal & Rockridge
I found this neighborhood scene especially fun: eclectic eateries, craft breweries, interesting boutiques.
Highlights:
- Walk around Telegraph Avenue (Temescal) and dip into a relaxed brewery or an inventive restaurant.
- Shop the small vintage/indie stores in Rockridge.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—this is a strolling neighborhood.
6. Visit the Middle Harbor Shoreline Park
This park surprised me: industrial meets peaceful waterfront. Middle Harbor Shoreline Park gives sweeping Bay views, giant port cranes, and quiet spots.
Why it works:
- Great place for a flat walk, picnic or photography break.
- Especially cool for spotting big shipping operations across the bay.
Tip: Go near sunset for dramatic light—but bring layers (the wind picks up).
7. Take in a show at the Paramount Theatre or historic venues
Oakland has a strong live-arts pulse. The Paramount Theatre is an Art-Deco gem, and the Grand Lake Theatre has that marquee charm.
What to keep in mind:
- Check event listings ahead of time for music, film screenings, or theater.
- If you go at night, dress up a little for the theater vibe.
Tip: Arrive early enough to wander the lobby—these venues are historic in their own right.
8. Take a hike to the Chabot Space & Science Center
One of those “different” things to do in the Oakland hills—Chabot Space & Science Center brings the cosmos closer with telescopes, planetarium shows, and scenic views.
Why it stood out:
- Great for families or anyone curious about space and science.
- The drive up into the hills is worth it for the view alone.
Tip: Check operating hours ahead—sometimes they have special astronomy-themed evenings.
9. Enjoy local nature at Joaquin Miller Park
If you want nature and tranquility without leaving the city zone, Joaquin Miller Park is ideal. Redwood groves, quiet trails, and a sense of escape.
What I liked:
- Choose a shady trail and bring water.
- Pack a simple picnic and relax in one of the grove clearings.
Tip: Moderate fitness levels will easily handle the trails here; just wear walking shoes.
10. Sample the creative neighborhoods of Uptown & Piedmont Avenue
One of the quieter but rewarding parts of Oakland is wandering neighborhoods like Uptown and Piedmont Avenue. Think murals, historic architecture, independent cafés.
Why it’s worth it:
- Stop for coffee in a hip café, browse vintage shops.
- If you’re lucky and there’s a First Friday event, the art-walk culture lights up the evening.
Tip: Have an early dinner or late afternoon snack here and enjoy the local rhythm.
11. Savor the food culture—brunches, tacos, craft beer
I could have made this into several items, but the food & drink scene deserves its own call-out. Oakland is alive with cool breweries, creative food trucks, and brunch spots that break the mold. From Temescal to Jack London, you’ll find inventive cuisine and local flavor.
What I tried and loved:
- A local brewery with a patio and craft flight.
- A brunch with seasonal, local ingredients—the kind you remember.
- Street food or late-night tacos for a casual, delicious break.
Tip: Ask the server what’s local today—seasonal menus often reveal hidden gems.
12. Chase views & sunsets—the Bay, hills, waterfront
Finally, one of the things I found myself doing again and again: just looking. Whether it was the city lights over the Bay, the golden light on the hills, or the reflections on Lake Merritt—these moments made me pause and appreciate Oakland’s layered character.
Good vantage spots:
- Along the waterfront at Jack London or Middle Harbor.
- Up in the hills at Chabot or Joaquin Miller for sweeping views.
- At Lake Merritt around dusk when the city comes alive under the lights.
Tip: Bring a light jacket. Dusk can feel calm but cooler, and the view is worth the layering.
Final Thoughts
Oakland surprised me in the best way. I came with a few stops in mind but left with so much more—a sense of a city that’s evolving, creative, welcoming, and full of energy. The 12 spots above are just entry points into what Oakland offers: landscapes and street scenes, heritage and innovation, food and calm.
If I were to sum up my advice for you: move slow, take time for the unexpected, and layer your experience. Start with a walk around Lake Merritt, maybe brunch in Temescal, then head to the waterfront, and save some time for the hills. Don’t rush from place to place—some of the best Oakland moments will come when you simply stop and look.
So pack your camera (or just your phone), bring open shoes, and have a flexible schedule. Let yourself wander, explore the neighborhoods, ask locals what they love, and be ready for a mix of city and nature. When you visit, the 12 best & fun things listed here will give you a rich taste—but don’t be surprised if your favorite moment turns out to be something unplanned.
Enjoy your journey through Oakland—and if you go, I’d love to hear which of these became your favorite!