Explore, Dine, and Celebrate: A Winning Guide to Enjoying Oakland’s Vibrant Scene
Welcome to the vibrant town and home of the Oakland Roots! In this dynamic city, there’s an abundance of experiences waiting to be explored, and Vibemap has curated a selection of the most lively destinations for you to discover. Take a leisurely stroll around Lake Merritt to immerse yourself in the essence of Oakland, or embark on a culinary adventure through Jack London Square. Indulge in the rich tapestry of local cuisine, a direct reflection of this place’s history and the community’s celebration of pride and belonging. Afterward, raise a glass at one of the many eclectic bars dotted throughout the city, before heading to the stadium for an exhilarating soccer match. Welcome to Oakland, where the excitement never stops!
Must-See Gems
Lake Merritt
Lake Merritt in Oakland, California is one of the most unique urban spaces in the United States. Its three mile shoreline in the center of an exceptionally diverse city is a special place where nature and nurture migrates and mingles daily. This tidal lagoon is home to the United States’ oldest designated wildlife refuge dating from 1870. In 2020, we celebrate its 150th anniversary. Lake Merrit is a “tidal lagoon is named after Dr. Samuel Merritt, a medical doctor who came west for the gold rush.” (Lake Merritt Institute) The lake is 3.5 miles around in circumference and 10 feet deep. So you can walk around it in about an hour. It’s also very close to BART, at the Lake Merritt Bart station, or 20th Street station in Uptown.
- unique
- afternoon
- volunteer
- walk
Rocky's Brooklyn Basin
- old
- oldschool
- local
- aquatic
Oakland Museum of California
Artifacts & interactive displays in a modern building focusing on state art, history & science.
- art
- historic
- cultural
- dynamic
Jack London Square
- art
- beautiful
- cheap
- cool
Savor Oakland
ButtercuP
Diner
- unique
- pretty
- delicious
- vibe
Aburaya (Dupe)
Aburaya keeps it loud and flavorful with Japanese fried chicken done right. This punk rock-inspired spot serves up crispy kara-age and creative izakaya bites, all made fresh in-house. With bold flavors, house-made sauces, and a fully gluten-free kitchen, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite, sip some sake, and soak in the good vibes.
- seasonal
- inspired
- funky
- creative
Craft Beer and Celebration Hotspots
Original Pattern Brewing Company
Brewery
- unique
- diverse
- authentic
- lively
Drake's Dealership
Beer garden
- amazing
- beautiful
- loud
- local
Two Pitchers Brewing Company
Two Pitchers Brewing Company brings together great beer and a laid-back vibe in a historic Oakland beer garden. Located in a 1919 auto shop, it offers spacious outdoor seating and cozy indoor spots. With a rotating selection of craft beers, wine, and tasty bites like burgers and fried chicken sandwiches, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
- social
- lovely
- drinks
- dogs
Exploring Hayward: CSUEB’s Gems
Hayward Japanese Gardens
Japanese Gardens
- favorite
- garden
- helpful
- photo
Anna's Family Coffee Shop
- family
Round1 Bowling & Amusement
Round1 is a multi-entertainment facility offering Bowling, Arcade Games, Billiards, Karaoke, Ping Pong, Darts, and even a Kids Zone play area within the complex. Offering a variety of activities, Round1 is unparalleled by its competitors.
- special
- social
- fashion
- popular
Buon Appetito
One of Hayward’s best restaurants, Buon Appetito prepares simple, lovingly cooked food from up and down the length of the boot. The owner grew up cooking in Italian-American restaurants and his experience shows in the perfectly al dente pastas, tender veal scalloppine, and a tear-apart lamb osso buco. At lunchtime the restaurant’s hopping, so call for a reservation or get there early.
- beautiful
- elegant
- experiential
- local
The Bistro
Extreme Beer Bar with live music 7 nights a week.
- shop
- boozy
- craft
- creative
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