Why Oakland Captivates: 5 Must-See Reasons from Travel Experts
Travelzoo's Bay Area team often recommends Oakland to visiting friends and family. The common reaction? “Oakland? Really?”
That skepticism is fading fast. National Geographic Traveler named Oakland the top U.S. destination in its 2019 Culture category. Here's why our experts and Nat Geo agree it's essential:
The Bay Area's Premier Food Scene
Oakland's acclaimed culinary landscape continues to shine, claiming half of the 2019 Bay Area Michelin Guide's new Bib Gourmand winners (start with Middle Eastern gem Dyafa).
Highlights include Nyum Bai, serving authentic Khmer cuisine, and Michelin-starred Commis for innovative New American fare.
Experience it all during Oakland Restaurant Week (Jan. 11-20), featuring prix-fixe menus from $10 at diverse spots like Bavarian biergartens and Italian wine bars.
Discover fresh ingredients at renowned farmers' markets: Old Oakland, Temescal, Grand Lake, and Jack London Square.
Vibrant Art Scene
With the highest per capita artists in the U.S. (or close to it), Oakland buzzes with creativity. Tour The Crucible—marking its 20th year—a 56,000 sq ft haven for blacksmiths, glassblowers, and more (open first Tuesday or third Saturday monthly).
The Oakland Museum of California celebrates its 50th with exhibits like Queer California: Untold Stories (April 13-Aug. 11).
For a unique fusion, attend Oakland Art Month in May via Oakland High Art, blending cannabis, wellness, and performances.
Explore street art by masters like Vogue, the Illuminaries, and Jet Martinez. Time your visit for Oakland Art Murmur First Fridays in KONO, drawing 20,000 for galleries, performances, and music.
Secret Redwood Hikes
Just miles from downtown, Redwood Regional Park offers serene trails amid towering 150-foot Sequoia sempervirens—perfect for hiking off gourmet meals in peaceful solitude.
Local Wine & Ale Trails
Skip Napa: Follow the Urban Wine Trail with 10+ stops near Downtown and Jack London Square, including Dashe Cellars, Periscope Cellars, Rosenblum Cellars, and Stage Left Cellars.
Beer lovers, grab a “passport” for the Oakland Ale Trail; collect stamps for a commemorative growler at 481 Water St.
Gondola Rides
No visit skips Lake Merritt, the U.S.'s first wildlife refuge (1869). Glide by Venetian gondola, serenaded by your gondolier.
At the revamped Oakland Zoo, enjoy gondola views and the new California Trail with grizzly bears, wolves, and bison.
Plan Your Trip
Visit the Visit Oakland website for inspiration and deals.
