Other Oakland Sights
Even if you’ve spent a good bit of time wining and dining around Jack London Square, you haven’t seen nearly everything that Oakland has to offer. If you’re here already, why not take the time to look around a bit? While it’s always in the shadow of that other city across the bay, Oakland can hold its own when it comes to culture and sights to see.
Lake Merritt
You can get to lake Merritt by taking a 15-minute walk from Jack London Square, eastward. The freshwater and saltwater lagoon is truly unique, as it’s one of the only lakes in America that is completely surrounded by city. Wading birds enjoy looking for a meal at the lake’s edge, and ducks happily float in its center. A 3 mile long paved and dirt trail runs around the lake, and usually contains a myriad of walkers, joggers, and parents pushing baby strollers. Park area and grass lines one side of the lake, and is excellent for a picnic or just taking a rest. You can also rent paddle boats and canoes from the Lake Merritt Boating Center for $8-10 an hour.
Oakland’s Paramount Theater
Do you ever wish that the movies were still like the days of Old Hollywood, when going to see a picture was a classy affair, not one were you sat in gaudy, popcorn-lined seats? Then you’ve gotta visit Oakland’s Paramount Theater. Completed in 1931, the huge, 3,000 seat theater is a crown jewel of Art Deco design, and will instantly transport you back to the glory days of movies. You can see stand up comedy, musical acts, Broadway shows, and of course, old movies in the theater. Move classic nights happen every Friday and are only $5, and feature films like Casablanca and The Wizard of Oz.
Oakland Museum of California
Whether you’re visiting from out of state, or a long-time California resident, you’ll be able to appreciate what this brand new museum has to offer. The museum specializes in exhibits that tell the story of the state’s natural science and art history, and it houses permanent collections highlighting all that the Golden State has to offer. The museum is closed Monday and Tuesday, and is open 11-5 the other days of the week, except Friday, when it’s open until 9. General admission is $12.
Chabot Space and Science Center
Kids and adults alike will be able to enjoy the Chabot Center, which has fun, interactive exhibits, a planetarium, classes, and movies to get you excited about space. The center is in the Oakland Hills off of Highway 13, and also provides stunning views of the Bay. The center is closed Monday and Tuesday, and can be visited between 10 and 5 on the other days of the week. Admission is $15 for adults and $12 for kids under 12.
