Alright, let’s dive into the fascinating world of Oakland’s landmarks, sprinkled with a bit of trivia and some hidden gems.
Oakland Museum of California
The Oakland Museum of California, affectionately known as OMCA, is a triple treat: it’s got art, history, AND natural science. Opened in 1969, it was designed by Kevin Roche and John Dinkeloo, who envisioned it as a series of interconnected buildings and gardens. Fun fact: its rooftop gardens are home to one of the few bee colonies in the city, which not only help pollinate the local flora but also produce honey sold in the museum shop!
Fox Theater
Stepping into the Fox Theater is like stepping into a movie from the golden age of cinema. Built in 1928 and originally a movie palace, it closed down in 1966 and faced the wrecking ball several times before being saved by a coalition of preservationists. After an extensive renovation, it reopened in 2009 and now serves as a concert venue. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of its iconic 2,800-pound chandelier, lovingly called "the flying saucer."
Lake Merritt
Lake Merritt is often called the "Jewel of Oakland," and for good reason. It’s the oldest designated wildlife refuge in the United States, established in 1870. The lake’s necklace of lights, strung around its perimeter, was originally installed in 1925 and consists of 126 lampposts with 3,400 bulbs. The lake is also home to the Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill, which used to be a boathouse.
Jack London Square
Named after the famed author who spent his childhood in Oakland, Jack London Square is a waterfront area brimming with history and entertainment. The Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon, built in 1883 from the timbers of an old whaling ship, was a favorite haunt of London’s and is still operational today. Also, keep an eye out for the replica of London’s Yukon cabin, a nod to his adventurous spirit.
Chinatown
Oakland's Chinatown is one of the oldest in the U.S., dating back to the 1850s. It’s a bustling neighborhood where you can find everything from dim sum to herbal medicine. The Pacific Renaissance Plaza is a key feature, housing the Oakland Asian Cultural Center and a library with bilingual services. Don't miss the annual Dragon Boat Festival, a colorful event featuring traditional Chinese dragon boat races.
Paramount Theatre
The Paramount Theatre is an Art Deco masterpiece that opened in 1931. Designed by Timothy Pflueger, it’s renowned for its lavish interior, which includes a stunning mosaic of glass and gold leaf. The theater was nearly demolished in the 1970s but was saved by a community effort and now hosts everything from film screenings to live performances. A quirky fact: it boasts one of the largest collections of working Art Deco clocks in the world.
Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate
Nestled in the Oakland Hills, the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate is a 37-room Neoclassical Revival mansion built in 1899. It’s a popular spot for weddings and events, thanks to its lush gardens and elegant interiors. The estate also hosts the annual Holiday Traditions event, where the mansion is decked out in festive decorations.
Children’s Fairyland
Children’s Fairyland is a whimsical amusement park that opened in 1950 and is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s concept for Disneyland. It features storybook sets, gentle rides, and even a talking dragon named “Ollie”, who has been delighting children for decades. A hidden gem within Fairyland is the Magic Key, which unlocks storytelling boxes spread throughout the park.
Mountain View Cemetery
Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same landscape architect behind New York’s Central Park, the Mountain View Cemetery opened in 1863 and is the final resting place for many of California’s notable figures. It offers stunning views of the Bay Area and is known for its “Millionaire’s Row,” where many of Oakland’s early elite are buried. The cemetery also hosts regular guided tours that delve into its rich history.
Morcom Rose Garden
The Morcom Rose Garden is a hidden oasis in the heart of Oakland. Established in 1932, it features over 6,000 rose bushes and a cascading fountain. It’s a favorite spot for wedding photos and quiet afternoon strolls. Interestingly, the garden is maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers known as the “Dedicated Deadheaders,” who meet weekly to care for the roses.
Oakland Zoo
The Oakland Zoo, established in 1922, is home to over 750 native and exotic animals. Located in the 525-acre Knowland Park, it offers a gondola ride that provides breathtaking views of the Bay Area. The zoo is also a leader in wildlife conservation efforts and has a dedicated veterinary hospital for animal care. A fun tidbit: the zoo’s California Trail features life-size statues of extinct animals like the saber-toothed cat and Columbian mammoth.
The Cathedral of Christ the Light
The Cathedral of Christ the Light is a modern architectural marvel that opened in 2008. Designed by Craig Hartman of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, its unique structure resembles a bishop’s mitre from the outside and a fish when viewed from above. The cathedral’s crypt is home to the remains of Oakland’s first bishop, and its stunning “Omega Window” is made up of 94,000 perforations that create an image of Christ.
USS Potomac
Dubbed the “Floating White House,” the USS Potomac served as Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidential yacht from 1936 to 1945. It’s now docked at Jack London Square and serves as a museum. The vessel has an intriguing history: after FDR’s death, it was used for various purposes, including as a ferry and a drug-smuggling vessel, before being restored and opened to the public in 1995.
From historical gems to quirky attractions, Oakland’s landmarks offer something for everyone. So next time you’re in the area, be sure to check out these fascinating sites!