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Oakland on a Budget: 5 Fun Days

Experience the vibrant culture of Oakland without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

A visit to Oakland can still be exciting even when on a budget. Catch some tunes at the Fox Theater, take a walk around Lake Merritt, and explore the street art and murals around the city. Don't forget to try out the budget-friendly food and coffee spots like Tacos Sinaloa and Red Bay Coffee.

Travel plan

• Check in at the Waterfront Hotel, a budget-friendly hotel with a vintage charm.
• Visit Jack London Square, a bustling waterfront district with restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
• Explore the Oakland Museum of California, which showcases the state's art, history, and natural sciences.
• Take a stroll in Lake Merritt, a picturesque urban lake with a bird sanctuary and boating activities.
• Dine at Homeroom, a beloved restaurant that serves comforting macaroni and cheese dishes.

• Breakfast at the Grand Lake Kitchen, a popular brunch spot with luscious pastries and savory sandwiches.
• Visit the Chabot Space and Science Center, where you can gaze at the stars, learn about astronomy, and enjoy a planetarium show.
• Stroll in the Temescal neighborhood, which boasts a vibrant street art scene and eclectic shops.
• Discover the African American Museum and Library at Oakland, which celebrates the city's Black heritage through exhibitions, events, and archives.
• Dinner at Brown Sugar Kitchen, a soul food eatery that offers tasty fried chicken, waffles, and cocktails.

• Grab a bagel and coffee at Beauty's Bagel Shop, a cozy cafe that serves authentic Montreal-style bagels.
• Hike in the Redwood Regional Park, a tranquil haven with majestic redwood trees, hiking trails, and picnic spots.
• Visit the Joaquin Miller Park, a scenic wilderness area with stunning vistas, horseback riding, and a rustic amphitheater.
• Relax at the Lake Temescal Regional Recreation Area, which features a sandy beach, swimming, and barbecue facilities.
• Have dinner at Burma Superstar, a popular Burmese restaurant that serves flavorful curries and teas.

• Breakfast at the Bakesale Betty, where you can taste the famous fried chicken sandwiches and fresh pastries.
• Shop at the Temescal Alley, a charming alleyway with indie boutiques, vintage stores, and cafes.
• Visit the Oakland Chinatown, a bustling neighborhood with Asian food markets, bakeries, and tea shops.
• Sample the food trucks at the Off the Grid event, which gathers local vendors and musicians for a lively outdoor gathering.
• Enjoy a nightcap at the New Parkway Theater, an indie cinema that serves beer, pizza, and popcorn.

• Brunch at the Brown Sugar Kitchen, where you can taste the fluffy pancakes and savory grits.
• Visit the Oakland Zoo, a family-friendly attraction with animal exhibits, rides, and a gondola ride.
• Say goodbye to Oakland with a ferry ride from the Jack London Square to San Francisco, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay.
• Grab a snack at the Ferry Building Marketplace, a gourmet food hall that features artisanal cheeses, chocolates, and seafood.
• Depart with fond memories of Oakland and its unique mix of urban and natural charms.