Downtown Oakland is one of the most eclectic and diverse parts of the city, teeming with world-class restaurants and filled to the brim with history! There is no shortage of activities to enjoy here! 

The streets of Downtown Oakland are art themselves, with murals telling the stories of the people frequently found on most blocks. The architecture is unique, like the 22-story Tribune Tower that was built in 1906. Inside sits Tribune Tavern, a restaurant serving contemporary fare with California influences. For more libations in historic spaces, visit the triangular Lionel J. Wilson building built in 1908 on Frank Ogawa Plaza downtown. Here, Downtown Wine Merchants serves small tapas plates and around 150 different wines.

Downtown Oakland has many a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by newcomers and old-timers alike. One of those treasures is Dan Webb Books, a small but mighty bookstore that offers an eclectic selection of books with a special emphasis on aviation and railway history. They even sell used DVDs – definitely worth a trip. After browsing the stacks, head to Golden Lotus Vegan Restaurant for inexpensive vegan Vietnamese and Chinese food. When night falls, it’s time for Café Van Kleef – a hip, small, and quirky bar with live music and funky art and knickknacks in every nook and cranny. Don’t leave without trying The Greyhound, the bar’s signature (very strong) drink made with fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice and vodka