Things to Do in Oakland - Search for Cheap Airfare to Oakland

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Oakland is often seen as the Bay Area's third city. It lacks the glamour and fame of neighboring San Francisco and the economic clout and suburban vibe of San Jose. But Oakland is, arguably, one of the most underrated tourist destinations on the West Coast, if not the entire US. It has a diverse culture and an impressive collection of neighborhoods with different personalities. Because of this, tourists who give Oakland a chance liken it to New York.

Here are the best activities in Oakland, California:

Budget

Jack London Square is a renovated wharf area that has grown into a restaurant and shopping promenade. It still retains a bit of that Bay Area seaside feel, a la Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, but it is not as much of a tourist trap.

Oakland Walking Tours are free (or cheap, for custom-designed group tours) tours of areas in and around Downtown Oakland. If you only have a day or are unsure where to begin your sightseeing, this is a good introduction to Oakland. Themes include waterfront tours, Chinatown tours and temple/church tours. Guides are volunteers and most tours last about 90 minutes.

Value

Oakland Museum of California (1000 Oak Street) is a quality museum featuring exhibits about the history and culture of the state of California. Admission is only $8; a very reasonable price considering the quality and breadth of the exhibits.

Oakland Zoo (9777 Golf Links Road) is a good alternative to the San Francisco Zoo. At $10.50, it is much, much cheaper, though the exhibits and the venue itself are of equal quality, though not quite as large. The zoo is open from 10-4 daily, and features nearly 500 species of animals from both local and exotic ecosystems.

Splurge

Paramount Theater (2025 Broadway) is a fully renovated 1920s-era theater. It is one of the finest examples of historic theaters in the entire country. Though it hosts an impressive line-up of concerts, films and theater performances, it is worthwhile to visit simply to view the intricate décor and sculptures, many of which are maintained in near perfect condition.

Chabot Space and Science Center (10000 Skyline Boulevard) is a newer science and technology museum with a focus on space travel and astronomy. There is a planetarium and host of tech and science exhibits. The most popular part of this venue is the Challenger Learning Center, which features interactive space shuttle simulations.