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A Great Good Place for Books isn’t just a bookstore—it’s a cozy literary haven. Towering shelves, vintage armchairs, and the warm aroma of coffee and old paper make it feel like home. Lose yourself in a novel, sip a latte, and let time slow down, just for a while.
Everything you need to know about A Great Good Place for Books
Oakland Marriott City Center is a top choice near A Great Good Place for Books, offering easy walking access to the bookstore and surrounding cultural spots. The hotel features modern rooms with free Wi-Fi and comfortable workspaces, ideal for book lovers seeking a quiet retreat. Located just a 10-minute walk from the Oakland Museum of California, guests can seamlessly explore local art and history. Additionally, the hotel partners with the bookstore for special events like author talks and reading circles, enriching the cultural experience.
Opt for a city-center view room to maximize convenience and immersion in Oakland’s vibrant literary scene.
Walking from A Great Good Place for Books takes about 15 minutes to reach downtown Oakland, passing through scenic areas like Jack London Square and the Oakland Public Library. For faster access, take the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) to the nearest station: 12th Street/Oakland City Center Station, just a 3-minute ride. Multiple AC Transit bus routes, including Route 86, also serve the area, connecting to UC Berkeley and San Francisco. Use a Clipper card or mobile app to pre-purchase tickets for seamless travel and reduced wait times.
Beyond browsing books, the store hosts regular events such as independent author talks, poetry readings, and community book clubs, offering deep insight into Oakland’s literary culture. The surrounding Downtown Oakland district is also rich in street art and local galleries—visit the Grand Avenue Art Walk on weekends to explore vibrant murals and creative spaces. For a deeper dive, join the bookstore’s "Urban Reading Tour," a guided walk tracing Oakland’s literary heritage and social justice movements along historic streets, providing a meaningful connection to the city’s intellectual roots.
Try The Milk Bar, just a 5-minute walk away, offering a blend of American and Mediterranean flavors with freshly baked whole-grain toast, house-made jam, and organic coffee. Another excellent option is Cafe Gratitude, known for plant-based cuisine, featuring their signature green power bowl and cold-pressed juices—popular among book lovers. Both cafes emphasize locally sourced ingredients, with calm, design-forward interiors perfect for morning reading or journaling. Visit early to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a peaceful start to your day.
Yes, the bookstore regularly hosts themed reading workshops, author talks, and youth creative writing classes, some requiring advance registration. In collaboration with local arts organizations, it also presents "Words & Images Exhibitions", showcasing manuscripts, illustrations, and photography, often running for several weeks. Check their official website or social media channels for real-time updates. The store also features a members-only reading lounge with quiet space and exclusive book lending, making it an ideal haven for serious readers and writers.
See what other travelers say about A Great Good Place for Books
Staying at this hotel was a real highlight of my trip to Oakland. Located right on the lake, the views are absolutely stunning—especially in the morning when I went for a peaceful jog along the waterfront. The breakfast included was simple but satisfying, and the staff were friendly and attentive. Parking is paid, which is fair considering the prime location. While dining options are a bit of a walk away, I actually preferred staying in and relaxing on the balcony, watching the calm waters reflect the sky. It’s such a serene atmosphere that made me want to stay put all evening. The overall experience was excellent, and I’d definitely return without hesitation.
The Executive Inn & Suites Oakland offers a peaceful and comfortable stay with excellent service throughout. While the surrounding area is quiet and lacks nearby shopping or dining options, the hotel itself has a convenient on-site restaurant—perfect for those who prefer staying in during their trip. If you value a serene atmosphere and don’t mind limited dining choices outside the property, this hotel delivers great value. The location is also well-connected to public transit, making it easy to explore downtown Oakland. Overall, it’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience without the noise of a bustling neighborhood.
Located near Oakland's waterfront, the hotel offers a pleasant atmosphere with a small bay view—great for relaxing. However, the surrounding neighborhood can be a bit concerning, especially after dark. I’d recommend avoiding walking around the area unless necessary and opting for rideshare services instead for safety. The hotel itself is clean, well-maintained, and staff are friendly and helpful. While the location has its risks, the property’s comfort and service make it a solid choice if you’re cautious about movement outside the premises. Overall, a good stay with a few caveats for security-conscious travelers.
I stayed at Piedmont Place in Oakland and was pleasantly surprised by how convenient and comfortable it was. The location is excellent—just a short walk to public transit and close to restaurants, cafes, and local shops. My room (212) was clean, quiet, and well-maintained with all the essentials I needed. While it’s not your typical hotel in appearance, it definitely works as a great budget-friendly option for travelers who value practicality over luxury. The staff were friendly and helpful, and check-in/check-out went smoothly. Overall, it’s a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills stay without compromising on comfort or safety. Perfect for solo travelers, weekend getaways, or even extended stays on a tight budget.
I stayed at Bay Breeze Inn during J-Hope's concert in Oakland, and it was an absolutely perfect choice! The staff were incredibly polite and welcoming from check-in to check-out. The room was spotlessly clean, well-maintained, and offered great value for money—especially considering how close we were to the Oakland Arena. I didn’t have to worry about long commutes or traffic, and parking was convenient and free. The location made everything so easy—just a short walk to the venue, yet quiet enough to get a good night’s sleep after the show. Everything about this stay felt thoughtful and comfortable. If you're visiting Oakland for a concert or just want a cozy, affordable place with friendly service, I highly recommend this gem. It’s definitely my go-to hotel now!
Staying at this motel was a pleasant surprise! The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk to the downtown area and easily accessible by public transit. There are plenty of great dining options nearby, so you don’t have to go far for a good meal. The room wasn’t huge, but it was clean, well-maintained, and had all the essentials. The bed was comfortable, and I slept really well. What stood out most was the incredible value for money—great quality without the high price tag. The staff were friendly and helpful, making check-in smooth and stress-free. If you’re visiting Oakland on a budget but still want a reliable, comfortable stay, this place is a top pick. I’d definitely book here again and recommend it to anyone looking for a no-fuss, smart choice.
Staying at Highlander Motel was an absolute delight! This family-run gem stands out from the rest with its warm, welcoming atmosphere. The owners are incredibly approachable and genuinely kind—like staying with friends rather than a hotel. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with all the essentials you’d need for a relaxing stay. It’s perfectly located for exploring Oakland and nearby areas—super easy to get around by public transit or car. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting the Bay Area, whether traveling solo, with family, or on a weekend getaway. I’ve already planned my next trip back—Highlander Motel is definitely my top pick.
This place is a complete disappointment and doesn't even meet basic hotel standards. The photos online are misleading—nothing matches what you actually get. Upon arrival, we found no towels, no shower curtain, not even a chair in the room. The heater didn’t work at all, making the space uncomfortable, especially in cooler weather. Parking was chaotic and extremely difficult to navigate. The overall condition of the property felt outdated and poorly maintained. I wouldn’t recommend staying here under any circumstances—avoid it completely if you want a decent experience.
The Continental Lodge is a hidden gem in Oakland—clean, well-maintained, and incredibly affordable. The staff went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable and hassle-free. We appreciated their warm welcome and quick assistance with any questions we had. While the neighborhood is still evolving, we felt safe throughout our visit. Our car stayed securely parked overnight with no issues at all. For a reliable, budget-friendly option in a city where good deals are hard to find, this motel stands out. Highly recommend for travelers looking for comfort without the premium price.
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