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Jack London Square beats at the heart of Oakland—a vibrant, green oasis where street musicians play jazz under the sun, fountains dance with light, and locals gather with laughter. It’s not just a plaza—it’s a living postcard of urban charm, perfect for wandering, people-watching, and sipping your favorite latte in style.
Everything you need to know about Jack London Square
Oakland Marriott City Center is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Jack London Square. The hotel offers modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Its prime location places guests within easy reach of the Oakland Museum of California and scenic waterfront trails along San Francisco Bay.
Another excellent option is Hyatt House Oakland Downtown, just 300 meters away, offering friendly service and convenient access to local dining and shopping. Both hotels provide airport shuttle services and are ideal for business travelers and tourists seeking authentic Oakland experiences.
Yes! Don’t miss the weekly weekend farmers’ market at Jack London Square, held every Saturday and Sunday, featuring local artisans, fresh produce, and live music—perfect for families. Take a scenic Bay Area ferry ride from the square’s dock to San Francisco, offering panoramic views of the bay and skyline, with a journey time of about 45 minutes.
Also visit the Oakland Maritime Museum, located right next to the square, which showcases maritime history and interactive exhibits ideal for children. These experiences blend culture, nature, and community spirit, highlighting Oakland’s vibrant character.
The easiest option is taking the Oakland Ferry from the Jack London Square dock directly to Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, with a travel time of just 45 minutes. Frequent departures daily offer stunning views of San Francisco Bay along the way.
Alternatively, use the BART train from the nearby Jack London Square Station, transferring at one stop to Embarcadero Station, then walking into downtown SF—approximately 25 minutes. This route is ideal for travelers with luggage or those seeking a fast, reliable connection to the city’s core.
Must-try spots include The Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant, known for fresh seafood—especially their grilled salmon with herb butter, sourced daily from local docks.
Also visit Cafe Gratitude, a popular organic vegan café offering the "Gratitude Bowl"—a hearty mix of quinoa, roasted vegetables, and house-made dressings, perfect for health-conscious diners.
Weekend pop-up food trucks around the square serve diverse options like tacos, Hawaiian-style hot dogs, and artisanal ice cream, offering a vibrant taste of Oakland’s multicultural food scene.
Oakland Marriott City Center is ideal, located just a 5-minute walk from Jack London Square. It offers modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, and direct access to the Oakland Ferry Terminal, making it perfect for travelers exploring the Bay Area. The hotel features a 24-hour fitness center and indoor pool, while nearby you'll find indie bookstores like Barnes & Noble and local cafés with literary themes.
Take the Bay Ferry from the Oakland Ferry Terminal, just a 10-minute walk from Jack London Square. Frequent daily departures connect to Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, with a scenic 30-minute ride across the bay. Fares start at $10, and credit cards are accepted. This option avoids traffic, offers stunning views of the skyline, and is both fast and eco-friendly—ideal for tourists and commuters alike.
Jack London Square hosts weekly community markets featuring local artists, handmade crafts, and street food. The Jack London Museum on-site displays original manuscripts, personal effects, and historical artifacts. Outdoor concerts, poetry readings, and open-air theater events are regularly scheduled. Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy golden-hour light and lively public interaction, capturing the soul of Oakland’s vibrant arts scene.
Yes, Jack London Square is located in downtown Oakland’s secure core area. Well-lit streets, frequent police patrols, and 24/7 surveillance cameras enhance safety. Most hotels offer keycard access and front-desk service. Avoid isolated alleys at night, but overall, the neighborhood is welcoming and well-trafficked—perfect for solo travelers and families.
Try The Perch Restaurant, housed in a historic building with a focus on California-inspired cuisine using local, organic ingredients. Their signature dish, "Grilled Salmon with Herbed Mashed Potatoes," is highly praised. For plant-based options, visit Café Gratitude, offering healthy, sustainable meals in a green, airy setting. Both are within 5 minutes’ walk and feature ADA-compliant facilities and pet-friendly zones.
Start with a morning visit to the Jack London Museum to dive into the author’s life and legacy. Lunch at The Perch, then relax on a plaza bench with a book by London. Join a guided walking tour in the afternoon to explore Oakland’s railroad history and immigrant neighborhoods. End your day with a sunset ferry ride to San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf, enjoying panoramic views of the city lights as the evening unfolds.
See what other travelers say about Jack London Square
Located in a great spot just minutes from downtown Oakland, this hotel offers convenient access to local attractions and public transit. The building is over 100 years old, but well-maintained with clean, comfortable rooms and friendly front desk staff. One thing worth noting: the bathtub lacks safety grab bars along the walls and doesn’t have a non-slip mat at the bottom. This could be a concern for guests who prioritize bathroom safety, especially elderly travelers or those with mobility issues. That said, the overall experience was positive—great value for the price, and the location makes it a solid choice if you're visiting the area. A small upgrade in bathroom safety features would make it even better.
The stay at Imperial Inn was a pleasant surprise. I arrived around midnight, and the front desk was still open—24/7 check-in is a huge plus when you're traveling late. The room was clean, spacious, and came with a mini-fridge, which was perfect for storing snacks and drinks. While the microwave wasn’t in the room, I asked for one and it was delivered within 10 minutes—super responsive service. The hotel is conveniently located near MacArthur Station, making it easy to get around Oakland by train. There are several local restaurants nearby offering Chinese, Korean, and burgers—great for late-night cravings or casual meals. The area is quiet and peaceful during the night, though I’d advise tourists to be cautious if walking around after dark. What stood out most was that I requested a late checkout, and they happily accommodated me at no extra charge—friendly and flexible. If I ever return to San Francisco, this will be my go-to place. It’s affordable, well-maintained, and offers a welcoming atmosphere without breaking the bank.
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.
The price is a bit on the higher side, but considering it's located right in downtown Oakland, that makes sense. For business travelers like me, having a solid place to rest and recharge is essential—this hotel delivers exactly that. The room was clean, quiet, and the bed was incredibly comfortable, making it easy to unwind after a long day. Being just steps away from public transit and local restaurants added to the convenience. I woke up feeling refreshed and ready for the next day’s work. While not the cheapest option, the location and quality make it worth every penny. I’ll definitely be staying here again on my next trip.
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.
The stay was overall pleasant. The room was clean and spacious, with a convenient kitchenette including a working fridge, freezer, and microwave—perfect for light meals. One unexpected detail was the requirement for a cash deposit, but unfortunately no receipt was provided for the payment. That lack of documentation felt a bit off, especially since it’s not common practice. Despite that minor hiccup, the location is excellent—just steps from the Lake Merritt BART station, making downtown Oakland easy to reach by transit. The value for money is solid, and I’d definitely consider staying here again if visiting the area.
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.
Staying at Kissel Uptown Oakland was a delightful experience from start to finish. The room was exceptionally clean, spacious, and well-appointed—perfect for both business and leisure travelers. I loved the quiet atmosphere, great bed comfort, and excellent sound insulation, which made for a restful night's sleep. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from public transit and close to local restaurants, cafes, and shops. The staff were welcoming and helpful throughout my stay. I also appreciated the complimentary breakfast, which offered a variety of fresh and tasty options. Overall, the value for money is outstanding, and I’d happily return or recommend this property to friends and family. A true gem in downtown Oakland.
I was genuinely impressed by my stay at Bay Bridge Inn. Coming from a long history of budget motels that often come with questionable vibes, I had low expectations—worried about noisy rooms, sketchy characters, or unclean spaces. To my delight, none of those concerns came true. The front desk staff were friendly, efficient, and helpful without being overbearing. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and felt peaceful throughout my visit. While the neighborhood isn’t the most glamorous part of Oakland, I knew what to expect going in, and it didn’t detract from the overall experience. With its convenient location, clean facilities, and great value, I’d definitely stay here again. Highly recommend for travelers looking for a no-frills, reliable place to rest in Oakland.
Staying at Moxy Oakland Uptown was a total win for our one-night visit to attend my nephew's wedding. The hotel has a sleek, modern vibe with a fun and inviting atmosphere. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our stay. While the neighborhood is near some encampments and the surrounding public parking spots aren't very secure, the hotel offers a subleased, fully fenced lot just across the street on the left side of the entrance. It’s not super convenient, but paying $47 per day was totally worth it for peace of mind—my car felt safe the whole time. The room itself was stylish, clean, and thoughtfully designed. The TV was massive—probably 80 inches with stunning 4K quality—and the bed was incredibly comfortable. We barely heard any noise from outside, making for a restful night. Overall, this place exceeded expectations. Great location, excellent service, and top-notch amenities. Highly recommend if you're looking for a cool, reliable spot in downtown Oakland.
Staying at the Oakland Marriott City Center was absolutely fantastic from start to finish. The front desk staff went above and beyond—so friendly, professional, and always ready to help with anything we needed. We were especially impressed with the on-site valet service; it made arriving and leaving so much easier, especially with luggage. The room was clean, spacious, and beautifully designed with modern amenities. Everything about this hotel felt premium, yet the value was outstanding. If you're visiting Oakland, this is definitely a top choice. I’ll be back again!
The hotel is perfectly located right on the main road in downtown Oakland, making it super convenient for exploring the city. I appreciated the daily parking service offered by the platform—$50 per day with pickup and drop-off included—which made my stay stress-free. Even though the parking is outside the building, the area feels safe and well-lit at night. The room itself was enormous—way bigger than expected—and offered plenty of space to relax or work. It’s rare to find such a spacious, comfortable room in a downtown location. Overall, an excellent choice for both business and leisure travelers who value convenience, safety, and room size.
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