Oaklandish is Oakland’s bold attitude in motion—a vibrant mix of graffiti-covered walls, indie coffee nooks, and raw street art. Every wall whispers stories, every pour of hand-brewed coffee holds a spark of rebellion. Step inside, and you’re flipping through an unfinished city poem: free, real, and utterly unapologetically Oakland.











Everything you need to know about Oaklandish
The Berkeley Hotel is a top choice, located in downtown Oakland with easy access to the Oakland Museum of Contemporary Art and scenic waterfront trails. Its modern design blends local artistry with comfort, and guests enjoy walking distance to Jack London Square, perfect for dining and evening strolls. Free parking and shuttle services connect travelers to nearby landmarks like the University of California, Berkeley and Oakland Coliseum, making it an ideal base for exploring the East Bay region.
Take the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) system from San Francisco or San Jose—just 30 minutes to Oakland International Airport Station or 12th Street Station, both within walking distance of downtown. Local buses like Foothill Bus and AC Transit serve major attractions including the Oakland Zoo and Aquarium of the Bay. Bike-sharing and electric scooter rentals are widely available, offering convenient access to scenic spots like the Oakland Waterfront Trail and Jack London Square.
Don’t miss the Oakland Jazz Festival, held annually at Lake Merritt, featuring world-class jazz artists. Visit the Museum of African Diaspora, which showcases powerful exhibitions on Black art and history, along with interactive workshops. For street art lovers, join a guided tour in the Fruitvale District to discover vibrant murals and community-driven installations. In the evening, head to Jack London Square’s outdoor bars for a taste of authentic local nightlife and harbor views.
Oakland Zoo is a top pick for families, featuring interactive zones for kids, a tropical rainforest exhibit, and hands-on animal feeding experiences. Adjacent is the Aquarium of the Bay, home to sharks, sea lions, and native marine life. Both attractions are located in Jack London Square, with easy access and child-friendly restaurants and play areas. Nearby, Lake Merritt offers scenic walking paths, picnic spots, and open green spaces perfect for family outings.
Jack London Square is the heart of nightlife, featuring waterfront bars and live music venues like The Fox Oakland Theatre, which hosts indie bands and special events. Don’t miss Dim Sum House’s late-night pop-up stalls serving authentic Asian street food paired with creative cocktails. For a true local vibe, visit the weekend markets in Fruitvale District, where artisanal coffee, handmade goods, and street eats come alive under glowing night lights.
Try Sunny's Diner, a century-old classic serving iconic American breakfasts like Eggs Benedict and blueberry pancakes, paired with freshly brewed coffee. Alternatively, visit The Farmhouse Kitchen, known for its farm-to-table approach using organic ingredients and local produce. Their Mediterranean-style breakfast platters include fresh fruit, yogurt, and house-made bread—perfect for starting your day in downtown Oakland.
The Claremont Hotel & Spa stands out for its historic elegance and stunning San Francisco Bay views. Located in downtown Oakland, this beautifully restored early-20th-century property blends vintage architecture with modern comforts. Guests enjoy spacious rooms with smart technology, luxury linens, and complimentary parking. The on-site spa uses natural ingredients, offering a rejuvenating retreat.
Another top pick is Hotel Shattuck Plaza, situated steps from Oakland City Hall and Broadway Shopping District. Its contemporary design features locally curated art installations, reflecting Oakland’s vibrant culture. Breakfast includes locally sourced European-style dishes, giving travelers a taste of the city’s lifestyle from the first bite.
The most convenient option is BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), which connects downtown Oakland to key destinations like San Francisco, Berkeley, and Oakland International Airport in just 15–30 minutes. For local travel, Oakland Bike Share offers eco-friendly access along scenic routes such as the Embarcadero waterfront trail. Additionally, AC Transit buses serve major sites including the Oakland Museum of California, Oakland Zoo, and Lake Merritt Park. Use apps like Transit or Google Maps for real-time schedules and route planning, ensuring seamless navigation throughout the city.
Don’t miss the Oakland Museum of California’s African art collection and rotating exhibitions on contemporary American art, offering deep insight into multicultural heritage. Every fall, the Oakland Jazz Festival takes over Lake Merritt Plaza, featuring world-class musicians in an open-air setting. For a community vibe, visit the Oakland Farmers Market at Jack London Square every Saturday morning, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal foods. A must-try is the Oakland Harbor Cruise, which provides panoramic views of the city skyline and distant Golden Gate Bridge, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Holiday Inn Oakland Downtown is ideal for families, located just a 10-minute drive from the Oakland Zoo. It features a children’s playroom, indoor pool, and spacious family rooms accommodating up to six guests. The hotel offers a self-serve breakfast buffet with healthy options, and provides free parking and 24-hour concierge service. Another excellent choice is Hampton Inn Oakland - Downtown, near the Embarcadero Trail, with ample room space, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and a welcoming atmosphere. Both properties prioritize safety and comfort, making them perfect for stress-free family trips.
See what other travelers say about Oaklandish

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!

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 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.

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.

Staying at the Courtyard Oakland Downtown was an absolute steal for the price—around $110, I got a premium experience that rivals much higher-end hotels. The location is unbeatable, right in the heart of downtown Oakland, with easy access to public transit and all the local hotspots. Rooms are clean, spacious, and well-appointed with comfortable beds and modern amenities. The staff went above and beyond to make my stay smooth and welcoming. What really stood out was how great the value felt—luxury-level comfort without the luxury price tag. If you're visiting Oakland and want a reliable, convenient, and affordable place to stay, this hotel delivers on every front. Definitely recommend it for travelers who want quality without overspending.

The AC Hotel Oakland Downtown is an excellent value with a clean, comfortable atmosphere and great location right in the heart of downtown. I was initially concerned about safety, but the hotel's on-site security staff at the front desk were incredibly helpful—friendly and informative about the neighborhood. Their reassurance made me feel confident walking around during the day to explore local sights and enjoy some casual strolls. The convenience, cleanliness, and genuine hospitality truly made my stay memorable.

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.

My stay at the Waterfront Hotel was absolutely fantastic! The room was spotless, very quiet, and perfectly comfortable—perfect for a restful night's sleep. The front desk staff went above and beyond with their friendly and efficient service, making check-in and check-out seamless. I especially loved the breakfast buffet—huge variety, fresh ingredients, and delicious options including some local favorites. The location is ideal, just a short walk from the BART station and close to downtown attractions. Everything about this hotel felt thoughtfully designed, from the modern decor to the attention to detail. If I’m ever back in Oakland, this will be my first choice. Highly recommend for both business and leisure travelers!

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.

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.

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!

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.
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