Enter the Pardee Home Museum, and step back into 19th-century Oakland: creaking wooden floors, vintage furnishings, faded photographs, and even the distant echo of a steam train. This century-old home holds family legacies and city history, one room at a time, telling stories that never fade.

Everything you need to know about Pardee Home Museum
The Claremont Hotel & Spa is a top choice, just a 10-minute drive from Pardee Home Museum. This boutique hotel blends Victorian-era architecture with modern luxury, offering spa services and garden-view rooms. Its central location provides easy access to cultural spots like the Oakland Museum of California and UC Berkeley, making it ideal for travelers seeking both history and comfort.
Take the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) or rent an e-bike for convenient travel. A 15-minute BART ride from the museum reaches Downtown Oakland Station, connecting you to the Oakland Museum of California and Jack London Square. For a scenic alternative, use local e-bike services like Scoot, which offer easy access along Lake Merritt’s scenic paths, blending efficiency with natural beauty.
Join a guided Oakland History Tour at Pardee Home Museum to explore 19th-century elite family life. During summer, attend the Lake Merritt Festival, featuring music, craft markets, and art exhibits that showcase local culture. Don’t miss the Oakland Public Library Historic Branch, a beautifully preserved early public library offering free historical archives and themed lectures.
Hotel Shattuck Plaza is ideal for families, just a 10-minute walk from Pardee Home Museum. It offers family suites and child-friendly amenities, including a game room and kids’ activity space. Nearby attractions like the Children’s Fairy Tale Garden and Oakland Zoo provide safe, engaging outdoor experiences. The hotel also provides breakfast discounts and BART shuttle service, enhancing convenience for family travelers.
Pardee Home Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, closed Mondays. It’s recommended to book a visit online in advance to avoid crowds. Special exhibitions may adjust hours—check official announcements. On-site docent-led tours offer detailed historical insights, and interactive workshops for children are available, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.
Visit The Roastery at Oakland Public Market in Jack London Square, a stylish specialty coffee shop offering hand-brewed coffee and locally baked pastries in an artistic setting. Alternatively, try Café Gratitude, known for its plant-based cuisine and wellness-focused concept. Both are within a 15-minute walk from Pardee Home Museum, perfect for relaxing meals after exploring the historic site, surrounded by urban tranquility.
Hotel Oakland is a top choice, blending historic architecture with modern luxury just steps from the Pardee Home Museum. Its stylish rooms and rooftop terrace offer panoramic views of downtown Oakland, while complimentary shuttles connect guests to the museum.
Equally impressive is The Claremont Hotel & Spa, a grand 1900s landmark featuring Victorian-era design, lush gardens, and a world-class spa. Located just a 15-minute walk away, it provides an immersive experience in early California heritage. Both properties emphasize cultural authenticity, central location, and elegant hospitality, making them ideal for history lovers seeking comfort and character.
The fastest route is taking the BART subway to "Oakland City Center" station, then transferring to Oakland Bus Route 27 or a museum shuttle—just a 10-minute ride to the Pardee Home Museum entrance. Alternatively, Uber or Lyft take about 8–12 minutes and offer scenic views of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.
The museum features a dedicated parking lot for visitors driving from afar. For real-time schedules and traffic updates, use Google Maps to optimize your journey. On weekends and holidays, the museum also offers free guided shuttle tours led by expert historians, allowing guests to explore the historic district and learn about late 19th-century California elite life firsthand.
Beyond the museum itself, visitors can enjoy the 19th-Century Living History Theater, held annually in summer, where guests participate in period-style tea parties, letter-writing, and craft workshops. The Oakland Heritage Trail winds through surrounding historic streets, featuring interactive kiosks that detail early immigrant life and industrial growth.
Weekend pop-up events include a Vintage Market on the museum’s plaza, showcasing rare antiques, vintage clothing, and handmade art from local artisans. Pair it with a visit to The Vintage Tea Room, a nearby café serving authentic English afternoon tea, evoking the social elegance of the era. Together, these offerings create a rich, immersive cultural journey into California’s past.
See what other travelers say about Pardee Home Museum

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 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.

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.

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!
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