Recreation & Leisure
Running out of things to do in the Oakland area is almost an impossibility. This city boasts a variety of activities for those who love the great outdoors, sports, sightseeing and more. The city has one of the highest percentages of parks and open spaces per capita in the entire country. With plenty of waterfront, hills, forests and two lakes, Oakland is an outdoors fanatic’s paradise. Metropolitan yet woodsy, this general area is home to more than 50 parks and nearly 30 regional hiking trails that meander through Alameda and Contra Costa counties. The waterfront provides plenty of opportunities for sailing, canoeing, swimming, skiing and more. Sports fans delight in Oakland’s three professional teams: the Oakland Athletics, the Golden State Warriors and the Oakland Raiders. With professional sports, concerts, family shows and more, the city’s Network Associates Coliseum and the Arena host more than 240 events a year.
For those who don’t love the great outdoors or sports, there are plenty of shopping, dining, and sightseeing opportunities within Oakland. The area called Chinatown is known for its annual Streetfest and its abundance of shops, bakeries and cafes. Plus, Jack London Square provides jazz, dining, shopping and more along the waterfront. The U.S.S. Potomac, noted for its used by Franklin D. Roosevelt, is docked along Oakland’s waterfront.
The Oakland Zoo is another attraction that packs in both residents and tourists. With more than 400 different animal species represented, the zoo offers attractions designed for guests of all ages with an emphasis on conservation and education. In addition, the historic homes and spectacular commercial architecture within the city provide lots of opportunities for tours and more.