Appreciate Oaklands Performing Arts Scene
Oakland has a lot to say and a lot of ways to express itself! Here are some of our favorite ways to get to know Oaklands performance art scene.
- Ubuntu Theater Project:This incredible theatre company stages groundbreaking theatre year-round. The name Ubuntu is a Zulu proverb that means I am because we are and I am a person through other people. My humanity is tied to yours. The performances produced by the Ubuntu Theatre Project probe at the heart of this statement, creating compelling works that unearth the human condition and unite diverse audiences through revelatory, heart-pounding theater.
- Sundays in the Redwoods: Take in a live concert in the most beautiful venue in the world: a redwood forest! Every Sunday features a different line-up but no matter whos performing, it will be a day to remember.
- Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts: This multicultural, multidisciplinary performance arts complex has been serving the community since the 1920s. Its theater and performance venues showcase music, theatre, ballet, African and contemporary dance, and more with a rotating cast of performers and organizations. Check out the events calendar to see a performance or take a class!
Which of these awesome things to do in Oakland is totally up your alley? Were there things in our post about Oakland that you didnt know? Drop us a comment below!
How Did Alameda Get Its Name
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- Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze. 15.8 mi. 415 reviews.
- Eat Real Festival. 8.5 mi. 539 reviews.
- Exploratorium. 15.1 mi. 1053 reviews.
- AxeVentures Axe Throwing. 8.6 mi. 124 reviews.
- Urban Putt. 16.5 mi. 1399 reviews.
- 90’s Experience. 8.6 mi. 51 reviews.
- Golden Tee Golfland. 7.8 mi. 264 reviews.
- Seward Street Slides. 17.7 mi. 540 reviews.
Things to do in San Francisco East Bay
- Oracle Arena. Ranked #1 overall in Oakland things to do.
- Lake Merritt. Ranked #2 overall in Oakland things to do.
- Greek Theater. Ranked #1 overall in Berkeley things to do.
- Jack London Square. Ranked #3 overall in Oakland things to do.
- Fox Theater.
Drink Your Way Through Oakland
You cant have a foodie scene without a booze scene. Right? At least, thats what they say. They mostly being me and Jeremy. Anyway, Oaklands got a great booze scene, with loads of craft breweries, distilleries, wineries, and bars concocting groundbreaking cocktails.
Like, did you know the Mai Tai was invented in Oakland? Yep: Victor Bergeron of Trader Vics whipped it up in 1944. So go on, celebrate Oaklands history and order one. Just make sure you dont drink on an empty stomach theres too much great food here for that!
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Off The Ferry: 5 Things To Do In Alameda
Alameda, which lends its name to a large county in the East Bay, is itself an elusive island, to which most non-residents dont give much thought. But just across the Bay from San Francisco, this small, cozy enclave is a treasure trove of activities, from the cute and quaint to the outdoor adventure to the tad quirky. Here, our five favorite things to do in Alameda.
1. Take a stroll down memory lane on Park Street, a picturesque Main Street, U.S.A. lined with gorgeous historic buildings and a variety of shops and restaurants.
2. Feel like a kid again at Crown Memorial State Beach, where you can play in the Bay, fly a kite, take a hike, or learn about San Francisco Bay marine life at the Crab Cove Visitor Center.
3. Get spirited away at St Georges Artisan Distillery. Located at the tip of the island, this is a great spot to start the day off right, with tastings of everything from vodka to absinthe, all artisan, all fantastic. And since you took the ferry theres no need to pull straws to determine the designated driver.
4. Catch a flick at the historic Art-Deco Alameda Theatre and Cineplex.
5. Shop away at the Alameda Point Antiques Faire, which takes place the first Sunday of every month with over 800 booths and nothing under the age of 21.
Directions Take the ferry to Harbor Bay, or take BART to Fruitvale and transfer to one of many AC Transit buses that link to Alameda.
Alameda Island Brewing Company
Alameda Island Brewing Company is so much more than just a brewery, with a large, family friendly tasting room where guests can hang out and enjoy themselves, and even bring their four legged friends. The full brewery, which is over 10,000 square feet in size, is available for guided tours, where visitors will see the giant mash tuns and fermenting tanks that create the delicious beer they will try. Alameda Island Brewing Company offers its beers in pints as well as flights, so guests can get a full idea of what they have to offer, and the entire staff is passionate about their products and more than happy to impart some tidbits of knowledge about the beers on tap.
1416, 1716 Park St, Alameda, CA 94501, Phone: 510-217-8885
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How To Get Around Oakland
Oakland is a big city, but its super easy to get around town, and you have your pick of options. Heres what we recommend:
- Public Transit: You can get all over Oakland using transit. BART trains will take you almost everywhere you want to go in Oakland, and AC Transit buses will get you everywhere else.
- Ride-Share App: Ride-sharing was invented in the Bay Area, and we all use it so much its become a primary method of transit. You can take shared LYFT lines to anywhere in Oakland, and your ride will be pleasantly inexpensive.
- Bike: Oakland is super bikeable. Weve got plenty of bike lanes and places to park your bike. Most conveniently of all, there are Ford Go Bike bike share stations EVERYWHERE. Biking is a fantastic way to explore Oaklands many neighborhoods .
- Electric Scooter: The scooter craze is alive and well here in Oakland. Download the Bird and Lime apps to find a scooter to whizz around town on.
Alameda Theater & Cineplex
This isnt your typical movie theater, since its one of the last movie palaces built in the San Francisco Bay Area. Constructed in 1932, this art deco theater shows blockbuster films, including a select few in the beautifully restored main theater. The historical interior is combined with modern-day theater comforts . Come on Discount Tuesday for half-priced tickets.
If you want to grab a bite to eat, theres in-theater dining with a full menu available with finger food options like pizza, chicken tenders and sliders. There is also an extensive drink menu that includes beer, wine and cocktails. Check out the official website for special events like summer and classic movie series.
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Am: Go Boating On The Lake
Lake Merritt Boating Center has options for everyone. Rent a paddleboat, rowboat, or kayak and explore the 3.5 mile saltwater estuary. Check out the bird refuges small artificial islands located throughout the lake but be sure to give them space. Little known fact: Lake Merritt was the first official wildlife refuge in the United States! So grab a rental and go exploring boats range from $10-24 an hour. Note that this spot is cash only!
Theres A Forbidden Island Inside The Island
Maybe you want to turn up at the end of your staycation — thats allowed at the Forbidden Island Tiki Lounge. Away from Downtown Alameda, this local paradise has live music, DJs, hula hoop go-go dancers on the first Saturday of the month, movie nights on Tuesdays, bar food, and good drinks. If you see dollar bills hanging from the ceiling, thats not the alcohol going to your head — its part of the décor, as are blowfish turned into lamps and a number of old surf movies on the TV screen. Order their Chamborlada, a blend of piña colada and black raspberry liqueur in a goblet. Forbidden Island even cures the Monday blues with happy hour prices all night long.
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Jeneé Darden is an award-winning journalist who is easily bribed with corn dogs and mojitos from Alameda’s street fairs. Follow her at CocoaFly.com: .
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Am: Have Brunch In A Little Blue Cottage
An underrated part of the bay, Alameda is an adorable island boasting a 2.5 mile beach and a small town feel. Grab brunch at Little House , an adorable century-old house-turned-cafe. The homemade donuts and simple brunch menu are a great way to start the day! If you happen to be there on the first Sunday of the month, the Alameda Antiques Fair is a must!
Alamedas All About That Vintage Life
Alameda keeps the past alive with antique stores, but its major vintage attraction is the monthly Alameda Point Antiques Faire. Its the largest in Northern California, with more than 800 vendors setting up shop on the former Navy base on the first Sunday of every month. You can find everything from vintage clothing to knick-knacks and furniture here — as well as some seriously weird stuff. Wear comfortable shoes and get ready to snap some serious photos — this fair has a gorgeous view of the Bay Bridge.
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Second Saturday At Steam Pump Ranch
Visit the Steam Pump Ranch and shop for unique handcrafted products, watch gardening and archaeological demonstrations by Archaeology Southwest, plus enjoy live music, kid crafts and a farmers market.
When: Saturday, Jan. 8, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Steam Pump Ranch, 10901 N. Oracle Road
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Who Can Use Some Good Clean High
Kick off the new year through tears of laughter with this comedian, radio host and Netflix comedy star at The Fox. Tom Papa is a tremendously funny and insightful comedian whose material is entirely relatable. Covering topics from married life, having children, the differences between men and women, what to do about whiners, and more Tom has the amazing ability to tell stories and engage the audience like you are old friends. !
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Get A Unique Experience At The Uss Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet is most widely known for its role in the Apollo 11 recovery mission. Today, visitors can head to the World War II aircraft carrier that is now the USS Hornet Museum and learn about this historic vessel.
Youll discover many exhibits and artifacts, including retired aircraft and items related to the Apollo missions.
You have the option to explore the museum on your own or with a guided tour. If you want to get the authentic experience of what it was like for the crew on board the ship, you can book an overnight stay where you can sleep in one of the ships bunks, dine in the Crews mess and participate in flight simulations.
Taiko Drumming At Yume Japanese Gardens Of Tucson
Experience the ancient art of Japanese drumming with a live performance by Ken Koshio.
When: Saturday, Jan. 8, 5-6 p.m.
Where: Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson, 2130 N. Alvernon Way
Cost: $10-$25
Visit the event page for more information.
Crafting under the trees at Steam Pump Ranch in Oro Valley.
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Goat Yoga At Udall Park
Stretch out at this furry-hoofed yoga class at the park with enchanted goats. Remember to bring water and a mat!
When: Saturday, Jan. 8, 9 a.m.
Where: Morris K. Udall Regional Park, 7290 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: $25, registration required
Visit the GOT Yoga Goats of Tucson event page for more information.
Alameda Theatre & Cineplex
Built in 1932, this historic theater was constructed in the lavish and distinctive Art Deco style, and is best characterized by the beautiful and brightly lit blade-shaped sign out front, proclaiming up and down the block that this is the Alameda. The marquee and ticket booths beneath are largely unchanged from what they were like in the 30s, with a beautiful, two story foyer inside. On the upper balcony, guests can have a seat at a small table as they admire the detailed architecture, before heading in to see a movie. The Alameda even has a Cinema Grill, and guests can order food and drinks right to their seat.
2317 Central Ave, Alameda, CA 94501
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Pm: Explore Local Culture History And Science At Omoc
An afternoon at the museum cant be beat.The Oakland Museum of California is a diverse museum with exhibits that explore art, natural science and local history. Catch a California Art Tour every Sunday at 2 p.m., or roam on your own. Dont miss the History of California exhibit. Theres a foley studio the room thats used to add sound effects to movies and you can give it a go yourself!
Am: Take A Stroll To Grand Lake Farmers Market
Considered the best farmers market in the East Bay, the Grand Lake Market features everything from fresh produce to organic cosmetics to live music. Munch on samples as you walk through the market and be sure to check out Bicycle Coffee for breakfast. Local residents do their weekly shopping here, so arrive early to beat the crowds. Dont forget to bring cash and an empty backpack for all of your goods!
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Best Things To Do In Alameda
Alameda is a city of about 78,000 people in Alameda County. Its geography is unique because the city spans two islands and part of the mainland this is why its known locally as The Island City.
Despite the seemingly remote island location, Alameda is in a very central area. Its near the major cities of Oakland and San Francisco in the San Francisco Bay Area, so the attractions and events of these places are easily accessible.
Alameda is home to its own attractions as well these include a number of parks, art spaces, museums, and restaurants. There are many shopping areas in the city, including South Shore Center, Alameda Landing, Bridgeside Shopping Center, and the downtown district.
Alameda hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Park Street Spring Festival, Park Street Art & Wine Faire, Park Street Classic Car Show, and the Sand Castle and Sculpture Contest.
Below are the 15 best things to do in and around Alameda, California.
Pm: Grab Boba In Oaklands Chinatown
In Oaklands Chinatown which happens to be Bruce Lees old stomping ground there is plenty to see, taste and shop. With its bright lights and strong smells, Chinatown will quickly overwhelm your senses, and is often described as the real deal. Explore the spice shops and grab boba at I-Tea . You wont miss it, theres usually a huddle of people outside its door.
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Fun Things To Do In Alameda
Arts & Culture
USS Hornet Museum
Before docking for good as a floating museum, the USS Hornet aircraft carrier saw a lot of actionin addition to serving in World War II and the Vietnam War, the ship recovered the astronauts from the United States’ first two lunar landings after their splashdowns back to earth in 1969. Step aboard this national historic landmark to wander exhibits covering everything from the moon missions to women in the military. On the hangar and flight decks, you’ll find a number of retired aircraft from the 1940s through the ’80s, including the U.S. Navy’s first supersonic jet fighter, a World War II torpedo bomber, and an SH-3H SeaKing, the all-weather helicopter used in anti-submarine warfare. // 707 W. Hornet Ave. , uss-hornet.org
Pacific Pinball Museum
To the delight of pinheads everywhere, the Pacific Pinball Museum features upwards of 90 fully restored machines all set for free play find your favorite, whether it’s the 1992 Addams Family game, the display-only Montague Redgrave parlour bagatelle from 1887. The interactive museum also goes beyond the fun and games by blending history, science, and art with tours and classes open to budding pinball wizards, plus rotating exhibits, murals and artworks on display. The nonprofit also owns an additional 1,500 machines that simply don’t fit in the small space. //1510 Webster St. , pacificpinball.org
Alameda Theatre & Cineplex
High Scores Arcade
Rhythmix Cultural Works
2nd Friday Art Walk
Mike’s Paddle
