Things to do in Oakland
The places in Oakland that people know best, ranked by readers who live there or have visited. Vote for the ones you would send a friend to, and add the places a top-ten list always misses.
Plan around the weather
The best months to be outside are February to November. Month-by-month weather.
Top picks in Oakland
Started in order of how widely each place is written about, then ranked by your votes. Links go to each place's official website. Tick "I've been" to track your count in your city passport.
Rainy or scorching day? Head indoors: Oakland Museum of California, Paramount Theatre, Pardee Home and Chabot Space and Science Center.
Parks and sights near Oakland
The best-known parks, museums, zoos and landmarks within about 35 miles. Tap Been or Want to add them to your city passport.
- Oracle Park 8 miles
- Stanford University 26 miles
Places from Wikidata (CC0), linked to each one's official site or Wikipedia article. Check hours and fees before you go.
Readers' picks
No reader picks yet. Add one in the box at the top of the page. Free things, little-known spots and seasonal events are especially welcome.
Add a pick with a description and website
Local favorites
Where people who live in Oakland actually eat, drink, shop and spend Saturdays. Nominated by residents. Businesses cannot pay to appear or move up.
No favorites yet. Name the taco stand, coffee shop or trail you would defend to anyone.
Add a favorite with a description
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Oakland?
Well-known places with their own websites include Oakland Museum of California, Oakland Zoo, Paramount Theatre, Children's Fairyland and Pardee Home. Readers vote the list up and down and add their own picks.
What can you do in Oakland on a rainy or very hot day?
Indoor picks include Oakland Museum of California, Paramount Theatre, Pardee Home and Chabot Space and Science Center.
When is the best time to visit Oakland?
For comfortable weather, go in February to November, when highs stay between 62°F and 86°F with modest rain (NOAA 1991-2020 normals).
More about Oakland: city profile, weather by month, moving checklist, ask a local.
Starting list from Wikidata (CC0): well-known places in or next to Oakland that list an official website, ordered by how many Wikipedia language editions cover them, checked by hand to remove closed places and non-attractions. Opening hours and prices change, so check each official site before you go. Reader picks and favorites are read by a person before they appear.