Oakland's landscape is a picturesque mix of lovely
hillside neighborhoods; exciting and diverse architecture; a bustling
waterfront; two shimmering lakes; 19 miles of shoreline along the San
Francisco Bay; unparalleled Bay views; and more parks and open space per
capita than any other city in the Bay Area. Everyone loves the year round
vacation weather with temperatures in the gentle 50's and 60's in the winter
and spring, and 70's throughout summer and fall.
A
city on the move, Oakland has emerged as a major economic force in the
region. Long a center for international trade, the Port of Oakland is one of
the nation's busiest container ports in the Bay Area. The Oakland
International Airport is served by many major domestic and international
airlines.
The
arts are alive in Oakland as well. The city has one of the largest visual
and performing arts communities on the West Coast, and the arts are
celebrated on every level; from acclaimed symphony and ballet to museums,
galleries, and small arts organizations. The Old Oakland district includes
many of the finest examples of Victorian commercial architecture on the West
Coast. Oakland's population boomed after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake,
and the Broadway Historic District showcases a range of architectural
treasures constructed between 1900-1949. Bold new buildings now shine in
Oakland's modern skyline.
There
is definitely no shortage of things to see and do, and there is weather to
match. Visitors can explore the universe at The Chabot Space and
Science Center. The Center houses one of the largest public telescopes
in the United States, a 230-seat planetarium, and the large-screen Tien
MegaDome Theater. Every child’s fantasy comes true at Children's
Fairyland. Here young children can enjoy the enchanting,
three-dimensional fantasy world where popular nursery rhymes come to life,
set in picturesque Lakeside Park.
Speaking
of Lakeside Park, this large saltwater lake, one of the largest in the
country, and the adjoining 122-acre park is home to wildlife, formal
gardens, and a children's amusement park. All of these draw scores of
walkers, joggers, bikers, rowers, sailors, and windsurfers, year round.
For a little romance, visitors can experience Gondola Servizio where they
glide across Lake Merritt in a beautiful Venetian craft accompanied by a
serenading gondolier.
Of
course, everyone needs a chance to relax, shop and enjoy a good meal.
A wonderful place for this is in Oakland is at Jack London Square.
This busy site at the water's edge has dining, entertainment, shopping, and
more than a few spots for daydreaming. Take a ferry ride, stroll the scenic
boardwalk, catch a movie, or just rest and refresh at a sunny sidewalk café.
For a little history in a nostalgic setting, the historic Grand Lake Theatre
is a must see. A mainstay of the community since its construction in
1926, this first-run movie theater is graced with a colorful, lighted
marquee and a sweeping staircase in the main hall. Look for the ornately
decorated walls, brass chandeliers, and faux opera boxes. Prior to curtain
on Friday and Saturday nights, an organist serenades the audience on a
Wurlitzer. Rent a sailboat on Lake Merritt, stroll along the
waterfront, explore the fantastic Oakland Museum: These are all great
reasons to spend fog-free days exploring one of California's largest and
most ethnically diverse cities.
Oakland
has near perfect weather to enjoy all of the spectacular offerings of the
city. “Sunny California” applies to Oakland’s climate. With the
sun shining an average of 95% of the time in the summer, it’s the time to
experience the numerous outdoor activities available. The fall offers
a chance to view Nature in transition. With the temperature dropping
only slightly from the summer, visitors can enjoy the out of doors day or
night. Winters are mild with the average temperature around 55 F.
Snow is almost never seen, except in the higher elevations and then only
briefly. Spring brings an abundance of sunshine, warmer temperatures
and very low humidity. It’s an ideal time for a relaxing stroll in
one of the areas many excellent parks.
History,
events, great entertainment, sports, scenery and an ideal climate in which
to experience it all, Oakland, the City by the Bay, has it.
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