There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Oakland, but we definitely have some favorites. Check out our list of the top 7 things to do in The Town.
Beer Crawl
via Roses’ Taproom 
via Roses’ Taproom 
via Temescal Brewery
Oakland’s craft beer scene has become a major player in Bay Area brews. Get to know some of the city’s best breweries by taking yourself on a beer crawl. The outdoor beer garden at Temescal Brewery is a local favorite, as is the spacious, indoor taproom at Ghost Town Brewing. The trendy Roses’ Taproom offers a variety of their own beers plus guest taps and ciders. Join their $30/month membership program and receive a locally-made ceramic mug that gives you $2 off every beer you buy.
You can also book a bike beer tour through Velocipede Tours, which allows you and 13 of your closest friends to pedal your way to multiple Oakland breweries, like Independent Brewing Company, Beer Revolution, and The Trappist.
First Fridays
Nothing makes the city come alive like First Fridays. Every first Friday of the month, KONO Community Benefit District shuts down Oakland’s Telegraph Ave. from W. Grand to 27th Street and throws a giant party. Expect to find local food trucks dishing out all types of food, a kids’ zone for the little ones, live music, a pop-up art bar, craft vendors, and more. Best of all, admission is free. Just bring a few bucks for food, some specialty drinks, and any arts and crafts you want to buy.
Shop in the Temescal Telegraph Business District
Images via Temescal Telegraph Business District 
Everything from antiques and bikes to clothing and art galleries can be found along Telegraph Avenue. The strip of it that runs north to south and cuts through the Temescal and Upper Telegraph neighborhoods is chock full of local shops. After your beer at Temescal Brewery, head north and shop the day away. Cafes, bars, and restaurants line the street, as well, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty.
Get your craft coffee fix
Although lesser-known than coffee destinations like Portland, Seattle, and San Francisco, Oakland is home to 2,300 coffee shops and 17 roasters. Living here means getting to take full advantage of delicious, locally-roasted coffee from places like Bicycle Coffee Company and without any tourists getting in your way.
Catch a Show at the Fox Theater
After a $91 million renovation, the theater re-opened in 2009 and now hosts a variety of musical and comedic performances. Past performers include Maggie Rogers, Janelle Monae, Amanda Seales, and Childish Gambino. Check out the ornate, intricate designs on the ceiling and walls, and don’t forget to stop in at their restaurant for a bite and a drink before the show.
Head to the West Wind Public Market
Images via West Wind Public Market
Find local treasures at the Coliseum swap meet, also known as West Wind Public Market. Peruse unique collectible, antiques, home goods, clothing, and more. Not much of a shopper? Sit back and enjoy a drink in the beer garden while you catch a live musical performance.
Hang at the Lake
Lake Merritt was once an eyesore, but it’s become the crown jewel of one of Oakland’s trendiest neighborhoods. Grab a burrito at Tacos Mi Rancho and pick out a grassy area around the lake to lay down a blanket. Catch some sunshine, enjoy people watching with friends, or take a stroll around the lake’s 3.4-mile paved shoreline.
Check out these fun spots and events in Oakland and you’re on your way to becoming a local. Need an apartment before you can call yourself one? Search thousands of rentals on Zumper and find yours today.
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