Best attractions and places to see around Oakland include a diverse range of urban landmarks and natural spaces. The region, situated in California, offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Visitors can explore a variety of cultural sites and scenic viewpoints, making it a destination for nature lovers and those interested in city exploration.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
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These artistic hearts in Union Square help raise money for a local hospital. They rotate regularly and find new, permanent homes all over San Francisco.
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A work by Lawrence Noble "There is No Try" from 2011.
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At the center of Union Square stands the Dewey Monument, a 85-foot-tall (26 m) column topped by a 9-foot (2.7 m) statue of Nike, the ancient Greek goddess of victory. The monument is dedicated to Admiral George Dewey, a hero of the Spanish–American War for his victory in the Battle of Manila Bay in 1898. The monument was unveiled in 1903.
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You have to see it...and drive it.
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Even outside of the Christmas season, a visit to Union Square is worthwhile. Pure life and hustle and bustle...
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Entrance/Exit to Chinatown San Francisco
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A ride on the cable car is something special. Where else in America, which is otherwise so safety-conscious, are you allowed to lean out of a moving vehicle and take pictures? There is a stop in the middle of the route near Chinatown and Dragons Gate.
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Pier 39 is of course not just about the famous sea lions. You can really spend a day hanging out here. Preferably with small children, because then you'll quickly become poor. ;-) Best combined with a trip to Alcatraz. Very exciting!
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Yes, several attractions are great for families. Pier 39 & Sea Lions, San Francisco offers entertainment with shops, restaurants, and the famous sea lions. Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco is another popular spot with various attractions, shops, and seafood. For a cultural experience, Chinatown (Dragon Gate entrance) is also considered family-friendly.
The Oakland area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for jogging, hiking, and road cycling. For example, there are running trails like the 'Lake Chabot Regional Park loop' and 'Huckleberry Loop Trail'. Hikers can explore routes such as 'Stream, Mill and French Loop' or 'Stonewall Panoramic Loop'. Cyclists might enjoy the 'San Francisco Bay Trail' or the 'Redwood Double Loop from North Oakland'. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for Running Trails around Oakland, Hiking around Oakland, and Road Cycling Routes around Oakland.
Absolutely. Union Square is a historic square known for its cultural programs and the Dewey Monument. San Francisco's Chinatown (Dragon Gate entrance) is one of the oldest and most tightly-knit in the country, offering a rich cultural experience with its unique shops and eateries.
For beginner hikers, the 'Stonewall Panoramic Loop' is an easy option. Many trails in the regional parks offer varying difficulties, so you can find suitable paths. For more details on hiking, check out the Hiking around Oakland guide.
Yes, Union Square and Chinatown (Dragon Gate entrance) are noted as wheelchair-accessible attractions. When it comes to trails, while specific wheelchair-accessible trails are not detailed in the provided data, many urban parks and paved paths may offer accessibility. It's always recommended to check specific park websites for the most current accessibility information.
Several attractions offer great views. Pier 39 & Sea Lions, San Francisco provides views of the bay, and Lombard Street — Crookedest Block offers unique perspectives of the city. Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco also boasts great bay views.
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse experiences. Many appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and sea lions at Pier 39, the unique winding design of Lombard Street, and the lively waterfront district of Fisherman’s Wharf with its seafood and shops. The blend of urban landmarks and natural spaces, along with opportunities for outdoor activities, is highly valued.
While specific 'less crowded' trails are not explicitly listed, many of the regional parks in the Oakland hills, such as those featuring routes like 'Stream, Mill and French Loop' or 'West Ridge, Chown, French, and Redwood Peak Trail Loop', offer extensive networks where you can often find quieter sections, especially during off-peak hours. Exploring the Hiking around Oakland guide can help you discover various options.
The Oakland hills offer several popular circular walks. Examples include the 'Huckleberry Loop Trail' for running, and for hiking, you can find loops like 'Stream, Mill and French Loop' and 'West Ridge, Chown, French, and Redwood Peak Trail Loop'. These routes provide a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area. More options are available in the Hiking around Oakland guide.
Near popular outdoor attractions and in urban areas like Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Union Square, you'll find a wide range of facilities including restaurants, shops, and public restrooms. For specific trailheads or more remote natural areas, facilities might be limited, so it's advisable to check ahead.
Yes, the Oakland area is unique in its blend of urban and natural attractions. You can explore the bustling city life and cultural sites like Chinatown or Union Square, and then easily transition to nearby natural spaces for hiking or cycling in the regional parks. The Hiking around Oakland and Running Trails around Oakland guides offer many options for nature lovers.


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