On the east side of the San Francisco Bay lies Oakland, Northern California’s third-largest city and San Francisco’s bustling neighbor. Don’t discount this East Bay mecca: The city has continued to elevate its spot on the Northern California tourism scene, thanks to new offerings (including the city’s vegan trail, which features 26 plant-based restaurants) and family-friendly attractions including the Oakland Zoo and Museum of Children’s Art (MOCHA).
But arguably the best way to get to know Oakland is to see it as the locals do.
Amy Schneider — an Oakland resident and 40-time winner of the television show “Jeopardy!” — shares her top spots for visitors seeking to explore her home base.
Amy Schneider, a 40-time winner of the game show Jeopardy!, is a resident of Oakland, Calif.
Credit: 2022 Amy Schneider
Most people don’t know this, but Oakland’s best-kept secret is: the New Parkway movie theater. It’s got great food, fun seating arrangements (including couches!), an eclectic lineup of movies and other activities throughout the week, from karaoke to cooking classes.
If it’s your first time in Oakland, you need to carve out time to: visit Walden Pond Books. I’m a lifelong bookstore aficionado, and this one’s my all-time favorite. There’s a great atmosphere and a knowledgeable staff — everything you’re looking for in an independent bookstore.
Mockingbird serves Italian classics.
Credit: 2022 MockingbirdThe best restaurant for a bite to eat is: Mockingbird. Located across the street from the Tribune Tower, the restaurant features a few Italian classics that anchor a rotating menu, often featuring flavor combinations that are unexpected (yet always delicious) alongside an excellent cocktail list. I suggest getting two orders of the garlic bread: one for the table, and one to take home. It’s that good.
My favorite place to rest my head for the night is: The Claremont Club & Spa, a Fairmont Hotel. While admittedly not in everyone’s price range (I recommend winning $1 million on a game show first!), this historic hotel built in 1915 absolutely lives up to its promise — without feeling too corporate — and features some gorgeous views over Oakland and San Francisco Bay.
Claremont Club & Spa is splurge-worthy.
Credit: 2022 Claremont Club & Spa, a Fairmont HotelThe best time to visit Oakland is: in the fall. If you want to extend your summer a little longer, come out to Oakland in September or October for an extra dose of sunshine. Oakland is beautiful year-round, but the late afternoon light on an autumn day is simply transcendent.
Schneider suggests that clients visit Oakland in the fall.
Credit: 2022 Visit OaklandThe trendiest spot for a good Instagram shot is: Mountain View Cemetery. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the cemetery itself is beautiful, but what really sets it apart is the view over the bay. It’s so stunning you might forget to take a picture!
