Where to stay

With offerings from Japanese ramen to Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches, Oakland's historic Chinatown is the place to stay for Asian tastes and culture. This neighborhood is not just about eating. You can learn Balinese dance here and pick up an Asian language book at the Asian branch of the Oakland Public Library. For restaurant choices, there's no better hotel location than Piedmont Avenue. Dine at family-friendly diners, modern gastropubs, and Michelin-starred upscale restaurants. Reserve a room in Temescal for a lively food scene. Indulge in each new storefront's specialty of the moment, from mac and cheese to doughnuts.

Downtown Oakland is a top place to stay if you're visiting for the first time. The rejuvenated city center features architectural marvels such as the African American Museum and Library and the Rotunda Building, as well as shops and restaurants in Victorian and art deco storefronts. Hotels here introduce visitors to the diverse landscape of the Oakland population. Consider staying in Uptown Oakland for the very hottest happenings. Visit the Art Murmur on First Fridays, stunning movie theaters, live music venues, and a staggering number of restaurants, shops, and art galleries.

Stay in the active arts destination of KONO, with its strong ties to the Korean community and a perfect example of how Oakland has influenced Bay Area diversity. The neighborhood is easily accessible from just about anywhere in the city by foot, car, bike, or BART. Venture out from your hotel to more than 20 art venues and amazing street art displays. Reserve accommodations in Old Oakland for its late-century Victorian architecture, some of the best dining and shopping in the city, and a great farmers market. Consider staying in West Oakland, revitalized by grassroots organizations and today featuring colorful street art and fusion cuisine. Imagine banh mi meets po'boy.