Known for its fashionable streets lined with large mansions, Piedmont is an affluent city to visit in the outskirts of Oakland. It is surrounded by a picturesque landscape, consisting of hills, forests and lakes. Admire the impressive houses with excellent views along the sloped streets running through the heart of this enchanting city.

Near the eastern edge of the city is large Joaquin Miller Park, with its labyrinth of nature trails meandering between redwood groves. Reach the gorge of the Palos Colorados trail and take in the views on the Sequoia Bayview path.

Reach the Chabot Space and Science Center on the northern side of the park and bring your family to experience the interactive exhibits. The Observation Deck uses everything from telescopes and mosaics to mirrors and cameras to help you observe the world around you.

Stroll along lively Piedmont Avenue and pass the Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center that dates back to 1942. Watch one of the latest independent and art-house films in the historic Landmark’s Piedmont Theatre, constructed in 1917. Admire the old-world marquee and art deco design of this building, which hosts several film festivals. Skirting the avenue are a range of cafés, ice cream parlors and restaurants.

Head south to reach the shores of picturesque Lake Merritt and pass through the Pergola at Lake Merritt. Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Light, see a movie at the Grand Lake Theatre and bring your kids to the Children’s Fairyland.

Note that the city is named after an area in Italy that means foothill, in reference to the hilly surroundings. It is in the northeastern corner of Oakland, between the city and the Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve. Travel by bus from Oakland to arrive in the center of Piedmont in less than half an hour. While you’re in this part of California, explore the surrounding districts of Montclair, Rockridge and Temescal.