 Family Fun: On the Water
The days are longer; the weather is warmer. Summer is a perfect time to get out on the water. Oakland has a wide variety of festive floating options. Explore the Oakland estuary by renting a kayak. Sail, paddle or row at Lake Merritt. Sound like too much work? Relax in an authentic Italian gondola instead. The ferry to San Francisco offers spectacular views and speedy crossings. Pretend you're president for the day on a Bay tour on the USS Potomac, FDR's Floating White House. For more boating information, visit www.oaklandcvb.com. |
 Exotic Eats: Ethnic Cuisine
With one of the nation's most diverse urban populations, it's not surprising that Oakland is a melting pot of culinary flavors. You'll find a full range of styles from cultures around the world. For example, Oakland's Mexican fare includes mom-and-pop tamale stands to celebrated restaurants such as Tamarindo, Cocina Poblana and Dona Tomas serving regional fare. Asian restaurants abound throughout the town, with authentic tastes from Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean and Japanese cultures. Indian restaurants are popular, including the new Ghazal on 2nd and Broadway. Looking for suggestions? At www.oaklandcvb.com you can search for restaurants by name, location and ethnic style. You can also check out the Best of the Best section for recommendations.
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 Chic Shopping: It's in the Bag
Whether you're looking for a gift for a friend or a new look for yourself or your home, you'll find lots to inspire you at Oakland boutiques. Mignonne Decor is a French-themed housewares shop in Old Oakland. Drift Denim features designer lines such as Rag & Bone, Kasil and Cheap Monday. Verse in Old Oakland carries limited edition sneakers while at McMullen on Piedmont, the focus is on dresses. Atomic Garden on College carries a bit of everything - all of it eco-friendly. |
 Staying Central: Downtown Hotels
Unlike some metropolitan areas, Oakland's downtown offers a choice of hotels within easy walking distance of a wide range of restaurants and entertainment options in Old Oakland, Uptown and Chinatown. Adjacent to the Oakland Convention Center, the Oakland Marriott City Center offers the amenities of a full-service hotel. The Courtyard by Marriott Oakland Downtown is located across the street. The Washington Inn is a boutique hotel that offers a mix of historic charm and European elegance. For more information on Oakland hotels, visit www.oaklandcvb.com. |
