 Lake Merritt: Relaxing and Romantic
Located just east of downtown, Lake Merritt is an urban oasis of parks, running trails,
attractions and restaurants beloved by both locals and
visitors. Children's Fairyland includes 10 acres of play sets, small rides, and
animals. Lakeside Park Gardens includes Japanese, bonsai and palm gardens,
while nearby Morcom Rose Gardens offers thousands of specialty blooms. Rent a
boat at the Lake Merritt Boating Center or glide by in style in a Venetian Gondola. There are numerous restaurants along Grand Ave. near the Grand Lake Theater, while Sidebar and The Terrace Room at the Lake Merritt Hotel overlook
the lake. In August, the new Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill opens at the historic Lake Merritt Boat House with food by acclaimed Chef Jarad Gallagher.
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Summer Hotel Specials
 Now through August 30, 2009, many of Oakland's most popular hotels are offering discounted rates and value-added gifts. Book requesting the "Summer in Oakland" special and when you check in you'll receive two free tickets to either Oakland Zoo, Chabot Space & Science Center or the Oakland Museum of California. Participating hotels include: Fairfield Inn by Marriott, Oakland Marriott City Center, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites-Oakland Airport, Waterfront Hotel, Days Hotel Oakland Airport, The Washington Inn, The Inn at Jack London Square, Claremont Resort & Spa, Executive Inn & Suites and Homewood Suites by Hilton - Oakland Waterfront. Find out more at Oaklandcvb.com.
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 Art & Soul Oakland
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 Oakland Welcomes Four-Legged Friends
Southwest Airlines now allows small pets in the main passenger cabin for a $75 fee. Many Oakland hotels, including La Quinta and Hilton Oakland Airport, have pooch-friendly policies. Find fashion-forward accessories, tantalyzing toys and new taste treat at an Oakland pet boutiques. Redhound Pets in Rockridge even offers a board game for you and your dog to play together. Health-conscious snacks are available at Paws and Claws. Work up an appetite with a walk around Lake Merritt to bark at the birds or at Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve, where dogs are permitted. | |
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Calendar
Looking for something to do this weekend, next month or later in the year? Check out the new and improved Calendar of Events. Follow us on Twitter to find out other favorites.
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2009 Visitors Guide 
In addition to photos, maps and fun things to do, you'll find hotel, restaurant and entertainment listings. Order your free copy today at Oaklandcvb.com. |
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Food & Drink 
The new Food & Drink newsletter highlights Oakland's vibrant food scene, including restaurants, bars, cooking schools and recipes. Hungry? Sign up today at www.oaklandcvb. | |
