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Oakland, California - The #1 U.S. City to Visit in 2012!
 Now is the time to book your trip to Oakland, as the city was just included in The New York Times list of top destinations to visit in 2012. Oakland came in on the list at number five, right after London and ahead of Tokyo. Oakland's celebrated culinary scene, thriving nightlife and exciting entertainment were among the reasons why Oakland was chosen for this coveted list. Other notable reasons are the beautiful waterfront and views from the hills, the artistic community, unique attractions, diverse neighborhoods and cultural events. Oakland has been experiencing a revitalization over the past few years, bringing new life and excitement throughout the city. Now is the perfect time to experience it for yourself. For more on Oakland's ranking and other notable news, visit www.visitoakland.org/news.
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Oakland Honors Black History Month
Oakland's strong African American community includes a plethora of events and activities honoring Black History Month. Head to Chabot Space & Science Center to learn about the contributions of African American astronauts this month, or enjoy a walking tour through downtown to learn about Oakland's African American leaders on February 4. Participate in an in-depth discussion at Marcus Bookstore on February 8 about Redefining Black Power, and on February 9, listen to the experiences from two men who worked with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Oakland Marriott City Center. Listen to the Oakland Interfatih Gospel Choir perform at the Cathedral of Christ the Light on February 10, and participate in a multigenerational panel at the Oakland Museum of California on February 11, a discussion of social issues pertaining to African American men. For more events honoring Black History Month, visit www.visitoakland.org/calendar. |
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Share the Love
Whether it's with your best friend, family, or significant other, there are many ways to celebrate Valentine's Day when
 you visit Oakland. On February 10, head to Yoshi's Jazz Club in Jack London Square for the Valentine's Weekend with The Manhattan Transfer. On February 11, Chabot Space & Science Center hosts a Love X Infinity Weekend, or go on a Valentine's Day Love Mission on February 12. Enjoy a variety of shows with your kids at Children's Fairyland February 11-12, including circus acts and comedy. Head to the Fox Theater on February 14 for smooth sounds from Lenny Kravitz and Raphael Saadiq, or celebrate with the romantic music of the Laurent Fourgo Ensemble at Oakland City Center Plaza. For an unconventional Valentines Day, head to The New Parish to see Yob, an underground metal group from Oregon. If you are looking for a more romantic experience, head over to Gondola Servizio at Lake Merritt for an authentic gondola tour. For more ways to feel the love this Valentine's Day, visit www.visitoakland.org/calendar. |
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Book Your Room for the Oakland Running Festival 
Get ready to lace up your running shoes for the Oakland Running Festival, coming to town March 24-25. Whether you're an avid runner, beginner, or just a fan cheering on the participants, the annual marathon is not to be missed. The two-day race provides visitors to Oakland with an opportunity to see many different neighborhoods. Runners will travel throughout the city, including around Lake Merritt, Downtown, Montclair, Rockridge and other areas. The Oakland Marriott City Center is the official sponsor of the race, but you can also stay near the waterfront, hills, Oakland International Airport or downtown to catch the action. For more on where to stay during the Festival, see www.visitoakland.org/hotels. |
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Order a Visitor's Guide
Planning a trip to Oakland? Make sure to take a look at our new visitors guide! Available online at www.visitoakland.org, or send us an email at info@visitoakland.org to receive a hard copy. |
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Find Visit Oakland on Facebook
Have you "liked" our Visit Oakland Facebook page yet? If you're interested in what's new in Oakland, including events, restaurants, deals on places to stay and more, make sure to friend us at Facebook.com/VisitOakland. |
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Shop in Oakland 
Need some new digs this spring? Take a look at our shopping page to find some inspiration www.visitoakland.org/shop. |
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Calendar
Looking for something to do this weekend, next month or later in the year? Check out our Calendar of Events. Follow us on Twitter to find out other favorites.
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Plan a Trip & Fly OAK
Fly with the
Oakland International Airport
(OAK) when you plan your visit to the Bay Area and Oakland. |
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