We all have seen a family with two children, one is doing great in life with high-paid jobs, and another one seems to have tough situations. San Francisco and Oakland are those brothers. Both cities are only 20 minutes away from each other, but the difference between the cities’ look and feel is drastic. San Francisco is an eye candy destination for tourists, having all the wonderful sites to see and having all development for a high-five lifestyle. Oakland, on the other hand, has some spots that seem deserted and dangerous to hang out.
Being a grown-up in San Francisco, I have never heard a good thing about Oakland in my childhood. All I heard about the city was it was all about racist people. I even heard stories from friends about people chase you to sell something, and in the end, you might end up paying them dollars.
Who cares about what others say? In this era, we could browse how the city looks and take necessary precautions to hang out there. I thought about finding out about the city on my own. I went through Oakland’s history so that I could connect to the city when I am there.
History of Oakland
I am not a guy into history mostly but, I started getting curious about – why people think that Oakland is not a good place to hang out.
The city has a history of 200 years and is named Oakland because of having so many Oak trees. Oakland has become the Bay area and is on the verge of establishing a port. The city was expected to grow equally to San Francisco, but the city faced many ups and downs. San Francisco in the early 1900s faced the earthquake and fire, which made Oakland the land for refugees. There was a 13KM bridge; the bay bridge extended from San Francisco to Oakland. In the 1940s, the population increased, which resulted in the diversified growth of industries. The population was at its peak in the 1950s. In the 1960s, poverty hit the city, and there were more racial fights.
The rejuvenation of the city again began in the 1970s, and again industries started to grow. BART railroad connections were extended, and the population became mixed again.
After knowing this history, I didn’t feel like it was a place to get scared of. So, I planned a day trip to Oakland, and I started my Motorcycle, Vroom Vroom…
Things I did in Oakland
I would say that it’s worth it to spend a day in Oakland, and I have plans to visit again. I wanted to see the Sunset at Grizzly Peak, as my best friend once told me that it is the best place to see the bay area in the Sunset. But I decided to stick with the city plan, as it was a one-day trip.
With some research done, I begin my day with a coffee.
Coffee at Modern Coffee
I had Burnt Cinnamon Mocha at this place, and I thought, what a divine way it is to start a trip.
Saturday at Farmers Market
I wanted to know the people of Oakland, and the best way to know them is by spending some time in the market area. As I drove on a fine Saturday, I got to see the Farmers Market at the Grand Lake. I saw so many people hanging out there and bagging so many fresh veggies and fruits. The people came from different races, but still, they were hanging out in harmony – no chaos or problems.
Bend and Stretch at Kinetic Arts of Oakland
Being addicted to my exercise routine, I am pretty flexible. But after seeing the Gymnastic Arts center in Oakland, I realized that I lack so many skills. They could even train you so well that you can run a circus show.
Lois the Pie Queen, Finger licking Breakfast Experience
Lois is the original proprietor of this restaurant. She passed away, and her family runs the biz now. I had some yummy chicken and a waffle for breakfast here.
I planned to have some pie. But I will have it next time. Please note that these people prefer cash.
A Hike to Mazzariello’s Maze
One of the Outdoor arts is located in the Sibley Volcanic regional preserve, and I would say it was a place worth visiting. The hike is easy and simple. I was amazed to see that view from the top, and the maze was quite an art harmonizing the background.
A Ride Inside the City
When I ride a motorcycle, I get totally lost in it. I wanted to see the city and I enjoyed doing so. I saw many developed parts of the town and some deprived areas too.
Mountain View Cemetery
King of Chocolates (Domingo Ghirardelli) and Coffee Pioneer (James A. Folger) are resting under New York’s Central Park Designers Cemetery, where they designed their own grave.
Shan Dong Restaurant
My taste buds were seeking Chinese. I heard Shan Dong is everyone’s favorite restaurant in China Town. So, I decided to visit them and I really had one of the best noodles of my life here.
My wonderful day ended after having so many good experiences. And I will return to Oakland soon.
I’m amazed, I have to admit. Rarely do I encounter a blog that’s both educative and engaging, and let me tell you, you have hit the nail on the head. I’m very happy that I came across this in my hunt for something to do in Oakland!
Mazzariello’s Maze is a must visit!