Outdoor Space
Great view of the lake backed by Oaklamd hills. Often live musicians, dancers, and other local culture is happening in the area.
751 locals recommend
Lake Merritt Amphitheater
Lake Merritt BoulevardGreat view of the lake backed by Oaklamd hills. Often live musicians, dancers, and other local culture is happening in the area.
The Lake is a 3-mile loop to walk- 4 miles total to and from the house. The Amphitheater is at the South end and pergola and fountain at the North end. Often live musicians and dancers and people are gathering at either end. There is also roller skating that takes place over by the bunk house for the lake.
Not to mention the bonsai garden, bird sanctuary, children's fairyland, and other sites to see along the way.
748 locals recommend
Lake Merritt
The Lake is a 3-mile loop to walk- 4 miles total to and from the house. The Amphitheater is at the South end and pergola and fountain at the North end. Often live musicians and dancers and people are gathering at either end. There is also roller skating that takes place over by the bunk house for the lake.
Not to mention the bonsai garden, bird sanctuary, children's fairyland, and other sites to see along the way.
Redwood Regional Park
7867 Redwood RoadHiking in the redwoods 10-minutes away
Food scene
Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt
576 Grand AveDelicious food!
Portal Oakland
1611 2nd AveHipster hangout good food
Fresh salads baked goods and fresh olives to grab and take to the lake. Yummy pizza and bakery.
198 locals recommend
Arizmendi Bakery
3265 Lakeshore AveFresh salads baked goods and fresh olives to grab and take to the lake. Yummy pizza and bakery.
Champa Garden
2102 8th AveDelicious local Thai food only a few blocks away
Taco Tuesday! Or, a nice dinner out. Awesome patio and live music on the lake when the weather is good!
136 locals recommend
Lake Chalet
1520 Lakeside DrTaco Tuesday! Or, a nice dinner out. Awesome patio and live music on the lake when the weather is good!
Sightseeing
Grand Lake Theater
3200 Grand AveTrending and classic films in a historical landmark theater
The Bonsai Gardens recently gained museum status! The largest tree is 800 years old and the oldest is 1,600! They have limited hours- usually only until 3p on certain days so be sure to check online. Google or other Search- Lake Merritt Bonsai Gardens
14 locals recommend
Lake Merritt Bonsai Gardens
The Bonsai Gardens recently gained museum status! The largest tree is 800 years old and the oldest is 1,600! They have limited hours- usually only until 3p on certain days so be sure to check online. Google or other Search- Lake Merritt Bonsai Gardens
A downtown hangout. Historical bars, soul food, bocce, cafes, wine bars, live music, and more! Outdoor markets are often on the weekends.
213 locals recommend
Jack London Square
472 Water StA downtown hangout. Historical bars, soul food, bocce, cafes, wine bars, live music, and more! Outdoor markets are often on the weekends.
Traveler advice
Don't miss
Do not leave anything in your car
If traveling with a vehicle, do not leave anything valuable in it. Certainly do not leave anything visible as this does attract people to break windows if they see: clothing, glasses, electronics, food, etc. Stay aware as the reality is that crime is rising with the current state of affairs and it is best to be cautious and stay alert.
Getting around
12th St & Lake Merritt BART stations are nearby
These stations are both within a 5 min. Lyft or 20-30min walk.
Bus stops are on 18th St. @ 8th ave and on Foothill