1. Create an Itinerary Ahead of Time

Make a plan of all the things you want to see or do while you’re there! Oakland has something for everyone, whatever your interests. Shoppers can wander Rockridge, Temescal or Jack London Square, each a fun and aesthetic niche of both local and commercial shopping. Families can take young children to the Children’s Fairyland, interactive museums, or the Oakland Zoo. Love the great outdoors? Take a stroll around any of Oakland’s gardens or historic scenery, or venture a bit outside of Oakland’s cityscape to enjoy the iconic Redwood forests of Northern California. Look into the variety of activities available for families, friends, or individuals looking to do something new!

2. Get a Rental Car

Make sure you have a way to get to all the places on your itinerary. The lack of travel caused by the coronavirus in the last year required rental car companies to sell off a significant number of their cars…and now that travel is opening back up, tourists are faced with a major shortage of available rental cars! Reserve your rental car as far in advance as possible, so that you are ensured a means of transportation. Rental cars can come with a number of fees for insurance and gas, but these fees are actually a better deal than alternatively paying for damages or materials independently. In fact, filling up the gas tank yourself is usually the more expensive option! Research the logistics, requirements and inclusions of your rental car deals.

​3. Pick Good Timing

Plan your trip for a time of year when the tourist attractions you want to see are open and bustling! Winters can be chilly and a bit grayer, but holiday markets and events are always a highlight. Summers in Oakland average around 70 degrees, an ideal temperature for any trip… plus outdoor venues and events are especially active and available! You are sure to find fun any time of year in Oakland, but consider what kind of experiences you want to create while there before booking your stay.

Thoroughly plan and prepare for your trip to this amazing city so that you get the most out of every moment—you will fall in love, like so many others have, with Oakland and everything it offers!

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Check out our updated 2023 edition to learn about more tips!