1. Dancing

Oakland has a variety of cool places where you can go dancing. Consider going to one of the city's many salsa spots for a little Latin flavor. Or try out some of the more standard dancing locations like The Layover Music Bar & Lounge for a fun vibe. This particular venue tends to play a lot of hip hop, funk, and reggae.

2. Bars

Oakland has some of the greatest and most varied bars around. A favorite local spot called Bissap Baobab Oakland is a great place to start. This bar is actually a bar, a restaurant, and a dancing venue all in one, making it a great place to get your feet wet. The bar is known for its delicious Senegalese dishes and rocking live music. As you look for more bars to visit, concentrate your search around Lake Merritt, which is one of the main hubs for bars.

​3. Comedy Clubs

When it comes to nightlife, seeing live comedy can be a fun variation from the clubbing scene. Of all the different comedy clubs that Oakland has to offer, Alameda Comedy Club should be top on your list.​

This particular venue brings in some of the top talent that is up and rising or touring across the country. It has also mastered the conundrum of having quality COVID-19 precautions so if you are in a vulnerable situation and are particularly concerned about the virus, this may be a great place for you where you will feel comfortable.

As you get back into the swing of going out with friends and meeting new people at new fun venues, be sure to take things slowly. After a whole year of quarantining and having limited social contact, don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to go to a bar a night. Finding a few good spots to try out at the beginning will help you adjust.