Spend A Day In Oakland - Maxwell Park/Millsmont

East Oakland encompasses a wide range of neighborhoods, the largest residential population in the city,  beautiful tree lined streets and green hills. It may not be known as a culinary, nightlife or artistic destination, but it's beauty cannot be denied.

Below is a recommendation for exploring the lush Millsmont and historic Maxwell Park neighborhoods. These areas are mostly residential so they are perfect for a leisure outing with family members of all ages.

Both neighborhoods are accessible from nearby freeways (580 and 13), AC Transit or bike.

Start your day with a hearty soul food breakfast at Souls Restaurant. This restaurant was established by members of one of the largest churches in Oakland, Acts Full Gospel. The church has been a force in this community since 1984.

Take a walk up Seminary Ave to one of the best regarded Liberal Art educational institutions in the country, Mills College. Tours of the beautiful campus are available weekdays at 10a. Check their packed events calendar to find out if there are any art exhibitions, film screenings or concerts scheduled for the day of your visit.

Grab a quick lunch from an Oaklander favorite, Mills Hoagie & Deli Shop. My favorite, the pastrami with the works, jalapenos on the side and fries!

After lunch take a drive or bike ride over to the Maxwell Park neighborhood for a self-guided architectural walking tour of the historical homes in the area. Maxwell Park Walking Tour Map Recommendation

The pristine neighborhood was established in the 1920's. No two homes are alike with Spanish and Tudor influences throughout. Distinct characteristics of the homes include: awnings, sloped entries and bright stucco  exteriors. Don't miss the views of the east bay from the hill tops.


While you are there you can check out the beautiful commissioned mosaic that adorns the restroom in the grassy parklet on Fleming Ave.

End your day at Old Weang Ping Village Thai Restaurant. The husband and wife duo have been serving up authentic Thai food for decades. The eclectic decor only adds to the experience.

Everyone should take some time on a sunny Oakland day to experience the undeniable charm of these East Oakland neighborhoods.

Spend A Day In Oakland - Jack London Square/Old Oakland

I love spending a day discovering my city. Below is a recommendation for a day spent exploring the historic Jack London Square/Old Oakland neighborhoods. Most of the places and services listed below are open on weekdays as well as weekends so you can have a great experience any day of the week.

Bike, drive or arrive via Amtrak to the Jack London Square in the morning

Grab a light, tastes-like-homemade Italian breakfast from Caffe 817 (817 Washington Street)

Head over to the secret meeting place for the Jack London Square Food Tour hosted by Savor Oakland Food Tours. On the 3.5 hour walking tour, you'll get to know some of the best culinary destinations in the area. Just to highlight a few experiences on the tour:

• Pull up to the Coffee Bar at Blue Bottle Coffee (300 Webster Street) for fresh roasted espresso crafted on vintage machines.
• Sample the Southern soul food classic pairing of chicken & waffles at Home of Chicken & Waffles (444 Embarcadero W.) an Oaklander favorite for late night eats.
• Nibble on pan-american small plates at Jack London Square heavy hitter Bocanova (55 Webster Street)

If you're not tired of walking yet, browse some of the art galleries in the area:

Swarm Gallery (560 2nd Street) 

Loakal Art Gallery & Boutique (550 2nd Street) you can pick up your Oaklander gear here!

The Hive Studio (301 Jefferson Street) Oakland's Own tip: Only open during Oakland Art Murmur (first Friday's of each month) and for special events.

Spend the rest of the afternoon kayaking around the Oakland Estuary and what I like to call boat "window shopping" in kayaks rented from California Canoe & Kayak. No reservations required!

Once you've worked up an appetite, head back to the Old Oakland neighborhood for dinner. You'll have your choice of exquisite ethnic cuisine:

Tamarindo Antojeria (468 8th Street) for elevated traditional Mexican cuisine with an attached tequila bar next door! 

Le Cheval (1007 Clay Street) for family style Vietnamese and Asian Fusion 

Miss Ollie's (901 Washington Street) for delicious Caribbean soul food

Enjoy some of Oakland's eclectic nightlife at these cool spots:

Sample a MASSIVE selection of beers at Beer Revolution and enjoy the night on their front patio

Karaoke or vibe to some spoken word at Air Lounge

Cheer on the A's/Raiders/Warriors at GO Sports Bar

Sip wine in a chic wine bar franchise, District Oakland

Salsa dance the night away at Club Anton

Lounge with friends over a retro cocktail at The Night Light

For late night eats hit up Nation's Giant Hamburgers (open until 1a daily and conveniently located next to The Night Light) or Home of Chicken & Waffles (open until 4a Fri. & Sat.)

Whether you are a local or a visitor, these neighborhoods are constantly evolving. You will always find something new to explore!