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Guide to Oakland

Historical sites

Historical sites that feel like living pieces of the past instead of just plaques on a wall.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon image 1
Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon image 2
Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon image 3
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Step into historic 1880s design with a slanted bar and uneven floor that survived an earthquake. Enjoy a lively indoor energy paired with a quiet outdoor patio. Rich in local American history, bartenders share stories about Jack London, making history come alive.

A living piece of California history, this saloon offers a rich connection to local American history and Jack London. The bartender shares a knowledgeable history background, creating a unique and lively historic atmosphere.

People are saying

"This historic bar feels like a time capsule from over a century ago."

"It's a unique historic spot with a lot of history."

"It's a historic spot with a super old building and uneven floor."

Good to know

1

Bring your ID to enter the saloon, as they card everyone.

2

The saloon is one of the oldest establishments in the area, opening in 1883.

3

The sloped floor is a remnant of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake.

02
USS Potomac image 1
Tourist attraction

Historic yacht offers WWII stories and bay views on a 2-hour cruise. Passionate volunteers provide knowledgeable narration in an engaging setting. Vessel stays in excellent condition and sails regularly for immersive history experiences.

A historic yacht offers a 2-hour history cruise with views of the bay and stories about WWII and Roosevelt's presidency. Passionate volunteers provide knowledgeable narration and preserve the vessel.

People are saying

"The volunteers at these historical sites are so knowledgeable and friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy at 2nd and Clay near the USS Potomac.

2

The cruise goes from the Port of Oakland to the Bay Bridge and Alcatraz.

3

The cruise includes a tour of the bay and local WWII history.

03
Fox Theater image 1
Live music venue

Historic theater shines with beautiful architecture and rich history. Intimate setting offers clear sound and VIP room for comfort. Nostalgic atmosphere blends elegance with accessibility.

A beautifully renovated venue with a gorgeous interior and rich in historical significance. It stands as a landmark reflecting a deep sense of history and nostalgia.

People are saying

"This venue is gorgeous and perfect for seeing a show."

"The interior design and art deco look are really cool."

"This historic building is stunning and steeped in music history."

Good to know

1

Tickets must be shown at the door, and metal detection screening is required.

2

Parking is available in nearby garages, but be cautious of break-ins.

3

Valet parking is conveniently located right in front of the theater.

04
Oakland Temple Visitors' Center image 1

Visitor center offers spectacular views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection and photography. Interactive exhibits and a Family History computer room provide rich historical insights and genealogy research. Well-kept grounds and live music create a calm, engaging environment.

Visitors Center offers a wealth of information about the temple's history and significance. Interactive exhibits cover the LDS church, its missionary program, and family history, with a Family History computer room open to the public for genealogy research.

People are saying

"The nice view of the entire bay area is breathtaking."

"The visitor center showcases the Church's worldwide development with movies and exhibits."

"I learned so much about family history at the historical sites here."

Good to know

1

Parking may be difficult depending on the day.

2

All services at the visitors center are free of charge.

3

Anyone can visit the grounds of the Oakland Temple Visitors' Center.

05
Preservation Park image 1
Memorial park

Victorian-era homes offer a historic neighborhood with well-preserved architecture. The area provides charming interiors perfect for events and meetings. It reflects local heritage and offers a peaceful, community-focused atmosphere.

This site acts as a living tribute to the city's Victorian era and preserves a significant piece of local history.

People are saying

"Lawrence and his team were so attentive and passionate about our event."

"The historical sites here are elegant and professionally managed."

Good to know

1

Preservation Park hosts various events, including business meetings, weddings, and parties.

2

The venue features beautifully restored Victorian homes available for rent.

3

Local shops and restaurants are within walking distance of Preservation Park.

06
9th Avenue Terminal image 1
Historical landmark

Historic terminal building offers architectural details and historical information on the walls. Open outdoor seating provides peaceful atmosphere with great water views. Brewery and small restaurant add to the experience.

Historic charm fills the terminal with historical information displayed on the walls. The space offers a strong sense of the past alongside open areas with sunshine.

People are saying

"The terminal had a nice architectural feel and a historic vibe."

"You can catch free salsa dancing by the water on Saturdays."

"The Filipino food here is delicious."

Good to know

1

Free salsa dancing happens on Saturday afternoons at 9th Avenue Terminal.

2

Cuban salsa dancing takes place behind the building on Sundays.

3

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early.

07
Camron-Stanford House image 1

House museum features beautiful antiques and a gorgeous bridal suite that add unique charm. Gardens and porch offer scenic views of Lake Merritt, creating a peaceful setting. Rich history shines through its architectural details tied to Oakland's past.

House offers a rich history with strong ties to Oakland's past and Lake Merritt. It showcases significant historical details through its architecture and setting.

People are saying

"I found the house to be rich in history and a great look at Oakland's past."

Good to know

1

Guided tours are available every hour, starting from 10am to 4pm.

2

Admission is $10 for adults, with discounts for seniors and students.

3

The venue is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and designated parking.

08
The Pergola at Lake Merritt image 1
Tourist attraction

Lake Merritt offers vibrant social gatherings with live DJ music and food vendors by the water. It features scenic views and a friendly crowd enjoying sunsets and outdoor activities. As a Bay Area Historical Landmark, it includes the notable Pergola structure.

Lake Merritt holds status as a Bay Area Historical Landmark with The Pergola standing out as a notable historical structure.

People are saying

"I had an awesome time with all the fun activities."

"I found this to be a great historical place."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult during events, so plan accordingly.

2

The location hosts family-friendly events with activities for all ages.

3

Outdoor dance and music events are common during warm weather.

09
The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment - (The MADE) image 1

Museum offers playable vintage consoles and CRT TVs for hands-on fun. It showcases historical hardware and rich gaming art, giving deep insights into video game history. Space is wheelchair-accessible and great for group visits.

Vintage games run on historical hardware and tons of gaming art fill the museum. It offers detailed historical information about video games.

People are saying

"This place is so Kid Friendly; my son was in heaven playing games."

"You can play vintage games on historical hardware here."

"I felt a lot of nostalgia for the old school gaming experience here."

Good to know

1

The museum offers free Saturday lessons for kids, which are educational and well-received.

2

The payment process is $20 for the day with unlimited re-entry.

3

The museum is easily accessible by BART, only a 5-minute walk from the 12th & Broadway station.

10
Jack London's Cabin image 1
Historical landmark

Rustic cabin offers historic landmark charm and scenic views. Visitors enjoy literary history tied to a famous figure. Setting blends old-world charm with local culture for a relaxing visit.

Historic landmark featuring a cabin tied to a famous literary figure. Visitors can explore the site and learn about its literary history through onsite information.

People are saying

"I thought Jack London's Cabin was a historical must-visit site."

Good to know

1

Jack London's Cabin is the oldest business in Oakland, showcasing local history.

2

The cabin offers insights into Jack London's life and literary contributions.

3

Visitors can learn about the history of the cabin through informative displays.

11
The Alley image 1
Piano bar

Piano bar offers a nostalgic jazzy vibe with live piano performances in a funky local hangout. It holds a strong historical spirit as a landmark with a relaxed atmosphere. Smokey bistro style and secret cubby tables add charm to the experience.

An old and funky spot with a strong historical spirit. It stands as a local landmark with a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"This piano bar lets you get on the mic with live instrumentation."

"I found the fried chicken to be hot, juicy, and delicious."

"I found the steak special to be fabulous."

Good to know

1

Karaoke sessions happen almost daily, featuring live piano accompaniment.

2

Trivia night is every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

The Alley has a cash-only policy; an ATM is available on-site.

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Oakland, California

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