12Th Street Bart Station Map
Introduction
Located in downtown Oakland, California, the 12th Street Bart Station is a popular transportation hub for both locals and visitors. As a gateway to the city, the station provides easy access to various attractions, landmarks, and activities. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, outdoor enthusiast, or adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone near the 12th Street Bart Station. In this travel guide, we’ll help you discover the best that Oakland has to offer.
Top Attractions
Jack London Square
Named after the famous American author who lived in Oakland, Jack London Square is a vibrant waterfront district that offers a variety of dining, entertainment, and shopping options. You can take a stroll along the marina, catch a movie at the historic Grand Lake Theater, or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants that specialize in seafood, BBQ, or international cuisine. Don’t forget to check out the Oakland Farmers Market, which takes place every Sunday.
Chinatown
As one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the United States, Oakland’s Chinatown is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Chinese culture, history, and cuisine. You can explore the colorful streets, visit the various shops and markets, or sample the delicious dim sum, noodles, and tea. Be sure to check out the annual Lunar New Year Parade, which features lion dancers, dragon dancers, and other festive performers.
Hidden Gems
Redwood Regional Park
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature, head to Redwood Regional Park. Located just a few miles east of the 12th Street Bart Station, this park boasts over 1,800 acres of redwood forests, meadows, and streams. You can hike, bike, or horseback ride on the various trails, or have a picnic or BBQ in one of the picnic areas.
Temescal Alley
Tucked away in the Temescal neighborhood, Temescal Alley is a charming alleyway that features a variety of independent shops, cafes, and galleries. You can browse vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and artisanal goods, or enjoy a cup of coffee or tea at one of the cozy cafes. Don’t forget to take a selfie with the colorful murals and street art.
Food Scene
Grand Lake Kitchen
Located near the Grand Lake Theater, Grand Lake Kitchen is a popular restaurant that serves delicious brunch, lunch, and dinner dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. You can savor the avocado toast, fried chicken sandwich, or mushroom risotto, or indulge in the house-made pastries and desserts. Don’t forget to try the seasonal cocktails or craft beers.
Hopscotch
If you’re in the mood for Japanese-inspired cuisine with a California twist, head to Hopscotch. Located in Uptown Oakland, this restaurant offers a variety of small plates, entrees, and cocktails that showcase the chef’s creativity and skill. You can try the miso-glazed black cod, the ramen burger, or the matcha ice cream sundae. Don’t forget to check out the happy hour specials.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Walking Tours
If you want to learn more about Oakland’s history, architecture, and culture, take advantage of the free walking tours offered by the Oakland Tours Program. You can choose from various themes, such as the African American History Tour, the Chinatown Tour, or the Art Murmur Tour. Donations are welcome but not required.
Free Museum Days
If you’re a fan of museums, mark your calendar for the free museum days offered by the Oakland Museum of California and the Chabot Space and Science Center. You can explore the various exhibits, workshops, and events without spending a dime. Check their websites for the schedules and details.
Outdoor Adventures
Lake Merritt
Located just a few blocks from the 12th Street Bart Station, Lake Merritt is a scenic and serene urban lake that offers a variety of recreational activities. You can walk, jog, or bike on the paved path that circles the lake, rent a paddleboat or kayak, or have a picnic or BBQ in one of the parks. Don’t forget to check out the bird sanctuary and the bonsai garden.
Joaquin Miller Park
If you want to hike or bike in the hills of Oakland, head to Joaquin Miller Park. Located in the Oakland Hills, this park offers a variety of trails that range from easy to strenuous, and provide spectacular views of the Bay Area. You can also visit the poet’s former home and the amphitheater that hosts various outdoor concerts and events.
Family-Friendly Activities
Oakland Zoo
Located in the rolling hills of Knowland Park, the Oakland Zoo is a popular destination for families with children. You can see over 700 native and exotic animals, such as elephants, tigers, zebras, and giraffes, or take a ride on the gondola that offers panoramic views of the Bay Area. Don’t forget to check out the various educational programs and events.
Children’s Fairyland
If you’re looking for a magical and whimsical place to take your young children, visit Children’s Fairyland. Located in Lakeside Park, this park features various storybook sets, rides, and performances that bring fairy tales and nursery rhymes to life. You can also have a picnic or birthday party in one of the themed areas.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Mountain View Cemetery
If you’re interested in history, art, and nature, visit Mountain View Cemetery. Located in the Oakland Hills, this cemetery is not only a resting place for many famous and ordinary people, but also a beautiful and peaceful park that offers stunning views of the Bay Area. You can take a self-guided or guided tour, or attend one of the various events and concerts.
East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse
If you’re into eco-friendly and creative projects, visit the East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse. Located near the Ashby Bart Station, this nonprofit organization collects and sells various materials, such as fabric, paper, wood, and metal, that can be repurposed for art, craft, or DIY projects. You can also attend the various workshops and events that promote sustainability and creativity.
Natural Wonders
Redwood Regional Park
As mentioned earlier, Redwood Regional Park is a natural wonder that showcases the majestic and ancient redwood trees that are native to California. You can marvel at the towering trunks, the fragrant needles, and the peaceful ambiance that the redwoods provide. Don’t forget to listen to the sound of the streams and the birds.
Joel F. Smith Park
If you want to see a hidden gem that offers a panoramic view of the Bay Area, visit Joel F. Smith Park. Located in the Oakland Hills, this park is a small and quiet spot that features a bench and a telescope that allow you to admire the skyline, the bridges, and the hills. Don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars.
Vibrant Nightlife
The New Parish
Located in Uptown Oakland, The New Parish is a popular music venue that features various genres of live music, such as hip-hop, reggae, funk, and jazz. You can dance, sing, or chill in the spacious and lively space that also has a full bar and a restaurant. Don’t forget to check out the calendar for the upcoming shows.
The Layover
If you’re looking for a cozy and eclectic bar that offers a variety of drinks and entertainment, visit The Layover. Located near the 12th Street Bart Station, this bar features a rotating selection of DJs, bands, and comedians, as well as a pool table, a jukebox, and a photobooth. You can also enjoy the happy hour specials and the late-night bites.
Local Markets
Old Oakland Farmers Market
If you’re a fan of fresh and local produce, visit the Old Oakland Farmers Market. Located in the historic district of Old Oakland, this market offers a variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and artisanal products that are grown or made by the local farmers and artisans. You can also enjoy the live music and the food trucks.
Grand Lake Farmers Market
If you’re in the mood for a larger and livelier market, visit the Grand Lake Farmers Market. Located near Lake Merritt, this market is open every Saturday and offers a variety of vendors, such as bakers, cheese makers, and honey producers, as well as live music and kids’ activities. You can also enjoy the brunch and coffee options nearby.
Beaches and Mountains
Tilden Regional Park
If you want to experience both the beach