Pup-friendly play by the Bay

Oakland, affectionately known as “The Town,” stretches between the San Francisco Bay and the Oakland and Berkeley Hills. The forested hills are home to unexpected jewels like the 1,833-acre Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, where 150-foot coast redwoods surround trails and reservable picnic sites.

Furry friends also love The Town’s fenced dog parks and off-leash playgrounds, including Estuary Park and South Prescott Park. Beyond the urban wildlands, look for vibrant local businesses and lively events in pup- and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods like Grand Lake, Rockridge and Piedmont (don’t miss the ice cream at Fentons Creamery!). Lake Merritt is a gem, and you’ll also find history and culinary surprises throughout Jack London Square.