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.