When the 1906 earthquake occurred, where do you imagine the population of San Francisco went while the city was rebuilt? Across the bay to Oakland, of course.  Since then, the city of Oakland has been a bit overshadowed by its neighbor but locals know it has much to offer. With a near ideal climate, a revitalized downtown, an enormous port, major sports teams and Jerry Brown as mayor, Oakland is on the rise.  

 

Visitors to the city enjoy Chabot Observatory, the Oakland Museum, Chinatown, Jack London Square and the beautifully restored Paramount Theatre. BART connects the city with San Francisco and cities to the north, east and south. There is regular ferry service between Alameda (the island just west of Oakland) and San Francisco.