Jack London Square

A lively yet relaxed spot in Oakland, Jack London Square offers scenic waterfront walks, family-friendly eateries, exciting activities for all age groups, as well as local events.

Why Visit Jack London Square?

An exquisite location. That is what describes and makes your trip to Jack Oakland Square worth the visit. It is a well-known lifestyle destination situated along Oakland's dynamic waterfront with tons of activities for adults and kids alike. The vibe here is easygoing and is the best mix of seaside relaxation and cultural energy, plus you'll be mesmerized by what the place has to offer. The palm-lined promenades, slow afternoons by the marina, open-air dining, plenty of Instagrammable spots, bowling alleys, and indie bookstores make for the perfect day out with your friends and family. 

Jack London Square is the complete package. It's got Bay views, seabirds soaring, and even the ferry for public transportation. This is one of the best places in Oakland to shop, dine at cool places, take pretty pics or just chill out with your loved ones. You can relax and enjoy the quiet of the waterfront, or stroll a few steps onshore and down European-styled walkways to a thriving bar and restaurant scene, which includes The Fat Lady and The Night Light, to mention a few. It also has urban wineries and vegan food places to suit all kinds of travelers. It is a highly recommended spot for unwinding and planning a fun-filled day with friends, especially on weekends, when the place truly comes alive and offers the perfect break from your daily routine.

• Entrance fees for Jack London Square: None
• Opening hours of Jack London Square: 24 hours, all days
• Average duration to explore Jack London Square: 4-5 hours

What to Expect

• Scenic Walks: The waterfront promenade is perfect for a relaxing walk or bike ride.
• Unique Attractions: Visit the USS Potomac, Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidential yacht, or take a ferry ride for a different perspective of the Bay.
• Local Flavors: Don’t miss the farmers' market (seasonal) or the chance to try oysters at popular spots like Scott’s Seafood.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The area is welcoming for families, with open spaces and kid-friendly dining options.

Tips for the Best Experience

•  Jack London Square has no entrance fee and is open all day, every day.
• The best time to visit the square is late afternoon to early evening for golden-hour views, or during the weekends for events and live music.
• Parking is paid and there are accessible parking areas in the underground parking lot, which has entrances at the base of Franklin Street and Broadway. The Broadway entrance also offers valet parking. There is also another parking space at the 15-minute zone located at the base of Webster Street.
• Restrooms can be found at the marina public restroom as well as at both ends of the parking garage.

How to Get There

By metro (BART)

If you're planning to commute via the metro, take BART to the 12th Street/Oakland City Center station. From there, it's a short ride or a 15-minute walk to the Square. 

By train

Travelling by train provides a more scenic option and the closest station to the square is the Amtrak station. You can also take a ferry ride as the San Francisco Bay Ferry services also connect directly to the waterfront.

By bus

By bus, many AC Transit lines, including 12, 72, and 72M, stop near the Square, making it accessible from various parts of Oakland.

By car

If you are visiting by car, take the I-880 and follow signs for Jack London Square. There are paid parking spots available near the area. 

What Travelers Should Know

• Safety: The area is generally safe, but it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Accessibility: The square is wheelchair-friendly, with accessible pathways and facilities.
• Pet-Friendly: Many outdoor areas and restaurants welcome pets.
• Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with a trip to Lake Merritt or downtown Oakland for a full day of exploration