Oakland’s premier dining, shopping and entertainment precinct is a waterside square named after one of America’s finest novelists.
Visit Jack London Square to explore the waterside paths that lead from the square and to enjoy an afternoon beer in the same bar that the author of The Call of the Wild frequented. Afterwards, spend your evening shopping at the best stores Oakland has to offer and enjoy dinner with views across the water.
Jack London Square was once the busiest part of Oakland’s port precinct. It was here that novelist and social activist Jack London spent his early years, watching as the ships rolled into the harbour and reading the faces of the locals. Today, the area is among Oakland’s most popular destinations as it blends waterfront scenery with great shopping, dining and entertainment options.
Stop by Heinold’s First and Last Chance saloon to see where Jack London used to drink. The bar was built in 1883 using the wood from an old whaling ship. Move next door to see a replica of the log cabin that London lived in during his time in the Yukon, where he was inspired to write his landmark novel, The Call of the Wild. Some of the logs from the original cabin were transported to Oakland and used in the replica.
Follow the Jack London walk, a path that leads from the saloon to the presidential Potomac yacht. As you make your way along the path you’ll discover plaques with interesting facts.
Enjoy some retail therapy as you indulge at the many major shops that call Jack London Square home. Alongside the major stores you’ll find boutique retailers and the Jack London Market where you can pick up some local produce and hot meals.
Sit down to enjoy your meal with a view across the San Francisco Bay to enjoy a Californian sunset. Grab a beer or wine from one of the many bars on the square or visit in summer to catch an open-air film in the square. There are many seafood restaurants serving fresh produce and once the sun has set the area becomes popular for its many nightclubs.
Jack London Square can be reached on foot from central Oakland however, the square is also serviced by ferry, BART and bus.
