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City of Oakland CA

California , with its sunny beaches, high profile residents and world class high-end shopping establishments, is one of the most sought out areas of the United States. Home to countless movie stars, millionaires, musicians and rags to riches success stories, it lures people in by the hundreds of thousands every year, bringing their tourist dollars with them. But tucked quietly away in Northern California, across the bay from San Fransisco, sits a California gem of a different color, Oakland .

The eighth largest city in the State, Oakland , California , 94607 , 94612 , has a population right at 400,000. Oakland hosts residents who are as different as they come. Well over one hundred different languages are spoken in this city of diversity. Migrants from other countries, as well as other states in the US, have permanently relocated here to bask in the warm California sun and call Oakland home, and in so doing, have filled the great American melting pot to the brim with a colorful mixture of culture and language. With so many different cultures represented here, a certain vibration of freedom and opportunity can be felt as you walk along these roads.

Contrary to the over-the-top glamour industry that other parts of California are notorious for, Oakland is considered more of a working class city. This image dates back to the time of the city's birth, back in the Gold Rush era of the 1850's. Back then, the port of Oakland was busy and in full swing, being used to ship materials and supplies to support the rush of miners that had come to claim their stake of precious gold. Later on, during World War II, Oakland became a major player in the ship building industry for the war effort. Even today, Oakland is one of the busiest ports on the West Coast.

The downtown area of Oakland , though not as large as its neighbors across the Bay, is an attractive, bustling center of commerce for the area. Centrally located, it is close to all amenities and area attractions, and, in itself, has become quite the entertainment hot spot over the years.

California is known for it's laid back, celebratory attitude and party atmosphere, and with some 150 restaurants, cafes, night clubs, pubs, art galleries and cultural venues to choose from, Oakland , California , 94607 , 94612 will not disappoint you.

Downtown Oakland is full of surprises, such as their prized possession, a secret paradise in the middle of an urban jungle. This is the one and only saltwater lake in the U.S., Lake Merrit, and the surrounding park and wildlife refuge areas. Residents flock to the lake, as do many species of bird and waterfowl, for it's pristine elegance and serenity. Lake Merrit is technically not a lake at all, but rather an extension of the San Francisco Bay, a small inlet that is conveniently located, as Oakland residents will tell you. Joggers enjoy the scenic views and gorgeous weather, as do boaters, sailing enthusiasts and canoeing fans. All kinds of outdoor recreational activities can be found both in and out of the water at the beautiful Lake Merrit.

If one lake is not enough wildlife adventure for Oakland residents, then all they need do is venture out a few miles from downtown, and there, in the hills, they can enjoy a glorious Redwood forest, complete with hiking and biking trails. The forest itself is over 1800 miles in diameter, so you have plenty of room to explore. The trees are tall, reaching a cloud caressing 150 feet high. Lush and thick, they are truly a sight to behold. Trails meander throughout the forest, marked of course, for hours of enjoyment and peaceful contemplation. Biking through the various trails, such as the Fern Trail, lined with ferns, the Stream Trail which gracefully follows a stream, and other differently themed trails, is a favorite past time among Oakland residents.

Another interesting natural attraction in the hilly region of Oakland , California , 94607 , 94612 , is a volcano park. Ten million years ago, the volcanic debris from active volcanoes began to form the high mountains and hills of this beautiful area, and also over the millenia, the Earth has shifted, revealing intricate geological layers of rock, for tourists and residents alike to learn about and explore. When springtime rolls around, vast fields of colorful wildflowers dot the landscape and surrounding walking trails, making this a must see stop for many residents in the area.

Just outside of downtown, there is yet another nature park, this one a whopping 5000 acres worth. Oakland does not lack for natural beauty. Perhaps the peaceful, natural energy that surrounds and winds through the area is one of the main reasons that individuals and families from all over the world have chosen Oakland , California as the place to hang their hat.

As much natural beauty as Mother Earth has bestowed upon Oakland , she is not the only one who has created something special and unique. Oakland has much more to offer than just its beautiful scenery. One of the most entertaining areas of Oakland, a must see spot for tourists, is the notable Jack London Square. Located on the water, this is the undisputed heartbeat of the city. Here you will find an array of boutiques, eclectic shopping establishments, restaurants and cafes, all lending to the cultural diversity of the residents who live here. Residents and tourists alike will enjoy the outdoor dining, soaking up the local flavors, sights and sounds that make Oakland , California , 94607 , 94612 , a most enjoyable and fun atmosphere.

Another trendy hot spot is the Grand Avenue area. Grand Avenue runs through almost the entire city of Oakland . Traveling this road will take you through several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own flair and individuality. With a variety of dining and shopping establishments along the way, as well as a happening club scene, residents and visitors are never lacking something interesting to do here.

California is home to some of the most unusual and most popular theme parks in the country. Over fifty years ago, Oakland was not to be outdone by the bigger cities, and so created a theme park specifically geared toward children. It is still in existence today, loved by grown ups and kids alike. The theme of this theme park? Fairy tales. Each ride and attraction is based on some of the most beloved fairy tales that we have all grown up with. The rides are not scary, but more friendly. This was, and still is, a place where people love to take their families, especially young children. Rumor has it that it was this very park that inspired a young boy named Walt with dreams of creating amusement parks of his own when he grew up.

The youth of Oakland , California , 94607 , 94612 , enjoy the ice rink nearby. It has become somewhat of an impressive hang out spot for the teen and tween generations. This is not your grandmothers ice rink, though. The sound system is top of the line, the hip hop music is loud, and the kids that use this rink are more interested in fun and friends on the ice than they are skating the perfect figure eight.

Craving some history in Oakland ? There are museums here, too. Take a trip through California's rich history, all the way back to the beginning. Tour and old aircraft hanger turned aviation museum and take a look inside the world of human flight. There are old Victorian homes to tour, as well. Step back in time as you step through the doorways of these lavishly furnished homes that truly were mansions back in the day. Or take one of the many ninety minute walking tours through downtown Oakland , to learn more about the people and experiences past that have made the city the sparkling jewel that it is today.

With all of the lush, natural beauty in the area, one would imagine that there must be a local zoo in Oakland , and in fact, there is. Nestled among the hills is a beautiful and award winning zoo, home to over three hundred different kinds of animals, from monkeys and meerkats to zebras and hyenas. There is even a kiddie zoo, with carousel, animals to pet and feed and small rides geared for the little guys and gals. It is a family experience not to be missed.

In California , and everywhere, environmental awareness plays a big part of everyday life. People are going green, buying more eco-friendly products and eating more and more organically grown fruits and vegetables. Oakland is no exception, and it has one of the best Farmers Markets in the region. Farmers markets assist the local community in so many ways. In buying locally grown, organic produce, consumers understand that not only are they helping their local economy, but they are also helping local farmers. This also cuts down on gas and oil prices, since the produce is not shipped from other states. Farmers markets are a good bet any way you look at it, and every Friday, year round, in Oakland you can take your pick of some of the freshest, sweetest, most wholesome food in the region.

The beauty of Oakland , California is not to be denied. It is everywhere you go. But the city encompasses so much more than just the scenery. It is a happening place, a family place, and it stands on its own as a fun and friendly city filled with cultural and ethnic diversity. Walking these streets is a learning experience, as you interact with and get to know people from literally every cultural background and heritage. It is a hospitable, welcoming place that is certain to make you feel at home if you ever have the opportunity to visit.