Gleaming at the heart of the Grand Lake neighborhood, Oakland's Lake Merritt is a home for migratory birds and
a great jumping-off point for exploring.
Embark on the 3.1-mile footpath around the lake and be surrounded by locals jogging with strollers and sailboats skimming the waters. The Camron-Stanford House, now a museum, is a pretty example of the Victorian houses that used to ring the lake. And the Lakeside Park Garden Center showcases bonsai and palms. At dusk, the famous "necklace" of lights illuminates the water as you stroll
to the Paramount Theatre for a flick.
GETTING THERE
From eastbound I-580, exit Grand Ave. Take an immediate right onto Grand Ave., or the second right onto Lakeshore Ave.
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| Jenny Pfeiffer |
| Entertaining residents since 1926, the Grand Lake Theater still offers organ concerts on Fridays and Saturdays before the movie. |
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GO
Grand Lake Theater Built in 1926 as a vaudeville/silent-movie house, the ornate beauty offers Mighty Wurlitzer organ concerts before Friday and Saturday evening shows. INFO: $9; 3200 Grand Ave.; Grand Lake Theater; 510/452-3556.
Grand Lake Farmers Market and Splash Pad Park The park provides a bright home for the market, as well as a great fountain for kids to play in. INFO: Market 9–2 Sat; Grand Ave. at Lake Park Ave.; Grand Lake Farmers Market and Splash Pad
Lake Merritt Boating Center Rent a canoe, pedal boat, or kayak and hit the water. From
the quiet of the lake, get a fresh view of Oakland's skyline.
The center also offers sailing classes and kids' programs. INFO: From $8 an hour; 568 Bellevue Ave.; 510/238-2196.
SHOP
Juniper Tree Reproductions of vintage soap dishes, decorative paper products, and wall hangings on sale
recall another era in the neighborhood. INFO: 3303 Lakeshore Ave.; 510/444-4650.
EAT
Arizmendi The scents of asiago rolls, brioche knots, gourmet pizza, and seasonal pies beckon the masses to the cooperatively run bakery. INFO: $; closed Sun; 3265 Lakeshore Ave.; 510/268-8849.
Café Di Bartolo Sip a cappuccino at a sidewalk table or enjoy a grilled panini inside. At night, the eponymous restaurant and wine bar opens next door. INFO: Cafe $, restaurant $$$; closed Mon; 3310 Grand Ave.; 510/832-9005.
Spettro The name means "ghost" in Italian, and the eclectic menu here has plenty of spirit. Try the delicious pan-seared coconut-lime mussels. INFO: $$; 3355 Lakeshore Ave.; 510/451-7738.
STAY OVERNIGHT
Claremont Resort & Spa Berkeley’s most famous lodging, open since 1915, the Claremont Resort & Spa is a short drive away.
First opened to cater to fog-weary San
Franciscans, the
Claremont has views of the bay and a full-service day spa. INFO: Rooms from $229; Claremont Resort & Spa; 510/843-3000.
MORE: Get dozens of other great trip ideas in California »
