Nestled right in the heart of the San Francisco Bay area in Northern California, you will find the pleasant city of Oakland. This major West Coast Port is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States, making it a city of civic pride with an inspired sense of community.

The Oakland landscape is a picturesque mix of lovely hillside neighbourhoods, which are often referred to as either uptown or downtown. The streets are lined with exciting and diverse architecture and the bustling waterfront adds to the seaside feel of the city. The two shimmering lakes of Oakland give the city somewhat of a natural atmosphere and the 19 miles of shoreline along the San Francisco Bay offer unparalleled bay views which will simply take your breath away.

Oakland is the perfect place to escape to on your next driving holiday. The drive along the coast is simply stunning and one that you will want to take your time with. This is when a rental car will come in really handy and you will be able to find them in several areas across the city. Your rental car will come in handy when you begin your exploration of the city, with so much to see and do it may be hard to find the time to see it all!

1. Jack London Square

The popular tourist attraction, Jack London Square, is located right on the waterfront, in the heart of Oakland. It is owned by the Port of Oakland so it seems only fitting that there is a strong focus on the port's history and tales of days gone by. Jack London Square is home to an Amtrak Station, a ferry dock and the historic Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon.

Jack London Square is undoubtedly one of Oaklands most identifiable landmarks, so it comes as no surprise that it attracts thousands of tourists and visitors each year. Essentially, it is a symbol of the city's history as a seaport, blending classic historic charm with contemporary urban energy.

2. Oakland Museum of California

The Oakland Museum of California is a museum solely dedicated to the art, history and natural science of the state of California. Located in downtown Oakland, this building is one of the most beautifully architectured buildings in the city. The museum features a 3-tiered blend of galleries, terraces, patios, sculptured gardens and ponds. The sights of the building alone are sure to take your breath away.

The museum provides unique collections, exhibitions and educational opportunities. All of these are designed to generate a broader and deeper understanding of and interest in what California has to offer. A visit here will open up your mind to exactly what makes this state so special!

3. Lake Merritt

Lake Merritt is a large tidal lagoon that lies just east of downtown Oakland. The lake is surrounded by parklands and city neighbourhoods, with the 3.5 mile path that runs around its perimeter a popular spot for cyclists, joggers and tourists.

The lake is historically significant as the first official wildlife refuge in the United States. It is home to a healthy, year-round population of birds, which are very popular with keen bird watchers. The lake stands as the jewel of Oakland, even crowned with jewels, and is probably the best natural highlight that the city has to offer.

4. Chinatown

As mentioned before, Oakland is one of the country's most ethnically diverse cities and nothing showcases this more than the local Chinatown. This pan-Asian neighbourhood reflects Oakland's diverse Asian American community and is located in the heart of downtown Oakland. The Oakland Chinatown is one of the oldest Chinatown's in North America and is home to some of the most traditional celebrations that China has to offer. Oakland Chinatown puts on stunning shows for the Chinese New Year celebrations, Dragon Boat Races, StreetFest and the Mid-Autumn Festival, so if you are in town around these times, be sure to drop by and join in.

5. Fairyland

If you have brought the kids on your holiday to Oakland, you will never hear the end of it unless you take them to Fairyland. This 10-acre fairytale adventure park is nestled on the shored of Lake Merritt and is where children's literature comes to life and where the kids can be kids. Fairyland is home to whimsical storybook sets, gentle kids rides, friendly animals, wonder-filled puppet shows and inspired live entertainment. This is the perfect place for your kids and your own imagination to run wild.

Oakland enjoys a pleasant blend of history, culture, fun and adventure, all combined in a stunningly unique city. Your rental car will allow you to explore all these suggested activities, along with many more, which will combine to make your visit to Oakland one that you will remember forever.

Christine Barton