I have lived in the Bay Area for almost three years and it wasn’t until recently that I started exploring the East Bay (more specifically Oakland). So today I’m sharing my growing list of Oakland’s Most Instagrammable Places. Whether you’re looking for a fun corner to explore or a fun photo spot in Oakland, below are some ideas!
Instagrammable Oakland #1: Fox Theater
We of course have to start with one of the biggest symbols of Oakland – the historic Fox Theater. The theater opened in 1928 and was a movie theater until 1970. In 2009 it was restored and reopened as a concert venue.
- Location: 1807 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland CA 94612
- Photo Tips: If you visit on a Sunday morning the area is pretty empty. You’ll want to shoot from across the street on an angle to capture the entire sign and background.
Instagrammable Oakland #2: Temescal Alleys
Temescal Alleys are two pedestrian-only alleys filled with shops & cafes owned by local artisans. Many of the shops have a very Southwestern feel. Be sure to pop into the shops and chat with the shop owners and pick up some souvenirs in between your photo-taking. Check out the full directory here. A few of my favorite shops included Dopp City, Marisa Mason & Esqueleto.
- Location: 486 49th Street (between Telegraph Avenue and Clarke Street)
- Hours: Vary depending on the shop, but normally Mon – Sun 10AM – 6PM
- Photo Tips: The entire alley is filled with adorable spots, but be sure to check out the Marisa Mason & Dopp City store fronts. PS, get there early as it gets crowded on weekends!
Instagrammable Oakland #3: Jack London District
The area of Jack London is named after Oakland-born writer and activist Jack London. This area has lots of industrial buildings (if you’re going for that vibe), mixed in with shops and restaurants. While in Jack London, grab brunch at Chopbar and a coffee at Blue Bottle.
- Location: Check out this article for how to get there.
- Photo Tips: Walk around the different streets to see what hidden industrial gems you find.
Instagrammable Oakland #4: Brother & Sister Flower Shop
The shop started as a pop-up floral concept two years ago before finding their permanent location on Grand Ave. They offer different workshops which you can find here as well as floral arrangements and potted plants.
- Location: 3265 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
- Hours:
- Wed – Sat 10AM – 6PM
- Sun & Tues 10AM – 5PM
- Mon CLOSED
- Photo Tips: The entire shop looks like an upscale desert secret garden. Just make sure to be respectful to other shoppers (and of course pick up a bouquet or plant while you’re there).
Instagrammable Oakland #5: Trestle Glen Neighborhood
Located behind the Trader Joe’s and Wells Fargo on Lakeshore Ave., this street of historic stately homes feels like it’s out of a storybook! There are also a few colorful homes in there which is a plus!
- Location: Trestle Glen
Instagrammable Oakland #6: Gardens at Lake Merritt
The seven acre garden features a bunch of smaller gardens with different themes within them! There are 10 different gardens in total. (I personally love the Palm Garden).
- Location: 666 Bellevue Ave, Oakland, 94610, CA
- Hours: Check the website for the latest hours as they change based on season.
- Admission: Free
Instagrammable Oakland #7: Grand Lake Theatre
The Grand Lake Theatre first opened in 1926 as a movie theater. It is still an active and functioning theater (check out movie times here).
- Location: 3200 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
- Photo Tips: This area gets extremely busy. Try visiting early in the morning to get the perfect shot!
Instagrammable Oakland #8: Daughter Thai Kitchen
Photos on Instagram of Daughter Thai focus on the purple flowery entrance, but the inside is just as beautiful (if not more) than the outside. The restaurant feels pulled out of a chic London street.
- Location: 6118 Medau Pl, Oakland, CA 94611
- Hours:
- Mon – Thurs 11AM – 2:30PM & 5PM – 9PM
- Fri 11AM – 2:30PM & 5PM – 10PM
- Sat 12PM – 10PM , Sun 12PM – 9PM
- What we ordered: Thai fried rice, Pad Kee Mow, Thai iced tea, iced coffee (a must!)
- Photo Tips: The “Instagrammable” flower area also doubles as seating, so I recommend arriving 30 minutes before they open to grab some shots before heading to lunch or dinner.
Instagrammable Oakland #9: College Ave.
College Ave. is every colorful wall lover’s dream. Walk down the street and you’ll find walls of every color!
Oakland’s Most Instagrammable Places #10: High Peaks Kitchen
Located on College Ave., High Peaks Kitchen is one of the colorful spots I mentioned above. They were closed when we stopped by (so we’ll have to come back to try their highly rated Indian food), but the courtyard is so colorful and fun!
- Location: 5299 A, College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618
- Hours: Daily 11AM – 3PM & 5 – 9:30PM, Closed Tuesday
Thanks for reading our list of Oakland’s Most Instagrammable Places. Do you have any recommended spots? Looking for more Oakland content? Check out our Oakland Day Trip Itinerary!
