Oakland

There are so very many reasons to love Oakland! Where do we start? There is the culture and diversity, the climate, the history, the culture, the industry, and the geography. Everyone has there own reasons to "hella love" Oakland. What will yours be?

History

Oakland began its rise into prominence in the 1800s, when it was a vital provider of timber and agriculture for the entire Bay Area. The city exploded after San Francisco residents moved in after the 1906 earthquake and fire. Throughout the 1900s, Oakland grew substantially as it became a major industrial center, thanks to World War II and its large port. The city was transformed once again by the double whammy of the Loma Prieta earthquake and Oakland Hills firestorm. Today, Oakland is a constantly evolving and vibrant major city, home to over 400,000 people.

Centered around Lake Merritt, Oakland offers many different neighborhoods, from the hip urban life of Jack London Square and Uptown, to the craftsmen homes of Rockridge, to the charming bungalows of Glenview and Laurel, and to the architecturally impressive houses in Crocker Highlands and throughout the Oakland Hills. The City of Oakland also offers a variety of homebuyer assistance programs, especially for first time homebuyers.

Transportation

Located so centrally in the Bay Area, Oakland is a commuter's paradise, with BART and several major highways taking you anywhere you need to be, plus AC Transit to get you across town. The clever "casual carpool" program has pick-up spots in almost every part of Oakland. Need to escape? Be at the easy and convenient Oakland Airport in minutes. Or, just stay home, since most neighborhoods offer a broad choice of parks, activities, local stores, restaurants and farmers markets.

Entertainment

Oakland is full of so many things to do that many new residents are surprised how little they frequent that big city across the bay after settling in Oakland. In addition to Lake Merritt, there are dozens of parks throughout town and community gardens run by the city. Visit the Oakland Zoo, which is well known for its emphasis on natural habitats. No matter what your favorite sport is, there are teams to cheer, from the Oakland A's and Raiders to the Golden State Warriors. See the inspiration for the happiest place on earth at Children's Fairyland, or create a fun educational experience at the Chabot Science Center. Take advantage of Oakland's thriving music scene at Yoshi's or the newly renovated Fox Theatre, in addition to countless venues featuring up and coming musicians. Oakland is also home to a burgeoning restaurant scene drawing foodies from all corners of the bay area.

Make Oakland home, and you will soon realize how much "there" there is in Oakland and you are bound to "hella love" Oakland, too.


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