Redwood Regional Park

“Are we still in Oakland?” About fifteen minutes northeast of bustling downtown Oakland is a quiet, green, serene forest filled with redwoods, evergreens, and grasslands. Redwood Regional Park is an oasis on the hill, sitting above Oakland’s vast and diverse neighborhoods. With over 1800 acres of natural beauty, you’ll find hiking and jogging trails, biking and horse trails, picnic sites, and even camping areas.

Redwood Park is a favorite retreat among the nature lovers of the Bay Area. Once you walk into the park via one of the numerous trails, you will forget that the eighth largest city in the state actually bumps up against it. Dog owners revel in the close proximity of such a wonderland of greenery, as do parents.

Chabot Space and Science Center is nestled on the eastern end of the park, and with its exhibits, planetarium, and theater, is exciting for children and adults alike. Skyline Ranch Equestrian Center and Piedmont Stables, though not offering rental horses, do provide boarding, riding lessons, and summer camps for kids.

Whether you are just traveling through Oakland, or if you’re a local, a trip to Redwood is a treat. Refresh and revitalize, or get a great workout, either way, you’ll enjoy the flora, fauna, fresh air and beautiful sights and sounds of a true forest.

The details:
What: Redwood Regional Park
Where: The main entrance, Redwood Gate, is on Redwood Road in Oakland about two miles east of Skyline Blvd.
Why: Reconnect with nature, hike, bike, bring your dog
How: Visit www.ebparks.org/parks/redwood for more information, including a trail map.

Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill

Originally designed as a pump station and boathouse in the early 1900s, Lake Chalet was reopened in 2009 as a seafood bar and grill by the same folks that opened Beach Chalet Brewery & Restaurant and Park Chalet Garden Restaurant in San Francisco.

Lake Chalet was voted “Best Place to View the Lake” by the East Bay Express (2010), and you’ll understand why when you are seated. Just about every seat in the house offers a prime view of Lake Merritt, Oakland’s pride and joy. Visitors and locals alike will enjoy watching the sun go down on the water, and the string of lights encircling the lake start to shine. It’s magical, relaxing, and a testament to Oakland’s beautiful Lakeside District.

With rich décor–think mahogany and granite–and a friendly, spacious main seating area, parties of 2 or 10 will feel comfortable. (Larger parties can rent private rooms for receptions and parties.) The atmosphere is casual and inviting, and the staff is attentive and accommodating. If you’re a fan of seafood, you’ll enjoy the range of offerings. From fish and chips to grilled mahi mahi to an ahi tuna burger, there’s something for every taste. Vegetarians may not be too impressed with the menu, but there are a few options, including salads and a potato gnocchi entree. The raw bar offers oysters, cocktail shrimp, and a shellfish platter.

On the premium cocktails list, you’ll find specialized spirits such as the Best Sidecar You’ve Ever Had, Basil Ginger Martinis, and Autumn Flips (with Hangar One spiced pear vodka, from the distillery in neighboring Alameda).

Lake Chalet is also open for brunch, and the Pump House Bar inside the restaurant offers a 3-6-9 Happy Hour 
7 days a week, from 
3:00 pm to 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm to close.

Feeling romantic? Gondola rides depart near the outdoor seating area seven days a week (reservations required).

The details:
What: Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill
Where: 1520 Lakeshore Drive, Oakland,
Why: Brunch, dinner, cocktails, happy hour and oyster bar; served with a beautiful view of Lake Merritt
How: Visit www.thelakechalet.com to view the menus and to make reservations.

The Fox Theater

Located in the heart of downtown Oakland, the Fox Theater reopened its doors in February 2009, after being closed for over 40 years. The $75 million dollar renovation brought new life into this stunning event and live music venue, which in turn has contributed to the recent revitalization of the downtown area.

Stepping through the doors of the Fox Theater, you are instantly transported to a time where details were king. Gold and red décor, huge Buddha-esque statues, art deco chandeliers and ornate ceilings make your average concert going experience into a special night out.

The Fox Theater has three seating sections–Orchestra, Mezzanine, and Balcony. The bar areas are easy to access, and rarely have a wait. The huge bathrooms (cleanest bathroom I’ve experienced at a concert) mean you won’t be listening to your favorite song from the bathroom line.

Connected to the theater is the Fox Den, a two-story cocktail lounge that continues the decadent theme and features a variety of beverages and finger food, as well as comfortable couches and televisions, so you won’t miss the live show next door. If you desire something a little more substantial for a meal, before or after the show, the popular restaurant Flora is located directly across the street, offering classic California cuisine.

Recent live music shows at the Fox Theater have included Goldfrapp, Neil Young, and Erykah Badu. Upcoming shows include Natalie Merchant, Scissor Sisters, and Rufus Wainwright.

The only drawback to this beautiful theater as a live music venue? The acoustics could use some adjustments. It seems as though the best sound is to be found on the upper levels, while on the Orchestra (floor) level, it can sound a little muffled.

The details:
What: The Fox Theater
Where: 1807 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, 94612
Why: Live music, also available for special events
How: Visit www.thefoxoakland.com to view their calendar of events, gallery of past shows, and information about the venue.