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Interesting facts about Oakland California

Oakland is California’s seventh largest city, and it is closest to San Francisco on the east side. Like San Francisco, it has a bustling urban area with lots of activity. However, Oakland is another major port city with a rich history. Also, while you’re in that city, there is plenty to do and see. Below you will find some fun facts about the city and things to do while you’re exploring one of the biggest port cities in the U.S.  Therefore, if you decide to visit Oakland, California and need a car title loan consider calling TNL Car title loans in Oakland , California.

Fun Facts About Oakland: 

  • Firstly, Oakland is the only city in the world that contains a natural saltwater lake within its city limits. 
  • Lake Merritt, the natural saltwater lake, has its own lochness monster of sorts called the “Oakness monster” spotted in the lake since the 1940s.
  • Also, Lake Merritt was considered the first wildlife refuge established in the U.S.
  • Oakland has more than 80 parks in its city.
  • There are over 600 churches and temples representing all faiths and 300 or more restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.
  • There are more artists in the community than any other city in the U.S., per capita.
  • Oakland’s local Children’s Fairy Land was an inspiration for Walt Disney and many of his theme parks.
  • Supposedly Oakland is the most ethnically diverse city in the country, with 125 different dialects and languages spoken.
  • Dreyer’s ice cream was developed in Oakland in the 1920s. 
  • Tom Hanks went to school in Oakland and Bruce Lee began his fighting and martial arts career in Oakland. 
  • Author Jack London who wrote “Call of the Wild” ran for mayor in Oakland as part of the Socialist party.
  • MC Hammer bred his own racing horses and owned a stable in Oakland.

Things to do in Oakland: 

  • Tilden Regional Park 
    • An expansive park with a carousel, walking trails, botanical garden and picnic areas.
    • Information: 2501 Grizzly Peak Blvd, Orinda, CA, 94563; phone: 510) 544-2747
  • Jack London Square 
    • A waterfront attraction with plenty of food, entertainment and an in-demand business district.
    • Information: Broadway, Oakland, CA, 94607 phone: (510) 645-9292
  • Lake Merritt
    • A 140 acre lake in the midst of the city with neighboring parks and urban city scapes. 
    • Information: East of downtown Oakland.
  • University of California Botanical Garden 
    • a 34 acre garden at the University of California Berkeley campus.
    • Information: 200 Centennial Drive, Berkeley, CA, 94720; phone: (510) 643-2755
  • Oakland Museum of California 
    • A museum dedicated to the science, art and history of California with interactive exhibits. 
    • information: 100 Oakland Street, Oakland, CA 94607; phone (510) 318-8400