Oakland: Better Than You'd Think

Best Bars in the Bay

Most people head to the Bay Area with one goal in mind: San Francisco
Admittedly, I was one of those folks, but after 10 years in Oakland I can confidently say that there are no better bars in the bay, than there are right here in Oakland.  Some may be considered a dive, but I know lots of people who are okay with that, including me.

Oh, The Theatre!

Giant movie geek, that’s me.  It wasn’t until I went to the movies in Oakland that I truly deciphered what it was that I loved about the movies, and that’s everything.

Oakland is home to Paramount Theatre, which is the most phenomenal venue in the world, according to me.  In 2007 they suspended their movie nights, but it looks as though we are all in luck this year.  If you get the chance to go, do it.   The tickets are pretty inexpensive and with the purchase you get a great seat in a classic theater.  The Wurlitzer piano/organ comes up and plays while you sit in awe of the show before you.  Some people come to the show very dressed up and some come adorned in jeans and hoodies.  Tickets and show times are available at the link below.

Another spot to stop and plop your butt into, is the infamous Parkway Theater.  if you have ever wished that you could just have the cinema stop on by your home rather than leaving the comfort of your own home, you are finally in luck.   At the Parkway, the most chill atmosphere for a flick, you walk in and pay a small fee before stopping to order food and sit down.  That’s right, you can order food and have it brought to you.  Pizza, salads, popcorn, beer, you name it.  There are tables located inside if you are not comfortable with holding a giant pizza on your lap while you enjoy the latest Kevin Smith film, or simple movie chairs.  What’s that you say?  You heard they have couches?  Right again.  Anytime I can watch a movie on a public couch that isn’t skeevy, I’m blissfully happy.   Check out movie times on the little link below, that way you can get your ass in and tell everyone how perfect the experience was.

Not Drinking or Eating? Do Me!

No, I don’t want you to do me personally, but I do have a list of things that are wildly amusing for you to do if you’re up for it.  East Bay Regional Parks has some pretty nifty sites in Oakland.  Aside from big green splotches of dewy fun to run and play on, there is a lake to run around or throw bread to birds at, and even lookout points to reinvent 1950’s parkin’ at.  Whether your a jogger, photographer, busy body, tramp, lolligagger, or simpleton, there are tons of things for you to do in Oakland.


*Check back super-soon for list and links*

Sit and Chomp on This:

Oakland famous eateries abound in this big fat city.  On any given day, there are a gazillion places to choose from to fill your belly.  Some places are classic and tasty, but blow your wad of dough over appetizers.  Other spots host menus that are so delectible with bills arriving on your table that could almost be paid for with pocket change.  Either way, there is no shortage of good eats in this city. Check out some of my faves while I sift through lint and nickels to pay for my meal: