Experience Opening Day Like a True Oakland A’s Fan: Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Oakland

There’s nothing like the excitement of Opening Day at the Oakland Coliseum for an Oakland A’s fan. Whether you're visiting from out of town or a local, this guide will help you make the most of your experience. From top hotels to the best restaurants, bars, and must-see attractions, here’s everything you need to enjoy your visit to Oakland.

Where to Stay: Top Hotels Near the Oakland Coliseum

For the best A’s experience, staying near the Oakland Coliseum is ideal. Here are some top choices:

1. Oakland Airport Executive Hotel
   • Location: A short drive or shuttle ride from the Oakland Coliseum.
   • Vibe: Convenient, comfortable, and budget-friendly.
   • Why Stay Here? This hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to the Coliseum and airport, making it easy for fans to get to the game and explore the area.
2. Hilton Oakland Airport
   • Location: Located near the airport, about a 10-minute drive to the stadium.
   • Vibe: Modern, spacious, and convenient.
   • Why Stay Here? A great option for fans looking for comfort and ease of access to both the stadium and the airport, with a complimentary shuttle service available.
3. Waterfront Hotel
   • Location: Located at Jack London Square, a short drive from the Coliseum.
   • Vibe: Nautical-themed, with beautiful waterfront views.
   • Why Stay Here? For a more scenic stay, this hotel offers great amenities and is close to dining and entertainment options, perfect for exploring Oakland before the game.

Pre-Game Eats: Best Restaurants for a Hearty Meal

Start your game day with a meal at one of these popular Oakland spots:

1. Everett and Jones Barbeque
   • Cuisine: Classic Southern BBQ.
   • Must-Try Dish: The ribs—smoky, tender, and packed with flavor.
   • Why Here? Located in Jack London Square, this iconic spot offers hearty portions and is perfect for fueling up before heading to the game.
2. Chop Bar
   • Cuisine: Farm-to-table American comfort food.
   • Must-Try Dish: The Pork Belly Tacos—a local favorite.
   • Why Here? Also located in Jack London Square, Chop Bar offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with delicious, locally-sourced dishes.
3. Souley Vegan
   • Cuisine: Vegan soul food.
   • Must-Try Dish: The Southern Fried Tofu—crispy, flavorful, and satisfying.
   • Why Here? For fans looking for plant-based options, Souley Vegan offers hearty and flavorful dishes that will satisfy even non-vegans.

Game Day Vibes: Best Sports Bars Around Oakland

Celebrate with fellow A’s fans at these top sports bars near the Oakland Coliseum:

1. Ricky’s Sports Theatre & Grill
   • Atmosphere: High-energy with a die-hard sports fan crowd.
   • Best Drink: A local craft beer or a classic cocktail.
   • Why Here? Known as one of the best sports bars in the country, Ricky’s is a must-visit for A’s fans, offering plenty of screens and an electric game-day atmosphere.
2. The Athletic Club Oakland
   • Atmosphere: Modern with a focus on sports and good food.
   • Best Drink: A local craft beer or one of their signature cocktails.
   • Why Here? Located in Uptown Oakland, this spot offers a chic environment with plenty of TVs, making it perfect for pre- and post-game gatherings.
3. The Halfway House
   • Atmosphere: Casual, dive-bar feel with a loyal local following.
   • Best Drink: A cold draft beer or a shot of whiskey.
   • Why Here? This no-frills bar is a favorite among locals and is a great place to meet fellow A’s fans before heading to the stadium.

Explore Oakland: Must-See Attractions

While you’re in town, take some time to explore what Oakland has to offer:

1. Jack London Square
   • What It Is: A vibrant waterfront area with dining, shopping, and entertainment.
   • Why Visit? Perfect for a pre-game stroll or post-game dining, Jack London Square offers a beautiful setting and plenty of options for fun.
2. Lake Merritt
   • What It Is: A scenic lake in the heart of Oakland, surrounded by parks and walking paths.
   • Why Visit? Ideal for a relaxing walk or picnic before the game, Lake Merritt offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
3. Oakland Museum of California
   • What It Is: A museum dedicated to the art, history, and natural science of California.
   • Why Visit? Spend a few hours exploring California’s rich history and culture, located just a short drive from the stadium.

Post-Game Celebrations: Where to Go After the Game

Keep the excitement going after the final pitch at these top spots:

1. Plank
   • Vibe: Lively with outdoor games and entertainment.
   • Why Here? Located in Jack London Square, Plank offers bowling, bocce, and a fun atmosphere perfect for post-game celebrations.
2. Drake's Dealership
   • Vibe: A laid-back brewery with a spacious beer garden.
   • Why Here? For craft beer lovers, Drake’s Dealership offers a great selection of house-made brews and a relaxed environment, making it a great spot to unwind after the game.

Final Tips for Visiting Fans

• Arrive Early: The Oakland Coliseum and the surrounding areas are lively on Opening Day, so plan to arrive early to soak up the atmosphere.
• Parking and Transit: Consider using public transit or rideshare services to avoid parking hassles.
• Dress in Layers: Oakland’s weather can be cool in the evenings, so bring a jacket to stay comfortable during the game.

Visiting Oakland for Opening Day is a memorable experience for any A’s fan. From the excitement at the Oakland Coliseum to the vibrant local scene, it’s a day you won’t forget. So, grab your A’s gear, secure your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable Opening Day in Oakland!