Jack London Square in Oakland is a bustling waterfront neighborhood that blends scenic marina views with shops, restaurants and historic charm. Named for writer Jack London (who spent part of his youth in Oakland), this publicly accessible mixed-use district offers everything from outdoor recreation to live entertainment. You’ll find stores, restaurants, hotels, an Amtrak station and a ferry dock, as well as landmarks like Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon and Jack London’s original Klondike cabin. The area, owned by the Port of Oakland, has evolved from an old warehouse district into a vibrant hub of dining and events along the estuary. In short, Jack London Square is an authentic Oakland waterfront destination full of history and modern attractions.
The History of Jack London Square
The square’s story stretches back to Oakland’s early days as a working port. However, it wasn’t called Jack London Square until the 1950s. In fact, Port of Oakland commissioners officially renamed and redeveloped the waterfront in 1951, transforming a run-down seaport into a public plaza while preserving historic sites. The famous Heinold’s saloon, originally opened in 1884, was spared demolition (it even survived a 1906 fire) and still stands today. Young Jack London himself worked and spent time on these docks – legend says he borrowed money from Heinold’s owner to attend college and once sat reading a dictionary inside the bar as a boy. This personal connection inspired naming the square after him. Over the decades the area has gone from industrial warehouses to lofts and hotels, but its maritime legacy remains – you can visit the log cabin where Jack London lived during the Gold Rush and even see the presidential yacht USS Potomac moored at the pier.
Best Restaurants and Bars in Jack London Square
Dining is a major draw at Jack London Square. In recent years the area has exploded with trendy eateries and lively pubs. As Eater SF notes, the Jack London District is now “one of Oakland’s top places to eat and drink”. You’ll find everything from upscale seafood to casual ramen and craft breweries. Historic Heinold’s Saloon (est. 1884) is a must-visit bar – Thrillist raves that this “131-year-old watering hole” is “old-school cool,” and it’s famed as Jack London’s old haunt. Nearby Plank is a 50,000 square-foot entertainment complex with bowling, bocce, arcade games and a brewpub patio. For late-night atmosphere, Sláinte Irish Pub offers good beer and the friendly local vibe. In terms of food, notable spots include The Salty Pearl (seafood and oysters) and Odin Meats & Spirits (craft cocktails and tapas), both with great waterfront seating. Other favorites are Noka Ramen (rich tonkotsu ramen) and Hesher’s Pizza (wood-fired pies). And don’t miss Souley Vegan for hearty Southern-style vegan soul food or Everett & Jones BBQ for classic smoked meats. Newcomers like Forge Pizza and The Fat Lady steakhouse (with art nouveau decor) have also helped transform JLS into a true food destination. In short, you can dine nearly anywhere from casual to upscale – according to Eater SF, Jack London Square has become “one of Oakland’s top places to eat and drink”.
Top Things to Do and See
Jack London Square offers plenty of waterfront fun. One of the most popular activities is catching the San Francisco Bay Ferry from the Jack London pier. The SF Bay Ferry provides year-round service between Jack London Square and San Francisco’s Ferry Building (and Pier 41), making it easy to take a scenic trip across the bay. As the image below shows, the ferry ride gives spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline and Bay Bridge:
The Jack London terminal also hosts Amtrak’s Oakland station (Capitol Corridor, Coast Starlight and other lines) right at 245 2nd Street. For outdoor recreation, head to California Canoe & Kayak at the marina – they rent kayaks, paddleboards and bikes so you can explore the calm Oakland Estuary. Onshore, you can stroll or bike along the waterfront boardwalk and Bay Trail (which runs right through JLS). Historic attractions abound too: book a tour on the USS Potomac (FDR’s former yacht) for narrated cruises around the bay, or step inside Jack London’s own log cabin (a museum) and visit Heinold’s Saloon for a craft beer. Families often point out the small play structure hidden behind Plank (with a grassy lawn in front) where kids can climb and adults can relax. In the summer months you can catch outdoor concerts or “Jack London After Dark” night markets, and don’t miss the weekly Farmers’ Market (Sundays 11am–4pm) lining the Embarcadero. In short, whether it’s a ferry ride to San Francisco, a kayak trip, or just people-watching from the patio, Jack London Square has something for every interest.
Shopping and Markets
Beyond dining, Jack London Square has a mix of shops and markets to browse. Along the waterfront you’ll find boutiques selling Oakland-themed gifts, home goods, and fashion, alongside galleries and the Jack London Square Market (a mini food hall). On Sundays, the area comes alive with the Jack London Square Farmers Market. Founded in 1989, this waterfront market (11am–4pm each Sunday) features local farmers, artisan food, and craft vendors – a perfect place to pick up produce, snacks and unique souvenirs against the harbor backdrop. (A local blog notes this market has been drawing crowds for years thanks to its picturesque setting by the water.) For everyday shopping, you can find everything from a bakery to a wine shop and even the flagship Oaklandish store (for city-pride apparel) in the surrounding district. As one guide puts it, “stroll along the scenic waterfront and you’ll find an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops”. Many shops have outdoor seating or exhibit local art, and during holiday seasons you’ll often find pop-up craft fairs in the plaza.
Annual Events and Festivals
Jack London Square hosts year-round events that draw crowds. Perhaps the biggest is the Holiday Tree Lighting Festival each December. Thousands gather for the free ceremony when a 55-foot Shasta Fir in the plaza is lit up with over 20,000 lights and festive music. That same evening kicks off the nearby Lighted Yacht Parade – a long-time tradition where decorated boats sail through the estuary as viewers cheer from the JLS docks. In warmer months, JLS runs “Waterfront Flicks” – free outdoor movies on the plaza lawn – as well as Patchwork Market craft fairs and “Fiesta Saturdays” with live music at the Plank beer garden. Weekends are highlighted by the farmers market (with holiday variants like pumpkin patches in fall). Other notable annual events include the Jack London Square Pub Crawl (St. Patrick’s Day), cultural festivals, and even the Bay Area Book Festival events at the Amphitheater nearby. In short, almost every season has something special at Jack London Square.
Tips for Visiting
Getting there & Parking: Jack London Square is very transit-friendly. The Amtrak station at 2nd & Washington (next to a public garage) makes regional train travel easy. For BART riders, exit at 12th Street/Oakland City Center and take the #62 bus down Broadway or transfer to local AC Transit buses to reach the Square. The SF Bay Ferry runs hourly ferries from San Francisco (Ferry Building or Pier 41) directly to Jack London, with nearby parking at 101 Washington Street (some lots even validate 12 hours for ferry riders). There is also a free “Woodstock” shuttle ferry that crosses to Alameda Landing, which is great if you have a car parked on the island.
If you drive, Jack London Square has several parking options. The Market Garage (255 2nd St) is open 24/7 and even has Tesla chargers. Another is the covered garage at Broadway & Embarcadero (beneath Plank). Street parking is metered; locals advise arriving weekday mornings for easier parking, since weekends can be busy. Once parked, everything is walkable – the district is flat, with wide sidewalks and waterfront promenades. Many restaurants open by mid-morning and stay busy through dinner. Note that the waterfront can be breezy, so bring layers.
Hours & Accessibility: Jack London Square’s public spaces are open 24/7 (it’s a free plaza), but individual businesses each keep their own hours (typically 11 am–10 pm for shops and restaurants, later for nightlife). The area is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly – the boardwalk and ramps make it easy to navigate. (In fact, the free water shuttle’s yellow barge has space for wheelchairs, bikes and strollers.) Restrooms are available at the market and in select shops, and many venues are ADA-compliant. If you need help, the Port of Oakland offices and JLS management are right on site.
Great for Families, Couples, and Solo Visitors
Jack London Square really does offer something for every type of visitor. Families will love the open space and activities. Kids can run around the green areas or play on a small climbing structure near Plank, and families often picnic on the plaza lawn. The Sunday farmers market has a special Kids’ Corner with crafts, and children under 5 ride the SF Bay Ferry free. Entertainment options like the movie theater and Plank bowling/arcade make it easy to spend a day with the little ones. (As one parent guide advises, “the water shuttle has space for strollers, bikes, and wheelchairs”, so bringing a change of scenery for kids is stress-free.)
Couples and date-night visitors can enjoy the romantic side of JLS. Many restaurants (like Scott’s Seafood or The Salty Pearl) have waterfront patios for sunset dinners. A sunset stroll along the Embarcadero or a cruise on the Potomac yacht can be very romantic. Even just grabbing cocktails at a quiet bar (Heinold’s or a cozy wine bar) is a popular evening out. In short, Jack London Square’s mix of scenic views and lively nightlife makes it a great spot for a date.
Solo travelers and locals alike appreciate the easygoing vibe. You can comfortably explore Jack London Square on your own – perhaps working from a café by the marina or joining a walking tour of Oakland (which often start here). The area generally feels safe and active, even after dark, and there are always folks to chat with. A solo foodie could make a meal of hopping between oyster bars, pizza joints and breweries around the square. In sum, Jack London Square is very inclusive – whether you’re with family, a partner, or by yourself, you’ll find things to enjoy.
Local Insights and Hidden Gems
Locals have a few secrets for making the most of Jack London Square. For one, the best parking is often found on weekday mornings, whereas afternoons and weekends require patience (or using the garages). Don’t miss the whimsical extra Adirondack chairs by the water – from these oversized benches you can watch ships and sailboats go by across the estuary. Photographers love that spot for sunsets. Also, the tiny play structure tucked behind Plank is so out-of-sight that newcomers often miss it – it’s a great little free kids’ zone on an otherwise paved square.
Another tip: if you need a break from the crowds, walk just a few blocks north along Embarcadero West to the Jack London Park. It has grassy picnic areas and art installations, and you can often see train hobbyists watching the freight trains roll by. In fact, the cargo trains rumbling along Broadway can be a surprising attraction – watch safely from behind the gates and you’ll see the array of shipping containers. Finally, check out the daily specials or events at Plank (such as taco nights or trivia) and the newly opened Oakland Marriott City Center (off Broadway) often has pop-up art shows and a rooftop bar worth visiting. Overall, the “hidden gem” of Jack London Square is really the discovery that a working waterfront can feel like a friendly neighborhood plaza – one where every visit reveals something new.
Conclusion
Jack London Square in Oakland is more than just a neighborhood – it’s a vibrant waterfront experience blending Oakland’s history with modern fun. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you can explore historic saloons, board a ferry to San Francisco, sample diverse cuisine, and join year-round festivities all in one place. As Oakland’s only mixed-use public marina area, it truly offers “visitors and local residents an authentic, vibrant hub of outdoor recreation, dining, special events, and entertainment”. From families enjoying a picnic on the grass to couples dining under the lights, Jack London Square shows why Oakland’s waterfront is worth visiting any day of the year.
FAQs
What is Jack London Square known for?
Jack London Square is known as Oakland’s historic waterfront district. It combines scenic marina views with shops and dining – including famous spots like Heinold’s First & Last Chance Saloon. It’s home to an Amtrak station, a ferry dock, hotels, and attractions such as Jack London’s Klondike-era cabin and the USS Potomac presidential yacht. The area’s history and vibrant atmosphere make it a unique Oakland landmark.
How did Jack London Square get its name?
The area was named in honor of author Jack London, who spent part of his youth in Oakland. In 1951 the Port of Oakland officially renamed the old warehouse waterfront “Jack London Square” during redevelopment. Jack London had been a regular at Heinold’s Saloon and worked on ships here, so the name reflects his local ties.
What are the best restaurants and bars in Jack London Square?
Popular dining spots include Heinold’s First & Last Chance Saloon (historic bar from 1884) and Plank (a huge 50,000 sq ft space with bowling and bocce). Other favorites are The Salty Pearl (seafood), Odin Meats & Spirits (tapas and cocktails), Noka Ramen (Hakata-style ramen), and Hesher’s Pizza (wood-fired pies). There’s also Sláinte Irish Pub, Souley Vegan (soul food), and Everett & Jones Barbeque. Eater SF notes that the district has become “one of Oakland’s top places to eat and drink”, so you’ll have no shortage of great options.
What are the best things to do in Jack London Square?
There’s plenty to do on and off the water. Take the SF Bay Ferry from the Jack London dock to San Francisco, rent a kayak or paddleboard from California Canoe & Kayak, or book a narrated cruise on the historic USS Potomac yacht. On land, stroll the waterfront promenade, relax in the plaza, or attend a Jack London Square event. The weekly farmers market (Sundays) is a highlight. If you enjoy walking tours, the nearby neighborhood has famous murals and you can easily join downtown Oakland excursions. In short: ride boats, shop markets, enjoy outdoor recreation – it’s all here.
Is there a ferry from San Francisco to Jack London Square?
Yes. The San Francisco Bay Ferry runs year-round service between Jack London Square (Oakland) and San Francisco’s Ferry Building or Pier 41. Ferries depart frequently on weekdays and weekends. Children under 5 ride free, and bikes are allowed on board. From the ferry, you’ll enjoy great views of the Bay Bridge and SF skyline as you approach Oakland.
What events and festivals happen at Jack London Square?
Jack London Square hosts events year-round. Key annual events include the Holiday Tree Lighting Festival every December (with a 55-foot decorated fir tree and festive music), and the Lighted Yacht Parade on the estuary each holiday season. In summer there are outdoor movies (“Waterfront Flicks”) and craft fairs (such as Patchwork Market). Weekly events include the farmers market (Sundays) and “Fiesta Saturdays” at Plank. Special events like dog festivals or street fairs also pop up. Check the Jack London Square calendar for the latest events by season.
Is there a farmers market at Jack London Square?
Yes. The Jack London Square Farmers Market takes place every Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm (year-round, except for certain holidays). It’s run by the Golden State Farmers Market Association and has been operating since 1989. You’ll find local produce, baked goods, street food, and artisan crafts – all set right along the waterfront. Many visitors stop by this market for breakfast treats and a walk among the booths.
How can I get to Jack London Square via public transit?
Jack London Square is very transit-accessible. By train, Amtrak’s Oakland station is at the Square (245 2nd St). By BART, take any downtown Oakland train to 12th Street/Oakland City Center, then transfer to AC Transit bus #62 down Broadway into the Square. The ferry from SF (Ferry Building/Pier 41 to Oakland Jack London) is another easy option. Once you arrive, most things are within a short walk.
Is Jack London Square family-friendly?
Absolutely. The Square has open space and activities for kids. There’s a small playground behind Plank and grassy areas where children can play or scooter. The Sunday farmers market features a Kids’ Corner with crafts and entertainment. Parents will appreciate that there are restrooms, stroller-friendly paths, and even a “Woodstock” water shuttle with room for strollers and bikes. Fun family activities include riding the ferry (kids under 5 ride free) and exploring Jack London’s old cabin. Overall, the relaxed vibe and available amenities make it very easy to bring the whole family.
What hotels are near Jack London Square?
Several hotels are conveniently located near Jack London Square. The Jack London Inn (466 Broadway) sits right at the edge of the Square, offering modern rooms and bay views. A couple blocks away on Broadway are larger hotels like the Oakland Marriott City Center and Hampton Inn Oakland-Downtown. (The Waterfront Hotel used to be in JLS but has closed; some news sources note its long history in the area.) In short, you can walk to Jack London Square from these downtown Oakland lodgings. Public transit from nearby BART also makes it easy if you choose a downtown hotel. Once you’re at the Square, everything you need – dining, shops, and entertainment – is just steps away.
Sources: Historical and practical details are drawn from the Port of Oakland and Jack London Square official site, local news and guides, and San Francisco Bay Area publications (Eater SF, SF Chronicle, Thrillist). The 2023 JLS development updates and event announcements are included for current accuracy. Additional insights come from family travel blogs and tourist guides, ensuring an up-to-date overview as of 2025.