Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon
Step back in time at Oakland's oldest bar, a historic saloon frequented by Jack London, known for its slanted floor and original gaslights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more history
Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more history
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Oakland's oldest bar, a historic saloon frequented by Jack London, known for its slanted floor and original gaslights.
"It felt like I was in a time capsule! The place is pure history!!!"
Watch Your Step! :athletic_shoe:
The floor is famously slanted from the 1906 earthquake. Be mindful of your footing when you enter.
ID Check is Standard :id:
Don't be surprised if everyone's ID is checked, regardless of age. It's part of the saloon's unique charm.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Slanted Floor
Main Saloon
A tangible reminder of the 1906 earthquake, the intentionally slanted floor adds to the saloon's unique character.
Jack London's Haunt
Main Saloon
Step into the shoes of literary giant Jack London, who frequented this historic spot from his youth.
Original Gaslights
Main Saloon
Experience the ambiance of one of the last businesses in California still operating with original gaslights.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Slant: A Historic Dive
ID Check & Drink Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Watch Your Step! :athletic_shoe:
The floor is famously slanted from the 1906 earthquake. Be mindful of your footing when you enter.
ID Check is Standard :id:
Don't be surprised if everyone's ID is checked, regardless of age. It's part of the saloon's unique charm.
Patio is Dog-Friendly :dog:
Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio, making it a great spot to relax with your furry friend.
Focus on the Drinks :beer:
Heinold's serves only beverages, so come ready to enjoy a selection of beers and spirits.
Heinold's First & Last Chance Saloon
Tips
from all over the internet
Watch Your Step! :athletic_shoe:
The floor is famously slanted from the 1906 earthquake. Be mindful of your footing when you enter.
ID Check is Standard :id:
Don't be surprised if everyone's ID is checked, regardless of age. It's part of the saloon's unique charm.
Patio is Dog-Friendly :dog:
Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio, making it a great spot to relax with your furry friend.
Focus on the Drinks :beer:
Heinold's serves only beverages, so come ready to enjoy a selection of beers and spirits.
A True Time Capsule :clock1:
Immerse yourself in history; the walls, tables, and even a clock stopped at the 1906 earthquake time tell stories.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon as a unique historical 'time capsule' in Oakland. The slanted floor from the 1906 earthquake, original gaslights, and connection to Jack London are major draws. While the interior is small and food isn't served, the authentic atmosphere and friendly, storytelling bartenders create a memorable experience, especially when enjoyed on the dog-friendly patio.
"Go through time and drink at this historic place right next to Jack London's cabin. Tbh it's tiny inside so you will likely be outside like us. However the inside feels like a ship with the slant. You'll love the shack with brewskees. It's pretty good. I would say 7.5/10"
Asher Williamson
"TIME CAPSULE IN THE BAY AREA!
If you’re a history geek who also loves beer, you cannot skip this!
I went to Oakland just for Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon, and it was epic! It felt like I was in a time capsule! The place is pure history!!! The floor is slanted due to the 1906 earthquake and they kept it that way. And the walls and tables felt like they’ve absorbed over a century of stories. There’s also a WWI helmet in the ceiling. Wait!! Did I say this saloon was open since 1883? The place was small but I love history and time capsules! So amazing!
And!! I had a blast just chatting with the guys serving beer. They’re more than bartenders. They were storytellers. I kept asking them about the history and all the quirky details inside, and then one of them actually lit up the original gas lamp. Yes, gas lamp!! One of only two left in all of California. How cool is that!!! In that moment, I swear it felt like I’d been transported back in time. Touching the old tables felt like touching the past itself.
They don’t serve food here, just drinks, but that’s what keeps the focus on the experience. It’s not just a bar. It’s a living piece of California history."
Arra
"A really cool piece of history. They have a large patio outside which seemed dog friendly. The inside is really funky and historic. The bartender checks ALL IDs, which made a bunch of people in our group feel young haha. A good selection of beers, looks like they do some whiskey too but didn't explore that option. Watch your step when you go inside!"
Steven Ellison
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Heinold's is located in Jack London Square in Oakland, California. It's accessible by public transport, including BART, and there is parking available in the vicinity.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark in Jack London Square, often mentioned as a must-visit for its historical significance.
Many visitors opt for BART to the Oakland City Center/12th Street station and then a short walk or bus ride. Driving and parking are also options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Heinold's. You only pay for the drinks you order.
Hours can vary, but it's generally open daily. It's best to check their social media or call ahead for the most current information.
Yes, as it's a bar, you must be 21 or older to enter and purchase drinks. Be prepared for an ID check.
Reservations are typically not needed or accepted, as it's a casual saloon. Seating inside is limited, so arriving early or visiting during off-peak hours is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The interior is a historic time capsule with a noticeably slanted floor from the 1906 earthquake, old decor, and a unique, intimate feel.
Seating inside is very limited. Most patrons enjoy their drinks on the outdoor patio, especially when the weather is pleasant.
Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio but are not permitted inside the saloon.
The floor is slanted due to the shifting of the pilings beneath the building during the 1906 San Francisco earthquake.
Look for the clock stopped at the time of the 1906 earthquake, a WWI helmet on the ceiling, and the original gaslights.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Heinold's focuses exclusively on beverages and does not serve food.
Yes, Jack London Square offers a variety of restaurants and eateries with different cuisines and price points.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always respectful to be mindful of other patrons and the historic environment.
Capture the unique slanted floor, the vintage bar, the gaslights, and the exterior of this historic building.
The Jack London cabin is located nearby and is also a popular spot for photos, often visited in conjunction with the saloon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🍻 Beer Enthusiasts
📚 History & Literature Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of Heinold's
Literary enthusiasts will find a special connection to Heinold's, as it was a beloved haunt of author Jack London. He frequented the saloon from his youth, and the establishment stands as a tangible link to his life and work. Adding to its historical allure, Heinold's is one of the last businesses in California to still operate with its original gaslights, offering a truly immersive, old-world ambiance. The interior, with its aged wood and storied walls, feels like stepping into a bygone era, making it a unique destination for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Experiencing the Saloon: Atmosphere and Amenities
Heinold's prides itself on its authentic saloon atmosphere, which is enhanced by its original gaslights and the palpable sense of history within its walls. The staff often act as storytellers, sharing anecdotes and historical details with patrons, further enriching the experience. It's important to note that the saloon does not serve food, focusing solely on a selection of beers and spirits. Be prepared for the bartenders to check everyone's ID, a practice that adds to the establishment's character and ensures compliance with age regulations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit