Laurel District
A diverse Oakland neighborhood known for its charming homes, vibrant local businesses, and unique eateries.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Laurel District
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A diverse Oakland neighborhood known for its charming homes, vibrant local businesses, and unique eateries.
"Discover the heart of Oakland with its unique shops, delicious food, and charming streets."
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Many charming homes and businesses are clustered together, perfect for a leisurely stroll. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Considerations
Street parking can be available, but check for any restrictions. Some homes offer private garages. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jo's Modern Thai
3725 MacArthur Blvd
Experience modern Thai cuisine with standout dishes like Lobster Pad Thai and Crispy Chicken Wings. A local favorite for good eats.
Dear John Shop
Laurel District
A unique boutique offering a glimpse into the local style and community vibe of the Laurel District.
Ghost Town Brewing
Laurel District
A popular brewery, often mentioned as being just a minute away from charming bungalows in the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Laurel District
Discovering Local Gems
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Many charming homes and businesses are clustered together, perfect for a leisurely stroll. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Considerations
Street parking can be available, but check for any restrictions. Some homes offer private garages. :car:
📍 Local Business Hub
The Laurel District is packed with local shops and eateries, great for discovering unique finds. :shopping_bags:
⚠️ Be Aware of Surroundings
Some social media posts advise staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Many charming homes and businesses are clustered together, perfect for a leisurely stroll. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Considerations
Street parking can be available, but check for any restrictions. Some homes offer private garages. :car:
📍 Local Business Hub
The Laurel District is packed with local shops and eateries, great for discovering unique finds. :shopping_bags:
⚠️ Be Aware of Surroundings
Some social media posts advise staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Laurel District is appreciated for its vibrant community, diverse local businesses, and charming residential architecture. Visitors enjoy the variety of shops and eateries, particularly the modern Thai cuisine and unique boutiques. Some social media posts advise caution regarding personal safety, a common consideration in urban exploration.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Laurel District is accessible by public transit, with bus lines serving the area. If driving, it's located northeast of Interstate 580 between High Street and 35th Avenue. Some TikToks mention it's a good area for those leaving San Francisco.
While specific transit routes can vary, Oakland generally has public transportation options. For those without a car, walking and using public transit are viable ways to explore the neighborhood.
Many of the shops and restaurants are concentrated, making walking a great option. For exploring further afield or if you have mobility concerns, ride-sharing services or a car might be more convenient.
Yes, the Laurel District is bordered by neighborhoods like Allendale to the west and Redwood Heights to the east. It's also near the Dimond District.
Yes, many travelers find it accessible from San Francisco, especially if they are looking for areas outside the immediate city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Laurel District is a neighborhood, not a ticketed attraction, so there are no entrance fees to explore the area itself. Individual businesses will have their own pricing.
Business hours vary greatly. Shops and restaurants generally operate during daytime and early evening hours, with some breweries staying open later. It's best to check the specific hours for any establishment you plan to visit.
No advance booking is required to visit the Laurel District. However, for popular restaurants, making a reservation might be advisable, especially on weekends.
The Laurel District often hosts community events and celebrations. Following local social media accounts or community pages can help you stay updated on upcoming happenings.
Local real estate agents and community social media accounts often highlight new businesses and properties. Following accounts like @kangofrealty or @isaiahsellshomes can provide insights.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a variety of shops, including boutiques like Dear John Shop, vintage stores, and local markets. It's a great place for unique finds.
Jo's Modern Thai is highly recommended for its contemporary Thai dishes. Other popular spots include Donut Savant, Santana Coffee, and Sequoia Diner.
Yes, several coffee shops are mentioned, including Santana Coffee and World Ground, making it a good spot for a caffeine fix.
The scene is characterized by local, independent businesses that contribute to a strong community feel. It's a place to discover authentic Oakland flavors and styles.
Ghost Town Brewing is a popular brewery located very close to the heart of the Laurel District, often mentioned alongside other local amenities.
📸 📸 Photography
The neighborhood features charming traditional and Tudor-style homes, offering great architectural photography. The local businesses also provide colorful and unique backdrops.
While not a park, the residential streets with their diverse home styles and the vibrant storefronts of the commercial areas offer plenty of visual interest for photographers.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can provide beautiful light for capturing the architecture and street scenes. Midday can be good for capturing the lively atmosphere of the commercial strips.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside shops or restaurants, especially if it might disrupt other customers.
The unique architecture of the homes, particularly the Tudor styles, and the distinctive signage of local businesses like Jo's Modern Thai or Dear John Shop are popular subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for a taste of local life, exploring the unique shops and enjoying the neighborhood's architectural diversity can be an engaging experience. It's a good area for a relaxed outing where you can discover local flavors and a friendly atmosphere.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While some businesses might have higher price points, seeking out local cafes, bakeries, and casual restaurants can help keep costs down. Public transit is also a more economical way to reach the district compared to ride-sharing or driving and parking.
🏠 Real Estate Enthusiasts
Keep an eye on listings and open houses, as they often showcase the unique character of the neighborhood. The presence of ADU potential in some properties also reflects current real estate trends. Following local real estate accounts can provide insights into the market and the types of properties available.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Charm of the Laurel District
Many of these properties are highlighted by local real estate agents, emphasizing their potential for renovation or as charming, established residences. The presence of ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) potential in some homes also speaks to the evolving nature of housing in the area. Exploring these streets offers a visual treat for anyone interested in residential architecture.
Beyond the homes, the commercial strips feature a variety of building styles that reflect the area's history and development. The combination of well-maintained older homes and vibrant local businesses creates a unique and inviting streetscape.
Community and Local Businesses
These businesses are not just commercial entities; they are integral to the neighborhood's identity. Social media often highlights the proximity of these spots, with mentions of breweries like Ghost Town Brewing and coffee shops like Santana Coffee being just a minute away from residential areas. This walkability and concentration of amenities foster a close-knit atmosphere.
There's also a spiritual and cultural element, as seen with events at places like Laurel UMC or gatherings at spaces like @casa.hechizos, indicating a diverse and engaged community. This blend of commerce, culture, and community makes the Laurel District a dynamic place to explore.
Safety and Awareness
These posts often emphasize staying vigilant, especially in certain areas or at specific times. While not indicative of pervasive danger, this advice from users suggests a need for common-sense precautions that are applicable to many urban environments.
It's always recommended to trust your instincts, be aware of who is around you, and secure your belongings. This general awareness can help ensure a positive and safe experience while exploring the Laurel District and its many offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit