Temescal Alley (Oakland) - Image 1
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Temescal Alley Oakland

4.6
·491k reviews·Oakland, United States

Oakland's 'Hipster Alley,' a vibrant pedestrian lane filled with unique independent shops in repurposed shipping containers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesdays - Sundays

Shops are open

CrowdMedium
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Temescal Alley (Oakland) - Image 1

Temescal Alley Oakland

Best Time

Wednesdays - Sundays

Shops are open

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Oakland's 'Hipster Alley,' a vibrant pedestrian lane filled with unique independent shops in repurposed shipping containers.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Discover unique fashion, art, and music in Oakland's charming Temescal Alley."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛍️ Shop Local Treasures

Discover unique fashion, art, and handcrafted goods in charming, repurposed shipping container shops.

🎶 Vinyl Hunting

Don't miss Contact Records for rare vinyl and good grooves.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Independent Boutiques

Independent Boutiques

Throughout the alley

Discover unique fashion, art, and handcrafted goods in charming, repurposed shipping container shops.

Contact Records

Contact Records

Alley 49

A treasure trove for vinyl enthusiasts, offering rare records and good grooves for music lovers.

Mira Flores

Mira Flores

Temescal Alley

Explore this shop for unique items, including eye-catching cowboy boot rugs and other artisanal creations.

The Cro Cafe

The Cro Cafe

Alley 49

A hidden gem serving delicious coffee and lattes, worth the adventure to find.

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Planning Your Visit

Discover Oakland's Hidden Gem

Explore Temescal Alley, a vibrant pedestrian lane in Oakland, California. Known for its unique shops, boutiques, and eateries housed in repurposed shipping containers, it offers a bohemian vibe and a taste of local artistry. Perfect for a leisurely stroll and discovering one-of-a-kind finds.

Plan Your Visit to Temescal Alley

Temescal Alley is a charming spot for shopping and exploring. Many shops are open Wednesday through Sunday, typically from 11 AM to 6 PM. Check individual store hours before you go, as some may have extended or different operating times, especially for pop-ups or special events.

Best Times

When
Wednesdays - Sundays
Why
Shops are open
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Pop-ups and events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

much needed relaxation day and had so much fun with the girlies (only on thursdays 4-9pm!)☀️🧖‍♀️ #glenivyhotsprings #spaday #temescalvalley #daygetaway #fyp
@cookedbymanda
68K likes • 588.3K views

🛍️ Shop Local Treasures

Discover unique fashion, art, and handcrafted goods in charming, repurposed shipping container shops. Instagram

🎶 Vinyl Hunting

Don't miss Contact Records for rare vinyl and good grooves. Instagram

They call it Hipster Alley otherwise known as Temescal Alley in Oakland CA. Sam @miraflores has a wonderful shop and is quite the maker. I want those cowboy boot rugs! #eastbay#oaktown#hipster#alley#sfeastbay#visitthebay#thingstodo#berkeley#temescal#oaktown#oakland#eastoakland#westoakland#thebay#art#vintage#homes#wheretolove#homestobuy#neighborhoods #exp#teamfast#eastbayneighborhoods
sierrayourbayarearealtor
22 likes • 817 views
If you’re a Oakland local, you’re one of us! 👀 Check this place out! Temescal Alley is a charming pedestrian lane located in Oakland, California. The alleyway is home to a variety of independent shops, boutiques and restaurants. It is known for its vintage and bohemian vibe, with many of the businesses being housed in repurposed shipping containers. The hidden alley is a popular spot for the lo...
wanderwheels_ca
1.4K likes • 281.3K views

☕ Coffee Break

The Cro Cafe is a hidden gem for coffee lovers, worth the adventure. Instagram

📅 Check Pop-Up Schedules

Keep an eye out for special pop-ups and events happening in the alley. Instagram

We totally love @contact_records 🎶 🎶🖤🖤 Tucked inside Temescal Alley, Contact Records is a treasure trove of rare and hard to find vinyl (and even a few cassettes) and good grooves! Whether or not you’re a vinyl enthusiast or just looking to add to your collection we definitely give Contact Records a 10/10! Contact Records 484 Alley 49 Oakland, CA Open Tuesday - Sunday PS. We were stoked t...
temescaloakland
15 likes • 697 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛍️ Shop Local Treasures

Discover unique fashion, art, and handcrafted goods in charming, repurposed shipping container shops. Instagram

🎶 Vinyl Hunting

Don't miss Contact Records for rare vinyl and good grooves. Instagram

☕ Coffee Break

The Cro Cafe is a hidden gem for coffee lovers, worth the adventure. Instagram

📅 Check Pop-Up Schedules

Keep an eye out for special pop-ups and events happening in the alley. Instagram

📍 Explore Alley 49

Many unique shops and cafes, including The Cro Cafe, are located in Alley 49. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Temescal Alley's unique charm, vibrant atmosphere, and the eclectic mix of independent shops housed in repurposed shipping containers. It's praised as a hidden gem for discovering one-of-a-kind fashion, art, and music. Some visitors note that parking can be challenging, and it's best to check individual shop hours.

What People Like

Unique independent shops
Bohemian atmosphere
Repurposed shipping containers

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Temescal Alley is located in Oakland, California. It's accessible by public transportation, with BART stations nearby. Driving is also an option, though parking can be competitive in the area. Many visitors enjoy walking or biking to the alley. Instagram

Yes, Temescal Alley is a charming pedestrian lane, perfect for a leisurely walk to explore the shops and soak in the atmosphere. Instagram

The best way to explore is on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the unique shops and the bohemian vibe of the alley. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Temescal Alley is a public pedestrian lane and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore the shops and public spaces. Instagram

Most shops in Temescal Alley are open Wednesday through Sunday, typically from 11 AM to 6 PM. However, hours can vary, so it's best to check individual shop websites or social media for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

There are no admission fees to enter Temescal Alley itself. You only pay for any purchases you make from the shops or eateries within the alley. Instagram

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Temescal Alley is known for its independent boutiques, offering a curated selection of fashion, art, jewelry, books, and unique handcrafted goods. Many are housed in repurposed shipping containers, adding to its unique charm. Instagram+2

Yes, you can find delightful food and drink options, including The Cro Cafe for coffee and other local eateries. It's a great spot to grab a bite while exploring. Instagram

You'll find plenty of unique gift options at the various independent boutiques. Look for handcrafted jewelry, art, and artisanal goods. Mira Flores is a great spot for distinctive items. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Contact Records is a must-visit for vinyl enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of rare and hard-to-find records. Instagram

Popular spots include Mira Flores for unique finds, Contact Records for music lovers, Womb House Books for literary treasures, and Esqueleto Oakland for art and jewelry. Instagram+4

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, Temescal Alley is very photogenic with its colorful murals, unique shop facades in repurposed shipping containers, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a great spot for street photography and capturing the bohemian vibe of Oakland. Instagram

The colorful murals, the unique architecture of the shipping container shops, and the lively street scenes offer numerous photo opportunities throughout the alley. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Temescal Alley offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The pedestrian-only nature of the alley makes it safer for children to explore. While it's primarily a shopping destination, the novelty of the repurposed shipping container shops can be fascinating for kids. Encourage them to look for interesting items and perhaps grab a treat from The Cro Cafe. Instagram It's a great place for a short, interesting outing where kids can see a different side of urban retail.

🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds

If you're on the hunt for one-of-a-kind items, Temescal Alley is your destination. The alley specializes in independent boutiques offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and art to vintage clothing and rare vinyl records. Instagram+2 You'll find curated collections that stand out from mass-produced goods. Take your time browsing through shops like Mira Flores for eclectic treasures or Contact Records for music aficionados. Instagram+1

🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts

Temescal Alley is a hub for local art and culture. The vibrant murals and the creative use of shipping containers as shop spaces provide a unique visual experience. Instagram You can discover local artists showcasing their work, find unique art pieces in galleries, and immerse yourself in the bohemian atmosphere that defines this Oakland gem. It's a great place to appreciate local talent and creative expression.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Charm of Temescal Alley

Temescal Alley, often dubbed 'Hipster Alley,' is a vibrant pedestrian lane in Oakland, California, that has transformed into a hub for independent businesses. What makes it particularly special is that many of these shops are housed within repurposed shipping containers, giving the alley a distinct, bohemian, and industrial-chic aesthetic. This creative reuse of space contributes to its unique atmosphere and provides a visually interesting backdrop for visitors. The alley is a testament to Oakland's innovative spirit and its commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs. Instagram

The alleyway is a curated collection of boutiques, art studios, and eateries, each offering something unique. From vintage clothing and handcrafted jewelry to rare vinyl records and artisanal coffee, there's a diverse range of products and experiences to discover. This concentration of independent businesses fosters a strong sense of community and provides shoppers with an alternative to mainstream retail. It's a place where you can find one-of-a-kind items and connect with the makers and owners behind them. Instagram+3

Visitors often praise the alley for its laid-back vibe and the opportunity to discover hidden gems. It's an ideal destination for a leisurely afternoon of browsing, shopping, and enjoying the local culture. The alley also frequently hosts pop-up events and residencies, adding an element of surprise and dynamism to the visitor experience. Instagram+1

Shopping and Discoveries in Temescal Alley

Temescal Alley is a shopper's paradise for those seeking unique and locally-made items. The alley is home to a variety of independent boutiques, each with its own distinct offerings. Mira Flores is a popular stop, known for its eclectic collection that has even included eye-catching cowboy boot rugs. Instagram+1 For music lovers, Contact Records is a must-visit, boasting a treasure trove of rare and hard-to-find vinyl records and cassettes. Instagram

Beyond fashion and music, the alley also features shops like Womb House Books, offering literary delights, and Esqueleto Oakland, which showcases art and jewelry. Instagram+2 The creative spirit extends to the visual arts, with artists like Kathryn Kenworth showcasing their work within the alley's shops. Instagram This concentration of independent retailers makes Temescal Alley a prime destination for finding unique gifts and personal treasures that you won't find anywhere else.

When exploring, remember that many of these shops operate with specific hours, often from Wednesday to Sunday, 11 AM to 6 PM. It's always a good idea to check their individual social media or websites for the most current information, especially if you're planning a visit around a specific shop or event. Instagram

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