“Steeped in maritime lore, Jack London Square is one of Oakland’s most identifiable landmarks and a symbol of the city’s history as a seaport. Fronting a natural estuary leading to San Francisco Bay, the site was the heart of Oakland’s port operations, linking the industries of shipping and agriculture. It remains a vibrant working waterfront.” (JackLondonSquare.com)

Jack London Square, named after the American writer Jack London (White Fang and The Call of the Wild among many others), is a district along the Oakland/Alameda estuary, south of downtown Oakland, north of the west side of Alameda (through the tube), and southwest of Chinatown. The district has recently seen a great deal of revitalization, and offers a myriad of restaurants, bars, businesses, warehouses, and modern multi-unit residential buildings.

The Jack London district of Oakland is a working waterfront, along with being a vibrant and active part of the city. The area is a popular gathering area and hosts events and activities along the waterway, including a Farmers Market on Sundays. The Regal Jack London Theater brings a lot of visitors to the area.

Dining and entertainment options in the square include Belcampo, Dyafa, Esports Arena Oakland, Farmhouse Kitchen, Forge Pizza, Lungomare, Ben & Jerry’s, and Rosenblum Cellars. Plank is a popular entertainment venue in the middle of the waterside square and includes a bowling alley, an arcade, bocce ball courts, and food and alcohol. Yoshi’s is a very popular restaurant and live music venue. ​ A step into Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon is a step into history.

“Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon opened in July of 1884 … Since then, patrons from all walks of life have been enjoying our spirits and tastefully abrasive atmosphere. The Saloon's interior, itself a montage of America's past, reflects events from Vietnam, World War Two, Prohibition, and even World War One.” (Heinold’s)

There is plenty of (dog-friendly) seating outside of the Saloon. Enjoy a beer and people watch!

Off the water, a few blocks north, Souley Vegan offers comfort food, vegan style. And, right next door you can grab a beer at Beer Revolution. Other eateries of note in the Jack London neighborhood include Home of Chicken and Waffles, Everett and Jones BBQ, La Furia Chalaca Peruvian cuisine, and Chop Bar.

Visit JackLondon.com to learn more about the bars and restaurants in the area.

For shopping options near the square, you’ll find a Bed, Bath & Beyond, Cost Plus, and BevMo.

The portion of the Jack London Square neighborhood to the east of Webster Street is being developed and rapidly changing. New construction condos and apartment buildings are currently being built, with business and restaurant space available on the group level. Along the shore, you will find Eve’s Waterfront and the Jack London Aquatic Center.

Jack London Square is about a 10-15 minute walk to the 12th Street BART station. The SF Ferry from the Jack London Terminal will get you to San Francisco in approximately 30 minutes. It also goes to Oracle Park.

Jack London Square is a busy, everchanging district in Oakland. With its modern residences and plethora of entertainment and restaurant options, Jack London Square is a desirable place to call home for those that enjoy being part of a bustling, colorful community.