The Pergola at Lake Merritt 599 El Embarcadero, Oakland, CA 94610

"Wonderful day, I just loved watching the famous Sea Lions!"

"One of the first places to revive outdoor dancing post-pandemic, this place was, and still is a fixture in the community as far as a vibrant, fun, beautiful, and social hub along Lake Merritt. When it's warm out, there are often dance/music events held. Often these have a few food trucks/tables/wagons vending as well. GREAT place to watch the sun set! Best bet is to park anywhere along Lakeshore Avenue and walk there along the lake path. It's also super close to the Grand Lake Theater area which has a lot of awesome restaurants, bars, wine, boutiques."

"A small but beautiful town near SF, it is in the centre of Oakland, with a beautiful lake that was created around 150 years ago when a Dam was built. The necklace of lights in the evenings, is a sight you should not miss. It is a bird reserve with a lot of local and migratory birds. Swimming and fishing are not allowed as it is a reserve. It is a multi cultural society with East and South Asians, Brazilian's and Ethiopian's. So you have restaurants with authentic food options from these regions and some restaurants that also offer a pool view. A nice place for a picnic, BBQ. You can also view or participate in some Salsa Dancing which is very common."

"Music in the right place gathers and unites people."

"BEAUTIFUL. I went on a Saturday and visited after exploring the Farmer's Market a few steps away. It was a great walk, tons of grass, lots of HUGE geese that were fun to watch, and even on a foggy day it oozed mystery and fun. If you love people watching it's a great spot to relax and just observe. I def recommend going on a Saturday, stopping by Peet's Coffee, then hit the markets up followed by a walk on the lake."