Oakopolis is one of the popular galleries located in Uptown Oakland's Arts District. This is a non-profit gallery that is artist-run and that is dedicated to creativity and encourages it through its exhibitions. In addition to the exhibitions, Oakopolis also offers workshops and is an integral part of Oakland's first Friday Art Murmur.
Slate Contemporary Gallery is one of the plethora of galleries located in Uptown's Arts District. The gallery is always hosting rotating exhibitions featuring emerging contemporary artists. You will find all kinds of mediums in the exhibitions, of which they host six solo exhibitions per year. As far as group exhibitions, they host two per year, always themed, as well as some exhibitions of artists not part of the gallery's core group.
Just north of the Golden Gate Bridge is Mount Tamalpais State Park, a popular hiking area and home of some of the best views of the Bay Area. There are many hikes over varied terrain, including oak and Douglas fir forest, vast grasslands and the distinctive redwood trees. The views of the Pacific are jaw-dropping - once the fog has cleared, that is. Visitors can drive into the park and enjoy the sights, including the Mt. Tamalpais Watershed, the Mountain Theater (a stone amphitheater which can accommodate over 3000 people) or they can park in the many parking lots throughout the park and hike down to Stinson Beach. For a less strenuous hike, venture a little down a winding trail high above the ocean, with incredible views of San Francisco. While entry to the park is free, certain areas charge a nominal parking fee.
The Morcom Rose Garden is a beautiful space of over seven acres located near Grand Avenue. Among the roses are interesting features like the amphitheater, which is frequently used for weddings, and sparkling fountains. Kids will love running through the rows among the colors and fragrances of the garden. Sunday mornings are popular with families at the rose garden who often bring breakfast or brunch picnics with them to enjoy in the garden.
A trip to Angel Island is incomplete without a visit to the Immigration Station. This is the site where a large number of Asian and other immigrants were detained in the early 20th Century. Nicknamed the "Ellis Island of the West" after its New York counterpart, this station features recreated rooms with bunk beds as well as spaces and original graffiti that are a window into the life of an immigrant. A part of the National Register of Historic Places, the station is an important piece of the island's history.
The Rare Barrel on Parker Street is taking the world of breweries by storm by introducing Sour Beers that is soon to become all the rage. This unconventional beer is a result of a unique fermentation and aging process assisted by certain micro-organisms that help develop its tart flavor. The Rare Barrel has a cellar that can house about 850 barrel and is equipped with the ideal conditions, dedicated to the production of sour beer. Founders Jay Goodwin, Brad Goodwin and Alex Wallash's passion for experimenting with their favorite beverage led them to create this unique concoction that is now being appreciated by major players in the brewery business. An ideal place for the beer enthusiasts, make sure to visit The Rare Barrel to be a part of the 'Beer Revolution.'