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5 Fascinating Facts About Downtown Oakland You Might Not Know

At 19th & Harrison, we believe living beautifully means being deeply connected to the place you call home. Downtown Oakland is more than a vibrant urban center—it’s a tapestry of culture, creativity, and history. Whether you're a new resident or a long-time local, these five fascinating facts about Downtown Oakland will help you tap into the City Pulse and embrace the full Oakland Heart of this iconic neighborhood.

Paramount Theatre: An Art Deco Masterpiece Steps from Your Door

Located just a 5-minute walk from 19th & Harrison Apartments, the Paramount Theatre at 2025 Broadway stands as a testament to Oakland's rich cultural heritage. Opened in 1931, it was the largest multi-purpose theater on the West Coast at the time, boasting a seating capacity of over 3,000. Designed by renowned architect Timothy L. Pflueger, the theater showcases exquisite Art Deco architecture, featuring intricate mosaics, ornate chandeliers, and a grand lobby that transports visitors to a bygone era. Today, the Paramount hosts a variety of events, including concerts, film screenings, and performances by the Oakland Symphony and Ballet. Living near this iconic venue offers residents unparalleled access to world-class entertainment and a deep connection to Oakland's artistic legacy.

Learn more: paramountoakland.org

Lake Merritt: America's First Official Wildlife Refuge

Just a 10-minute stroll from 19th & Harrison, Lake Merritt is not only a picturesque urban lake but also holds the distinction of being the first official wildlife refuge in the United States, designated in 1870. Spanning 155 acres, the lake is a haven for birdwatchers, joggers, and those seeking a serene escape from city life. The surrounding parklands feature the Rotary Nature Center, Children's Fairyland, and the historic Camron-Stanford House. Residents can enjoy a 3.4-mile walking path encircling the lake, offering breathtaking views and a daily dose of nature's tranquility amidst the bustling cityscape.

Oakland: The Birthplace of the Popsicle

In 1905, a chilly evening in Oakland led to a sweet discovery that would delight generations: the invention of the popsicle. Eleven-year-old Frank Epperson accidentally left a mixture of powdered soda and water, with a stirring stick, on his porch overnight. The next morning, he found the concoction frozen solid, creating what he initially called the "Epsicle." Years later, his children referred to the treat as "Pop's 'sicle," and the name stuck. Epperson patented his frozen creation in 1924, and the popsicle quickly became a popular treat across the country. This serendipitous invention is a testament to Oakland's spirit of innovation and creativity.

Grand Lake Farmers Market: A Saturday Tradition

Every Saturday, the Grand Lake Farmers Market transforms Splash Pad Park into a vibrant hub of activity, just a 15-minute walk from 19th & Harrison. With over 100 vendors, the market offers a diverse selection of organic produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods. Set against the backdrop of the park's sustainable design by Oakland's own Walter Hood, visitors can enjoy live music, community gatherings, and a true taste of Oakland's local flavor. This weekly event embodies the city's commitment to community, sustainability, and the celebration of local artisans.

Market details: agriculturalinstitute.org

The Tribune Tower: Oakland's Timeless Beacon

Rising 305 feet above the city, the Tribune Tower is a defining feature of Downtown Oakland's skyline and a symbol of the city's rich history and resilience. Located at 409 13th Street, this 22-story Renaissance Revival masterpiece was completed in 1923 and originally served as the headquarters for the Oakland Tribune newspaper. Designed by architect Edward T. Foulkes, the tower's design was inspired by the campanile of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, Italy. Its distinctive green copper roof and four-sided clock face have made it an enduring landmark. 

One of the tower's most intriguing stories involves the legendary escape artist Harry Houdini, who in 1923 performed a daring stunt by escaping from a straitjacket while suspended upside down from the ninth floor of the building. 

Over the years, the Tribune Tower has housed various tenants, including radio station KLX and, more recently, the Tribune Tavern restaurant. Despite suffering damage during the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, the building was restored and continues to stand as a testament to Oakland's architectural heritage. 

Live Beautifully at 19th & Harrison

Living at 19th & Harrison means immersing yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Downtown Oakland. From historic landmarks and natural retreats to bustling markets and artistic expressions, the neighborhood offers a rich array of experiences just steps from your door. Our modern studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, allowing you to fully embrace the City Pulse and the Oakland Heart.

Explore our floor plans and discover your new home in Downtown Oakland

These sites are walkable or a short transit ride away—perfect for exploring after work or on weekends in your Downtown Oakland apartment life.

1. Remember Them: Champions for Humanity Monument

• Location: Henry J. Kaiser Memorial Park, near 19th Avenue & Telegraph Avenue.

• Why It’s Special: A massive bronze monument honoring 25 figures—both local and global—who have championed human rights, peace, and freedom over the last 150 years. It features tactile elements and quotes in Braille, designed to engage all senses.

• Fun Fact: Cast in four sections, the monument weighs about 60,000 pounds and spans 36 feet high by 52 feet long.

2. Tribune Tower

• Location: 409 13th Street, Downtown Oakland.

• Why It’s Special: Historic 22‑story Renaissance Revival building, once home to the Oakland Tribune newspaper. Known for its striking clock tower and copper-green roof, it remains a beacon in the Oakland skyline.

• Fun Fact: Harry Houdini reportedly performed a straitjacket escape suspended from the tower’s ninth floor in the 1920s.

3. Frank H. Ogawa Plaza (formerly City Hall Plaza)

• Location: Intersection of Broadway, 14th Street, and San Pablo Avenue, Downtown Oakland.

• Why It’s Special: A large public square next to City Hall featuring a raised lawn (“The Commons”) and an amphitheater (“The Forum”). It’s a gathering place for festivals, protests, civic events, and community performances.

• Fun Fact: Named after Frank H. Ogawa, the first Japanese American to serve on Oakland’s City Council.

4. The Oakland Buddha / Pháp Duyên Tự Statue

• Location: Traffic median at East 19th Street & 11th Avenue, Oakland.

• Why It’s Special: Started by a resident to discourage illegal dumping, the statue became a community shrine that local Vietnamese residents maintain. The area also saw dramatic decreases in dumping and other street issues after its installation.

• Fun Fact: Despite some controversy over its placement, the statue has become a symbol of community care—people leave offerings, maintain the statue, and treat it with respect.
  
  

5. Chapel of the Chimes

• Location: 4499 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland (nearer to the hills, but often visited by Oakland residents, especially around significant dates.)

• Why It’s Special: Designed by Julia Morgan with Spanish Gothic elements, fountains, ornamental gardens, mosaics, and an ornate cemetery setting. It’s both beautiful and contemplative.

• Fun Fact: Hosts seasonal musical events like “Garden of Memory”—a walk-through performance at solstices, blending sound and setting in evocative ways.
  
  

6. Clay Building

• Location: 1001–1007 Clay Street, Downtown Oakland.

• Why It’s Special: A historic three‑story brick building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s been a Levi Strauss factory, cigar factory, and more, showing the industrial and commercial layering of Oakland’s past.

• Fun Fact: After the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, it was damaged but later repaired, preserving its heritage for over a century.
  
  

7. Vitality Sculpture at Ogawa Plaza

• Location: In Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Downtown Oakland

• Why It’s Special: Created by artist Bruce Beasley, this sculpture is one of the iconic public artworks of Oakland. It stands near City Hall and complements the civic energy of the plaza, combining modern art with public gathering space.
  
  

8. Murals & Street Art around City Center / Uptown

• Location: Various walls, alleys, and building facades in Uptown and near 19th Street BART and Lake Merritt

• Why It’s Special: Oakland's mural scene is alive and growing. Artists have used public walls to tell stories of community, culture, and social justice. As you walk through the neighborhood, you’ll see bold colors, compelling narratives, and creative energy everywhere.

• Fun Fact: Many murals were commissioned after the Loma Prieta earthquake as part of revitalization efforts, giving blank city walls new life.

9. Breonna Taylor Bust: A Symbol of Strength in Bronze

• Location: Latham Square at Broadway & Telegraph Avenue, Downtown Oakland

• Why It’s Special: Created by local artist Leo Carson, this powerful bust honors Breonna Taylor and serves as a lasting tribute to her life and legacy. Installed in 2022, the sculpture was intentionally cast in bronze and steel to reflect strength, resilience, and permanence—core values echoed throughout the Oakland community.

• Fun Fact: Unlike the original ceramic version, the new statue includes a reinforced steel armature and a concrete-infused pedestal, ensuring it will withstand both time and the elements. It stands about 3 feet tall and continues to be a place for reflection, remembrance, and social justice dialogue.

Connect with Oakland’s Legacy from 19th & Harrison

Living in apartments in Downtown Oakland means you’re surrounded daily by history, art, and powerful stories. These monuments are not just landmarks—they’re the backdrop for your Oakland experience, tied to culture, resilience, and the very identity of our city.

Savor the Flavors: Top Restaurants Near 19th & Harrison Apartments in Oakland, CA

Living at 19th & Harrison Apartments places you at the center of Uptown Oakland’s dynamic culinary scene. From globally-inspired cuisine to neighborhood cafes and waterfront gems, you’re steps away from an array of flavors. Whether you're new to the area or rediscovering local favorites, this guide spotlights the best eateries within walking distance—complete with standout dishes and real reviews

1.Parche

Address: 2295 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612

Cuisine: Modern Colombian

Distance: ~5-minute walk

Vibe & Menu:
Parche delivers a vibrant, contemporary dining experience that reimagines traditional Colombian cuisine. The ambiance is upbeat, with stylish decor and lively Latin music enhancing the culinary journey.

Signature Dish:
Arepas con Chorizo – House-made corn cakes topped with bold Colombian sausage, crema, and zesty aji sauce.

Review Highlight:

"Every bite is an explosion of flavor and creativity. This is Colombian cuisine like you’ve never tasted before." — Yelp reviewer Jamie L.

2. Yoshi's Oakland

Address: 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland, CA 94607

Cuisine: Japanese/Sushi

Distance: ~15-minute walk

Vibe & Menu:
Yoshi’s is a sophisticated blend of fine Japanese dining and world-class jazz. It’s an upscale yet welcoming space that makes for an unforgettable evening.

Signature Dish:
Chef’s Omakase Sushi Platter – A curated assortment of the freshest sushi selected by the chef.

Review Highlight:

"Even if you are not crazy about jazz music, you will soon fall in love with Yoshi's intimate yet casual setting." — Yelp reviewer Alex M.

3. Tamarack

Address: 1501 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612

Cuisine: New American

Distance: ~7-minute walk

Vibe & Menu:
This rustic-chic gem serves up seasonal, locally sourced dishes in a cozy yet contemporary space. Ideal for dinner dates or gatherings with friends.

Signature Dish:
Braised Short Ribs – Fall-apart tender, served over creamy polenta with root vegetables.

Review Highlight:

"The Mississippi pot roast was amazing. I just want to curl up in a blankie and take a nap now." — Yelp reviewer Sarah K.

Pho 84

Address: 354 17th St, Oakland, CA 94612

Cuisine: Vietnamese

Distance: ~6-minute walk

Vibe & Menu:
A beloved neighborhood staple, Pho 84 offers authentic Vietnamese flavors in a warm, no-frills setting perfect for comfort food cravings.

Signature Dish:
Beef Pho Dac Biet – A deeply savory broth with steak, brisket, tendon, and meatballs.

Review Highlight:

"They have some of the best pho in the area. It is pricy but you do get what you pay for, for service and quality." — Yelp reviewer Kevin T.

5. The Forge

Address: 66 Franklin St, Oakland, CA 94607

Cuisine: American / Wood-Fired Pizza

Distance: ~15-minute walk

Vibe & Menu:
The Forge is a casual yet refined waterfront eatery with panoramic Bay views and a focus on quality ingredients and house-made components.

Signature Dish:
Margherita Pizza – Baked in a wood-fired oven with fresh mozzarella and basil on a crisp, airy crust.

Review Highlight:

"So delicious. They don't have a huge menu but the food that they do have is worth it." — Yelp reviewer Emily R.

6. Ordinaire

Address: 3354 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610

Cuisine: Wine Bar / Small Plates

Distance: ~20-minute walk

Vibe & Menu:
Minimalist and relaxed, Ordinaire specializes in natural wines and thoughtfully crafted small plates. It's a haven for wine lovers and casual sippers alike.

Signature Dish:
Cheese and Charcuterie Board – Local cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal accompaniments.

Review Highlight:

"This is such a perfect, quaint little neighborhood classic. The service is amazing." — Yelp reviewer Laura S.

7. Aroma Cafe

Address: 1901 Harrison St, Oakland, CA 94612

Cuisine: Café / Bakery

Distance: ~2-minute walk

Vibe & Menu:
A friendly café ideal for mornings or quiet afternoons, offering quality espresso drinks, fresh sandwiches, and baked treats.

Signature Dish:
Almond Croissant – Buttery, flaky, and filled with just the right amount of sweet almond paste.

Review Highlight:

"The staff was super friendly and greeted us right as we entered the shop." — Yelp reviewer Daniel M.

8. Agave Uptown

Address: 2135 Franklin St, Oakland, CA 94612

Cuisine: Oaxacan Mexican

Distance: ~5-minute walk

Vibe & Menu:
Bright and welcoming, Agave Uptown offers authentic Oaxacan cuisine in a vibrant space. Expect colorful decor and bold flavors with every bite.

Signature Dish:
Mole Negro – A rich, velvety sauce made from over 20 ingredients, served over tender chicken.

Review Highlight:

"The mole negro is a must-try—rich, flavorful, and authentic. A true taste of Oaxaca in Oakland." — Yelp reviewer Maria S.

9. Popoca

Address: 906 Washington St, Oakland, CA 94607

Cuisine: Salvadoran

Distance: ~15-minute walk

Vibe & Menu:
Popoca fuses traditional Salvadoran recipes with modern presentation. The cozy yet sleek space features an open kitchen and wood-fired flair.

Signature Dish:
Pupusas – Griddled masa cakes filled with pork, cheese, or beans, served with curtido and salsa roja.

Review Highlight:

"Best pupusas I've ever had! The flavors are authentic, and the ambiance is just lovely." — Yelp reviewer Daniel R.

10. Mua

Address: 2442A Webster St, Oakland, CA 94612

Cuisine: New American / Bar

Distance: ~8-minute walk

Vibe & Menu:
Edgy and artsy, Mua combines bold decor, high energy, and eclectic bites with a great cocktail program. Perfect for late nights and group hangs.

Signature Dish:
Duck Confit – Crispy duck leg with seasonal vegetables and a savory reduction sauce.

Review Highlight:

"Mua's duck confit is out of this world—crispy, tender, and packed with flavor. A must-visit spot in Oakland." — Yelp reviewer Angela T.

Explore the Flavors, Live the Lifestyle

Hungry yet? Living at 19th & Harrison Apartments means you’re always just a short stroll away from your next delicious discovery. From casual bites to upscale dinners, your new neighborhood has it all.

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Living in Downtown Oakland apartments like 19th & Harrison means fall is more than a season—it’s an experience. With so many exciting events just steps away, you’ll quickly fall in love with the lifestyle and local culture that make Oakland such a vibrant place to call home.

Whether you're new to the neighborhood or a long-time local, here are seven upcoming fall events that make living in apartments near Lake Merritt and 19th Street BART something truly special.

1. Oakland Style Week – October 8‑12, 2025

Oakland’s signature fashion and culture event is back this fall. Oakland Style Week showcases the city’s dynamic creative scene with five days of runway shows, music events, culinary experiences, and art pop-ups. Living in apartments in Downtown Oakland means you're just minutes from this citywide celebration of local talent and energy.
Learn more: Oakland Style Week

2. Autumn Lights Festival at Lake Merritt

Just a short walk from many Oakland apartments near Lake Merritt, the Autumn Lights Festival transforms the Gardens at Lake Merritt into a magical space filled with glowing art installations, fire dancers, and live music. This family-friendly event has become one of the most beloved outdoor traditions in Oakland.
Details: Autumn Lights Festival

3. Fox Theater Concert Series – Uptown Oakland

Living at 19th & Harrison Apartments means having Oakland’s most iconic live music venue just blocks away. The Fox Theater hosts a stellar fall concert lineup featuring indie stars, touring bands, and local favorites. A perfect night out without needing a car—just another perk of Oakland apartment living.
Upcoming shows: Fox Theater, Oakland

4. Oakland First Fridays – Telegraph Avenue

If you're searching for community, art, and culture, Oakland First Fridays is a can’t-miss event. These monthly street festivals bring art, food trucks, live music, and local vendors to Telegraph Avenue. It’s a local favorite among residents of Downtown Oakland apartments and a great way to connect with the creative community.
Oakland First Fridays info

5. Oakland Museum of California – Fall Fridays

Just a few minutes from most Lake Merritt apartments, the Oakland Museum of California hosts special Friday evening events this fall. Enjoy open galleries, food trucks, and performances while connecting with the community. It’s a welcoming, cultural experience perfect for apartment dwellers looking to dive deeper into Oakland’s history and diversity.
OMCA Events

6. Oakland Pride Parade & Festival – September 7, 2025

One of the biggest celebrations of the year, Oakland Pride features vibrant parades, live performances, family zones, and inclusive community vibes. Many residents of LGBTQ+ friendly apartments in Oakland love having this iconic celebration right in the heart of the city. Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time ally, it’s an event worth experiencing.
Oakland Pride

7. Arts Alive: Oakland Style Week Art Tours – October 11, 2025

This guided event during Oakland Style Week offers curated bus and walking tours through the city’s thriving public art scene. Great for those who live in Oakland apartments near art galleries and murals, it’s an inspiring way to experience the culture that makes Oakland one of the most expressive cities in the Bay Area.
Arts Alive Tour Info

Fall for Oakland at 19th & Harrison

Fall is one of the most exciting times to live in Oakland—and at 19th & Harrison Apartments, you’re in the center of it all. From glowing lakeside festivals and world-class concerts to fashion shows and community parades, everything you love about the season is just outside your door.

Looking for an apartment that lets you live beautifully in Oakland all year long? Explore our modern studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans today.