The largest urban saltwater lake in the United State and one of the oldest federally established wildlife refuges, Lake Merritt is a 155-acre oasis surrounded by parks and outdoor attractions. At nightfall, the spectacular "Necklace of Lights" illuminates the 3.5-mile perimeter of the lake.

You can eat pizza and drink beer or soda while you watch movies at the nearby Parkway Theatre. You can also enjoy trendy restaurants, jazz clubs and the historic Grand Lake Theatre along Grand and Lakeshore Avenues. Pie ala Mode at the long time neighborhood favorite, the Merritt Bakery/Restaurant, can't be beat. Jack London Square, and bustling Chinatown, are nearby, as are The Oakland Museum and Laney College. BART has a Lake Merritt stop and there is easy access for the 80, 980, and 580 freeways making this area popular for commuters to San Francisco.