Creative Cinema

Welcome to Camron-Stanford House, Oakland's last 19th century mansion on the shores of Lake Merritt. See the private residence and lifestyle of five prominent families who were instrumental in the development of Oakland and the statehood of California. The home has been authentically recreated through descriptions found in personal letters, newspaper articles, historical photographs, and architectural research.

Feel zen at the Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt. The garden contains one of the most beautiful open-air bonsai collections in the nation, with more than 150 outstanding bonsai trees. Tour this and other rare spectacular garden wonders such as a Japanese Garden, Mediterranean Garden, and Rhododendron Garden.

Spend some time hanging out at Café Van Kleef. Gather with politicians, artists, entrepreneurs and a host of other very interesting people at a café bar. This nightlife destination is fast becoming the hippest spot to mingle with intellectuals, enjoy elegant drinks, and hear the best from local blues, jazz and contemporary musicians.

The Fox Theater is a show stopper. The historic and iconic show palace elicits absolute awe from ticket holders from the moment they step inside the grand venue. The stage lights up with top entertainment acts, from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons to Broadway musical hits like Wicked.