The Grand Lake district could be considered the center of Oakland. Defined by the major thoroughfares of Grand Avenue and Lakeshore Boulevard, which run along the north and south sides of Lake Merritt and towards the Oakland foothills, this bustling community is a large residential and commercial area.

Just east of highway 580, both Grand and Lakeshore offer a wide variety of shops, markets, dining, entertainment and professional service imaginable. Grand Lake not only serves Oaklanders as a whole, but is also a destination from outlying cities. The farmers market, held every Saturday morning opposite the Grand Lake Theater, has become an institution for locals and visitors alike.

The areas adjacent to Lake Merritt, such as Adams Point and lower Lakeshore, offer mostly condominium and apartment living, with the occasional grand old family home from the turn of the last century mixed in. The proximity to the Grand Lake shopping, as well as Oakland’s downtown business center and BART make this a very popular location.

Heading towards the foothills and the City of Piedmont, there are larger homes and fewer apartment buildings along the peaceful and tree lined side streets, many of which are wind through the gentle hills. Crocker Highlands and Trestle Glen are the southern neighboring communities and Piedmont Avenue is to the north.

The comfortable life-styles, gracious homes, nearby conveniences and transportation give the Grand Lake district of Oakland a well-deserved spot near the top of the list.