Jack London Square

Ever contemplated a new method of travel? A way to break up all of the traffic-filled roadtrips or miserable treks to the airport, only to wait 2-3 hours for a flight? Fed up with the same old highway views (or lack of views from the plane)? If so, this guide is for you! From the very first time I boarded an Amtrak Long Distance (LD) train in 2016 in Oakland, CA, I was immediately overcome with excitement, which quickly morphed into a passion. I have yet to go on a trip and not catch myself in a trance staring out the window on multiple occasions, failing to read/watch all of the books/shows I thought I would need or having a deep conversation with a complete stranger in the observation car. These experiences are the reason why I write this guide, to share and hopefully inform prospective travelers. If you are not familiar with Amtrak’s LD services, fear not! I intend to offer as much information about the train options, destinations, schedules and anything else I can think of to lead your potential adventure. If for some reason, I don’t cover something, feel free to reach out! This is just part one of a three-part guide and will cover the intro as well as the first five long-distance trains (numerically). Be sure to check out the other two sections, the individual more in-depth route guides, as well as 20 Questions for an Amtrak LD First Timer (all coming soon!).

Oakland is the city east of the SF Bay, often overlooked and misunderstood. It has a deep, complicated history and culture, but I have come to embrace and appreciate Oakland's diversity, where people of all different professions, skin colors, and economic backgrounds live. Not to mention, they have an absolutely incredible food scene, and plenty to see and do – which I have covered in detail in this guide. As a devoted food enthusiast and a resident of this vibrant city, my expertly curated city guide reveals my top 100 spots in the Oakland area. It covers where to eat, drink, and what to do. Eat --Bagels & Bakeries --High end Dining Restaurants --Contemporary Casual Restaurants --Fast Casual Restaurants --Brunch --Desserts Drink --Boba, Coffee & Tea --Bars --Breweries Do --Top activities in the Emeryville/Berkeley/Oakland area Stuck on what to order? I've included by food recommendations for each restaurant. I have already meticulously scrolled through Yelp to recommend you the must-try dishes.