Complete Guide to Parking in Oakland
Parking Options in Oakland
Oakland is an active and densely populated city, so it’s no surprise that parking can be tricky. Let our Oakland parking guide help you navigate the city’s parking options. Consider the following as you plan your trip:
- Metered Street Parking: The city uses single-space meters, multispace kiosks, and pay-by-plate kiosks for street parking. You can easily pay using coins, your card, or your smartphone. Paid parking hours in most of the city are 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday through Saturday and noon to 8:00 PM on Sundays. (Source)
- Free Street Parking: The city has free parking options outside of paid parking hours and on federal holidays, such as Thanksgiving Day, Memorial Day, and Christmas Day.
- Garages and Lots: Figuring out where to park in Oakland is often easier with a parking garage. The city is home to dozens of garages and lots where you can park your car for an extended stay. The rates depend on the garage, the time of year, and local demand. (Source)
- Valet Parking: You can find valet parking services throughout the city, either as independent businesses or as add-on services at your hotel.
Important Parking Laws in Oakland
- Pay Attention to Curb Colors: Red curbs mean no parking is allowed, while yellow curbs are strictly for commercial loading and unloading. White curbs allow you to unload passengers in three minutes or less. Green curbs don’t allow standing or parking for more than 12 minutes between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM (except on Sundays or holidays). Blue curbs are for people with disabilities. (Source)
- Downtown Demand-Responsive Parking: This program changes the meter costs for downtown Oakland parking depending on daily demand. You can find lower prices in Value Zones, while Premium Zones cost a little more. (Source)
- Don’t Block Sidewalks: Oakland is very strict about mobility management. Since the city has a major problem with people parking on sidewalks, you run the risk of a fee if you’re not paying attention. (Source)
Resources for Finding Parking in Oakland
Oakland parking is easier with a few resources on your side. Try these useful tools for your Avis Oakland car rental:
- Avis App: Download our free app to get fast access to different parking spots.
- OaklandCA.gov Parking & Vehicles: The official city site is a great place to learn about parking rules, tickets, and availability.
- OaklandCA.gov Find and Pay for Parking: You can also learn about different meter types and payment options.
Special Event Parking in Oakland
Parking at Major Venues in Oakland
Fox Theater
The popular Fox Theater has extremely competitive street parking. While you may get luckier on a weekday, you’ll have a hard time finding a free spot during weekends or holidays. The organization actively recommends using the BART transportation system and walking the rest of the way. You can also find a couple of paid parking lots nearby. (Source)
Oakland Museum of California
The Oakland Museum of California has a garage with paid parking, including an early-bird discount fee. There are ADA options as well as parking for families with strollers. If the lot is full, there are nearby parking garage options from which you can walk to the museum. (Source)
Jack London Square
There are several garages where you can park your car, then walk the rest of the way. You can also use local transportation like Amtrak, BART, or the nearby ferry. The nearby water shuttle is free and is a popular choice for travelers who want to enjoy the view on the way. (Source)
What to Expect When Parking at Annual Events in Oakland
LakeFest Oakland
Learning how to park in Oakland can sometimes mean weighing your options in terms of safety. LakeFest Oakland recommends using a parking garage (with free shuttle service) or ride-share service due to the risk of on-street car break-ins. The AC Transit bus line also drops you off very close to the festival. (Source)
Autumn Lights Festival
Paid parking is available along Bellevue Ave around Lakeside Park and The Gardens at Lake Merritt, where the festival is held. Parking fees are typically $2 for two hours or $10 for all-day parking on weekdays and $5 for all-day parking on weekends. Parking fills up fast, so arrive early or consider using a parking garage and walking 10–15 minutes. (Source)
Note: Information on this page provided as helpful hints only. Parking conditions and laws are subject to change. Parking not guaranteed.