On a Tank of Gas: August

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Jack London Square

Historic Panache

By Janis Dice
Often overshadowed by San Francisco’s scenic sites, Oakland’s Jack London Square is turning the spotlight toward the east side of the Bay.
    Less than a two-hour drive from Sacramento, this hub of lodging, restaurants, nightclubs and shops near the shore of the Oakland-Alameda Estuary is a historic district pulsing with contemporary panache. Jack London Square bears the name of the renowned writer who lived and worked in Oakland as a lad. Hanging out at the docks, he soaked up seafaring tales told by colorful characters. Years later, their likenesses appeared in his classic stories of travel and adventure, such as “Call of the Wild,” “White Fang” and “The Sea Wolf.”
    Jack London Square dates to the Gold Rush, when tall ships took on provisions in the harbor and ferries provided twice-weekly service to San Francisco. Ferries still operate here, carrying passengers to Alameda, Angel Island State Park, San Francisco’s Pier 41, and AT&T Park, where the Giants play Major League Baseball. The square also accesses Amtrak rail service and local transit systems, making it a central base camp for a weekend of exploits on either side of the Bay.
    The Waterfront Plaza Hotel is a good spot to drop anchor or sail off for a day of exploration. Hugging the marina, this accommodating inn has a fitness center, sauna, pool, and adjoining bakery, bar and bistro. Convenient for business and pleasure, there are conference and meeting rooms, plus complimentary WiFi internet access and free technical support.
    Guests can enjoy a respite without leaving the grounds of the hotel, or they can venture out to unearth the treasures within easy walking distance. Parking at the square is pricey but, once settled, the car can stay put while you wander.
    Mariners might enjoy visiting the presidential USS Potomac, Franklin Roosevelt’s “Floating White House.” Call (510) 672-1215 or visit the ship’s website for tour and cruise schedules.
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