Lake Merritt, Oakland

Oakland Museum, situated at the southwest corner of Lake Merritt contains interesting collections of the natural history, history and folk-art of California (extensive grounds). It is the only museum devoted to California's history and culture as well as exclusively to works by Californian artists.The origins of this museum go back to the year 1910 when the Oakland Public Museum was built, followed a few years later by the Oakland Art Gallery. The present museum, a largely subterranean building, was designed by the well-known architect Kevin Roche.This limitation to one theme was dictated largely by economic necessity, for Oakland was unable to compete with other museums for more expensive paintings.ExhibitsThe top floor - through which you enter the museum - is devoted to the works of Californian painters.Below that you will find a large exhibition room on the history of California. On the bottom floor (the word floor is not quite right, because the levels are arranged terrace-wise one below the other) the theme is the state's natural history. There is also an auditorium.In addition to Californian painters, photographers are also well represented, including Anselm Adams, Dorothea Lange, Edward Weston and Edward Muybridge.

Camron-Stanford House on Lake Merritt is a Victorian mansion built in 1876. It takes its names from two early notable residents - the Camrons and the Josiah Stanfords. The first family built the house; the other occupied it for the longest period.

Lakeside Park is home to a saltwater tidal lake in the center of Oakland. Boat rentals, wind-surfing and sailing lessons are available.