Downtown Oakland

Downtown Oakland’s home to Oakland’s business district and extraordinary Art Deco buildings, most notably the Paramount Theatre, Floral Depot Building, and the recently renovated Fox Theater.

The jewel in the crown is The Paramount by renowned architect Timothy Pflueger. It is the most extraordinary Art Deco creation I’ve ever seen and its interior shouldn’t be missed. Join one of the behind-the-scenes Saturday tours twice a month. Classic movie nights are “the best show in town” — only $5 for a newsreel, cartoon, chance at the “Dec-O-Win” and a movie. Be sure to get there early to see the mighty Wurlitzer rise from the orchestra pit just to serenade you – you’ll feel it as well as hear it.

The Magnin and Breuner Buildings (look for the bas-relief above the door), Flora, in the cobalt blue Floral Deco Building, and the Fox Theater are other nearby deco gems.