The Fox Theater Oakland is an iconic 2,800-seat concert hall, repeatedly recognized as a favorite among fans and touring artists. This architectural jewel was formerly a movie house that after a $75 million renovation, reopened its doors in 2009. With its distinctive dome and Middle Eastern-inspired architecture, the Fox Theater is a captivating attribute to downtown Oakland given its resemblance to an Indian temple.
Aside from hosting many concerts by renowned artists such as Kylie Minogue, Bob Dylan, Green Day, and Metallica, to name a few, it also serves as the home of the Oakland School for the Arts. When attending an event at the Fox Theater, keep in mind they do not offer a dedicated parking facility, so you'll want to plan extra time to find parking.
If you don't want to waste your time driving around, and want to avoid parking tickets, your best bet is to reserve your parking spot ahead of time. You can do this with the SmartPass by Smarking. Our garage is just minutes away from the theater and it's a safe, fuss-free nearby parking option.
Find Parking Nearby
The Fox Oakland Theater is located on Telegraph Avenue, in the heart of downtown. Surrounded by many other entertainments, cultural and business centers, it is likely that you’ll spend some time driving around before you find a parking spot. Take a look at these options if you want to save some time.
Franklin Plaza Garage
The Franklin Plaza garage, located on 419 19th Street, between Franklin and Broadway is a popular parking option for visitors to the theater. The rates start at $2 for one hour and go up to $36 for the day. They have a special evening rate of $10 if you go in after 4 p.m. and out by 8 p.m. During events at the Fox Theater, this parking garage offers a $15 flat rate. Keep in mind it is only open on weekdays and availability is first come first served.
Telegraph Plaza Garage
Just a few blocks away from the Fox Oakland Theater, you'll find the Telegraph Plaza parking on 2100 Telegraph Ave. They charge $6 an hour with a daily maximum of $30 and an early bird rate of $15 if you arrive before 9:30 a.m. Keep in mind rates might increase during special events and this garage is also open only on weekdays.
Rotunda Garage
The Rotunda garage is located on 1616 San Pablo Avenue, just one block away from the theater. The rates go from $4 for 30 minutes, up to $28 for the day. Only open Monday - Friday but their hours and days of operations might change depending on special events, so it's worth checking it out if you're looking for a nearby option.
Street Parking
There are many metered parking spaces in downtown Oakland, and the meters usually run between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday - Saturday. Parking in metered spaces on Sundays is free. If you are looking to park your car for free, stay updated on-street parking rules and color-coding to avoid parking tickets. And of course, head to the theater with enough time to spare as it could take you a while to find a space available.
Other Popular Destinations In The Area
Oakland's downtown is a vital meeting point for all cultures where you will find a variety of entertainment venues, restaurants, and an amazing art scene. If you are in the area for a few days, or have time to spare after your event, enjoy some of these locations within walking distance of the Smarking Garage.
Oakland City Center
Oakland's main shopping, dining, and business hub is a must-visit if you are in the Bay Area. With class-A office spaces, an up-scale racquet and fitness club, many restaurants, and an excellent retail area, the Oakland City Center will keep you busy for hours. You can also catch some outdoor dance and musical theater presentations at the Plaza Stage.
The Smarking parking garage at Oakland City Center is less than a 10-minute walk away from the venue. If you are looking for a safe, accessible, and affordable parking option, this is it. With the SmartPass you can beat the crowds by reserving and paying for your parking spot ahead of time. Just scan your QR code for in/out access throughout the day and feel free to stick around even a couple of hours after your event at the Theater.
Discover Oakland City Center parking here.
Frank Ogawa Plaza
If you need a break, head out to the Frank Ogawa Plaza located on San Pablo Avenue at the cross of Broadway and 14th street. On the west side, you'll find the Oakland City Hall, and all around the plaza, you can admire some Beaux-Arts-styled buildings from the early 20th century. There's also an amphitheater where you might catch some public gatherings or performances.
Oakland Ice Center
Located at 519 18th Street, the Oakland Ice Center is a great way to spend an evening with friends or family experiencing the Bay Area's best ice skating facilities. The rink offers daily public skating hours as well as skating, hockey, and speed skating classes. They also have pick-up hockey and freestyle sessions available. And if you're planning to stop by for some fun and entertainment, you have to be there early. Also, make sure to check out parking by the Oakland Ice Center in advance or you will have trouble finding one on the day.
Paramount Theatre
Just two blocks away from the Fox Oakland Theater, you'll find the Paramount Theatre, another one of San Francisco Bay Area's main performing arts venues. Check out parking options near Paramount Theatre.
It was declared a National Historic Landmark and it is an ode to Art Deco in the downtown area. It hosts year-round music concerts, movies, lectures, and classic film screenings. It is also home to the Oakland Ballet and Symphony. If you are around, don't hesitate to check their listing and catch a show if you're lucky. There are a ton of music events a short drive away at the Oakland Arena.
Preservation Park
The Preservation Park is a distinguished meeting and event venue in the area. It is a unique Victorian neighborhood, where 16 historic residences were transformed into a cutting-edge workplace and event space on 2.6 acres. It's next to Oakland's business center, two blocks away from the City Center BART Station, and it's open to the public during the day as well as available for rent to host parties, weddings, or meetings.
Jack London Square
Jack London Square has been a well-known landmark since the mid-1800s. It is also the only publicly accessible waterfront and marina area in Oakland located along the estuary connecting to San Francisco Bay. It offers numerous outdoor activities, food, special events, and entertainment for tourists and locals.
Discover all available parking alternatives at Jack London Square here.