The Hampton Inn Oakland is conveniently located less than a 15-min drive from the Oakland International Airport, a 20-min train ride from downtown San Francisco, and right in the heart of Oakland downtown. The excellent hotel amenities include a fitness center, free wifi, free hot breakfast, pet-friendly rooms, and a business center, making it a popular option in the area for tourists and business people alike.
While the hotel's location will put you within walking distance of many attractions, restaurants and entertainment venues, finding a place to park will not be as simple. There are some metered street parking options in the area, but you'll probably have to drive around for a while before you find an available space. To save time, your best bet is to plan your trip in advance and head to one of the nearby garages. Read on to discover Downtown Oakland's best parking locations.
Note: Beat the crowds and reserve your parking spot ahead of time with Smarking. Get your SmartPass to have a parking space waiting for you in a safe and nearby garage. Stop driving around and park smart.
Park Near the Hampton Inn Oakland Downtown City Center
Parking in the downtown Oakland area can get tricky. You will see many parking garages in the area, but keep in mind there are countless hotels, attractions and events happening year-round so there's no guarantee there will be a space for you. Let's review the best garages near the hotel to make your day easier as well as the different parking rates in Downtown Oakland garages.
Valet Parking
While the Hampton Inn doesn't have a designated parking lot (no self-parking), they do offer Valet parking services for $30 per night. Remember that the valet service is not available between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m.
The Franklin 88
This convenient parking garage is located just a couple of minutes away from the Hampton Inn, on 989 Franklin St. Their parking rates start at $1.50 for the first hour and go up to $14 as a daily maximum. If you arrive before 8:30 a.m. you can get the early bird flat rate of $10, or if you're in after 5 p.m. the evening flat rate is $6. To park overnight you'll have to pay an additional $10. The garage is open 24/7 and you cannot reserve your spot ahead of time, so plan some extra time in case it's full.
Trans Pacific Centre
Another nearby option is the Trans Pacific Centre garage located on 1000 Broadway, also just a few steps away from the hotel. This garage is only open Monday - Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. The rate for the first 15 minutes is $2 going up to a daily maximum of $24 and an evening flat rate of $10 if you go in after 3 p.m.
In case this garage is full, you may be able to find available parking nearby Lafayette Square Park. It is convenient since it's only 3 minutes away.
Oakland Convention Center
This is also a popular option to park in the Oakland downtown area, located on 550 10th St, two blocks from the hotel. It offers subterranean parking at $3 for the first 20 minutes and it goes up to $40 for 24-hour parking. The facility is open 24/7.
City Center Garage
The City Center parking garage is your best bet for daily parking when staying at the Hampton Inn Oakland or spending a day in the downtown area. It is located on 525 14th street, just a short walk away from the hotel. With the SmartPass by Smarking, you can reserve and pay for your parking days ahead of time, and you'll have a designated spot waiting for you in a safe, underground garage.
Once you reserve, you'll receive a QR code that will give you in and out access to the garage throughout the day, so you'll be free to explore the area without worrying about how much time you have left. Take the stress out of parking with Smarking.
What Else to See In Downtown Oakland
Whether you're staying at the Hampton Inn, attending an event or a business meeting, stick around if you have the time and enjoy some of the most popular destinations in downtown Oakland. Here are some of the top attractions to visit.
Jack London Square
Jack London Square has been a famous Oakland landmark since the 1800s. It is located along the Oakland waterfront, offering a variety of outdoor activities, special events, dining, and entertainment options for tourists and locals alike. Take a day off to paddle a kayak around the estuary, go shopping, or tour the two historic vessels on the ground; the Lightship Relief and the USS Potomac. If you're around on Sundays, don't miss the weekly Farmers' Market where you'll enjoy various local produce and food craft products. Discover Jack London Square parking here.
The Fox Theater
The Fox Theater is an iconic performance venue, home of the Oakland School of the Arts located just a few minutes from the Hampton Inn. It is a masterpiece of architecture built in 1928 that nowadays hosts year-round events and concerts by world-renowned artists. The Fox is consistently a favorite among touring performers thanks to its jaw-dropping original elements, cutting-edge Meyer sound system, and capacity of up to 2,800.
Lake Merritt
A short 15-minute walk, just east of downtown will get you to Lake Merritt, one of the most distinctive urban areas in the country. This tidal lagoon has a three-mile shoreline housing the United States' oldest wildlife refuge dating back to 1870. It's a great place to spend the day boating, exploring nature, and visiting the Grand Lake Theater. There's something for everyone, including museums, a children's amusement park, a bonsai garden, and even a tiny beach area.
Oakland City Center
Another great option to spend the day with family and friends. The Oakland City Center is the Bay Area's greenest Class A office space, business center, and entertainment hub. With the right mix of ongoing concerts, local-favorite dining and shopping options, this wonderful plaza has all you need to treat yourself.