Музей Каліфорнії в Окленді

If you want to experience the real Oakland, come here on Friday nights when the museum throws its weekly party. The courtyards are packed with families for the live music, dancing, food trucks, and outdoor amphitheater. It’s really a community party, with a diverse crowd. Good news for thirsty parents: they have a cash bar. Friday nights are also a good time to see the museum itself, since they offer half-price gallery tickets for adults, and free entry for kids. Hit the galleries right at 5 pm, then go back outside for the music at around 6:30.