Frank H. Ogawa Plaza — Attraction in Oakland

Frank H. Ogawa Plaza is a historic and cultural landmark in the heart of Oakland. It is the site of the Oakland City Hall and a city office building, as well as several Beaux-Arts styled commercial buildings from the early 20th century. The plaza has a spacious and green lawn, called “The Commons”, and an amphitheater, called “The Forum”, where public gatherings and performances take place. The plaza also has a pedestrianized section of San Pablo Avenue and 15th Street, which adds to the urban vibe of the area. The plaza is easily accessible by public transportation, as it has an entrance to the 12th Street/Oakland City Center BART station. The plaza is named after Frank H. Ogawa, a civil rights leader and the first Japanese American to serve on the Oakland City Council. The plaza displays a bronze bust of Ogawa, which honors his legacy and contributions to the city. The plaza has been the scene of various protests and social movements, such as Occupy Oakland in 2011. The plaza is also part of the city’s arts culture, with the annual Art and Soul Festival and publicly commissioned art. One of the artworks is Vitality, a sculpture by Bruce Beasley that symbolizes the energy and diversity of Oakland . I visited the Frank H. Ogawa Plaza on a sunny afternoon, and I was impressed by its beauty and atmosphere. The plaza was lively and inviting, with people relaxing on the lawn, playing chess, reading books, or having picnics. The plaza was also clean and well-maintained, and followed the COVID-19 safety guidelines. I enjoyed walking around the plaza and admiring the architecture and art. I also stopped by the Latham Square, a small plaza where Telegraph Avenue converges with Broadway, which is one block to the northeast. It was a charming spot with a fountain and benches. I would recommend Frank H. Ogawa Plaza to anyone who wants to experience the history and culture of Oakland. It is a great place to spend some time outdoors, to learn about the city’s past and present, or to join in some community events. It is a plaza that reflects the spirit and...

It's a very tidy park. Also I've noticed the people I noticed at the area had a broom which I assume is to clean .. also I've not yet had a scared feeling in the area no matter what time of the day or night .i pass by too and from my neighborhood. I'm not saying not to be cautious any wtee any time It's just a lovely large open space great vif dock distancing, plenty of places to.sit down and enjoy the sun and the breeze. .also it has a huge amazing building that has our mayor . I.m..just guessing . She might be not in the building it's still kool to.me. And the first thing i.noticed as I walked past a couple years ago is the tree. It's a very interesting tree. I brings.the thought wow the tree of life in the bible . I mean no disrespect to anyones faith . It's just a pleasant moment for me. It has no fruit to be tempted by .ok I'm going stop now before I put my foot in my mouth . Believe me my thoughts are totally innocent . Peaceful beautiful about the tree Have a nice day..oh yeah ! I saw the big police officer horses twice . That's a good eyeful. There so big and...

I appreciate spending time in Oscar Grant Plaza. It’s a unique open space in the heart of downtown Oakland where community truly comes alive. There’s an open grassy area where people walk their dogs, play music, and gather to connect. You’ll often see folks playing chess, singing, or engaging in deep conversations.

It’s also a powerful place—just steps from the Black Panther museum—and it naturally draws community organizers, activists, and people who come to reflect and express themselves.

🐦 The pigeons gathering here add a quiet beauty 🎶 There’s often live music or spontaneous performance 🗣️ You’ll find space for both joy and deep thought

That said, it’s not ideal for small children—people often smoke here, and sometimes folks play soccer or other ball games in ways that feel a little unsafe in such a shared space. I wish more people were mindful of how their actions...