Oakland's Union Point Park

One of the undiscovered gems of Oakland is the Union Point park near the Park St. bridge leading to Alameda. Formally a vacant, weed covered lot the area has been transformed into a waterfront park including a Children's play area with a Sailing ship climbing structure, a Bridge to nowhere, a semi-circular pier / art installation and its centerpiece, a bougainvillea covered spiral hill in the middle. On weekends the park is a great place for picnics and gatherings right next to the water. There are BBQ grills and plenty of open space for throwing a Frisbee or football. From the top of the hill you are treated to a beautiful view down the Oakland estuary, with the barges, fishing boats and ships of the adjacent Coast Guard Island. Studded with artwork, there is a 20 ft high sculpture that is made to resemble an assemblage of great women, and a reflective matrix of Stainless steel mirrors attached under the pier.  Located on 9 acres and adjacent to the Bay Trail, it is easily reached by car from 880 or by a leisurely bike ride along the Embarcadero. The park reminds you of the history of the estuary with the ConAgra Grain towers looming next to it and trains and barge still servicing the area. The park is located at 2311 Embarcadero East between Dennison & Kennedy Streets