Frank H. Ogawa Plaza 🇺🇸

Welcome to Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, a vibrant 160,000-square-foot public square situated in Downtown Oakland. Located right where San Pablo Avenue converges with Broadway and 14th Street, this historic space serves as the civic heart of the city.

When you visit, you will be surrounded by impressive early 20th-century Beaux-Arts styled commercial buildings alongside newer structures designed to match the classic architecture, with Oakland City Hall anchoring the plaza's west side. At the center of it all stands a single large Coast Live Oak, the proud symbol of Oakland. Take a walk around to appreciate the local culture, including Bruce Beasley's 2002 commissioned sculpture, Vitality, and a bronze bust honoring Frank H.

Ogawa, a dedicated civil rights leader and the first Japanese American to serve on the Oakland City Council. The plaza features The Commons, a raised lawn perfect for relaxing, as well as The Forum amphitheater, which hosts public gatherings and performances. Steeped in history, from young Jack London giving speeches in 1896 to serving as the epicenter for various protests like Occupy Oakland, this central gathering place offers a true reflection of the city's artistic culture, civic pride, and historic spirit.

What to see at Frank H. Ogawa Plaza

• Oakland City Hall and early 20th-century Beaux-Arts architecture
• The central Coast Live Oak tree, the iconic symbol of Oakland
• Bruce Beasley's contemporary outdoor sculpture, Vitality
• A bronze bust honoring civil rights leader Frank H. Ogawa
• The Commons raised lawn and The Forum public amphitheater

Visiting tips

You can easily access the plaza using public transit, as an entrance to the 12th Street Oakland City Center BART station is located right at the intersection with Broadway.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Frank H. Ogawa Plaza is easy to reach on Oakland’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Oakland Museum of California and Temple Sinai. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Oakland travel guide.