Adams Point

Dazzling lake views, distinct architecture, and excellent public transportation make Lake Merritt and Adams Point two of Oakland's most sought-after residential addresses.

The name Adams Point comes from the name of one of Oakland's early landowners, Edson Adams, who purchased 160 acres of wilderness property that would eventually become what is now a fully developed urban area populated by a host of condos, apartments, Craftsman and Mediterranean homes. The neighborhood of Adams Point is a triangle bounded by Grand Avenue on the south, Harrison Street on the northwest, and the MacArthur freeway on the northeast. Landmarks include the Veteran's Memorial Building, the Earl Warren House on Vernon Street, the art deco Bellevue-Staten Building, Lakeside Park, and Children's Fairyland, which is in the park.

The largest urban saltwater lake in the United States and one of the oldest federally established wildlife refuges, Lake Merritt is a 155-acre oasis surrounded by parks and outdoor attractions. Joggers and power-walkers charge along the shoreline path of the lake while crew teams, paddle boats and authentic gondolas glide across the water. At nightfall, the spectacular "Necklace of Lights" illuminates the 3.4-mile perimeter of the lake.

Nearby, residents of Adams Park real estate can enjoy trendy restaurants, jazz clubs and the historic Grand Lake Theater in the Grand Lake area. BART has several stops around the Lake Merritt area, and Interstates 80, 980, and 580 are all easily accessible.