Prior to that, Oakland was connected to San Francisco by ferryboat. Oakland was also the terminus of several train lines that went throughout the country. For San Franciscans, Oakland was seen as a weekend getaway. Close enough that you could travel there in an hour, yet away from the city. For other travelers, Oakland was where you connected to journey on to San Francisco. Often these travelers would spend the night in Oakland.
What was needed for all of these people was a resort. And that is what they got. The Claremont Spa and Resort was built at the base of the Oakland hills. It was built with impressive ballrooms, a swimming pool, grand restaurants and most importantly, rooms with views of San Francisco. (There were not bridges at the time so Bridge views were not considered important. The resort was (and by some still is) considered the Jewel of Oakland.
The hotel is still quite an attractive hotel. The hotel still attracts a number of visitors each year. Locals have coffee or brunch at the shops that have sprung up across the street from it.
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Each photo is a thumbnail. Click on the photo or select the title to view in higher resolution
 From the Street |
 Center |
 Looking Up |
 Palms in Front |
 Tower |
 Side View |
 Closeup |
 Wide Angle Shot |
 Side View |
 The Good Rooms |
 Walking Away |
 The Flag Again |
 Last One |
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