San Francisco has become more affordable than ever, offering wonderful and lively events year-round. However, during major events, the city can still become expensive for most travelers. Don’t let that discourage you! There’s a savvy alternative that allows you to enjoy all the excitement San Francisco has to offer while keeping your wallet happy — stay in Oakland during SF events.

This blog post will highlight some of the top San Francisco events to attend while staying in Oakland for comfort and savings. Whether you’re a local looking for a budget-friendly staycation or a tourist trying to make the most out of your trip, this guide will give you options that won’t break the bank.

Major San Francisco Events

The San Francisco event calendar is jam-packed with exciting activities all year round, from music festivals to food fairs to cultural celebrations. Here are just a few of the major events in San Francisco 2024 that draw crowds from all over the world.

Dreamforce

Brought to you by Salesforce, Dreamforce is one of the most massive tech conferences in the world that takes over San Francisco every year. For three days, industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts come together to share ideas, inspiration, and innovation.

Mark your calendars for September 17 to 19, 2024, and look forward to:

• Over 1,000 breakout sessions for various industries, products, or roles
• Over 150 hands-on training, workshops, and demos
• Over 50 thought-provoking visionary and product keynotes
• Over 340 roundtables for networking and exchanging insights
• Over 700 customer success stories to learn from

While the networking and learning opportunities are priceless, the accommodation costs in San Francisco during Dreamforce can be excessive.

San Francisco Pride

One of the most prominent LGBTQ+ celebrations in the world, San Francisco Pride is a vibrant, colorful event that takes over the city every June. The annual parade and celebration draw over a million attendees, making it one of the most popular events in San Francisco.

For the whole month of June, the city comes to life with various activities, including concerts, dance parties, film festivals, art exhibitions, and more. However, the main San Francisco Pride events — including the massive and iconic Sunday LGBT Parade — take place on June 29 and 30 this year.

If you’re looking for a fun and inclusive event that celebrates love and diversity, San Francisco Pride is definitely worth attending. However, the influx of visitors means hotel rates shoot up during this period.

Outside Lands Music Festival

This three-day music festival in Golden Gate Park features top-tier artists, gourmet food, and a wide array of wine, beer, and cocktails from local vendors. Outside Lands is known for its diverse music lineup that caters to all genres and ages, making it a popular event for music lovers.

This year, catch headliners such as The Killers, Tyler the Creator, and Sturgill Simpson from August 9 to 11. There are also plenty of other artists to see, including Daniel Caesar, Renee Rapp, Tyla, Teddy Swims, Victoria Monet, Chappell Roan, and more! Plus, there will be a special country set on Sunday night courtesy of Post Malone.

These giant names in music will definitely draw huge crowds. While the music and vibes are incredible, the prices for nearby hotels are less so.

San Francisco Fleet Week

Every October, the San Francisco Bay comes alive with naval vessels and aircraft for Fleet Week, a celebration of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. This event features air shows, ship tours, live music, and more. The highlight of Fleet Week is the spectacular U.S. Navy Blue Angels air show that stuns spectators with its precision flying and daring stunts.

If you’re a fan of military displays or just want to experience the excitement of Fleet Week, make sure to plan your trip accordingly. The spectacle will surely draw large crowds this coming October 7 to 14. Unfortunately, air shows and ship tours are not the only things that will take off — hotel prices in San Francisco during this time can skyrocket as well.

Chinese New Year Parade

The Chinese New Year Parade is another major event that takes over San Francisco every February. This vibrant celebration of Chinese culture, tradition, and heritage draws thousands of spectators to the streets of Chinatown. The most awaited highlights of the parade are the elaborate floats, marching bands, lion dancers, fireworks, and the iconic Golden Dragon.

The parade and its accompanying events are free to attend, and other nationalities are welcome to join and witness the festive celebration. It’s a cultural gem, but again, staying in San Francisco can be expensive during this time.

San Francisco Marathon

This race attracts runners from all over the world, eager to conquer the city’s hilly streets. The San Francisco Marathon takes place every July and has multiple distance options, including a full marathon, half marathon, ultra marathon, and 5K. The scenic course showcases some of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf.

Whether you’re running the race or simply cheering on the participants, this event is one that brings the community together. However, hotel prices in San Francisco can be steep during this time due to the influx of runners and spectators.

The Downside

There are plenty of San Francisco festivals, concerts, conferences, and other events that occur all year round, and they are undoubtedly exciting and worth attending. However, these major events also come with a snag, particularly for those looking for affordable Bay Area travel and accommodation.

Hotel prices and travel expenses can increase significantly during these events, making it challenging for budget travelers to experience all that San Francisco has to offer. Don’t worry! There are still plenty of affordable options for accommodation during these events.

One of the best Bay Area travel tips is to consider staying outside of San Francisco — like in Oakland — and commuting to the city for the events. This way, you can save a significant amount of money.

Why Stay in Oakland?

Oakland offers a fantastic, budget-friendly base for your Bay Area adventures. Not only will you save money on SF hotels during popular events, but you’ll also enjoy a variety of attractions, marvelous weather, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

By choosing to stay in an Oakland lodging, you can attend these fantastic San Francisco events without the financial strain. Here are some compelling reasons to make Oakland your home base.

Cost Savings

As mentioned, staying in Oakland instead of San Francisco during events can save you a significant amount of money on accommodation.

• Affordable Accommodations in Oakland: Comparing Oakland vs San Francisco hotel prices, Oakland rates are significantly lower than in San Francisco during major events. You can spend the money you save from lodging on other experiences, dining, and shopping.
• Oakland Hotel Savings: Many Oakland hotels, including the Executive Inn & Suites Oakland, offer special deals and packages, providing even more value for your stay. These Oakland hotel deals can help you stretch your budget and make the most out of your trip.

Convenient Transportation

Oakland is incredibly well-connected to San Francisco, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.

• Oakland-SF Transportation: BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) and ferries make it easy to travel between Oakland and San Francisco. You can enjoy the convenience of public transportation while avoiding the hassle of San Francisco’s busy traffic.
• Budget Travel in San Francisco: Staying in Oakland accommodations allows you to use cost-effective transportation options rather than expensive city parking and ride-sharing services.

Unique Oakland Attractions

San Francisco isn’t the only city with exciting things to see and do. Oakland has its own charm and unique attractions that make it worth exploring. Here are some of them:

• Jack London Square: This waterfront area offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of event-hopping in San Francisco.
• Lake Merritt: This beautiful urban lake is surrounded by parkland, perfect for a leisurely stroll, paddle boating, or a picnic. It’s also home to the famous Children’s Fairyland amusement park.
• Oakland Museum of California: This museum explores the state’s history, art, and culture through interactive exhibits and events. It’s a must-visit for any cultural enthusiast.

Great Weather

Oakland enjoys mild weather throughout the year, making it an ideal place to visit any time. Unlike San Francisco — which is prone to fog and strong winds — Oakland’s weather is more predictable and enjoyable. You can take advantage of the pleasant weather by exploring the city on foot or enjoying outdoor activities.

Diverse Food Scene

Oakland’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors and cultures, offering something for every palate. From food trucks to fine dining, the culinary options are endless. Don’t miss out on trying some of the city’s best eats during your stay.

Easy Access to Various Attractions

Beyond San Francisco, Oakland provides easy access to other Bay Area attractions. These include Berkeley, Napa Valley, and Silicon Valley. You can take day trips to these destinations without having to deal with the high cost of staying in those areas.

Relaxed Atmosphere

Compared to the hustle and bustle of San Francisco, Oakland offers a more laid-back vibe, perfect for unwinding and enjoying your vacation. You can explore the city without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. You’ll also have more opportunities to interact with locals and get a taste of Oakland’s unique culture.

Executive Inn & Suites Oakland: Your Perfect Home Base

At the Executive Inn & Suites Oakland, we strive to enhance your event experience with top-notch amenities and comfortable accommodations. We offer affordable rates, special deals and packages, a convenient location, and unparalleled hospitality.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Spacious Rooms and Suites: Our rooms are designed for comfort, with ample space and modern amenities to make your stay enjoyable. You can choose from various room types, including standard rooms and suites.
• Complimentary Breakfast: Start your day off right with our free, delicious breakfast buffet, featuring a variety of hot and cold options.
• Free High-Speed Wi-Fi: Stay connected during your stay with our complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property.
• Beautiful Water Views: Enjoy stunning views of the waterfront right from your room. You can also take a relaxing walk along the marina and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
• Swimming Pool and Spa Tub: After a long day of attending events, relax and rejuvenate in our pool or spa tub.
• Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff: Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch service from check-in until check-out. We are always happy to offer Oakland travel tips and recommendations for local attractions and dining options.

If you’re looking for an Oakland budget-friendly stay with unbeatable value, look no further than the Executive Inn & Suites Oakland. Book your stay with us and make the most out of your San Francisco experience.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to stay in Oakland while attending San Francisco events is a smart and practical decision. Not only will you save money on accommodations, but you’ll also have the chance to explore a vibrant, diverse city with its own unique appeal and offerings. The Executive Inn & Suites Oakland offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and affordability, making it an ideal choice for your Oakland stay.

Next time you’re planning to attend a major event in San Francisco, consider staying in Oakland. Enjoy the best of both worlds — the excitement of San Francisco events and the comfort and cost savings that Oakland offers. Book your stay at the Executive Inn & Suites Oakland today and make your Bay Area trip truly memorable.

For the latest on events in San Francisco and to secure the best Oakland hotel deals, visit our website and plan your perfect trip. We can’t wait to welcome you!