Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon
4.7(763)google
4.3(631)yelp
HistoryPhoto Spot
Overview
Operating continuously since 1883, this world-famous maritime pub is built creatively from the timbers of an old whaling ship and stands as an incredible living relic of Oakland's waterfront history. The most striking interior feature is its noticeably slanted floor, a permanent historical reminder caused by the massive 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Frequented heavily by the legendary author Jack London during his youth, the historic pub's walls are completely covered with vintage money, historic photos, and maritime artifacts that exude authentic old-world charm.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 1-1.5 hours
Best TimeHighly recommended for late afternoons or evenings. Snag an outdoor table for waterfront sunset views, or step inside the dimly lit, historic 1883 cabin with its famously slanted floor caused by the 1906 earthquake.
Getting ThereLocated right at 56 Jack London Square. Walk south down Broadway for 15 minutes from 12th St BART station, or take the San Francisco Bay Ferry to the plaza terminal and walk for 1 minute.
Travel Tips
- The 1883 saloon floors permanently slant drastically from the 1906 earthquake, causing immediate vertigo; flat, high-traction footwear is mandatory inside.
- The cramped historic interior caps out at a dozen patrons; midday or early afternoon visits before 2 PM circumvent long outdoor wharf lines on weekends.
- As a preserved historical relic, this structure houses zero public restrooms; patrons must utilize the main Jack London Square commercial facility outside.
Reviews
Positive
- Built in 1883, this historic saloon is visually mind-blowing; the 1906 earthquake left its floor and bar severely slanted, offering an authentic step back in time.
- This is where author Jack London used to write, packed with century-old photos and artifacts that make its historical core value completely irreplaceable.
- Despite its immense fame, beverage prices remain down-to-earth and reasonably priced without price-gouging, making its value excellent with no cover fee.
- Located at the Jack London Square entrance, transit convenience is superb, and the bartenders offer old-school warmth, keeping a cozy, orderly vibe.
Heads up
- Due to the severe earthquake-induced floor slant and cramped layout, there is zero accessibility for wheelchairs or unstable elders.
- The interior quarters are extremely tiny, holding only a handful of patrons; during peak hours, it gets heavily packed with zero spare seating.
- Preserving its historic state, there are no modern public restrooms inside, forcing patrons to use the square's shared amenities outside.
- They only sell drinks and basic snacks with no hot food kitchen, and the frequent flux of snap-happy tourists can sometimes disrupt the peaceful bar vibe.