California Hotel

The California Hotel is a five-story Spanish Colonial Revival building with a pressed red brick facade, stucco detailing, original terrazzo flooring, and stenciled ceiling panels in its preserved lobby. The ground floor originally held commercial spaces while the upper levels provided guest rooms.

The structure was built in 1930 and initially served as a significant hotel with 150 rooms during the early postwar period. It evolved into a cultural hub, particularly from the 1940s onward, before undergoing major renovation decades later.

From the 1940s through the 1960s, the building hosted performances by major African-American artists and became a vital gathering place for the Black music scene. This role shaped the cultural life of the community during a formative period.

The building is visible to the public and offers a view of the well-preserved architecture and lobby details when passing by. The best time to explore is during daytime when natural light highlights the brick detailing and interior surfaces.

The original neon sign framework remains on the roof, marking where the lettering once lit up the skyline. This remnant recalls the time when the building served as a glowing landmark in the city.

Location: Oakland

Inception: 1930s

Architectural style: Spanish Colonial Revival architecture

Address: 3443--3501 San Pablo Avenue

GPS coordinates: 37.82610,-122.27850

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:30