Dubbed Oakland’s “Waterfront Jewel” and mentioned in the New York Times list of “The 45 Places To Go in 2012,” Jack London Square has become a very popular attraction in the Bay Area.

Located at the Port of Oakland, Jack London Square is a major part of Oakland’s history. Unfortunately, due to the often negative image of Oakland portrayed through local media outlets and the city’s high crime rate, tourists and even the locals sometimes overlook the square.

“I feel that even though Oakland has its problems, it is still a great city with lots of culture,” said visitor and Oakland resident Errisha Richardson. “Jack London Square has always been a place to visit and it should not be penalized and ostracized for the simple fact that it is located in Oakland. This city has so many sights and opportunities, but they do not get as recognized as they should.”

According to the official website, visitors can come to “discover innovative dining opportunities or return to well-loved favorites,” “enjoy expansive lawns, picturesque piers and sun-drenched walking paths” and “shop in some of Oakland’s unique local boutiques.”

Established in 1846, Jack London Square served as the perfect location for an industrial transportation focal point and shipping area during the 19th century.

Jack London himself was a well-known American author and he ended up being one of the first individuals to make a successful career out of writing.

Growing up, he spent most of his time at the waterfront. As an oyster pirate and sailor, he had a number of adventures, which helped to inspire some of the writings, including “The Sea Wolf.”

There is a life-size bronze sculpture of London at the foot of Broadway, as well as a recreated model of the cabin he lived in when he spent time in the Yukon.

Today, Jack London Square is home to a multitude of shops, restaurants, a weekly farmers market and a number of free events open to the public.

The atmosphere along the entire square is very calming, positive and peaceful. People come out here to escape the urban streets and the hustle and bustle of city life. This is the perfect place to relax near the water and have a good time with family and friends.

“I come to Jack London once a week for the farmers market,” said visitor Lisa Thomas, 21. “There is also a really cute café that I like to come to out here. I like the environment over here, it’s very chill.”

Some of the most popular attractions at the square are the bike, canoe and kayak rentals, which gives families a chance to ride along the famous 400-mile Bay Trail that lines the water. They can take it a step further by actually cruising on the water in one of the canoes or kayaks.

“What attracts me is the accessibility of the various attractions and I enjoy the movie theater located here,” said Oakland resident Kenneth James, 24. “I believe it benefits the city of Oakland in many different ways; it shows the vintage aspects of the city and it also provides an added flare of excitement.”

James currently visits Jack London Square about three to four times a month with his friends.

As soon as the sun goes down, however, Jack London Square transforms into a completely different world.

A string of lights from the waterfront light up the entire square, an indescribable, somewhat majestic sparkle is added to the already gorgeous waters of the Bay.

Hundreds of people can be seen walking up and down the streets. Live music can be heard spilling out from a number of the many restaurants, nightclubs and lounges that line the square.

Jack London Square is home to Miss Pearl’s Jam house. This restaurant and lounge is known for the mouth-watering southern favorites they prepare just like it’s done in the south and they provide good music too.

Another “happenin’” spot is Yoshi’s Japanese Restaurant and Jazz Bar. Every weekend, there is a line around the corner to get into this venue, as they have bands and musicians that stop by to perform in their concert area.

As summer approaches we can look forward to the sun staying up later, the nights getting warmer and Jack London Square’s “Dancing Under the Stars,” which will return this Friday.

Put on by the Linden Street Dance Studio, every Friday there will be free dance lessons to the public right at the foot of the waterfront. The dance lessons begin at 8:30 p.m. and are followed by a dance party at 9:15 p.m., so everyone has an opportunity to put what they just learned to work.