
Rotunda Building
Experience architectural splendor at The Rotunda, from San Francisco's elegant tea haven to Oakland's majestic civic dome.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Rotunda Building
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience architectural splendor at The Rotunda, from San Francisco's elegant tea haven to Oakland's majestic civic dome.
"A majestic and beautiful building that is well worth seeing."

Book Afternoon Tea Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended for afternoon tea at The Rotunda to secure your spot. :calendar:
Dress for Elegance
A smart casual or elegant dress code is appreciated for the sophisticated ambiance. :dress:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stained-Glass Dome
San Francisco
Marvel at the breathtaking stained-glass dome, a true architectural masterpiece that bathes the space in ethereal light.

Afternoon Tea Experience
San Francisco
Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea with delicate pastries and fine teas in an elegant setting.

Oakland City Hall Rotunda Interior
Oakland
Step inside Oakland's City Hall Rotunda for a majestic view of its grand dome and architecture.

Vertical Dance Performances
Oakland
Witness awe-inspiring vertical dance performances by BANDALOOP on the Rotunda Building's exterior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Union Square's Elegant Escape
Oakland's Architectural Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Afternoon Tea Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended for afternoon tea at The Rotunda to secure your spot. :calendar:
Dress for Elegance
A smart casual or elegant dress code is appreciated for the sophisticated ambiance. :dress:
Oakland Rotunda Access
You can often walk into Oakland's City Hall Rotunda without a tour or event. :key:
Capture the Dome
Look up and capture stunning photos of the Rotunda's magnificent dome from the ground floor. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Afternoon Tea Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended for afternoon tea at The Rotunda to secure your spot. :calendar:
Dress for Elegance
A smart casual or elegant dress code is appreciated for the sophisticated ambiance. :dress:
Oakland Rotunda Access
You can often walk into Oakland's City Hall Rotunda without a tour or event. :key:
Capture the Dome
Look up and capture stunning photos of the Rotunda's magnificent dome from the ground floor. :camerawithflash:
Check for Performances
Look out for unique vertical dance performances by BANDALOOP on the Rotunda Building. :performing_arts:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Rotunda in San Francisco for its stunning stained-glass dome and elegant atmosphere, making it a memorable spot for afternoon tea. In Oakland, the Rotunda Building is lauded as a majestic architectural gem, offering a grand interior that's a delight to explore. While dining at the San Francisco Rotunda can be pricey, the overall experience is often deemed worth it for the ambiance.
"What a beautiful building! I worked out of the Rotunda space for about 6 months and it is such a gem of a space inside. The greenery, the pleasant scent, and background music created a pleasant vibe from the moment you entered into the building. A friendly and welcoming staff at the security desk and a helpful property management team. Myles was a great ambassador of the building, helpful and available whenever I needed him.
Our team utilized the amenity space for multiple different events, from small lunches, to full team meetings in their large conference room.
The location was super accessible via the 12th Street BART station and also convenient to have a parking garage across the street. I also appreciated the use of the Ridy scooters for a quick errand nearby or to go pick up lunch just a bit further way. Access to the scooters was a great tenant perk.
All in all, our time at the Rotunda was a great experience and I hope to revisit the building again soon."
miss meredith
"Amazing venue. Has lots of event, office, co-working, and lots of fun common area. Loved it!"
Hojr Sedaghat-Pisheh
"This is a majestic and beautiful building that is well worth seeing. While the Frank Ogawa Place can be both sketchy and sublime, the effort to get inside is well-rewarded. Go to the ground floor and take some photos looking upward."
Craig Humphreys
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Rotunda is located at 150 Stockton St. in Union Square, inside Neiman Marcus. It's easily accessible via public transport, with the 12th Street BART station nearby and numerous bus lines serving Union Square. :bus: :train:
Yes, the Rotunda Building in Oakland is centrally located in Downtown Oakland and is very accessible. It's close to the 12th Street BART station and has parking garages nearby. :car: :train:
For The Rotunda in San Francisco, BART and Muni buses are excellent options. In Oakland, BART is also a convenient choice. Ride-sharing services and scooters are also readily available in both cities. :scooter: :taxi:
Driving is possible, but parking in Union Square (San Francisco) and Downtown Oakland can be challenging and expensive. Public transport is generally recommended. :parking: :red_car:
Both The Rotunda in San Francisco and the Rotunda Building in Oakland are generally accessible. It's always a good idea to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility needs. :wheelchair:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need tickets to enter The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus, but reservations are highly recommended for afternoon tea or brunch. Walk-ins may be accommodated if space is available. :ticket:
Pricing for afternoon tea can vary, but it's generally considered a splurge. Expect to pay around $50-$70 per person. It's best to check their current menu for exact pricing. :moneywithwings:
Yes, you can often walk into the Rotunda Building in Oakland without needing a specific reason or tour. It's a public space within City Hall. :door:
There are typically no entrance fees to see the interior of the Rotunda Building in Oakland. It's a public space within City Hall. :free:
The Rotunda restaurant is typically open for lunch and afternoon tea from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Sundays and Wednesdays, and 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Thursdays through Saturdays. Hours can vary, so check their website. :clock1:
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside The Rotunda, especially to capture the stunning stained-glass dome. However, be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography. :camerawithflash:
The best photo opportunities are from the ground floor, looking up at the magnificent dome. The architectural details are truly impressive. :iphone:
You can take photos of your food and the beautiful surroundings during afternoon tea, but be respectful of other guests' privacy. :camerawithflash:
If you are attending a private event, photography policies might differ. It's best to check with the event organizer. :memo:
Wide-angle shots are great for capturing the scale of the dome. Close-ups of the intricate details of the stained glass or the tea service also make for beautiful photos. :art:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Rotunda is famous for its elegant afternoon tea service, featuring a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. They also offer brunch and lunch options. :tea: :cake:
Many visitors find the experience and ambiance justify the cost, especially for afternoon tea. While some reviews suggest the food itself might not be groundbreaking, the overall experience is highly rated. :star:
Typically, establishments offering afternoon tea are accommodating to dietary restrictions. It's advisable to inform them of any needs when booking. :leaf:
While it's a more formal dining experience, you can order from their lunch menu for a less elaborate meal than afternoon tea. :sandwich:
Downtown Oakland offers a diverse range of dining options, from food trucks to various restaurants and cafes, especially around City Hall. :hamburger: :pizza:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rotunda: A Tale of Two Cities
In contrast, the Rotunda Building in Oakland is a significant architectural landmark within City Hall. While its exterior might be more understated, the interior boasts a majestic dome that is a photographer's delight. This Rotunda has also become a unique venue for artistic expression, notably hosting breathtaking vertical dance performances by BANDALOOP.
Both locations, despite their different purposes and settings, share a common thread of architectural grandeur and offer distinct experiences for visitors. Whether you're seeking an elegant tea or a dose of public art and architecture, these Rotundas provide memorable moments.
Experiencing Afternoon Tea at The Rotunda (San Francisco)
While the setting is undeniably a major draw, the food itself receives mixed reviews. Some find it delightful and fitting for the occasion, while others feel it doesn't quite live up to the hype or the price point. However, the overall consensus leans towards the experience being worthwhile for the unique atmosphere and the chance to indulge in a classic, sophisticated tradition. Booking in advance is crucial, as this popular spot fills up quickly.
Art and Architecture at the Oakland Rotunda
Beyond its architectural beauty, the Rotunda has become a unique stage for the renowned vertical dance company, BANDALOOP. They have performed breathtaking shows on the building's exterior, transforming the urban landscape into a canvas for movement and art. These performances highlight the building's potential as a dynamic space for public art, drawing crowds and adding an exciting dimension to the Oakland cityscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit