Upper Rockridge is a residential neighborhood in the Oakland Hills with views of downtown Oakland and San Francisco.

It’s within walking distance of two of the area’s main shopping and dining districts on College Avenue and Piedmont Avenue.

“This is a nice, quiet neighborhood in the ideal location. It has a diverse population and great schools.” —Lawrence G., resident

Temescal Regional Recreation Area, surrounding Lake Temescal, is the biggest open space in Upper Rockridge.

Wednesday afternoon at Lake Temescal.

Between the 1920s and 1950s, Upper Rockridge was developed with large single-family homes.

The neighborhood is dotted with stairways that were originally built so people could easily walk down the hill to the streetcar lines.

Upper Rockridge has a wide variety of home styles, including Spanish Revival, Craftsman, and Tudor.

Because more than 2,700 houses were destroyed by the Oakland firestorm of 1991, there are also many modern homes.

Some Upper Rockridge homes are architectural statements.

And there’s a handful of apartment buildings down by the main thoroughfares of Broadway and Broadway Terrace.

“The AC Transit bus that takes you into the city is relaxing and often has wifi. You can also take BART or casual carpool.” —Nick M., resident

Front-yard succulents and grasses along Thomas Avenue.

“Not every street has a sidewalk, but it's generally a place where young kids are safe to walk around.” —Nick M., resident

Wednesday afternoon batting practice at Chabot Recreation Center’s baseball diamond.

“People often walk their dogs in the neighborhood. In such a hilly area, it's easy to get a workout in.” —Nick M., resident

A view of downtown Oakland from Proctor Avenue.