Sold Out But Please Join Waitlist

We are sold out right now, but are doing what we can to increase capacity. We are blown away by the response. Please join the wait list. This will help us to get you in.

Volunteers

We need volunteers, so if you would like to volunteer, this will help us make the event success and guarantee you a spot on a tour after your shift. Email our coordinator at krogers988@gmail.com

Your Visit

A rare opportunity to visit the Bay Area's grandest railroad station, Oakland's Southern Pacific 16th St. Station built in 1912, designed by Jarvis Hunt. A destination for transcontinental travelers and transfer point to local electric rail, the Main Hall and Baggage Wing will be open for visitors. View the elevated electric rail platform and the signal tower, where the switches were monitored.

History

This station was the major hub for arrivals to northern California, and a central focus of organizing for the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and their leader C. L. Dellums.

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places in January, 2025. Click here to find out about prospects for re-use and restoration.

Important Note

The grounds will be open to all for the duration of the event, but timed entry is required to enter the building to ensure safety. Please come at your designated time, but feel free to hangout before and after your tour.

Registration through Humanitix and signing the waiver is the only way to gain access to the building. If you registered through Doors Open and paid for access to other tour sites, you must still RSVP and sign the waiver here.

Doors Open California

This event is a part of Doors Open, which has many open sites across the state.

Transit Month

This event is a part of Transit Month, which has many more events in September.

Contact the host of Doors Open 2026: Tour Inside 16th Street Station