re: Best oak tree to plant?

In terms of oaks, I would go with Nutall or Shumard as previously stated. The Nutall will give you a mix of red/orange fall color depending on the fall season.
Shumard will give you a scarlet red to orange fall color.

They both grow a bit slower than the white oak family.

The Chinese Pistache he would near the top of my fall foliage list.

The sugar maple would probably be at the top for its brilliant vivid orange/yellow fall color.

However depending on where you are located a different Acer variety may do better such as Florida Flame or Autumn Blaze.

Another good hardwood to consider would be the regular hickory or shagbark hickory.