14 Fun Activities To Do With Kids In Oakland.

If you're looking for a fun and engaging way to spend quality time with your kids in Oakland, you're in luck! There are plenty of exciting and educational activities that will keep your little ones entertained and stimulated. From exploring the lush landscapes of the East Bay Regional Park District to visiting a stunning museum, this list of 14 fun activities to do with kids in Oakland has got you covered. Get ready to make unforgettable memories with your family!

Visit the Oakland Zoo

Characteristic	Description
Name	Oakland Zoo
Type	Zoo in Oakland, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 11,026
Address	9777 Golf Links Rd, Oakland, CA 94605
Phone	(510) 632-9525
Hours	Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

Oakland, California is a great city to visit with kids. Apart from its stunning natural beauty, there are many opportunities to engage in fun activities the whole family will love. One of the top recommendations for things to do with kids in Oakland is to visit the Oakland Zoo.

Located in the rolling hills of East Oakland, the Oakland Zoo is a fun-filled destination that promises exciting hands-on experiences and thrilling animal encounters. This unique zoo, which was founded in 1922, sits on 100 acres of land and is home to over 750 different animals.

One of the best ways to start your journey at the Oakland Zoo is by visiting the African Savanna exhibit. As you enter, you immediately notice the large African elephants playing, grazing, and interacting with each other. There are two other large enclosures – one for giraffes and the other for zebras, wildebeests, and antelopes.

The highlight for many visitors to the zoo are the big cats, yaks and bears. Children can watch tigers, lions, and leopards roam freely in their enclosures or catch a glimpse of the elusive snow leopard. Don't forget to snap a few family pictures as you enjoy the views of these majestic creatures.

If you're looking for an educational experience, the Children's Zoo is the perfect place to start. It offers a hands-on experience for children to learn about different animals, petting and feeding the goats and sheep. Moreover, the Outback Adventures exhibit offers interactive activities that allow children to crawl through tunnels to see wallabies and explore the nocturnal habitats of Australian wildlife.

The Oakland Zoo has a lot more to offer, including the California Trail, which highlights the rich wildlife of California. This exhibit includes habitats for black bears, gray wolves, bald eagles, and mountain lions.

In addition to its animal exhibits, there are other activities the whole family can participate in. You can ride a gondola high above the zoo, discover the various gardens, and take part in a variety of activities, including animal feedings, zookeeper talks, and animal encounters.

In conclusion, visiting the Oakland Zoo is one of the best things to do with your kids in Oakland. It provides an opportunity to spend time with the family and learn about the amazing variety of wildlife, participate in interactive activities, and create unforgettable memories. So, open the gates and let the adventure begin!

Explore Fairyland

Characteristic	Description
Name	Children's Fairyland
Type	Amusement park in Oakland, California
Website	Go to website
Address	699 Bellevue Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
Phone	(510) 452-2259
Hours	Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

Oakland is the perfect city for families to explore and have fun with their kids. One of the most unique and magical places in Oakland is Fairyland. This children's amusement park is a hidden gem that will definitely put a smile on your little one's face.

Fairyland is a whimsical world where children can explore and have adventures. It's a place where fantasy comes to life and imagination runs wild. Fairyland has been inspiring children's imaginations since it opened in 1950, and it's still as enchanting as it was when it first opened.

One of the things that make Fairyland such a popular attraction is the fun and interactive exhibits. From fairy houses to pirate ships, there are plenty of things to explore and see. The park is divided into different themed areas, each with its own set of characters and exhibits.

One of the most popular areas is Peter Rabbit's Garden. Children can see life-sized replicas of the classic characters, including Peter Rabbit, Mrs. Tiggywinkle, and Jemima Puddleduck. They can also explore the garden, which is home to cute animals, beautiful flowers, and fun activities.

Another popular area is the Jack and Jill Hill, where children can climb up and slide down the hill. It's a great place for kids to burn off energy and make new friends. Other highlights include the Alice in Wonderland exhibit, where kids can meet the Cheshire Cat and the Mad Hatter, and the Redwood Treehouse, where they can look out over the park from high up above.

Fairyland also hosts plenty of events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, puppet shows, and storytelling. It's a great place to take the family for a fun day out, but it's also the perfect spot for birthday parties and other special occasions.

In conclusion, exploring Fairyland is a must-do activity for families visiting Oakland. With its enchanting exhibits and fun activities, it’s a great place for kids to have fun, use their imaginations, and create lasting memories. Just remember to bring your camera and let the children's magical journey begin!

Go to Lake Merritt

Oakland, California is a city full of fun things to do with kids, and one of the top attractions in the area is Lake Merritt. This beautiful body of water is a perfect spot for families to spend quality time together and enjoy the outdoors. Here are some of the best things to do with kids at Lake Merritt.

• Walk or Bike the Lake: The 3.4-mile loop around Lake Merritt is one of the most popular attractions in Oakland. Families can walk or bike around the lake, enjoy the scenery and stop at many of the parks and playgrounds around the lake.
• Visit Fairyland: Fairyland is an amusement park for kids that is located along the lake. It has many attractions such as a carousel, puppet theater, and petting zoo. Many local events are also held here throughout the year.
• Ride on the Gondolas: The Venetian-style gondola rides around the lake are a fun and unique attraction for families. Children will enjoy the cozy boat rides while admiring the beauty of the lake.
• Picnic at the Park: There are many parks around Lake Merritt that offer a great spot to relax and have a picnic. Some popular parks include Lakeside Park, Children's Fairyland Park and Central Reservoir Park.
• Take a Boat Ride: Families can rent kayaks, paddle boats, and other watercraft to explore the lake on their own. This is a fun and exciting way to get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Overall, Lake Merritt is a great destination for families to enjoy their time together. With so many fun things to do, families will never get bored!

Play at Adventure Playground

Oakland is a great destination for families with kids. With its lively culture and fun attractions, there's always something exciting to see and do. If you're looking for something truly unique and memorable, be sure to make a stop at Adventure Playground. This is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists alike and is a great way to spend a day with your family.

Located in the heart of the city, Adventure Playground is an interactive park that's perfect for kids of all ages. There are a wide variety of activities and play structures to choose from, so your kids can have hours of fun exploring and adventuring through this unique attraction.

One of the main highlights of Adventure Playground is its unique play structures. These are designed to encourage kids to climb, jump, and explore, all while building their physical skills and creativity. Some of the most popular structures include a giant slide, a wooden fort, and a pirate ship. There are also swings, monkey bars and a zipline that's sure to thrill the kids.

Another great feature of Adventure Playground is the vast amount of sand available, perfect for children's imagination. They can build sand castles, tunnels, and even sculptures with their hands. This is a great opportunity for little ones to use their creativity and problem-solving skills.

One of the best things about Adventure Playground is that it's free to visit, making it a great option for families that are on a budget. However, make sure to bring some cash, as there's a vending machine on site that sells inexpensive snacks and refreshments.

If you're looking for a fun and interactive way to spend a day with your kids in Oakland, Adventure Playground is a great option. With its unique play structures and creative environment, your kids are sure to love every bit of it. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, hats, and a picnic lunch, so you can enjoy the day in comfort while creating fun memories with your family.

Take a hike in Redwood Regional Park

Oakland is a city filled with plenty of fun activities to do with kids. Among the many things to do in this city, taking a hike in Redwood Regional Park tops the list. The park is a nature lover's paradise and an ideal place for families to explore the outdoors while learning about the rich culture and history of the area.

Located in the hills of Oakland, the Redwood Regional Park is home to one of the last remaining redwood groves in the Bay Area. The park covers 1,830 acres of land that includes a network of 40 miles of hiking trails. The trails vary in difficulty, making the park suitable for all kinds of hikers, from beginners to experienced ones.

The park's trails offer picturesque views of the redwoods, creeks, and wildlife. Kids will enjoy spotting deer, jackrabbits, and raccoons, among other animals that call the park home. Along the trails, visitors can discover ancient redwood trees that date back to the 1800s. The oldest of these trees, the Father of the Forest, is estimated to be over 1,500 years old.

In addition to hiking, the park offers several other activities for families. Visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the many scenic picnic areas, visit the Redwood Discovery Center to learn more about the redwoods, and take part in ranger-led programs that feature guided hikes, nature walks, and campfire talks.

Whether you're looking for a quick hike or a day-long adventure, Redwood Regional Park has something to offer. With its beautiful scenery, a variety of trails, and numerous activities, it's a great place for families to explore and appreciate nature while learning about the area's history and culture. So pack a picnic, grab your hiking shoes, and take your kids on a nature adventure they won't forget!

Take a bike ride on the Bay Trail

Oakland is a fantastic city to explore with kids, and there are plenty of fun activities you can do together. One of the best ways to enjoy an active day with your children is by taking a bike ride on the Bay Trail. The Bay Trail offers beautiful scenery, fresh air, and a memorable experience for the whole family.

The trail stretches for over 500 miles along the San Francisco Bay, through several cities including Oakland. This means you will have plenty of routes to choose from depending on your preference of distance and scenery. A quick online search will help you find the closest entry points to the Bay Trail in Oakland.

The trail is completely flat, so it's perfect for families with younger children or those who may not be experienced bikers. You can bring your bikes with you or rent them from various rental options in the city. Make sure everyone has a helmet and comfortable clothing before heading out.

Once you reach the trail, you will notice the scenic views of the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay Bridge. With a bit of luck, you might even spot some marine life in the water, such as seals or dolphins.

As you ride along, stop at some of the parks that line the trail or pack a picnic for lunch. One of the most popular spots for a picnic is Middle Harbor Shoreline Park, with plenty of green space, picnic tables, and even a playground for the kids to enjoy.

If you have little ones who may not be able to ride their own bike, consider using a bike trailer or a seat that attaches to your bike. This will give them a chance to enjoy the ride too, and you can all enjoy the beautiful views and the fresh air together.

In conclusion, taking a bike ride on the Bay Trail in Oakland is a great way to spend quality time with your family while also getting some exercise and enjoying the beautiful scenery. With its flat terrain and various entry points, it's an accessible activity for all ages and experience levels. So, grab your bikes, helmets, and picnic supplies and hit the trail for a fun-filled day with your kids!

Go to the Chabot Space and Science Center

Oakland has a lot to offer families looking for exciting outings with their kids. One of the top places to visit in the area is the Chabot Space and Science Center. This popular museum is a great way to learn about space and science, while bringing history and technology to life. Here are some things you can do with your kids when you visit:

Explore the Exhibits

At the museum, there are exhibits highlighting everything from astronomy and physics, to space exploration and engineering. There’s plenty of hands-on interaction that will keep kids engaged, including a simulated space mission where visitors can experience what it's like to be an astronaut.

Attend Planetarium Shows

A must-see at the Chabot Space and Science Center are the planetarium shows. The shows offer visitors a chance to learn about the night sky and see it projected onto a full dome screen. The planetarium shows differ in theme, so you can choose which one fits your interests best. Some of the popular shows include “Black Holes,” “The Sky Tonight,” and “Humpback Whales.”

Participate in Workshops and Events

Chabot also offers workshops and special events for children and families to participate in throughout the year. Some of the workshops have a small fee but offer an opportunity for kids to engage in hands-on science experiments, explore new concepts and learn from subject experts.

Visit the Observatory

The observatory is open for visitors to see stars through the observatory's telescopes, spot constellations, and learn about galaxies. The observatory is open Friday-Sunday, but visitors are advised to check the website before visiting, as it’s only open during clear skies.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Chabot Space and Science Center is a fantastic way to engage children and the whole family with science, technology, and history. With interactive exhibits, workshops and special events, the planetarium and the observatory, your kids will have a great time and learn new things. The Chabot Space and Science Center is a top attraction and must-visit for families in Oakland.

Visit the Children's Creativity Museum

Oakland, California is a great place to visit with kids. With its variety of museums, outdoor spaces and kid-friendly activities, there are endless options for things to do. One of our recommendations is the Children's Creativity Museum.

The Children's Creativity Museum is a wonderful place for kids to explore and play while learning new things. The museum is located in the heart of San Francisco's Yerba Buena Gardens and offers a hands-on, interactive experience that encourages creativity and innovation.

The museum features three floors of exhibits that encourage exploration, learning, and imaginative play. Some of the exhibits include an animation studio where kids can create their own stop-motion movies, a music studio where they can record and play with different musical instruments, and a design studio where they can create their own digital designs.

One of the most popular exhibits is the "Imagination Lab", which is a large open space that features different stations of artistic and creative activities. Children can create and experiment with various forms of art and materials, such as building a sculpture out of recycled materials, experimenting with light and shadow, or creating their own digital animation.

For younger children, the museum also has a dedicated Toddler Zone with various hands-on interactive exhibits that promote imaginative play and sensory learning.

One of the best parts of visiting the Children's Creativity Museum is that it's both fun and educational. Children get to explore and learn new things through hands-on, interactive experiences. Plus, the exhibits are designed for kids of all ages, so parents can enjoy the experience with their children.

Admission to the Children's Creativity Museum is affordable, and visitors can purchase a discounted family pass. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 4 pm, and visitors are advised to plan for a minimum of 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits.

To sum up, the Children's Creativity Museum in Oakland is a fantastic place to visit with kids. It's a place where children can express themselves and explore their creative side while having fun in a safe and educational environment. With its interactive exhibits and educational experience, it's truly a must-visit destination for families in Oakland.

Watch a movie at the New Parkway Theater

Characteristic	Description
Name	The New Parkway Theater
Type	Movie theater
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 1,203
Address	474 24th St, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone	(510) 658-7900
Profiles

Oakland, California is a city well known for its diversity, vibrant culture, and family-friendly atmosphere, which makes it an ideal destination for both families and kids. The city of Oakland has a plethora of fun and exciting activities to choose from, but one great suggestion is to watch a movie at the New Parkway Theater.

The New Parkway Theater is a renowned community movie theater located in Oakland's Uptown neighborhood. It provides a unique cinematic experience that revives the style of neighborhood theaters from the past by allowing viewers to watch movies from sofas, couches, or ottomans placed in its living room style seating areas. The theater is very kid-friendly and encourages families to enjoy both classic and new films together in one of the municipality’s most entertaining venues.

Visiting the New Parkway Theater is a fantastic way to spend quality time with children while enjoying the latest Hollywood blockbusters or independent films. The theater shows a variety of genres from live-action movies, animated films, documentaries, and even comedy specials, making sure that everyone in the family can find something they enjoy.

One of the things that set the New Parkway Theater apart is its affordable admission prices. Children under 12 years old only need to pay $6 for all shows, while adults pay $9. Moreover, the theater also offers a free screening of movies every Tuesday night in what they call “New Parkway Movie Club,” making it an accessible and affordable activity for families looking to entertain their little ones without breaking the bank.

Aside from showing movies, the New Parkway Theater offers various food options from a classic candy counter and popcorn to a kitchen serving up delicious meals and snacks to enjoy while watching the film. They also cater to kids' food cravings with a designated kid's menu that offers affordable and delicious meals like pizza, French fries, chicken tenders, and more. Parents can relax with a beer, wine or cocktail from the Theater's full-service bar, knowing their kids are enjoying their snacks safely within the theater.

In conclusion, watching a movie at the New Parkway Theater is an enjoyable experience that families should experience in Oakland. It is a fantastic place to spend a few hours with the kids, making new memories and enjoying great movies. It's also lovely to know that you can watch movies from the comfort of a couch instead of hard theater seating. The affordable admission prices, food options, and free movie club on Tuesdays only make the idea of visiting the New Parkway Theater even more attractive for families to explore.

Go bowling at the vintage Grand Lake Theater

Oakland is a great city to visit with your kids and there are plenty of entertaining activities to keep them entertained. One popular destination in Oakland is the vintage Grand Lake Theater which offers a range of activities for families. One of the most fun things you can do with your kids at this theater is go bowling.

The Grand Lake Theater has more than just movies to offer. Located right next to the theater is a retro 1950s-style bowling alley with eight lanes. The décor in the alley is reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s and gives you the feeling of traveling back in time. Kids will feel like they are stepping into a different era as they enjoy a round of bowling with their family and friends.

The bowling alley is well-maintained and has an inviting atmosphere. The lanes are equipped with state-of-the-art scoring systems that are easy to understand and use. The Grand Lake Theater offers a number of bowling packages for families to choose from, including hourly rates, shoe rentals, and more.

If you feel peckish after a long game of bowling, there's an on-site restaurant that offers delicious food options. You can munch on classic American diner fare like hot dogs, burgers, and fries. For the adults, the restaurant also serves a wide range of beers, wines, and cocktails.

Apart from bowling, the Grand Lake Theater offers other activities that you can enjoy with your kids. You can catch a movie in one of the five auditoriums featuring the latest movies, or take part in musical events, puppet shows, and other kid-friendly activities.

Overall, visiting the vintage Grand Lake Theater is a great way to spend a day with your kids. Bowling at the 1950s-inspired alley can create an enjoyable experience for all ages. So take your family, put on your bowling shoes, and get ready to bowl your heart out at this remarkable Oakland landmark.

Visit the Oakland Museum of California

If you're looking for things to do with kids in Oakland, the Oakland Museum of California should definitely be on your list. This museum has something for everyone, from beautiful exhibits on California's history to interactive displays and art installations.

One of the main draws of the Oakland Museum of California is its permanent collection, which includes over 2 million objects representing the state's art, history, and natural sciences. Kids will love exploring the museum's galleries, which are filled with fascinating artifacts and educational displays that bring California's past to life.

One exhibit that's particularly popular with families is the Gallery of California Natural Sciences. Here, you'll find exhibits on everything from geology and ecology to astronomy and climate change. Kids can get up close and personal with live animals, explore a model of an earthquake fault, and marvel at the wonders of the night sky.

Another highlight of the Oakland Museum of California is the interactive exhibits found throughout the museum. These exhibits encourage hands-on learning and exploration, making them perfect for kids of all ages. Examples include a giant kaleidoscope that kids can climb inside, a virtual reality experience that lets visitors explore California's redwood forests, and a creative art space where kids can make their own works of art.

The museum also hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year. From family-friendly art classes to cultural celebrations and film screenings, there's always something exciting happening at the Oakland Museum of California.

Overall, if you're looking for things to do with kids in Oakland, the Oakland Museum of California is a must-visit destination. With its engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs, it's the perfect place to inspire curiosity and encourage a love for learning in children of all ages.

Explore the Lawrence Hall of Science

Oakland is a great place to visit with kids, and there is no shortage of fun activities to keep the little ones busy. One of the most unique and educational attractions available in Oakland is the Lawrence Hall of Science. So if you're looking for something fun and interesting to do with your little ones in Oakland, then the Lawrence Hall of Science is just the thing for you.

The Lawrence Hall of Science is a science center and public science museum located in the hills of Berkeley. It is affiliated with the University of California, Berkeley and is dedicated to inspiring and fostering an interest in science and math among people of all ages. The center offers a wide range of hands-on exhibits and educational programs that allow visitors to explore the natural world and learn about science and technology.

One of the most popular exhibits at the Lawrence Hall of Science is the KidsLab, which is designed specifically for children aged 3-6 years old. The exhibit offers a variety of interactive exhibits that allow kids to explore science, math, and technology. Some of the kids’ favorites are the sand-table exhibit, where they build their own sandcastles, and the water table exhibit, where they learn about the basic principles of physics.

Another popular exhibit is the Ingenuity Lab, where visitors can build their own inventions using LEGOs, magnets, and other materials. The exhibit offers a variety of challenges and obstacles to overcome, making it a fun and engaging experience for kids of all ages.

In addition to the exhibits, the Lawrence Hall of Science offers a variety of educational programs, including science camps, workshops, and field trips. There are also fun events and activities offered throughout the year, such as science comedy shows, science-themed parties, and live animal presentations.

If you're planning a trip to the Oakland area with your kids, be sure to add the Lawrence Hall of Science to your list of must-visit attractions. With its hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and fun activities, it's the perfect place to spark a love of science and learning in your little ones.

Go to Crab Cove to learn about marine life

Oakland, California is a great destination for families with kids. Fun activities and educational experiences abound in this vibrant city on the Bay Area. If you're looking for something to do with your kids that's both entertaining and informative, Crab Cove in Alameda is the perfect place to visit. There, you and your children can learn all about marine life while having a blast.

Located at Crown Memorial State Beach, Crab Cove is a visitor center that's dedicated to marine science education. It features exhibits, programs, and interactive displays that focus on the marine life that inhabits the San Francisco Bay. There are also guided walks, campfires, and other outdoor activities that are geared toward kids and families.

One of the most popular attractions at Crab Cove is the aquarium. It's home to a variety of marine creatures, from colorful fish to prickly sea urchins. Your kids will love getting up close and personal with the animals and learning about their habitats and behaviors. You can also make appointments for birthday parties, scout meetings, and other events to celebrate your child's interests in marine life.

Another great thing to do at Crab Cove is the Bay Explorers program. This hands-on program is designed for children between the ages of five and twelve, and it lets them learn about the Bay's diverse ecosystems and habitats. Your kids will have a great time exploring and learning, and they'll come away with a deeper appreciation for the marine environment.

Finally, make sure to take advantage of the many activities that the park has to offer. You can go on a guided nature walk, attend a campfire program, or even go on a kayaking adventure in the Bay. Whatever you choose to do, you and your kids will have a great time at Crab Cove.

In conclusion, Crab Cove is the perfect destination for anyone with a family looking for something to do with their kids in Oakland. With its educational exhibits, interactive displays, and outdoor activities, you're sure to find something to entertain and educate your kids. So why not take a trip to the seashore and discover all the marine life that the Bay has to offer?

See a show at the Fox Theater

Oakland, California is a vibrant and exciting city with a plethora of family-friendly activities. When it comes to entertaining the kids, one activity that should be high on your list is catching a show at the historic Fox Theater.

Originally opened in 1928, the Fox Theater has withstood the test of time and is now a premier concert venue in the Bay Area. It underwent a massive renovation in the 2000s, and today looks as grand and stunning as it did nearly a century ago. The theater features a magnificent art deco design complete with ornate details and plush red seats.

Not only is the Fox Theater a marvel to behold, but it also hosts some of the biggest names in music and entertainment. Some of the past performers include the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Counting Crows, and The Goo Goo Dolls. The venue attracts a diverse range of acts, so you're sure to find something your kids will love.

What makes the Fox Theater particularly appealing for families is its accessibility. It's located in the heart of Oakland's downtown district, making it easy to get to by public transportation or car. And, if you're looking for a bite to eat before or after the show, there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants nearby.

But, before you head to the theater, it's essential to check the schedule to make sure your chosen show is appropriate for your kids' age group. Some performers may have an age restriction, or the content may not be suitable for younger children. Additionally, some shows may have standing room only or a general admission policy, so be sure to get there early to secure prime seating.

In summary, catching a show at the Fox Theater in Oakland is a memorable experience that the whole family can enjoy. With its stunning art deco design, prime location, and impressive lineup of performers, it's no wonder that it's a beloved venue in the Bay Area. So, book your tickets and get ready for a night of entertainment that your family won't soon forget.

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