Top Activities and Attractions to Explore in Oakland, California
Discover the vibrant city of Oakland, California, with our guide to ten exciting, wallet-friendly activities that are perfect for families and kids.
- Explore the Oakridge-Temescal Greenbelt: Nestled in Oakland, this serene green space offers a wonderful opportunity for a leisurely walk or picnic.
- Visit the Lawrence Hall of Science: Home to The Whale, an interactive exhibit, the Lawrence Hall of Science is a must-visit for science enthusiasts. While entry may require a fee, the Whale alone is worth the visit.
- Join the Solano Stroll: This lively event, held in Oakland, is a celebration of arts, music, and community spirit.
- Fly a Kite at the Berkeley Kite Festival: While technically located in Berkeley, this free event is just a stone's throw away and provides a fun day out for the whole family.
- Discover the Oakland Zoo: Although entry is chargeable, the zoo's rides area just outside the main entrance allows for individually paid experiences. Don't miss the emu and wallaroo enclosure!
- Engage with the Lotus Bloom Family Resource Center Playgroups: Offering free play, art, story time, and enrichment activities for children under 5, these playgroups are a fantastic resource for families.
- Enjoy Waterfront Flicks at Jack London Square: Every Saturday evening, families can bring blankets and enjoy a movie on the Marina Lawn.
- Participate in Oakland Public Library Children’s Programs: From LEGO play to art workshops led by Museum of Children’s Art teachers, there's a wealth of free weekly events for children of all ages.
- Explore Family Fun Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Oakland hosts a variety of family-friendly festivals, art competitions, music, dance, and cultural events suitable for all ages.
- Explore 75 Days of Summer Fun Activities: This programme offers a plethora of free or low-cost activities, including fruit picking, bike rides, beach outings, and more.
Beyond these ten activities, Oakland offers a wealth of free and family-friendly options, such as Fairyland and Walking Lake Merritt, the Temescal Farmer's Market, and the Chabot Space and Science Center.
For more ideas, Jessica from Stay at Home-ista, an expert in finding fun, almost free activities for kids in Berkeley and Oakland, recommends checking out the slides in Codornices Park. Happy exploring!
[1] Lotus Bloom Family Resource Center [2] Oakland Public Library [3] City of Oakland Events [4] 75 Days of Summer Fun
- The Lotus Bloom Family Resource Center offers free play, art, story time, and enrichment activities for children under 5, making it a fantastic resource for families looking to engage with their community in Oakland.
- City of Oakland Events and programs, like the 75 Days of Summer Fun, provide a wealth of free or low-cost activities that cater to a variety of interests, contributing to a vibrant family-dynamics within the city.
