Oakland, California is set against the background of the San Francisco Bay, and shares much of the cool coastal weather. If you are visiting the area and wondering what is there to do in Oakland with children, here is a quick overview of the city attractions especially created for the little ones.
The first stop for anybody visiting Oakland with children should be Fairyland, a 10-acre park full of classic fairytales coming to life. Designed 60 years ago and shunning extreme rides and special effects, Fairyland is a great stop for those wishing to revisit the tales of the past. From the pirate ship in Peter Pan's tale to the Alice in Wonderland's maze, the park is a must-do for those visiting Oakland with children.
Another great place for those visiting Oakland with children is the Chabot Space and Science Center, which includes a planetarium, a MegaDome Theater, a virtual space mission children can help plan and execute, and a number of permanent and temporary exhibitions exploring the world of underground caves, the moon odyssey, and the solar system. A completely different experience, but still fun and educational, for families visiting Oakland with children is the Oakland Museum of California, which features a large education department with hundreds of workshops, festivals, and hands-on activities open to children year-round.
Those wishing to enjoy the outdoors when visiting Oakland with children can head to Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve, just east of the city. A must-see for nature lovers, the preserve allows for self-guided tours, great views of the coastline, and a chance to enjoy several stone labyrinths. For a more traditional outdoor experience, visit the Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve, where hiking, bird-watching, and exploration are all encouraged.
In the summer, people visiting Oakland with children can enjoy Lake Merritt, where a myriad of birds have turned the area into their own personal sanctuary. A series of artificial islands, created especially for the birds, can be seen from the coast. Summer functions are often organized against the water, including concerts, open-air attractions, and flea markets.