Oakland, CA

If you’re even a little curious about space, the Chabot Space and Science Center in Oakland is a must. Tucked in the redwoods high above the city, it’s part observatory, part museum, and all kinds of awesome for kids, adults, and amateur stargazers alike.

Highlights:

• Explore interactive exhibits about Earth, space, and the universe
• Check out giant telescopes—Nellie, Rachel, and Leah—for epic stargazing
• Hands-on science workshops and cool classes for all ages
• Fun special events and seasonal Space & Science Camps
• Gorgeous forest setting with views for days

Pro Tip:

Head up for a free telescope viewing night—you might catch a glimpse of Saturn’s rings or a faraway galaxy. Bonus: it’s super peaceful under the redwoods.

10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland, California 94619
Phone: 510-336-7300

Travel Tips for Science Buffs Visiting Oakland:

• Where to Stay – Stay at Claremont Club & Spa or Kissel Uptown Oakland for easy access to science attractions.
• Educational Extras – Join an evening stargazing program at Chabot.
• Dining Nearby – Grab a post-museum bite at Mockingbird or enjoy sustainable eats at Encuentro near Jack London Square.
• Public Transport Options – BART and local buses serve most science attractions; use rideshares for hillside access to Chabot.

Right in the heart of Oakland, Lake Merritt is a total local favorite—a tidal lagoon surrounded by green parkland, cool city vibes, and tons to explore. It's actually home to the first official wildlife refuge in the U.S., and you'll spot plenty of birds chilling on the little islands in the lake.

Highlights:

• Scenic 3.4-mile loop for walking, jogging, or biking
• Birdwatching galore—thanks to those mini wildlife islands
• Rent rowboats, canoes, or try a sailing class at the Boating Center
• Let the kids run wild at nearby Children’s Fairyland
• Explore The Gardens at Lake Merritt—7 acres of themed beauty

Pro Tip:

Pack a picnic and hang by the water, then stroll through The Gardens at Lake Merritt. It’s peaceful, super pretty, and a hidden gem for plant lovers.

Lake Merritt, Oakland, California 94612
More info here

If you’re looking for a quiet escape in the middle of Oakland, the Morcom Rose Garden is a total hidden gem. With winding pathways, a peaceful reflecting pool, and thousands of blooming roses, it’s the kind of place that feels like a fairytale—especially when the flowers are in full bloom.

Highlights:

• Thousands of roses in every color you can imagine
• Gorgeous fountain and reflecting pool for photo ops
• Charming stone staircases and tucked-away benches
• Popular spot for weddings and romantic strolls
• Maintained by a local volunteer group called the “Dedicated Deadheaders”

Pro Tip:

Visit in late spring or early summer when the roses are at their peak. Bring a book, a picnic, or someone special—it's seriously one of the most peaceful spots in the city.

Morcom Rose Garden, 700 Jean St, Oakland, CA 94610
More info here

700 Jean Street, Oakland, California 94610, Phone: 510-238-3187

Travel Tips for Garden Lovers Visiting Oakland

• Seasonal Blooms – Peak rose season at Morcom is late spring to early summer; fall offers fewer crowds and cool temps.
• Hidden Gems – Seek out Bonsai and Japanese gardens tucked within Lakeside Park near Lake Merritt.
• Best Photo Ops – Early mornings offer soft light and quiet paths at Morcom Rose Garden—perfect for serene photos.
• Nearby Cafés – Stop by Arizmendi Bakery or Grand Lake Kitchen near Lake Merritt for garden-side bites and coffee.

Attractions for Couples

Want to explore Oakland (or SF) with your taste buds leading the way? Edible Excursions serves up awesome foodie tours that take you through some of the Bay Area’s tastiest neighborhoods. From Japantown to the Gourmet Ghetto, these walking tours are all about flavor, stories, and meeting the people behind the plates.

Highlights:

• Small-group culinary strolls with local foodie guides
• Tour the Ferry Building, Temescal, Uptown Oakland, and more
• Visit iconic spots and hidden gems with tasty samples at each stop
• Meet chefs, owners, and artisans along the way
• Private and corporate tours available for special occasions

Pro Tip:

Don’t miss the Uptown Oakland tour—it’s packed with flavor and cool artsy vibes. Plus, you’ll leave full and way more in-the-know about the local scene.

Looking for a date night spot with serious wow factor? The Fox Theater in downtown Oakland totally delivers. With its dramatic, temple-inspired design and glowing marquee, this place is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the ears.

Highlights:

• Stunning architecture with a mystical, old-school vibe
• Originally opened in 1928—fully restored and reopened in 2009
• Hosts big-name concerts and live performances
• Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
• Also home to the Oakland School for the Arts

Pro Tip:

Snag tickets for a show, grab dinner nearby, and make a night of it. The Fox Theater’s interior is jaw-dropping—even if you’re not a huge concert-goer, it’s worth going just to soak in the atmosphere.

1807 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: 510-302-2250

Want to dive into what really makes California tick? Head to the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA). Just a short walk from Lake Merritt, this spot brings together art, history, and natural science to tell the full story of the Golden State—past, present, and future.

Highlights:

• Nearly two million artifacts covering California’s rich history
• Interactive exhibits on art, nature, culture, and migration
• Rotating exhibitions that reflect today’s issues and voices
• Outdoor gardens and terraces for relaxing in between galleries
• Great for families, solo wanderers, and curious minds alike

Pro Tip:

Check out one of their Friday Nights at OMCA events—there’s live music, food trucks, and cool evening vibes that make the whole museum feel like a block party.

1000 Oak St, Oakland, California 94607
Phone: 510-318-8400

Travel Tips for Art Lovers Visiting Oakland

• Local Galleries – Explore art spaces in the Uptown and Temescal neighborhoods, including Vessel Gallery and Johansson Projects.
• Murals and Street Art – Take a self-guided walk through the Telegraph Avenue corridor for vibrant murals and public art installations.
• Art Walk Events – Time your visit with Oakland First Fridays, a monthly street festival celebrating local artists, food, and music.
• Creative Stops – Visit Hive Oakland for art studios, workshops, and rotating exhibits in a buzzing co-working space.

Tucked into Oakland’s Glenview neighborhood, Bellanico Restaurant and Wine Bar is a cozy go-to for rustic Italian food with a seasonal twist. Think locally sourced ingredients, hearty flavors, and a vibe that’s warm but totally unpretentious.

Highlights:

• Seasonal menus with organic, sustainable ingredients
• Brunch, lunch, and dinner featuring wild-caught seafood and natural meats
• Standout dishes like Fulton Valley chicken and Australian lamb
• Excellent wine bar with Old World Italian varieties
• Try wines by the glass or sample a flight to find your favorite

Pro Tip:

If you're into wine, go for a tasting flight—it’s a fun way to explore lesser-known Italian grapes, and the staff is great at guiding you through it.

4238 Park Blvd., Oakland, California 94602
Phone: 510-336-1180

Travel Tips for Foodies Visiting Oakland

• Must-Try Neighborhoods – Head to Temescal for Korean and Ethiopian eats, or Uptown for trendy bistros and cocktail bars.
• International Flavors – Visit Fruitvale for top-notch Mexican food, including tacos, tamales, and pan dulce from local bakeries.
• Brunch & Wine – Try Bellanico Restaurant and Wine Bar for rustic Italian fare paired with regional wines in a cozy setting.
• Farmer’s Markets – Don’t miss the Grand Lake Farmers Market on Saturdays for local produce, gourmet snacks, and global street food.

If you are planning a trip with your dog, check out these Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Oakland, CA.

Unique Attractions

Looking for a fun, animal-packed day in Oakland? The Oakland Zoo is a great spot to explore. Spread out over 100 acres, it’s home to more than 440 animals, all living in modern habitats that are as close to the wild as it gets.

Highlights:

• Massive, naturalistic enclosures with elephants, lions, and more
• The Valley Children’s Zoo with play areas and kid-friendly animal encounters
• See ring-tailed lemurs, giant Aldabra tortoises, pot-bellied pigs, and bats
• Cool Reptile and Amphibian Discovery Room and Bug Room
• Educational programs and interactive exhibits throughout the park

Pro Tip:

Make a beeline for the elephant exhibit—it’s one of the best in the country. Then let the kids burn off energy at the play zones in the Children’s Zoo.

9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland, California 94605
Phone: 510-632-9525

Travel Tips for Animal Lovers Visiting Oakland

• Wildlife Encounters – Ride the gondola to the California Trail exhibit for rescued bears, bison, and bald eagles with sweeping Bay views.
• Family Friendly – Check out the Wayne and Gladys Valley Children’s Zoo for interactive animal experiences and a petting yard.
• Lake Merritt Wildlife Refuge – Stroll along the lake to see herons, pelicans, and other migratory birds at America’s oldest designated wildlife refuge.

Check out more San Francisco and Oakland ideas with kids.

If you're into cool spots that mix great food, creative energy, and community vibes, you’ve gotta check out Hive Oakland. Located in the heart of Uptown, this hip gathering space blends restaurants, wellness studios, and co-working spaces—all in revamped historic buildings.

Highlights:

• Grab a craft beer and bite at Drake’s Dealership—a former car dealership turned 32-tap beer garden
• Try Calavera’s modern Mexican fare and seriously impressive mezcal & tequila selection
• Get your sweat on or recharge at Truve wellness center
• Work or connect at Impact Hub Oakland, a hub for entrepreneurs and creatives
• Pop in during First Fridays for art, music, and community vibes

Pro Tip:

Go for happy hour at Drake’s and stay for the laid-back patio scene—it’s one of the best spots to hang out in Uptown.

2335 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612
More info here

Check out more Oakland coffee shops you can visit.

History buff or not, cruising the Bay on the USS Potomac—aka the “Floating White House”—is a pretty cool experience. This was FDR’s official presidential yacht until 1945, and today it’s a National Historic Landmark you can actually hop aboard.

Highlights:

• One of only three surviving presidential yachts
• Guided cruises to Bay hot spots like Angel Island and the Golden Gate
• Learn about FDR’s legacy and his ties to the Bay Area
• Views for days while cruising under iconic bridges
• Great mix of local history and sightseeing

Pro Tip:

Book a Bridges of the Bay cruise—it’s relaxing, scenic, and full of fun facts you probably didn’t know about SF and Oakland.

540 Water Street, Oakland, California 94607
Phone: 510-627-1215