10 Family Friendly Activities in Oakland

10 Family Friendly Activities in Oakland

Looking for something fun to do with the family? Harrington found the fun, so you don't have to! Here are 10 family friendly activities throughout the Oakland area!

1. Children’s Fairyland This vintage-style amusement park is a must-see for any kid in the East Bay. Enjoy a petting zoo, live shows, kiddie rides, puppet shows, and family fun. It is just $15 to enter, but the park also features an annual membership option. Fairyland is open most days of the year from 10am to 4pm and is recommended for children ages 3 to 8.

2. Oakland Ice This indoor ice rink in downtown Oakland is open year round. Skate rental sizes begin at a toddler size 6. It's recommended that younger children dress in snow pants to help reduce the impact from falling. Dress warm and wear gloves!

3. Fentons Creamery This old-school ice cream parlor opened in 1894 and has since become a landmark institution for its world famous handcrafted ice creams and sauces. Additionally, they also offer a full menu of entrees–so whether your little one is in the mood for a supersized sundae or a full meal, this is the place to be! Some standouts on the menu are the black and tan sundae and the deconstrcuted banana split.

4. Chabot Space and Science Center This Oakland edwoods gem exposes children to STEM principles and the wonders of space. You can experiment with light, create photograph-like scenes, watch a planetarium show, or do a free telescope viewing. Since the 2020 renovations, the space features beautiful murals, innovative exhibits, and great furniture and layout. Currently, the center is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday. Tickets can be purchased both online and in person.

5. The Oakland Zoo This is the spot for a gondola ride, play areas, kiddie rides, and of course animals! Oakland Zoo features expansive spaces with a variety of wildlife habitats. Entry fees range from $20 to $24, but the park also features a membership format. You can always make a reservation ahead of time on the Oakland Zoo website.

6. Oakland Museum of California’s (OMCA) Friday Night This program is the best way to start the weekend. Art, science, and lots of fun can be expected here. On Fridays, you can find food trucks and live music. On any given day, the OMCA gardens have free entry. Be sure to check out the many interactive elements OMCA has to offer, they’re sure to be a blast for you and the family.

7. Oakland Library Events Every week is different, but these events include cool art workshops, storytimes, and playgroups. Be sure to check the library site directly for a breakdown of all the upcoming fun at the Oakland Library!

8. Temescal Regional Park and Lake Temescal This spaces offers paths for wandering, green areas for running, playing, picnics and more. And how could we forget…a lake to fish in!

9. The New Parkway Theater Looking for dinner and a movie? New Parkway Theater is just the place! Check their site for a kid-friendly title showing, come hungry, and enjoy entrees from the full-service cafe right in your seat. For the grownups, the wine and beer selection is a must! With the convenient and eclectic feel, this theater is a must-see.

10. The Oakland Aviation Museum Here, kids can walk right up to airplanes, and on Open Cockpit Days, hop inside! There are many deals on entry on any given day, just make sure to ask! Learn all about the history of flight and the future of what's to come in aviation!