🧚‍♀️ Whimsical 10-acre storybook park on Lake Merritt, Oakland, designed for young children (ages 0-8).
✨ One of America's earliest themed amusement parks, it inspired Disneyland and offers gentle rides, puppet shows, and live animals.

Why Go

🧚 Explore magical playsets and storybook-themed settings
🐾 Meet friendly animals and enjoy gentle rides
🎭 Watch puppet shows at the oldest continuously operating puppet theater in the US ✨ Sparks imagination and joy in little ones
📜 Experience a historical site that inspired Walt Disney
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with interactive experiences

Why Avoid

🚫 Adults must be accompanied by a child, and vice versa
🎢 Geared towards younger children, not for thrill-seekers
🚶‍♀️ Can get crowded, especially on weekends

Tips

🗓️ Consider weekdays for lower attendance and noise levels
🍎 Bring snacks or a picnic, food options are basic
🔑 Magic Keys unlock audio stories in English and Spanish
🎧 Noise-reducing headphones and tactile totes available for sensory needs
🎟️ Reserve tickets in advance, walk-ups discouraged

Cost

💰 Adults $19, Children (1-17) $17, Under 1 FREE. Discounts for Oakland residents, military, EBT/SNAP/WIC.

Hours

🕒 Open Friday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., some special Monday openings. Closed Tuesday-Thursday.

🅿️ Parking City of Oakland charges $3 for 2 hours (weekdays), $10 for full weekday, $5 for weekends/holidays. Drop-off zone available.

♿ Accessibility Wheelchair accessible park, but most rides are not. Noise-reducing headphones and tactile totes available at front desk. Wristbands for reduced ride wait times due to physical/cognitive conditions. Service animals welcome, no emotional support animals.