Oakland Zoo, Zoo in Oakland, California
Description
The Oakland Zoo is a nonprofit institution in Oakland, California, housing over 700 animals in recreated habitats from Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The grounds include sprawling outdoor areas with hills and native vegetation, connected by a network of walking paths and a gondola lift.
History
The grounds opened in 1922 as a modest facility in Knowland Park and expanded over the decades with new animal enclosures and conservation initiatives. In the early 2000s, major investments were made to modernize the facilities and shift focus toward preservation work.
Culture
Local families use the grounds for education programs focused on wildlife protection and regional ecosystems. The paths lead through areas where California species such as black bears and gray foxes can be observed in their natural behavior.
Practical
The entrance sits near the southeastern part of Oakland and can be reached via Golf Links Road. Different opening hours apply on weekdays and weekends, with advance online reservation required for all visits.
Did you know?
A small veterinary hospital on the grounds allows visitors to watch veterinary teams at work on selected days. The gondola lift offers a view from above of the enclosures and the surrounding East Bay hills.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Oakland).
Dunsmuir House
1.1 km
Chabot Space and Science Center
8.1 km
Alameda High School
12.2 km
Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park
7.2 km
Anthony Chabot Regional Park
3.2 km
Meek Mansion
8 km
Oakland Aviation Museum
6 km
Alameda Theatre
8.5 km
Fruitvale Bridge
7.5 km
Joaquin Miller House
7.8 km
San Leandro Oyster Beds
7.4 km
Park Street Bridge
8.2 km
Leimert Bridge
8.9 km
High Street Bridge
6.9 km
Bay Farm Island Bridge
7.8 km
Upper San Leandro Reservoir
3.9 km
Sequoyah Country Club
2 km
Alameda Free Library
8.5 km
William Joseph McInnes Botanic Garden and Campus Arboretum
4.4 km
Peralta Home
2.5 km
Casa Peralta
6.1 km
Masonic Temple and Lodge
8.5 km
Casa de Estudillo
3.2 km
Oakland Harbor Light
9.1 km
Alameda Museum
8.6 km
Alameda City Hall
8.6 km
Labadie Arboretum
5.1 km
Mills Hall
4.4 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes