THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Oakland - 2024 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor
Things to Do in Oakland

Things to Do in Oakland, CA - Oakland Attractions

Things to Do in Oakland


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Top Attractions in Oakland

These rankings are informed by traveler reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.

*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travelers are saying

  • Vicki J
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The talent and effort put into The Lamb of God was amazing. (March 30 Matinee)
    It was a beautiful and moving performance and a wonderful way to usher in Easter.
    Written April 5, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Roary
    Vancouver, Canada3,081 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Having visited the SF Bay area so many times, I’ve never visited any redwood forests yet, so for my recent solo trip, I decided I had to visit one. I’m glad I did. It was the perfect weather where it warm but not too hot. Trails are well kept and very popular with other hikers and dog owners. I got to see my share of redwood trees and they are impressive to see.

    My only mistake? I took a rideshare vehicle to get to one of the main gates. As I hiked in, I didn’t think I would lose complete phone reception once I reached one of smaller parking lots deeper in the park so I spent an extra hour to get myself to an area with good enough reception to catch a ride back home! Still a nice visit!
    Written December 14, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jenny from Santa Cruz
    Santa Cruz, CA807 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The museum covers art, history, and natural history, so there is a ton to see. I was especially impressed with the thoughtfully designed interactive stations throughout the museum, like one about how cropping photographs changes the story they tell. And the giftshop had some lovely items!
    Also, it's right near the lake, so it's very easy to take a walk outside afterwards.
    Written June 5, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • e e
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The crew was very nice along the whole trip! They were very welcoming and the ride was great. Would definitely recommend!
    Written March 13, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Thomas V
    Oakland, CA17,104 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    When it is open to the public, it is a good idea to visit to enjoy the beauty of the open space and the lovely landscaping plus some excellent views of the Bay and the city.
    Written June 26, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • The Brown Daredevil
    Moreno Valley, CA384 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I love the clear directions on where to go for your seating. Lots of staff so you will not have any trouble finding someone to ask for help. Parking is expensive though compare to others. Seating typical, you will not be able to walk in front of people without them standing up.

    Parking $40 - we parked at A6 and it was walkable to the arena. I suggest if you're okay to walk even after concerts, park farther so when the even is gone, it is easier for you to leave as vehicles will line up to leave the venue. Be smart where to turn but always be careful as people is around.
    Written December 17, 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Revathi
    San Ramon, CA47 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The trail is predominantly flat and paved, making it easy to follow and suitable for individuals of all levels and abilities. Visit Oakland's Gardens, Children's Fairyland, explore the Oakland Library, and enjoy a serene boat rental experience.
    Written February 20, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kyle_10
    Modesto, CA111 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This was our first time going to Oakland zoo. We’ve been to Fresno numerous times (also nice) and Sacramento once (average) and we were very pleasantly surprised at how nice and large Oakland zoo is.

    Our friends told us they added the upper part of the zoo somewhat recently. You access it via a free gondola ride which is very nice and we could see Oakland and San Francisco clearly on the day we attended. The upper portion of the zoo has a lot of American west animals such as bears, bison, mountain lion, condors, bald eagles, wolves etc. The lower section has your African and Asian animals. They have giraffes, elephants, lions, hyenas, etc. Don’t remember seeing a rhino or hippo but otherwise they had most of the animals you would expect to see.

    Also there is an area with some rides for kids that was reasonably priced. Our daughter rode the carousel once.

    We went for free due to our friends being members but when we checked online for pricing it seemed reasonable. Around $20 I think.
    Written May 10, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Fal L
    Atlanta, GA969 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Tony Toni Tone was everything! I flew in on three planes to see them!!! The concert didn’t disappoint! Omgggg. I had to see them in their hometown. I really enjoyed myself.
    Written November 26, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Thomas V
    Oakland, CA17,104 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Looking better than ever with the palm trees which are beautifully lit at night. And great views across the Estuary of the new housing in Alameda. This is a well-designed urban area, but it still does not attract a critical mass and thus there are not a lot of places to shop or eat. Will it ever become a big hit?
    Written February 24, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sandy M
    West Chester52 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is a very interesting building, but the iconography is not always immediately evident. A printed description would be helpful, although the three one-page sheets did help. I would love to see it filled with people. It still feels a little unfinished.
    Written December 2, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • MLB
    5 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Our cruise was a very cleverly run “birthday mystery” that included a number local actors portraying historical characters from the Birdman of Alcatraz through musical icons and, of course, FDR himself. All kept in character and were delightful to talk to.

    We had beautiful weather and the cruise itself offered a tour of the Bay that included wildlife like pelicans fishing to upclose views of the bridges and two of the islands (Angel and Alcatraz). The crew was so helpful and friendly.

    Highly recommended.
    Written October 30, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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