Oakland Zoo Tours

Photo provided by Visit Oakland
Photo provided by Visit Oakland
Oakland Zoo
Photo provided by Visit Oakland
Photo provided by Visit Oakland


Watch alligators being fed, ride a train through the Australian outback and see a herd of elephants on the African savannah at this animal park.

Take a walk through the rain forest in Oakland Zoo and listen for the sounds of chimpanzees, gibbons and numerous tropical birds. Take your children to the Wayne and Gladys Children’s Zoo, where they can interact with the animals and enjoy the play areas. Be present for feeding times when you can watch the giraffes, elephants, meerkats and even alligators getting their dinner.

Oakland Zoo was first established in 1922. It moved several times before settling into its current location in Knowland Park. The 100-acre (40-hectare) area contains over 650 animals. The zoo is known for closely replicating the natural habitats of the animals it displays.

Head to the African veldt and watch giraffes, elands and Egyptian geese moving about in a large open area. From here it’s a short walk to the African savannah where you will see the zoo’s herd of elephants and packs of lions and hyenas. Order a drink or a snack from the African Savanna Café, take a seat and enjoy watching some of nature’s most majestic creatures. Learn about traditional African life in the replica village.

Enter the rain forest and you will be met by the sound of chimpanzees, gibbons and several other primates. Visit the tigers and look upward for the bright colors of the tropical birds. If you have children, a visit to the Wayne and Gladys Children’s Zoo is a must. Here they can pet the sheep and goats and learn about several different bugs and amphibians. They’ll also love riding the Outback Express Adventure Train. Climb aboard and peer through the open windows to try to spot emus and wallaroos in the Australian setting.

Make sure you visit the California Project where you can learn about the flora and fauna native to this area. The zoo has initiated efforts for conservation of condors, pumas and western pond turtles.

Oakland Zoo is located within Knowland Park just east of Oakland. There is a small charge for parking. The zoo is open daily throughout the year, but closes on Thanksgiving and Christmas days.

Plan a trip to see Oakland Zoo

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Best Lodging Options Near Oakland Zoo

Harris Motel

Harris Motel

2 out of 5
10400 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland, CA
Harris Motel
3 Bedroom Home in Oakland Hills

3 Bedroom Home in Oakland Hills

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3 Bedroom Home in Oakland Hills
Peaceful Oakland Oasis w/ Private Yard!

Peaceful Oakland Oasis w/ Private Yard!

3 out of 5
Oakland
Peaceful Oakland Oasis w/ Private Yard!
Premier Inn & Suites

Premier Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
10000 MacArthur Blvd, Oakland, CA
Premier Inn & Suites
Crown Lodge Motel Oakland

Crown Lodge Motel Oakland

2 out of 5
9899 Macarthur Blvd, Oakland, CA
Crown Lodge Motel Oakland
Spacious Home near Downtown San Leandro

Spacious Home near Downtown San Leandro

San Leandro
Spacious Home near Downtown San Leandro
2402 - 4B3B Gated House near Zoo Coliseum FWY BART

2402 - 4B3B Gated House near Zoo Coliseum FWY BART

Oakland
2402 - 4B3B Gated House near Zoo Coliseum FWY BART
2400 - 3B2B Gated House near Zoo Coliseum FWY BART

2400 - 3B2B Gated House near Zoo Coliseum FWY BART

Oakland
2400 - 3B2B Gated House near Zoo Coliseum FWY BART
Forget your worries and enjoy this unique and peacefull place

Forget your worries and enjoy this unique and peacefull place

Oakland
Forget your worries and enjoy this unique and peacefull place
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Oakland Zoo

At Oakland Zoo, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including exploring wildlife exhibits and engaging in outdoor sports. Nearby attractions feature event venues and major sites that highlight the charm of the area. Don't miss the chance to discover Oakland's vibrant culture, with its unique blend of food, shopping, and entertainment, making for a well-rounded and exciting experience during your visit.

Shopping

For a great shopping experience near Oakland Zoo, check out Oakland City Center, located 8 miles away, offering a lively atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, Broadway Plaza, 11 miles away, provides entertainment and family-friendly options, while Public Market Emeryville, 10 miles away, boasts a vibrant city vibe.

Recreation

The Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, located 3 miles from Oakland Zoo, offers a vibrant sports atmosphere perfect for energizing your spirit. East Bay Regional Park District, just 0.4 miles away, invites relaxation with its tranquil nature trails. For entertainment, the Fox Theater, 8 miles from the zoo, showcases captivating musical performances.

Adventure

Experience stunning views on a scenic flight at Hayward Flight, located 6 miles from Oakland Zoo, where adventure vibes await. Dive into excitement at Great White Adventures, also 6 miles away, for thrilling underwater sports. For climbing enthusiasts, Berkeley Iron Works, 11 miles from the zoo, offers outdoor adventure challenges.

Nightlife

Enjoy a night at the Greek Theater, just 10 miles from Oakland Zoo, for a mix of culture and romance. For a cinematic experience, visit Paramount Theatre, 8 miles away, or unleash your adventurous side at AMF Southshore Lanes, located 6 miles from the zoo.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Oakland Zoo

When visiting the Oakland Zoo, you'll find a variety of attractions that cater to culture, family, and outdoor experiences. Explore the urban parks, vibrant neighborhoods, and event venues nearby, such as downtown Oakland, the Oakland Symphony, and the Oakland Convention Center. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Uptown Oakland, making your trip both enjoyable and memorable.

  • San Francisco Bay: Experience stunning waterfront views and dynamic city vibes at San Francisco Bay, located 10 miles from Oakland Zoo. This picturesque area is perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the nearby city.
  • Oakland Arena: Just 3 miles away from the zoo, Oakland Arena offers a thrilling entertainment experience for the whole family. Attend concerts, sporting events, and shows in this lively venue that brings excitement to visitors of all ages.
  • Jack London Square: Located 8 miles from Oakland Zoo, Jack London Square is a bustling modern square with a charming waterfront. Enjoy dining, shopping, and local events while soaking in the lively city vibes that this area has to offer.

Best time to go to Oakland Zoo

The best time to visit Oakland Zoo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Oakland Zoo falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Oakland Zoo falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.4°F (13.0°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May57.9°F (14.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June61.9°F (16.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
July63.0°F (17.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
August64.0°F (17.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September64.6°F (18.1°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
October62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November55.8°F (13.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Oakland Zoo

To save money during your trip to Oakland Zoo, consider visiting in February or between November and December for lower accommodation rates. Fridays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find eco-friendly hotel options and sort prices from low to high. Bundling your hotel, flights, and activities can yield great savings, and joining Expedia's One Key membership offers exclusive discounts and cash back on future stays. Also, explore free local attractions to make the most of your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Oakland Zoo are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Oakland Zoo is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Oakland Zoo is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your travel options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay near the Oakland Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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