Travel back in time at the Oakland Museum of California. The museum shares the extraordinary tales of the Golden State and its people through engaging collections, exhibits and attractions that explore the state's connection to its history, art and nature. Discover local artesian wares at the museum store and participate in art-related monthly community events.
Feel zen at the Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt. The garden contains one of the most beautiful open-air bonsai collections in the nation, with more than 150 outstanding bonsai trees. Tour this and other rare spectacular garden wonders such as a Japanese Garden, Mediterranean Garden, and Rhododendron Garden.
Set sail at Lake Merritt Boating Center. The waters of Lake Merritt can be calm or extreme when it comes to your interest in water recreation. Learn to sail, rent a paddleboat, canoe or kayak, or sign up to be on an exciting dragon boat team, the fastest growing water sport in the world.
It's zenful at the Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve. Maintaining the fragile nature of this Oakland ecological treasure is of the utmost importance due to its relic plant life found only in a few areas along the California coast. Outdoor enthusiasts and nature photographers alike enjoy traveling across the 240 acres to discover the rare native plants and flowers.