Watch tigers wrestle in a naturalized enclosure and elephants chill out in their own splashing pond at the Oakland Zoo, located just across the Bay Bridge and home to more than 700 animals. Creatures are grouped in unique habitats, so you see giraffes and zebras roaming together in the African savannah enclosure, or wander through a simulated tropical rainforest filled with acrobatic, white-handed gibbons.
Native animals and the Skyride at the Oakland Zoo
Not all of the zoo’s inhabitants are from such far-flung places, however—in the California Trail exhibit, visitors can see wildlife native to the Bay Area, but most of which have long since been pushed out. The experience begins with an open-air gondola Skyride (and a sweeping view of six Bay Area counties) to the Kaiser Permanente Visitor Center. Then, from a raised, protected trail, visitors can view sections of the exhibit that are dedicated to grizzlies, black bears, jaguars, bison, grey wolves, mountain lions, and eagles.
Kid-friendly attractions at the Oakland Zoo
At the Wayne and Gladys Valley Children’s Zoo, there are more fun ways for kids to learn and explore. A wooden rope bridge provides the perfect perch for watching river otters swimming and playing below. Tiger Trek kiddie coaster amps up the excitement, and the Clorox Wildlife Theater hosts family overnights, as well as concerts and Animal Encounters, where an animal is presented for an up-close experience.
Events at the Oakland Zoo
Family-friendly events happen year round at the Oakland Zoo. Every November and December, the grounds are populated by larger-than-life animal lanterns—polar bears, mountain lions, even deep-ocean sea creatures—during the nighttime Glowfari festival. During warmer months, Summer Zoo Camp provide kids the chance to play fun games, sing songs, get the behind-the-scenes scoop from zoo keepers and more during four-day sessions that take place from early June through early August. Also offered June through September are tours of the zoo’s state-of-the-art veterinary hospital.
Conservation at the Oakland Zoo
But it’s not all fun and games at the zoo—in fact, there’s serious science going on here too. A special focus is the zoo’s efforts to help save the native yellow-legged frog, an endangered Sierra Nevada species that has experienced a 90 percent decline in recent years.
In 2024, the Oakland Zoo received recognition from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) for meeting the world's most rigorous standards for animal welfare, veterinary care, husbandry, safety, staffing, education,and conservation.
Oakland Zoo hours
The Oakland Zoo is open Monday through Friday and weekends and holidays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; member early entry is 9 a.m. Advanced ticket reservations are required for general admission. For more information see the zoo’s tickets page.
More zoos in California
The Golden State is home to more than its share of zoos, some of them truly world-class. If you are looking to observe and learn about wildlife from California and elsewhere, a visit to any of the below is recommended:
San Diego Zoo: Renowned worldwide, the San Diego Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals representing more than 650 species. Located in Balboa Park, it features naturalistic habitats and pioneering conservation programs. Highlights include the Panda Trek, the Polar Bear Plunge, and the Skyfari aerial tram. It's sister attraction, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, in Escondido, offers balloon safaris, and Africa Tram, and even overnight stays with their Roar and Snore packages.
Los Angeles Zoo: Situated in Griffith Park, the Los Angeles Zoo houses over 1,400 animals from around the globe. Visitors can explore various themed areas like the Rainforest of the Americas and the Elephants of Asia. The zoo also emphasizes education with its many interactive exhibits and conservation efforts.
San Francisco Zoo & Gardens: The San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, on the westernmost border of San Francisco, adjacent to Golden Gate Park, features over 2,000 animals from around the world in naturalistic habitats. It offers rotating exhibits, a petting zoo, and beautiful gardens, making it a perfect destination for family outings and wildlife education.
Fresno Chaffee Zoo: Located in Roeding Park, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo features a wide array of species and engaging exhibits. Notable attractions include the African Adventure, Sea Lion Cove, and the Wilderness Falls play area for children.