Attractions and Places To See around Oakland - Top 14
Best attractions and places to see around Oakland include a diverse range of natural parks, cultural institutions, and historical landmarks. The region offers expansive natural landscapes, such as the Oakland Hills, alongside vibrant urban areas. Visitors can explore a variety of experiences, from outdoor adventures to educational sites. Oakland provides numerous options for those seeking to discover its unique character.
Best attractions and places to see around Oakland
- The most popular attractions is River des Peres Greenway, a cycle_way…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
River des Peres Greenway
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Meramec Greenway Trail – Eastern Section
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Saint Louis Zoo – Wetterau Pavilion
Highlight • Structure
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Emerson Grand Basin
Highlight • Lake
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Laumeier Sculpture Garden
Highlight • Monument
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Tips from the Community
The Meramec Greenway Trail is a scenic route that connects riders to the Meramec River and many parks in the region as it winds along the river and limestone bluffs through woodlands and several communities.
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The Emerson Grand Basin in St. Louis is a stunning water feature located in Forest Park. Spanning over 7 acres, it serves as both a picturesque gathering place and a recreational area for visitors to enjoy.
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Emerson Gran Basin is a manmade lake in front of the Saint Louis Art Museum. The architecture of the museum, the square, and the lake with water fountains make it a beautiful romantic scenery. Forest Park has a nice trail network and is a great place for a run.
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The Laumeier Sculpture Garden displays dozens of large-scale sculptures in a pretty outdoor environment, with the goal of engaging the public through art and nature. Admission is free, except for the occasional private event, and the park is open from 7am to half an hour after sunset. Get more information about visiting here: https://www.laumeiersculpturepark.org/visit
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The St. Louis Zoo is free to enter and offers nature lovers and zoo lovers a zoo park with animals from all over the world. From big cats and elephants to monkeys and reptiles, there is a lot to discover and absolutely free. There are paid events such as Ray-Cove where you can feed and pet rays for a fee, food is also relatively expensive, but those who are interested in nature and biodiversity can enjoy it for free. Also highly recommended for families with children, although it can get crowded on weekends.
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Nice bike path along the River des Peres. Conditions are not as great as on Grant Trail, but still pretty decent.
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Neat trail close to the Meramec. Good surface, but lots of turns (can’t go too fast).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best natural attractions to visit in Oakland?
Oakland boasts several stunning natural attractions. You can explore the East Bay's largest native stand of coast redwoods at Redwood Regional Park, offering over 40 miles of trails. Joaquin Miller Park also provides rough forest paths and redwood groves with views of downtown Oakland. For unique plant life, visit Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve, or discover ancient trails at Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve.
Are there any historical landmarks or cultural sites in Oakland?
Yes, Oakland is rich in history and culture. Jack London Square is a vibrant waterfront area named after the famous author, featuring dining, shopping, and historical landmarks. The opulent Paramount Theatre is an Art Deco masterpiece, while the Chapel of the Chimes, designed by Julia Morgan, is a stunning Moorish-Gothic mausoleum. Don't miss the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA), which integrates art, history, and natural sciences, or the historic Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon.
What family-friendly attractions are available in Oakland?
Oakland offers many attractions suitable for families. The Oakland Zoo is home to over 850 animals and is dedicated to conservation. Children's Fairyland near Lake Merritt is an amusement park where nature and imagination meet. For educational fun, the Chabot Space & Science Center in the Oakland Hills features an observatory, planetarium, and interactive exhibits. Additionally, Lake Merritt is perfect for walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the outdoors with children.
Where can I find scenic views in Oakland?
For breathtaking scenic views, head to the Oakland Hills. Both Redwood Regional Park and Joaquin Miller Park offer stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape and downtown Oakland. The Oakland California Temple is also beautifully lit at night and visible throughout the Bay Area, providing a unique visual landmark.
What outdoor activities can I do near Oakland's attractions?
Many attractions in Oakland are perfect for outdoor activities. Lake Merritt offers a 3.4-mile shoreline ideal for walking, jogging, and birdwatching. In the Oakland Hills, Redwood Regional Park and Joaquin Miller Park provide extensive trail networks for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. You can find more detailed routes for these activities by exploring our guides for hiking, running, and cycling around Oakland.
Are there any unique or hidden natural spots in Oakland?
Beyond the well-known parks, Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve offers a self-guided botanic interpretive trail to explore diverse plant life, including manzanitas and madrones. Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve provides ancient trails and geological features for a unique natural exploration experience.
What is there to do around Lake Merritt?
Lake Merritt, often called the 'crown jewel of Oakland,' is a large tidal lagoon and a National Historic Landmark. You can enjoy walking, jogging, fishing, or birdwatching along its 3.4-mile shoreline. It's also recognized as one of America's first official wildlife refuges, making it a great spot for nature observation. Nearby, you'll find Children's Fairyland, an amusement park for kids.
What kind of trails can I find in Oakland's parks?
Oakland's parks offer a variety of trails. Redwood Regional Park features over 40 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, winding through ancient redwood groves. Joaquin Miller Park provides rough forest paths and redwood groves, popular for hiking, jogging, and biking. For a botanical experience, Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve has a self-guided interpretive trail.
Are there any attractions in Oakland that are good for rainy weather?
For rainy days, consider indoor cultural and educational attractions. The Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) offers extensive collections on California's art, history, and natural sciences. The Chabot Space & Science Center provides an engaging indoor experience with its planetarium and interactive exhibits. The historic Paramount Theatre also hosts various performances, offering an indoor entertainment option.
Where can I experience Oakland's waterfront?
The primary waterfront destination in Oakland is Jack London Square. This vibrant area offers a mix of dining, shopping, entertainment, and historical landmarks with scenic views of the Oakland Estuary. It's also a hub for Oakland's port operations and a San Francisco Bay Ferry dock, providing opportunities to enjoy the bay.
What are some unique architectural sites in Oakland?
Oakland features several architecturally significant sites. The Paramount Theatre is renowned for its opulent Art Deco and Moorish Revival interiors. The Chapel of the Chimes, designed by Julia Morgan, showcases stunning Moorish-Gothic architecture. The Oakland California Temple combines Art Deco and mid-century modern styles, and the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) is an iconic Brutalist structure.
Can I find places for a quiet escape into nature in Oakland?
Absolutely. Redwood Regional Park offers a tranquil escape into nature with its ancient redwood groves and extensive trails. Joaquin Miller Park also provides peaceful redwood groves. For a more focused natural experience, Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve allows for quiet exploration of diverse plant life.
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