The Gardens at Lake Merritt, located near with Children’s Fairyland, is a seven-acre herb, shrub, and tree mecca in Oakland. It’s free. It’s beautiful. And it’s totally kid friendly.
There are eleven themed sections of the Gardens. Each area is filled with plants, animals, insects and new corners to explore. Spot ducks in the pond. Name colors while walking past the roses and dahlias. In the Sensory Garden, rub mint, lavender, and “pizza” flavored leaves (oregano) with your fingers – it’s a great area for children cannot stop touching everything they walk. In the Japanese garden, there are bridges to cross (or run over). Lay out a picnic in the mini fruit orchard for a mid-day snack. In the Bonsai garden, stand among decades-old little trees. And that’s just to make a few things to do in the garden.
Because of the Gardens’ traditional status as a demonstration garden, they are raising awareness about the irreplaceable role of pollinators with a “Bee Hotel” for native species. There are opportunities to volunteer, Master Gardner talks to join, and garden plots to “own”.
Plan your visit to The Gardens at Lake Merritt
Add a visit to The Gardens to your list of things to do with visiting grandparents and wandering toddlers.
Address: 666 Bellevue Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
Admission is free, but parking is $5.
Winter hours begin at the end of Daylight Saving time: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm.
Summer hours begin with Daylight Saving time in March: 8 am to 5 pm.
The Bonsai garden is open Tuesday-Friday 11 am to 2:30 pm, Saturday 10 am to 3:30 pm, Sunday 12 pm to 3:30 pm. Closed Mondays.
Mom’s groups that like to walk the Lake can stop by and find a shady bench on which to feed a baby.
The Friends of the Gardens at Lake Merritt hosts the Autumn Lights Festival — which we love for little ones and their families who can stay up past dark! This popular, annual event raises money to keep the Garden free, lovely, and open to all.
