Oakland Zoo

Sophie when she was 18 months old

Sophie (4 years old), Lili (1 year old)

The Oakland Zoo is our favorite zoo so far. Why? Because it has the perfect size for two young kids and it is not far from our home.

Oakland Zoo is home to more than 660 native and exotic animals. When our kids were smaller we used to bring our stroller. Now they are happily walking 1.5 hours in the park. They are always very excited to watch the animals. Once we tried to go in with a small running bike but they didn't let us in, because danger.

Sometimes we meet our friends at the zoo and wander around together. Our girls are more motivated to walk with their friends together than alone. If you forgot your stroller or the baby carrier at home don't worry, you can borrow a wagon at the entrance.

2 year old Sophie with her friend, Magda

Another way to motivate a 5 year old is to give her a camera and let her take photos.

What to See 

• There are lots of animals to watch, such as squirrel monkeys, chimpanzees, siamangs, elephants, tigers, giraffes, river otter, sun bears, coatis, reptiles and birds.

 

Gibbon

Siamang

River otter

Coati

• There is also a small petting zoo. The kids love to touch the fur of goats, sheep, dogs and cats.

We saw this cute dog only once

• There is a small playground area inside the zoo too. This gives you an opportunity to take a break when your kids are playing before or after snacks. 

 

You can see how small your kids are in a turtle shell :)

• Outside the zoo you can find a small amusement park (rides area) with carrousels, train and roller-coaster. You have to pay a little extra to use these facilities.

If you take a train ride you can see kangaroos and emus.

 At the end of your visit your kids will be tired but brimming with new memories and you will feel happy as well because you spent a nice morning or afternoon together outside and you could teach your children about animals, wild life easily without any pressure.