Oakland Zoo
Long-standing zoo features 850+ native & exotic animals, a wildlife theater & educational programs.
Oakland Zoo is rated 4.6 / 5 from 14,293 Google reviews and sits about 4.6 km (57 min walk) from Coliseum station.
General overview
About Oakland Zoo
Oakland Zoo is a large, family-oriented zoo in the Oakland hills, known for its California Trail, wildlife habitats, conservation programs, children’s zoo, and aerial gondola. The information below is based on general training knowledge and has not been live-verified.
- California Trail habitats and aerial gondola
- African savanna and elephant habitats
- Wayne and Gladys Valley Children’s Zoo
- Family rides, keeper talks, and educational programs
- Views over the Bay Area from the Oakland hills
Things to do here
California Trail
A major exhibit area featuring California wildlife and conservation stories, with access via the California Trail gondola. Animals may include California condors, black bears, mountain lions, gray wolves, and other native species.
California Trail Gondola
Aerial tram connecting the main zoo area with the California Trail. The ride offers elevated views of the zoo and surrounding Oakland hills.
African Savanna
Habitats featuring African animals such as elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras, and other savanna species, subject to animal availability.
Wayne and Gladys Valley Children’s Zoo
A family area with smaller animals, interactive learning opportunities, play spaces, and child-focused exhibits.
Children’s Zoo rides and attractions
The children’s area has historically included attractions such as a train, carousel, or other family rides. Some rides may require separate tickets and may not operate every day.
Keeper talks and animal presentations
Scheduled talks, demonstrations, and educational programs may be offered seasonally or on selected days.
Conservation and education programs
The zoo supports wildlife conservation, environmental education, and school and community programs.
The zoo is in the Oakland hills and covers a substantial area with slopes. Wear comfortable shoes, allow time for parking and walking, and check gondola and attraction operating status before planning around them.
Advance online purchase may be useful on weekends, holidays, school breaks, or for special events. Check whether timed entry or reservations are currently required.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
Oakland Zoo is about 4.6 km (~57 min walk) from Coliseum station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area).
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Acts Full Gospel Church
Places to visit · 7 min walk
★ 4.7
Airport Inn & Suites
Hotels · 25 min walk
★ 4.1
Courtyard by Marriott Oakland Airport
Hotels · 26 min walk
★ 4.0
Taqueria El Paisa
Restaurants · 29 min walk
★ 4.6
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland Airport
Hotels · 31 min walk
★ 4.6
GO! Gas & Food
Restaurants · 32 min walk
★ 4.3
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Oakland Zoo from Coliseum station?
Oakland Zoo is about 4561 m (roughly 57 min walk) from Coliseum station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area). Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Oakland Zoo rated?
Oakland Zoo has a Google rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 14,293 reviews.
What's near Oakland Zoo?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Acts Full Gospel Church, Airport Inn & Suites, Courtyard by Marriott Oakland Airport.
Is Oakland Zoo wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Oakland Zoo: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible seating.
Is there parking near Oakland Zoo?
Google lists these parking options near Oakland Zoo: free parking lot, paid parking lot, free street parking, paid street parking.
Is Oakland Zoo good for children?
Yes — Google lists Oakland Zoo as good for children.
How long should I plan for Oakland Zoo?
Plan on roughly three to five hours. Families who use the children’s zoo, rides, meals, or the California Trail may want most of a day.
Is Oakland Zoo suitable for young children?
Yes. The children’s zoo, family exhibits, play opportunities, and educational programs make it especially suitable for families.
Is the gondola included with admission?
Its inclusion or ticketing arrangement may change. Check the current ticket details and operating status before visiting.
Can I bring outside food?
Policies can vary. Picnic or outside-food allowances may have restrictions, so confirm the current visitor policy before packing a meal.
Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
Many facilities and routes are accessible, but the hilltop setting creates steep grades in some areas. Contact the zoo in advance for route and gondola-access guidance.
Can I see every animal on a visit?
No. Animals may be indoors, off exhibit, resting, receiving care, or unavailable because of weather or operational needs.
Where is the zoo located?
Oakland Zoo is at 9777 Golf Links Road in the Oakland hills, near the Interstate 580 corridor.
Should I buy tickets in advance?
Advance purchase is prudent for weekends, holidays, school breaks, and special events, especially if the zoo is using timed entry or capacity controls.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.