Lakeside Park
Oakland's vibrant urban oasis around Lake Merritt, offering scenic walks, lively water shows, and a hub for recreation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, great for workouts
Lakeside Park
Best Time
Peaceful strolls, great for workouts
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oakland's vibrant urban oasis around Lake Merritt, offering scenic walks, lively water shows, and a hub for recreation.
"A perfect place for jogging and exercising with beautiful views and a lively atmosphere."
🚗 Parking Patience
Weekend parking is tough! Keep circling, you'll find a spot. Free parking is available in most areas.
🛴 Scooter Adventures
Rent Bird or Lime scooters for a quick and fun way to explore the 3.5-mile loop around the lake. 🛵
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 1,224 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Merritt Water Shows
Mesmerizing water and light displays that illuminate the lake. A must-see evening spectacle!
Lakeshore Loop
A scenic 3.5-mile path perfect for jogging, walking, or biking with beautiful city and water views.
Teddy Bear Park
Dallas, TX
A whimsical hidden gem featuring adorable, oversized teddy bear sculptures for a unique family photo op.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Oakland Vibe
Water Shows & City Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience
Weekend parking is tough! Keep circling, you'll find a spot. Free parking is available in most areas.
🛴 Scooter Adventures
Rent Bird or Lime scooters for a quick and fun way to explore the 3.5-mile loop around the lake. 🛵
✨ Evening Sparkle
The park is beautifully lit at night, making it a safe and scenic spot for evening walks or runs. :city_sunrise:
🍔 Local Eats Nearby
Explore the Lakeshore area for diverse dining options, from pizza at Arizmendi Bakery to BBQ. +2
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience
Weekend parking is tough! Keep circling, you'll find a spot. Free parking is available in most areas.
🛴 Scooter Adventures
Rent Bird or Lime scooters for a quick and fun way to explore the 3.5-mile loop around the lake. 🛵
✨ Evening Sparkle
The park is beautifully lit at night, making it a safe and scenic spot for evening walks or runs. :city_sunrise:
🍔 Local Eats Nearby
Explore the Lakeshore area for diverse dining options, from pizza at Arizmendi Bakery to BBQ. +2
🧸 Dallas Teddy Bear Fun
If in Dallas, don't miss the charming Teddy Bear Park at Lakeside Park for a unique family outing. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lakeside Park for its beautiful views, perfect conditions for jogging and exercising, and the lively atmosphere. The water shows are a highlight, and the park is considered a great place for walks, bike rides, and enjoying nature. Some mention challenges with parking on busy weekends and a desire for more accessible restrooms.
"Beautiful view and nice view, a perfect place for jogging and exercising."
Ibrahim Rahimi
"Feel like a walk? Take the loop around Lake Merritt for a nice leisurely afternoon walk, or run like many others. If you want something quicker, rent some of the Bird or Lime scooters that are everywhere. Plenty of places to stop and sit, as it is about 3 1/2 miles all the way around. Grassy areas abound, if you want to spread a blanket. Only problem is the parking on a warm sunny weekend, so perseverance is the key, if you keep looking, you will find one. At least it is free in most places!"
Slvrsrfr
"I always enjoy my morning run along lakeside park.
Especially during the summer.
The sun is bright and the view is amazing.
It is good for an early morning workout.
Visit when you get the chance."
fahad mubiru
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lakeside Park is easily accessible in Oakland. Many visitors use ride-sharing services or public transport. If driving, be prepared for potential parking challenges, especially on weekends.
Yes, several AC Transit bus lines serve the Lake Merritt area, making it convenient to reach without a car. BART stations are also within walking distance. 🚌
The park is best explored on foot, by bike, or using rented scooters. The loop around Lake Merritt is approximately 3.5 miles. :athletic_shoe: 🛵
Parking is available around Lake Merritt, but it can be competitive on busy days. Perseverance is key, and most street parking is free.
No, there are multiple 'Lakeside Parks.' The one in Dallas is known for its Teddy Bear Park, while the Oakland location is centered around Lake Merritt. :world_map:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lakeside Park in Oakland is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. Access to the park and its grounds is free. 🎟️
Generally, there are no entry fees for Lakeside Park. Parking is also typically free, though it can be difficult to find on busy days.
Lakeside Park is open to the public from dawn until dusk. The water shows have specific evening schedules. :clock1:
Yes, dogs are generally allowed in Lakeside Park, but they must be kept on a leash. Please check local regulations for specific rules. 🐕
Yes, the Teddy Bear Park within Lakeside Park in Dallas is free to visit and enjoy. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy jogging, walking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, and attending the water shows. The park offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities. 🏃 :picnic_umbrella:
Restrooms are available within Lakeside Park, though some visitors have noted a desire for more accessible facilities. 🚽
Absolutely! Lakeside Park is family-friendly, with open spaces for play and the charming Teddy Bear Park in Dallas being a particular hit with children.
The water shows at Lake Merritt are typically held in the evenings. It's best to check the specific schedule as it can vary. +1
Yes, you can often find rental options for bikes and scooters (like Bird or Lime) near Lakeside Park, perfect for exploring the lake loop. 🛵
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Lakeshore area surrounding Lake Merritt has a variety of dining options, including cafes, restaurants, and food trucks. +2
Certainly! Lakeside Park has numerous grassy areas perfect for picnics. Bring a blanket and enjoy a meal with a view. :sandwich:
You can find diverse cuisines, from pizza and BBQ to burgers and international flavors, in the vicinity of Lake Merritt. +2
Food trucks are often present around Lake Merritt, especially during events or on busy weekends, offering a variety of quick bites. :foodtruck:
While many options exist, Crazy Block Cheesecake and Arizmendi Bakery are mentioned for their delicious offerings. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The entire loop around Lake Merritt offers scenic views. The water shows at night, the diverse flora, and the city skyline are popular subjects. +1
Yes, the park is well-lit at night, providing a safe and visually appealing environment for capturing city lights and the water features. :camerawithflash:
The Teddy Bear Park sculptures are a unique and charming subject for photos, especially for families.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure safety and privacy. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. :noentrysign:
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Evening is also ideal for capturing the water shows.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit