Oakland Zoo

Located in a small corner of the massive Knowland State Park, the Oakland Zoo is one of its biggest attractions. It’s divided into five distinct areas according to the habitat type and location- Wild Australia, Wayne & Gladys Valley Children’s Zoo, Tropical Rainforest, African Savanna, and California Trail. There is also an Adventure Landing where children and adults can enjoy the rollercoaster and endangered species carousel. The Outback Adventure Train starts in Adventure Landing, travels through the tropical Rainforest Area and Wild Australia before making the journey back to the depot.

Visitors enter directly into the Tropical Rainforest area which is inhabited by various species such as the Squirrel Monkey, Gibbon, and the Tiger. You can also catch the Skyride to view the animals from far above the park. The Rainforest Aviary is the last landmark before moving into the Wayne & Gladys Valley Children’s Zoo, where there are various children-friendly animals like the Guinea Hog, the Play Area, the Goat and Sheep Farm, and the Tortoise. 

The African Savanna is located to the right of the Tropical Rainforest and is inhabited by various African species such as the African Elephant, lions, zebras, and baboons. The Gondola station separates the African Savanna from the Adventure Landing. The gondola ride goes up to the California Trail area and offers prime views of the San Francisco Bay. The California Trail area consists of animals like the Gray Wolf, Bald Eagle, Jaguars, and other quintessentially American animals.