Best Picnic Spots Oakland
Where to picnic in Oakland, picnic spots with a view Oakland, picnic reservation areas Oakland. Best picnic spots East Bay
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Where To Picnic In Oakland
Oakland is a fun city and much more dependable (weather-wise) when it comes to planning a picnic. There are many places to spend an afternoon last minute or with a planned reservation.
Many spots are accessible via public transportation and some have amazing views without all the wind and fog that San Francisco has.
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Best Picnic Spots In Oakland
Lake Merritt
Lake Merritt is one the most popular places to picnic in Oakland. Lake views, beautiful skyline in the background, this place is the heart of Oakland. You can often find one off events hosted regularly or pop-ups (see newsletters for info). On bigger event days, space can be extremely limited so you may have to explore, arrive early or coordinate with others.
Brooklyn Basin, Jack London Square
One of the newer places on this list. Brooklyn Basin is mostly concrete but has a small grassy hill with views of Jack London Square. The open space is great for sun-bathing, reading, roller-skating and more. On certain days, you can find some fun outdoor dancing pop-ups here (see weekly newsletter for next event).
Joaquin Miller Park, Oakland Hills
Joaquin Miller Park is located in the Oakland Hills and offers amazing scenic views of Oakland and the Bay Area. It’s amazing for sunrises and sunsets but great for a picnic with a view.
Lake Temescal
Lake Temescal is one of the more popular places to picnic in Oakland as the lake is a big draw for those wanting to take a dip (Lake Merritt swimming is not advisable). It’s also popular for families with options for fishing and bike riding.
Picnic Areas Oakland
Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park
For nature vibes, Reinhardt Redwood is unmatched. The redwood trees provide shade on hot days and peaceful space to feel like you are away from the city.It’s also ideal for bike-rides and post-meal hikes to avoid food comas from your delicious picnics.
Mountain View Cemetery, Piedmont
One of the more unusual places to picnic, this cemetery offers incredible sweeping views of Oakland and the Bay Area. Resting space for Mac Dre & Julia Childs, this space is rather large as it is spread out and full of hills and nooks.
Morcom Amphitheater of Roses, Piedmont
The Morcom Amphitheater of Roses is located near the Piedmont neighborhood and often overlooked as it is hidden in the middle of the city. If you visit in April/May, you will be rewarded with fresh bloom of flowers.