Although often overshadowed by its southern neighbor San Francisco, Oakland is one of the best places for families to explore in North California.
For one, many major cities in the U.S. have direct flights to Oakland. If you're traveling to Hawaii on the new Southwest Airlines flight that has begun flying out of Oakland, the city may offer an opportunity for families to spend one day before making the long trek out to the islands.
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Families who are on a budget will find that Oakland is significantly cheaper than San Francisco and it's just a short drive across the bay if you're dying for a day out in San Fran. Whether it's a hotel room or taking the family out for a fun dinner, like the retro ice cream bar and restaurant Fentons Creamery, it's going to be cheaper than what you'll find in San Francisco.
Logistically, families will also discover that it's less crowded with traffic and easy to get around with a car rental, bus or the subway system.
In terms of family activities, there's plenty for the family to do during their vacation. Head to Lake Merritt for a fun family boating outing or to spend time at Children's Fairyland, a storybook-themed amusement park.
Perhaps later, cheer on the Oakland Athletics to a win at the Oakland Alameda County Coliseum.
Watch your kids interact with animals and ride the gondola at the Oakland Zoo, or marvel at the planets at Chabot Space & Science Center. The Oakland Museum of California will offer plenty of interactive exhibits for you and the children to enjoy together while learning about the history, art and social experiences of California.
When it's nice outside, take the family for a hike in the Redwood Regional Park and marvel at the redwoods and their soaring heights. In the evening, head to Jack London Square to eat on the riverfront and watch the sunset on a marina full of boats.
After you hit every major attraction in Oakland, take the family to stroll through neighborhoods like Oakland's Chinatown or Old Oakland to shop and explore some community-focused areas full of restaurants and entertainment and to admire the gorgeous dragon-inspired murals by Dragon School.
Oakland may not be as large as San Francisco, but it offers a NoCal stay that's full of family-friendly attractions at a family-friendly price. Book your ticket to Oakland and let your family make great memories.
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