Lakeside Park

Lakeside Park is a 122-acre public park located along the shores of Lake Merritt in Oakland, California. The park surrounds Lake Merritt, a large tidal lagoon in the center of Oakland that is designated as the United States' first official wildlife refuge.

Established in the late 19th century, Lakeside Park offers visitors a variety of recreational opportunities and natural attractions. The park features expansive lawns, walking paths, and gardens that provide scenic views of Lake Merritt and the surrounding cityscape. A 3.4-mile paved trail encircles the lake, popular among joggers, cyclists, and those out for a leisurely stroll.

Within Lakeside Park are several specialized garden areas. The Morcom Rose Garden showcases a beautiful collection of roses, while the Gardens at Lake Merritt comprise seven acres of themed gardens including a Bonsai Garden, Sensory Garden, and Mediterranean Garden. The park is also home to a Japanese Garden complete with a koi pond.

For families, Lakeside Park includes Children's Fairyland, a storybook-themed amusement park designed specifically for young children. The park also houses the Rotary Nature Center, which offers educational programs about local ecology and wildlife.

Lakeside Park serves as an important habitat for local and migratory birds. Visitors can observe a variety of waterfowl and shorebirds from the park's shores or from the five man-made islands in Lake Merritt that serve as bird sanctuaries.

Recreational facilities in the park include tennis courts, lawn bowling greens, and a boating center where visitors can rent various types of small watercraft to enjoy on Lake Merritt. The park also features several picnic areas and an outdoor fitness course.