Snow Park

A Slice of Oakland History

Located in downtown Oakland, Snow Park offers a peaceful 5.1-acre retreat right beside Lake Merritt. After renovations in 2019, this green space offers locals a quiet retreat right in the city.

The park carries the legacy of Henry Snow, whose exotic animals once roamed this very ground as part of Oakland's first zoo.

What You'll Find

Walk through Snow Park and you'll find sprawling lawns, oak trees, and winding pathways good for a leisurely stroll. The green grass provides a nice spot for picnics or simply lying back to watch the clouds pass by.

We love how the park balances open spaces with quieter, tucked-away corners - no matter if you're looking to people-watch or find some solitude, there's a spot for you. The views of Lake Merritt provide a nice backdrop that changes with the light throughout the day. Many people use Snow Park as their starting point for the 3.5-mile loop around the lake.

Kid-Friendly Fun

Parents, you'll appreciate the two distinct playgrounds here. For the little ones, there's a gated area with a sidewinder slide, simple steps, musical elements, a short bridge, and a tunnel - excellent for toddlers just finding their adventurous side.

Older kids can enjoy the larger playground, which includes a slide with a ladder, suspended ropes, two different types of monkey bars, hanging lily pads, a rope tower, and spring-bottom platforms for practicing balance. Some families have mentioned additional thrills like a climbing tower and a zipline that keep even the most energetic kids entertained.

Beyond the Basics

Golf enthusiasts might be surprised to find downtown Oakland's only putting green here - a charming holdover from the park's 1960s design. The turf surface stays open year-round, offering a quick putting session whenever the mood strikes.

Dog owners, rejoice! While there's no official dog park, Snow Park is incredibly dog-friendly. The open lawns are excellent for fetch games and off-leash play, but you'll want to keep an eye out for kids and bikers sharing the space.

Community Hub

Snow Park functions as a community space for Oakland residents. Since 2012, it's hosted the Oakland Running Festival, and its central location accommodates everything from lunch breaks to community events.

Practical Matters

You can find clean restrooms near the playground area, however they occasionally close for maintenance. There are picnic tables conveniently placed by the play areas, making it easy to plan a family day out. The only thing missing might be more water fountains - something to keep in mind if you're planning an extended visit during warmer months.