Children's Fairyland

Before Disneyland and well before SpongeBob and Dora, Oakland businessman Arthur Navlet created a theme park for kids. Opened in 1950, the park features 40 storybook sets, kid rides, animals and 10 acres of gardens. Young guests can pet the sheep, crawl through the Alice in Wonderland Tunnel or climb aboard the Jolly Trolly. The park continues to hold Navlet's original vision, which celebrates the unaffected joy of being a kid.

Three Must-See Attractions at Children's Fairyland
Check out Fairyland's Storybook Puppet Theater, the longest-running puppet show in the United States. Slide or summersault down Jack & Jill Hill. Visit the rabbits and guinea pigs in Peter Rabbit's Garden.

Where to Stay Near Children's Fairyland
The downtown Oakland Marriott or the Courtyard by Marriott both offer reasonable rates.

Best and Worst Time to Go to Children's Fairyland
Oakland's mild climate makes Children's Fairyland a great outing any time of year. For adults, the best time to go is during the occasional after-hours parties.

Discounts at Children's Fairyland
Family memberships allow adults and up to three children free admission for one or two years.

Food at Children's Fairyland
The Johnny Appleseed Café sells kid-friendly fare such as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, popcorn, pretzels and hamburgers. The new Cruisin' Café offers grab-and-go lunch options.

Parking at Children's Fairyland
Ample parking for a $5 fee on weekends; $2 for two hours on weekdays or $10 for the day.

Transportation Alternatives at Children's Fairyland
Children's Fairyland is a short walk from the 19th Street BART station.

Author's bio: Heather Johnson is a freelance writer living in Oakland, California.