Oakland Zoo

Nestled in the Knowland Park area of the Oakland hills, the Oakland Zoo has served the community since 1922. During a day at the zoo, guests can see chimpanzees and tigers in the Rain Forest; marvel at elephants, giraffes, zebras and lions in the African Savannah; and watch the otters play in the Children's Zoo. The Oakland Zoo also offers a range of educational programs for youth, teens and community groups.

Best and worst time to go to the Oakland Zoo
The San Francisco Bay area normally receives a lot of rain from November through February. If you visit in the winter, you can avoid the crowds, but you could get wet.

Must see at the Oakland Zoo
Where else can you see an Eastern Wallaroo, a giraffe, and an African elephant?

Admission to the Oakland Zoo
Adults, $15.75; children and seniors, $11.75; children under two and seniors 80 and up, free.

Parking at the Oakland Zoo
$8 per car; $12 per bus.

Public Transportation to the Oakland Zoo
AC Transit provides weekday and weekend service to the Oakland Zoo.

Food at the Oakland Zoo
Grab a burger at the Island Café. The Safari Café offers hot dogs, cotton candy, and ice cream. The Savannah Watering Hole sells soft tacos, sandwiches, and snacks. For true outdoor dining, bring a picnic lunch and sprawl out on the grass or at one of the picnic tables.

Insider tip for visitors to the Oakland Zoo
Check out the California condor cam, the first live-streaming condor cam in the wild.

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