Oakland, CA

Trace the Pardee family tree at the Pardee Home Museum. The museum tells the story of three generations of the Pardee family who lived at the residence for more than one hundred years and had their hands in everything from gold to politics. Stroll through the impressive home and gardens, sip tea on the veranda and shop at the gift shop.

Address: 672 11th St., Oakland, CA 94607 - MAP
Phone: (510) 444-2187
Web: www.pardeehome.org

It's zenful at the Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve. Maintaining the fragile nature of this Oakland ecological treasure is of the utmost importance due to its relic plant life found only in a few areas along the California coast. Outdoor enthusiasts and nature photographers alike enjoy traveling across the 240 acres to discover the rare native plants and flowers.

Phone: (888) 327-2757
Web: www.ebparks.org

Birds of a feather flock together at the Lake Merritt. The unique fresh and salt water lake is home to the oldest wildlife and bird sanctuary in North America. Spend time at Oakland's treasured waterfront traveling across 155 acres of land, ideal for nature lovers and fans of bayfront views.

Address: 568 Bellevue Ave., Oakland, CA 94610 - MAP
Web: www.oaklandnet.com

Shop naturally at the Dimond Park. The residential community slogan is "The Gateway to Nature." The popular Oakland district neighborhood is a hidden gem which boasts the perfect outdoor attitude with a winding scenic creek and popular hiking trails. Dimond Park boasts a big attitude for unique shops, diners, community services and more.

Address: Fruitvale Ave., Oakland, CA - MAP
Phone: (510) 482-7831
Web: www.shopdimond.com

Hear the sound of music at the Fox Oakland Theater. Get your ticket to a performance at this historic showplace, where top talents in music, comedy and theater have held shows. A few famous faces that have graced the stage include Seal, Green Day, Wolfmother, Alice in Chains, Kylie Minogue, Animal Collective & The Decembrists, Weird Al Yankovitz, Mary K. Blige and many others.

Address: 1807 Telegraph Ave., Oakland, CA 94612 - MAP
Web: www.thefoxoakland.com

A rose by any other name is still a rose at the Morcom Rose Garden. The municipal rose garden opened in 1920 with a green thumb that reaches across eight acres of green space blooming more than 6,000 roses. The classic rose garden is the ideal place for you to stop and smell the roses and capture picture perfect memories.

Address: 700 Jean St., Oakland, CA 94610 - MAP
Phone: (510) 238-3187
Web: www.oaklandnet.com