Located on the shores of Lake Merritt in Oakland, California, Children's Fairyland, U.S.A. is one of the earliest themed amusement parks in the United States. Built in 1950, this 10-acre park inspired towns across the country and even influenced Walt Disney's plans for Disneyland. You will discover a magical realm designed with whimsical, curved architecture featuring no straight sides, outré colors, and charming fairytale play sets.
You can enter through the iconic shoe illustrating the Old Woman in the Shoe, size-tailored for children, and explore interactive sets like Pinocchio's Castle, Thumbelina, and Willie the Whale. Step inside to enjoy small rides such as the Anansi’s Magic Web spiderweb Ferris wheel, the Jolly Trolly train, and carousels like the Wonder-Go-Round. You can also meet live animals, watch performances at Aesop's Playhouse outdoor amphitheater, and visit the Open Storybook Puppet Theater, the oldest continuously operating puppet theater in the country.
Don't forget to unlock audio stories using the original plastic Magic Key at Talking Storybook Boxes placed throughout the grounds. With artwork, murals, and sculptures from renowned artists, Children's Fairyland offers a delightful, nostalgic escape for families visiting Oakland.
What to see at Children's Fairyland
- Explore 10 acres of curved, colorful storybook play sets and rides.
- Watch shows at the historic Open Storybook Puppet Theater.
- Unlock taped nursery rhyme stories with a plastic Magic Key.
- Ride the Jolly Trolly train and Anansi’s Magic Web Ferris wheel.
- See youth theater performances at Aesop's Playhouse outdoor amphitheater.
Visiting tips
Remember that for safety reasons, adults are only admitted when accompanied by children, and children must be accompanied by adults.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Children's Fairyland is easy to reach on Oakland’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Oakland Museum of California and Temple Sinai. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Oakland travel guide.
See the full Oakland travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.