Oakland Zoo is proud to partner with local school districts, colleges and universities to offer inquiry-based science and environmental education programs, Pre-K through University. Our K-12 programs actively support CA State, Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards and practices. Our college and university partnerships provide post-secondary and graduate students with unique opportunities to learn about animal behavior, research, and veterinary medicine.
Environmental education is at the core of our mission at Oakland Zoo and our goal is to make that connection to conservation more accessible to groups in our community. Whether it’s with a school, youth group, church, or other non-profit organization, making a reservation ensures your group admittance on a specific date and offers a discounted rate.
*Docent-led Tours for ages 5 and up are temporarily unavailable* Tours are provided to children (ages 5 and up) as well as adults. For our visitors with disabilities or physical challenges, our Docents provide tours with specially-equipped electric carts. Most exhibits and areas of the Zoo are accessible to these tours. Reservations for docent tours must be made 2-3 weeks in advance.
Tips for students and teachers on school reports, scavenger hunts, and a list of Oakland Zoo animals that are considered endangered with information on how you can help.
The UC Climate Stewards Certification Course will integrate locally relevant themes of the conservation of native plants and animals, environmental justice, and community stewardship. Through guest speakers, field trips, and activities we will learn about and discuss principles and practice towards increasing community and ecosystem resilience to disappearing species, creating equitable and equal access to natural landscapes, and Taking Action for Wildlife.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Wildlife Assembly Programs are fully booked for the remainder of the 2022-2023 school year. Meet some of our Education animals up close! This live, interactive animal presentation takes place in our outdoor Wildlife Theater. After the program, groups are welcome to explore the Zoo until their departure. This program is great for large groups with multiple classes and multiple age ranges.
For the school year 2022-2023, Oakland Zoo is currently accepting reservation requests for school field trips including education programming. Zoo-to-Community support for programs and transportation is available to OUSD Title 1 schools on a first come first serve basis depending on dates requested.
Zoo@Home allows you to experience all the educational opportunities from the comfort of your home! Continue where you left off at school with grade level appropriate activities and lessons. Safely enjoy nature and the outdoors while learning more about local wildlife. Learn all about the zoo animals and ask those questions you've always wondered. Even become a Jr. Zookeeper by creating enrichment for your pets at home. New content added weekly!
Discover the Wonders of the World's Wildlife with a ZooMobile Program! Bring the zoo to you in a variety of ways. A myriad of ZooMobile outreach programs have been tailored to meet the needs of your group!
IMPORTANT NOTE: ZooSchool programs are fully booked for the remainder of the 2022-2023 school year. | Bring your class to the Zoo and experience a day full of adventure! Upon arrival each class will be greeted by an Education Specialist, who will bring you to a classroom and introduce your theme. Then you will venture into the Zoo to explore and observe the plants and animals on a guided tour.
Oakland Zoo
(510) 632-9525
Mail: P.O. Box 5238 Oakland, CA 94605
Visit: 9777 Golf Links Road Oakland, CA 94605
© 2023 Oakland Zoo. All rights reserved.