Before there was Disneyland, there was Children’s Fairyland. Opened in 1950 as the nation’s first storybook theme park, this whimsical, 10-acre hideaway in Oakland invites little ones to step into an immersive fairytale world built at their scale. In honor of the park’s 75th anniversary in 2025, Fairyland added fresh exhibits and activities—so even returning families will find something new to discover.
Explore Storybook Sets at Children’s Fairyland
Designed with child-size proportions, Fairyland’s wonderfully off-kilter sets spark imagination at every turn. Nearly 60 storybook sets sprawl across flower-lined paths and shaded lawns, with kid-size rides, a friendly petting zoo, and gardens that make unhurried exploring part of the magic.
Kids can slide down a dragon, climb into the belly of a whale, board a pirate ship, and weave through a twisty path in the Alice in Wonderland–themed playing-card maze. For extra enchantment, pick up Magic Keys ($3) at the entrance; little explorers can use them to “unlock” Talking Storybook Boxes scattered around the park and hear classic tales in their own words.
Rides at Children’s Fairyland
Unlike big-ticket parks where height minimums rule the day, Fairyland’s rides are sized especially for small children (a couple rides even have height maximums). Spin on two colorful carousels, chug along the miniature Jolly Trolly train, and try Anansi’s Magic Web—a kids-only mini Ferris wheel inspired by the West African trickster-spider folktales. Lines are typically short, leaving more time for playground discoveries and set-hopping.
Meet the Friendly Animals of Children’s Fairyland
Animal lovers can head to the petting area to meet Cookie the Nigerian dwarf goat, along with miniature donkeys, Baby Doll sheep, a gentle bearded dragon nicknamed Puff, and a sociable flock of chickens. Staff and volunteers encourage calm, hands-on encounters that help young visitors learn to interact respectfully with animals.
Catch a Show at Children’s Fairyland
Fairy tales leap from page to stage at the Storybook Puppet Theater, where handcrafted puppets have entertained generations. On the Emerald City Stage, the park hosts storytelling sessions and family-friendly music. Keep an eye on the online calendar for special events—including Summer Sleepovers, when families camp inside Fairyland and enjoy evening shows, dinner, popcorn, and after-hours exploring under the stars.
Children’s Fairyland Adventure Passport
Stop by the gift shop for the free Adventure Passport, introduced for the 75th anniversary. Kids complete simple activities around the park, collect stamps, and trade a finished passport for the season’s collectible button—a fun keepsake and built-in scavenger hunt.
Planning Your Visit to Children’s Fairyland
Fairyland sits lakeside near downtown Oakland, making it easy to pair a visit with a stroll around Lake Merritt or a picnic in nearby parks. Expect mostly outdoor experiences; dress in layers for Bay Area weather and wear comfortable shoes for gentle hills and steps. Strollers are common, and shaded benches offer frequent rest spots.
Concessions, restrooms, and changing areas are onsite, but many families bring snacks to enjoy in designated picnic nooks. As with any popular attraction, weekends and school breaks can be busy—arrive near opening time for the most relaxed pace.