This week I’m taking you to one of my family’s favorite spots in Oakland, Fairyland!
Here's the scoop. Fairyland is a god-send for parents of young children with insane amounts of energy. If, like me, you're woken bright and early (come on, it's 6 am!) on a Sunday morning by a rousing rendition of “Let it Go” on repeat and wonder, “How are we going to tire this munchkin out today?” Put Fairyland on your family to-do list. Yesterday.
Let's start with the practical. The park is fully fenced in. There is one way in and out, and it's staffed by a cheerful park employee. If your little one scuttles out of sight, you don't have to panic; they're contained, and they're safe. Adults can only enter when accompanied by a child. While that might not necessarily keep every creep out, it certainly is a barrier for those with less than innocent intentions.
Once you're in, there's so much to see and do. Ideally suited for toddlers through kindergarteners, there are many attractions to keep young kids entertained. Think bubble machine, sliding hill, carousels, train ride, and Ferris wheel. They can walk through their favorite nursery rhymes and fairy tales. They can see farm animals up close or take in a puppet show (Orca the First Whale is the current production). Bring snacks from home, or grab some basic grub at Johnny Appleseed's cafe. There's plenty of space to spread out on picnic tables or grassy areas to refuel little bellies.
Best of all, the park is filled with parents and kids just like you. No one bats an eyelash if your kid goes from zany to over-tired in two seconds flat then throws themselves to the ground in a full-on meltdown (can you feel that I'm writing from experience on this one?). Forgot your wipes? No sweat, a friendly parent will undoubtedly share a few. I've been on both ends of small transactions that remind me that I'm not alone on this crazy parenting journey. We're all showing up and doing the best we can by our kiddos.
Sure the character designs may be a bit outdated, but that's the charm. You can feel that generations of children have passed through these same landscapes and felt free and happy. What's more, little kids don't care. The world is a big space that they don't always fit into, but here, everything is designed with them in mind (even the potties!). It's their magical world, and we get to watch them discover and enjoy it. And that's where we find our own magic, isn't it?
Established in 1948, this tiny amusement park is located on the north side of Lake Merritt with its entrance just off of Grand Ave. Entry is restricted to adults accompanied by children only. Admission is an even $12 for guests ages 1-99, and there are varying levels of membership for repeat visitors too.
For more information visit Fairyland.org