Lake Merritt Amphitheater

Name: Lake Merritt Amphitheater
Address: Lake Merritt Boulevard, Oakland, CA, 94612, US
Price range: $$
Rating: 4.6

Lake Merritt Amphitheater: where lake views meet community vibes.

4.6(5 reviews)

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About

Located between 12th Street and 1st Ave along Lake Merritt in Oakland, Lake Merritt Amphitheater offers a small, family-friendly open-air venue and park. A grassy shoreline and water views create a welcoming space for runners, cyclists, families, and casual strollers. Reviews highlight a vibrant, community-focused vibe with frequent activity and scenic sunsets, making it a popular gathering spot by the water.

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Location

Between 12th Street and 1st Ave., QPXQ+Q9, Lake Merritt Blvd, Oakland, CA 94612, USA

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Information

Lake Merritt Boulevard

Oakland, CA, 94612

www.lakemerritt.org/park-info.html

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Services

Event Hosting

Rent the amphitheater for concerts, festivals, cultural events, and private gatherings with lakefront views.

Community Gatherings

Enjoy free public spaces for picnics, yoga, socializing, and seasonal celebrations like Hanukkah menorah lightings.

Outdoor Recreation

Access grassy areas for running, biking, dog-walking, and bird-watching along the scenic Lake Merritt path.

Performance Viewing

Watch fireworks, live music, and street performances from the amphitheater seating with panoramic lake vistas.

Cultural Experiences

Immerse in Oakland's diverse culture through local events, art displays, and community activities in a historic setting.

4.60 · 5 reviews

Overall rating

Hana Estalilla

via Google

· 1 year ago

A small amphitheater, at least compared to other ones I’ve been to. It seems somewhat new. The view is great, as expected for Lake Merritt, but that is the only thing I found special about it. The seating area is rather dirty as it is surrounded by natural grass and is frequently crapped on by geese or whatever other bird comes around here. There are some trees around the area, but the amphitheater itself doesn’t get direct shade. Additionally, there was one person camping here when I visited. While I don’t take issue to the homeless, I’m sure someone else is going to whine about it. Overall… whatever. 3/5.

Sylvanus Stephens

via Google

· 1 year ago

It’s a nice park. I watched the pelicans dive into the water. I sit here and write. This is the “Dolores Park of Oakland” someone told me. I still like the view from Dolores Park more, but this definitely has a vibe to it. It reminds me of Echo Park in Los Angeles or Hollenback Park. A bit more “gritty” than Dolores or the parks in SF. I actually find it better for people watching. A lot of people run along the lake. And the people seem warmer here too. Sometimes. I mean, it is the Bay Area after all.

Turnipboys

via Google

· 1 year ago

Soooo pretty. Went for Slug World 2025 on a Tuesday afternoon and it was just so beautifully sunny and warm. People were with their kids, dogs, cycling, just out for a stroll. There's a nice big grassy area by the amphitheater. The water and sun really soothe the soul.

Phil M

via Google

· 6 years ago

There always seems to be people around here so there's a great sense of community. I see people on bikes doing tricks, tight rope walkers, and people just sitting having a good time eating or listening to music. There's even a nice padded area for running to make getting around the lake a bit easier. Another amazing thing is that during the holidays a menorah goes up and they light it as Hanukkah progresses. For Independence day it's also a great viewpoint of the fireworks since they happen on all sides of the lake. It's definitely a cool place to people watch and experience Oakland culture. There's even a little beach during low tide with geese, ducks and other birds.

birdy pajarita

via Google

· 6 years ago

at the foot of a magnificent lake, a big open space where a beautifully diverse and colorful community passes by on foot, scooter and bike... runners, walkers, lollygaggers and louts... all together sharing the space... the iconic Alameda County Court building and the regal Henry J. Kaiser Auditorium set an elegant architectural stage for a cast if seabirds and geese... tall trees sigh... smell of kind bud, sounds of hip hop and the city beyond... a prideful Oakland gem.

Oakland Metro Operahouse is a performing arts theater and event venue at 303 Castro St, Oakland, CA. Known for metal shows and live performances, it hosts acts like Hoodslam and Grotesque Burlesque, with two bars and two stages. The warehouse-style venue near Jack London Square offers a laid-back atmosphere, friendly staff, and convenient access to nearby restaurants and bars, per frequent guest reviews.

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