What a fun night out at the Oakland Zoo. For those who haven't heard about Glowfari, it's an immersive, interactive and beautiful display of brightly lit lanterns, depicting the different region of wildlife. There's the Bayou, North American Forrest, the Deep Ocean and Madagascar which includes children's rides. Then take the gondola ride up to the top where you explore the Arctic . Tunnels, photo ops and storytelling throughout. It's a magical experience. There are gift shops and food options inside too. It does get crowded so expect some lines. During Nov & Dec, you can visit Santa on select days. One thing to note, since it's at night from 5-9pm the zoo animals are tucked away in their indoor areas and cannot be seen, except for the reptiles. This event runs from Nov - Jan and sells out fast. But if you're lucky enough to snag a ticket, it's a good time. read more

See all

Not much time left, but go if you can get a ticket. Excellent exhibition, don't miss it read more

See all

So cool! What a great concept & experience for the family during the holidays! I can only imagine the amount of work and man hours that went into Glowfari - it's totally worth it! We bought tickets online about a month before and had a 5:30 reservation on 12/17. After reading the reviews, we got in line right away for the Gondola. 4 adults with a stroller we fit fine. On the ride, it was nice that passengers in other gondola cars passing in the opposite direction were waving and yelling Merry Christmas. Great views of the city lights of the Bay Area. Up at the top is the cafe that has various food offerings. The adult hot chocolate was a not large but also not small size & $11 with your choice of either Kahlua or Baileys - I don't know why I never thought of making such at home - it was really good & warming on a cold, wet night. Fries were seasoned but also kinda soggy. Other menu items ordered weren't memorable. By the time we explored the top section and ordered & ate at the cafe then took the gondola back down, the line to go up the gondola was super long. The interactive Bayou was the best part and a must to experience. read more

See all

This is a must go. It is all Around fun for every age. Awesome light displays Everyone was helpful and friendly. Prices are Reasonable For everything. Bundle up, make sure you take the train and gondolas. Go Early and do The rides first then do your walk about. Easy parking, bathrooms were clean and staff About to help. read more

See all

I just had my first Glowfari experience and loved it! If you have kids, it's worth going at least once. The exhibit was beautiful. Tips: - Get your tickets asap. They sell out. - Eat an early dinner beforehand or bring food. The food there is ok. - Dress warm and bring a stroller. There will be a lot of walking - Get in line for the Gondola as soon as you enter. The longer you wait, the longer the line. You can bring your stroller into the Gondola. - There are lots to see. If I had to prioritize, check out the Bayou. It's the interactive area with swings and lights that change color when you step on it. - Santa is in the rides area during certain dates & times! Unfortunately, we didn't get around to it as we left to get dinner. read more

Glowfari - Zoos Near Me - Oakland, California

This year's theme was amazing!! There we dinosaurs, a whole barn full of chickens and pigs, and Egyptian tombs. Absolutely beautiful and breathtaking especially for the kids. We even saw the baby giraffe. Looking forward to next year. read more

Glowfari - Baby giraffe - Zoos Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

Always such a fun experience with the family. We went after it had been raining for a couple days so it was super muddy! rain boots would be super helpful. We make this our annual Christmas activity and the kids always love it! read more

Got the opportunity to attend GlowFari in November 2023. One of my friends had purchased extra tickets and she has an Oakland Zoo membership and purchased them right when they went on sale online and tickets sold out quickly! This event is perfect for all ages, especially kids! They have a ticket and ride area and you can see Santa during the holidays outside of the park. And admission allows you to go to the park in the evening and check out all of the GlowFari displays, some exhibits are open and the lift is open, we didn't go early enough to make it in time. It does get super cold at night so I'd recommend to layer up. Parking is free but also it can get very busy but I think it never runs out. They sell food and drinks inside the zoo too. read more

See all

I have been to Enchant in San Jose and Glowfari blows it out the water. At first my toddler was overstimulated by all the lights but when she saw the dinosaurs she couldn't get enough of them. We were at the dinosaur exhibit for 2 hours. I recommend going on the gondola first because the line is long. Food was reasonably priced and parking was free. Be aware the Nile exhibit was muddy, specifically where the children's interactive play area was. I was not prepared for all the mud. The Nile was where all the rainbow swings, bubbles, and colorful dance floor are. The bubbles were awesome because they made it with dry ice so when the bubbles popped, smoke comes out! 10/10! Will come back next year. read more

Glowfari - Raptors! - Zoos Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

I was given tickets from a friend and wasn't really sure what I was going into. What she gave me was a magical time. This event sells out. It is weather permitting, so you might not be so lucky to go if it's downpouring If you do go, get there early. We purchased some food and drinks. Enjoyed taking our time walking around. The pieces are just so pretty to look at. The kids are all over the place, so walking slowly does help in case a random kid bumps into you. Wear layers! Bring a refillable water bottle, there are places you can fill up. Most of all have fun. Take photos for your memories. read more

What a fun event! When I first bought tickets to Glowfari I thought it would be gimmicky with just a few cheap light up animals walking around just half the zoo but boy was I wrong. We could barely see everything within the allotted time frame. We arrived at 6pm and there was no wait to get inside and there are so many photo ops just in the entrance. I was blown away that they had Gondolas to bring you to a completely new part of the zoo with amazing lights. What I liked most about this entire event was that the light up animal displays aren't just cheap random animals but actual demos of rare zoo animals and bunched up into different categories such as Africa, Underwater, Bugs, etc. They also have lit up descriptions with factoids. I have no idea where they store everything at the end of the year because there are so many exhibits. There's also plenty of rides such as the merry go round, trains, etc which were fairly priced. TIPS: 1. Buy tickets early as they sell out quickly a few weeks before the actual date. 2. Go to the Gondola First OR last but not in the middle as there will be a wait. We went within the first hour and waited about 10 mins to get on but the wait to come back was super long like 20-30 mins. 3. There are in and out privileges but don't forget to get a stamp. 4. Plenty of parking but the later you come, the further away from the gate you'll park. Overall, def worth the price. Perfect for families and it is very family friendly! Everything is very lit so you don't have to worry about falling or tripping. Staff was very friendly. I'll definitely be back next year! read more

The exhibit was amazing! Very easy to get around from each area. There was also several bathrooms open throughout the park which was very convenient . Oh and snacks too! Staff was friendly which is always a plus in my book. We went a few days after the holidays to avoid the insane large crowds. Definitely recommended! read more

See all

I was bummed Glowfari was not part of the the Oakland Zoo membership, but it was totally well worth it. Beautiful walk around the zoo. You got the gondola ride, Santa, carnival rides, bubbles, moving lanterns of dinosaurs and so many other animals. The area with the pyramids stole the show. Very well put together. Shame some parents allow the kids walk through areas with the lights just for some photos. read more

Glowfari - Entrance - Zoos Near Me - Oakland, California

Glowfari is so tastefully done. I was skeptical and then also was very annoyed by an hour and a half of traffic from SF to the Oakland Zoo but immediately thought it was worth it, even with the traffic. All of the light up animals, interactive spaces, the lit up gondola at night, variety of music playing, and yummy hot chocolate made for an exciting evening for a family with a little one! My child is 4 and he was so ecstatic the whole time! read more

Glowfari - The Sphinx - Zoos Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

I went last night 12/19 and had an overall great time. I was happy to see the Hazy tall boy. Reason for 4 star: -There were loud alarms/beeps when getting on the gondola. I have sensitive hearing, so it was uncomfortable for me. I heard it at both the bottom and top while waiting in line. -I was confused about the train ride tickets. I asked for two, but she sold me four. I thought the price was $3, but then I realized the train needed two tickets. We paid for parking, but nobody checked our receipt. I asked myself if I even needed to pay for parking. read more

We took our grandkids (ages 5 and 8) to Glowfari last Saturday. I heard good things about it, but figured my jaded self wouldn't be moved much, though I expected the kids to have fun. Well, I was half wrong. We all loved it! We booked the earliest entrance time of 5pm, and then once we were let in, we made a beeline to the gondolas (included in the Glowfari ticket price) going to the upper section of the zoo. Our timing was perfect. The sun was setting and we ate dinner on the patio watching the gondolas moving up and down, and the sun setting over Oakland and San Francisco. Food was ok, the view was priceless. By the time we finished dinner, the lines for the gondolas were very long, as were the lines for food. Score for us! Then the exploration began, since it was now dark enough to appreciate the hundreds of glowing animals. It really is a magical experience, with surprises all around, like giant blowfish animating, bubbles filled with dry ice vapor, walking through a glowing tunnel to discover it's actually a massive shark. It may be sold out for this winter, but worth a try to see if you can still get tickets. Bundle up! It can get cold up there on the top. Then explore! read more

See all

Love this place!!! So fun to take kids and I highly recommend it!!! Since this event takes place at night the lights are gorgeous!! read more

See all

The ONLY BEST thing happening in Oakland right now. Take my money:)) We coordinated with the family and all the cousins and the kids had a blast while I'm sipping on hot chocolate watching them enjoying the night. Everything was beautiful,colorful,and festive. I honestly would pay again to go up there. The gondola was breathtaking- looking at the whole bay area from above. They have a cafe up there for burgers and drinks. Honestly,my son said their burgers are pretty smack. Lol I suggest you buy the first ticket available if time permits. The parking got crazzzzy. Parking is free and if you bring elders 82 and up ,they are free. You wont regret this! Book it sold out fast. read more

Glowfari - Sorry I was enjoying the night so much with my little ones, Didn't capture too many pics.:(( - Zoos Near Me - Oakland, California

I was surprised with tickets, didn't even realize this was a thing. It was pretty cold and wet on the weekend we went (before the event ended), so the train wasn't running (no rides overall). The gondala was efficient and accommodating to all guests, brought everyone up to the upper area with lights and some photo displays. It was a little funny to still see 2022 dates up, but this event was extended originally from my understanding. Our time slot was 5:30pm. Parking was pretty simple, everyone just got funneled in. The line for strollers and etc to bring into the zoo was long, but for just 2 adults...it was a straight shot in. It was quite crowded on a misty, cold, wet night- but still was a very enjoyable walk around the zoo! There were no animals out, but plenty to see. It for sure was a very kid friendly event, muddy too, but definitely didn't make date night any less special. Pictures at night with bright lights were a little hard to grab, but with a little patience, our phones eventually focused. Final Thoughts: Was a nice and cute surprise from bf, pretty displays and music that matched the zoo (and event) for sure. Tickets were a must to buy ahead of time as they do sell out day of. read more

Glowfari exceeded my expectation by far. It was a great experience for my toddler. They decorated the whole zoo beautifully. There is a few exhibits that are open at night like reptiles and bugs. Gondola rides are also included in the admission. Last ride is 8pm going up and 8:30pm going down, so make sure not to miss it (line can be long but it goes fairly quick). I had 6pm entry and stayed till closing which 9pm. Tickets do sell out days before so make sure to purchase in advance. read more

This was an amazing experience. Make sure to get tickets in advance because they do sell out. Tickets were $24 per adult and $20 per child two and over, and the event is from 5-9pm on certain days November through January. We arrived right at 5pm and were blown away by the number of beautiful decorated animal lanterns that were displayed. Note that there are no animals during this time; the event is focused on walking around and seeing the lantern displays. I recommend doing the gondola first since the line can get long later on. The train was also fun, and they had a ride area with a carousel and a couple rides for children that you could purchase tickets for ($2-4 per ride). We spent almost 3 hours there and thought it was a unique fun experience for families. read more

See all

Went in 2022 and 2023. Thought 2023 was better quality lanterns but all were awesome. Hoping to get to 2024 before it closes. Tip-go early and take the gondola up first thing. Watch the sun set (sometimes) and have a snack and drink up top. Then see the top after it gets dark and go down to the lower part of the zoo. The lines for the gondola can get really long about the middle of the hours they are open. read more

I went for the first time yesterday and was completely blown away by the experience. It just kept getting better and better. I would have paid triple because it's worth it! Can't wait to go again. read more

My husband and I went for a date night. We had a great time. The displays were nice. We had food at one of restaurants and the tostada salad was pretty good for zoo food. The noise was actually not bad. We didn't go up the gondola as there was a long line. We recommend it for everyone. read more

Stunning giant lanterns at the Oakland Zoo!! Every year a different theme. Always spectacular. I look forward to this every year!

Highly recommend Glowfari for adults as well as kids 3+. Free parking. The display was very impressive. No viewing of zoo animals during evening hours. We went on a Sunday to avoid commute traffic. 76+ free with comp ticket (ordered online). Babies free too but more suitable for older kids 3+ who can walk. For optimal experience: Buy tickets for a clear night - Dress WARM, layers, hats, gloves, socks. sturdy shoes Arrive at 5pm, the opening time Go directly to Gondola to see sunset Do the upper loop (about hour) Do lower loop which requires a lot of walking but well worth every step! Allow about 2.5 hours total, will take longer with little kids, strollers. We (2 adults). powered thru and still took about 2.5 hours Upper cafe was open but would eat at home bring snacks read more

Magical, whimsical. It's sure to be a really wonderful night out. Dress warmly though. Pro tip: bring food with you to enjoy at the upper section. Plenty of places to sit and eat. read more

I have a ton of pictures but it just doesn't do it justice. This is a must go for you weather you're an adult with kids, or just an adult. Tons of work went into this humongous display and we've been multiple times and it never disappoints. read more

This was my first year visiting and loved it. It is very popular so make sure you buy your tickets ahead of time on the Oakland Zoo website. Ticket sales open up 30 days before the scheduled date. There's lots of parking available which is also free. We arrived an hour after opening and the line to the gondola was already super long. Before Christmas they have Santa Clause taking pictures with kids which is really great and the line wasn't too long either. We purchased tickets to the train ride which goes around the grounds and you we even spotted the zoo animals in the distance. It is really cold since it's in the Oakland hills so make sure to bundle up. There are many displays which make them amazing. It's great for a family day or even a date night. They have interactive displays for the kids and everything is picture worthy. They have carnival rides for kids which you buy additional tickets for. They have snack bars throughout the area, but wish they had more as the lines can get long. The items are a bit overpriced, but when it's freezing that hot chocolate helps. I would highly recommend this place and will definitely be returning next year! read more

Glowfari - Bayou Display - Zoos Near Me - Oakland, California

Glowfari is an absolutely spectacular blend of light, color, technology and old world lantern sculpture. Glowing animals, fauna, reptiles, insects, and crustaceans, dance among the backdrop of the great Oakland Zoo, one of the gems of the Bay Area. And if that wasn't enough, the gondola ride to the top is a must experience where another magical setting awaits. Unfortunately, what also awaits at the top of the mountain is the Landing Cafe. We ordered the Mac & Cheese (tasteless with vile cheese and pasta), Flatbread Pepperoni (disgusting tomato sauce and crust) and a Hamburger (that looked and tasted like one of those microwave burgers you see in the frozen section of Safeway you think you'll never try). Even my 6 and 4 year-old grandchildren did not eat the food after a couple bites. If zoo management fed the relative equivalent in quality to their animals, they would either have a very short life or be forced to eat their zookeeper. Further, the cafe was not a warm and cozy environment on a very frigid night, but under-heated and chilly, necessitating that everyone leave their coats on during "dinner." Dear Board of Directors of the Oakland Zoo, You are missing a golden opportunity to have a destination restaurant with a stunning view but instead settle for an insulting excuse for food. I challenge each and everyone of you to completely eat one of those "hamburgers" and tell me differently. I will even host the event for the pleasure of seeing your expressions of disbelief. Of course, not to worry, I will supply the omeprazole or antacid of your choice. Not to worry, I also know the Heimlich maneuver, if you would prefer to completely expunge the offending fare. I await your reply and look forward to meeting you soon! Cheers! read more

So well done! We took our two year old granddaughter and she was so excited and thrilled. We'll definitely go again!

first time coming and as a oakland native it made me want to go to the zoo. haven't been here in years and it was nice to have something in the area that was cool to look at. am definitely coming here again, and bringing my friends and family i loved the lights and the flowers the dino part was my favorite RAWRFASTIC read more

Loved it. It was like in a different world with wide variety of attractions. Kids had a great time

Wow wow wow! This was stunning! My son, and I went to the zoo when he was three and it was a broken down place, with the animals all in concrete enclosures. Since that time it has rebuilt itself into a world-class zoo. My son is 37 and he takes his kids there. It has everything: animals rides a train, a cool gift shop... what else do you need? read more

We took our 7 year old grandson to this event on the 23rd of December at dusk. It was beyond words fabulous!!!! Perfect fir his age group. We road the gondola to the top of the attraction first. As recommended, perfect to see the sun set over San Francisco Bay!! I can't overstate how incredible and amazing the creatures and displays were for him and other young children we observed, great family fun! read more

Went last night, 12/6/22. Incredible Oakland Zoo GlowFari light show. It's like Meow Wolf on steroids. They added so much light installation that the exhibit practically covers the entire zoo including up the hill via gondola to the bear/buffalo Landing where more installations are shown. Some of these pieces are 60 feet long, the average between 15 to 20 feet. With families and kids enjoying the light exhibit, you really feel like Christmas. Some installations are so big you can walk through them. Totally worth it. I read some reviews dating back to 2017 and 2018 saying that the exhibit was sparse. Well, not anymore. The zoo added so much stuff the light show was practically everywhere and incredibly humongous in size. Ate great ribs at the Landing Cafe. Here are some pics we took. For $24 bucks adult ticket, this is the best show you will ever see. Meow Wolf which we paid $45 a ticket was an incredible show but Glowfari is a titan in scale, atmosphere, and enjoyment. read more

See all