Unlock the Fun in Oakland: A Guide for Merritt College Students
As a Merritt College student living in Oakland, CA, you have access to a variety of unique activities and experiences that are both budget-friendly and entertaining. Let’s delve into the best free and affordable things you can do!
Oakland Attractions and Local Events
There’s always something happening in Oakland. The city is a treasure-trove of cultural festivals, local art exhibits, farmers markets, street fairs, and much more.
- First Fridays: Every first Friday of the month, Oakland becomes a street festival with food trucks, live music, art installations, and local vendors. The event is free of charge and frequently caters to a diverse crowd, including students.
- Oakland Art Murmur: Coinciding with First Fridays, this event features open galleries throughout the uptown area, providing great opportunities to appreciate local art and culture on a student budget.
- Jack London Square Farmers Market: Every Sunday, this farmers market offers locally grown produce, fresh-baked goods, artisanal treats, and live entertainment, all at affordable prices.
Explore Oakland Parks
Oakland is home to plenty of parks and green spaces that provide ample outdoor fun.
- Lake Merritt: Just a stone’s throw away from Merritt College, this is an ideal spot to relax, have a picnic, jog, or paddle on the lake. And it’s entirely free!
- Tilden Regional Park: Get back to nature at this expansive park offering hiking trails, a botanic garden, and more.
- Redwood Regional Park: For adventurous students, there’s no better place than the Redwood Regional Park. Its vast network of trails is suitable for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding.
Oakland Museums and Libraries
Oakland’s vibrant cultural scene extends to its fantastic museums and libraries, many of which offer free admissions or student discounts.
- Oakland Museum of California: Discover the rich history and culture of California. College students enjoy discounted entry.
- Chabot Space and Science Center: A great opportunity for science enthusiasts to learn more about the cosmos. Be sure to ask about discounted student tickets.
- African American Museum and Library: This museum offers free admission, allowing students to delve into the history and experiences of African Americans in California and the West.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet day in the park, an evening of culture and art, or window shopping at a local market, Oakland offers a world of experiences that won’t break a college student’s bank. Now, get out there and explore!