Preservation Park
Oakland's historic gem, Preservation Park offers stunning Victorian homes and lush grounds, a perfect venue and urban oasis.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Home tour days are special
Preservation Park
Best Time
Home tour days are special
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oakland's historic gem, Preservation Park offers stunning Victorian homes and lush grounds, a perfect venue and urban oasis.
"A magically beautiful place and venue unlike any in the area or California. It is the jewel of Oakland."
Book Events Early
Popular venue for weddings and events; book well in advance.
Explore the Trails
Beyond the main area, wooded trails offer more adventure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Victorian Homes
Throughout the park
Step back in time exploring beautifully preserved Victorian-era houses, offering a unique architectural experience.
Lush Green Spaces
Central lawn and gardens
An urban oasis perfect for a relaxing stroll, picnics, or simply enjoying nature amidst the city bustle.
Event Venue Charm
Various buildings and grounds
The park's stunning backdrop makes it an unforgettable location for weddings and special events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Oakland's Historic Gem
Navigating the Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Events Early
Popular venue for weddings and events; book well in advance.
Explore the Trails
Beyond the main area, wooded trails offer more adventure.
Respect the Area
Be mindful of the neighborhood and its history.
Check for Tours
In-person home tours offer a deeper dive into history.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Events Early
Popular venue for weddings and events; book well in advance.
Explore the Trails
Beyond the main area, wooded trails offer more adventure.
Respect the Area
Be mindful of the neighborhood and its history.
Check for Tours
In-person home tours offer a deeper dive into history.
Accessible via BART
Easy to reach from downtown Oakland.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Preservation Park is widely lauded as a magical and unique venue, praised for its stunning historic architecture and beautiful grounds, making it ideal for events and a peaceful urban escape. The event planning team receives exceptional commendations for their professionalism and helpfulness. While generally positive, some visitors might seek more information on specific historical details or event booking processes.
"This is a magically beautiful place and venue unlike any in the area or California. It is the jewel of Oakland. We had a family wedding here, and it was the most amazing wedding we've ever been to. Lawrence, the Event Coordinator, is so kind, knowledgeable, and patient. He made the planning process so much easier and stress-free, and was always available to answer questions or address concerns. The Park is gorgeous and stunning, especially at night. We want to host another event there, but we need to figure out how and what it could be. Thank you to Lawrence, the best venue person we've ever worked with, and his wonderful staff."
Rita M
"Had an event here for work, a career fair, and the entire experience from start to finish was fantastic. Lawrence, the event planner, was super nice and helpful as this was thr first event I had planned of this scale. The crew there on the day of the event was super helpful as well and the venue was setup perfectly for our needs. It is a beautiful spot too, with the block that it's on being very vibrant and well maintained. I would definitely recommend using them in the future!"
kevin english
"This is an interesting place with a lot of local history. I anticipate I'll be back to attend a tea and learn more about the people who lived here and shaped this area."
Kathleen Valerio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Preservation Park is conveniently located in Oakland and is accessible via BART, making it easy to reach from downtown. If driving, be aware of parking availability in the vibrant, well-maintained block it occupies.
Yes, Preservation Park is an excellent option for a day trip from San Francisco, easily accessible by BART. It offers a peaceful escape with historical charm.
Parking can be found in the vicinity of Preservation Park. It's advisable to check local parking regulations and availability upon arrival, as the area is vibrant and well-maintained.
Absolutely! Preservation Park is accessible via BART, which is a convenient and recommended way to travel to the park, especially from downtown Oakland.
Preservation Park is situated in a vibrant and well-maintained part of Oakland. Visitors generally find the area safe, but as with any urban environment, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to Preservation Park grounds is usually free. However, special events like the home tours require tickets, which can be purchased through their website. 
The park grounds are generally open during daylight hours. For specific event timings or to inquire about visiting the historic houses, it's best to check the official Preservation Park website or contact them directly.
Entry to the park itself is typically free. Special events, such as the Preservation Park Cities home tour, will have associated ticket prices.
Yes, Preservation Park is a highly sought-after venue for private events, including weddings and corporate functions. Lawrence, the Event Coordinator, is noted for being helpful and making the planning process stress-free. +1
While general access is available, specific guided tours, especially for the historic homes, are often part of special events like the annual home tour.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Preservation Park offers a chance to explore historic Victorian homes, enjoy beautiful green spaces, and experience a unique urban oasis. It's also a popular venue for events. +1
Yes, Preservation Park features walking trails. While some are gentle loops, others venture into wooded areas for a more adventurous hike.
Preservation Park is family-friendly. The hill trail is a good option for kids, and the nearby Sarah Benson playground offers additional fun.
Preservation Park hosts a variety of events, including weddings, career fairs, and community gatherings. Its historic charm makes it a memorable venue. +1
The lush green spaces at Preservation Park are perfect for picnics, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic Victorian homes, the beautifully maintained landscaping, and the overall ambiance of the park provide stunning backdrops for photography. +1
Absolutely! Preservation Park is described as a stunning outdoor wedding venue and an oasis in the city, with historic properties and beautiful landscaping perfect for wedding photos. +1
Yes, Preservation Park is a popular spot for photography, including professional shoots. Its unique architecture and natural beauty offer diverse photographic opportunities. +1
While generally welcoming to photographers, it's always a good idea to check with park management for any specific restrictions, especially if you are planning a large commercial shoot or event.
The park offers beautiful light throughout the day. Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide particularly magical lighting for photos, enhancing the historic charm.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
After exploring the park, a visit to the nearby Sarah Benson playground is a perfect way to let kids burn off some energy. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the park's lush green lawns, making for a relaxed and enjoyable family outing. The park's accessible nature and open spaces provide a safe and pleasant environment for children to explore.
💍 Couples & Event Planners
The event coordination team, particularly Lawrence, is highly praised for their professionalism and ability to make planning seamless and stress-free.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Explorers
Beyond the architecture, the park's history is intertwined with the development of West Oakland. Learning about its origins and the efforts to protect it adds a deeper layer to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Preservation Park
The park is a testament to the community's efforts to maintain its historical identity and architectural integrity. Visitors can explore several beautifully maintained Victorian-era houses within the park, each with its own story. These homes serve as a living museum, offering a glimpse into the lives of the people who shaped this area.
Beyond its architectural significance, Preservation Park is also an urban oasis. It provides a serene green space amidst the city, offering a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors alike. The park's blend of history and nature makes it a unique and valuable asset to Oakland.
Hosting Events at Preservation Park
Lawrence, the Event Coordinator, consistently receives high praise for his kindness, knowledge, and patience. He is instrumental in making the planning process stress-free and ensuring events run smoothly.
Due to its popularity, it is highly recommended to book events at Preservation Park well in advance.
Exploring the Trails and Nature
Visitors can enjoy a gentle loop trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll, or opt for more adventurous paths that lead into wooded areas. These trails provide a refreshing escape into nature, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the park's natural surroundings. It's a chance to connect with the outdoors and enjoy the tranquility that the park offers, even within an urban setting.
For those looking to extend their outdoor experience, the park's proximity to other natural attractions and charming neighborhoods in Tennessee (like Whistle Stop Farms and Avenue Downs) makes it a great starting point for further exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit