
Woodminster Amphitheater
An enchanting outdoor amphitheater in Oakland's Joaquin Miller Park, renowned for its summer musical theater series under the stars.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Magical theater under the stars

Woodminster Amphitheater
Best Time
Magical theater under the stars

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An enchanting outdoor amphitheater in Oakland's Joaquin Miller Park, renowned for its summer musical theater series under the stars.
"Theater under the stars is always a special evening at this hidden gem in the Oakland hills."

🧥 Bring Layers & Blanket
Evenings can get cool in the hills. A blanket and seat cushion are highly recommended for comfort.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can get busy, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy pre-show picnics.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summer Musical Series
Experience beloved Broadway hits and classic musicals performed under the stars in a stunning outdoor setting.

Joaquin Miller Park Setting
Enjoy the unique ambiance of an open-air stage surrounded by the natural beauty of redwood trees.

Community Talent
Witness the dedication and talent of local performers bringing vibrant stories to life.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Bring Layers & Blanket
Evenings can get cool in the hills. A blanket and seat cushion are highly recommended for comfort.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can get busy, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy pre-show picnics.
🎟️ Book Woodminster Amphitheater Tickets
Secure your spot for popular summer musicals by purchasing tickets in advance online.
🍷 Outside Food & Drink Welcome
Pack a picnic, a bottle of wine, or beer to enjoy before the show.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Bring Layers & Blanket
Evenings can get cool in the hills. A blanket and seat cushion are highly recommended for comfort.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can get busy, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy pre-show picnics.
🎟️ Book Woodminster Amphitheater Tickets
Secure your spot for popular summer musicals by purchasing tickets in advance online.
🍷 Outside Food & Drink Welcome
Pack a picnic, a bottle of wine, or beer to enjoy before the show.
🎶 Enjoy the Sound
The sound system has improved, offering a great audio experience for the performances.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Woodminster Amphitheater for its magical outdoor setting and the high quality of its summer musical productions, highlighting the talent of local performers and the enjoyable 'theater under the stars' experience. While the venue is loved for its community spirit and the ability to bring outside food and drinks, some find the seats uncomfortable and the theater itself a bit run-down, with parking also being a point of congestion.
"We come here every summer to watch a show. It’s a lot of fun for local entertainment. Love that the community comes together to put this on. Even if you are traveling through, if try to catch a show for lots the experience! You can get picnic tables to grab before the show or you can picnic at the park right outside. Parking gets cray inside but it’s also part of the experience and to be honest, it’s not that bad for an event like this. Highly recommend!"
James Hong
"Had a great time at Anastasia! Great venue and great performance. Plenty of snacks and good vibes."
Robin Feng
"Wonderful shows/musicals. The talent, costumes, singing, dancing, music, and choreography are excellent. The sound system is so much better the last few seasons. Theater under the stars is alway a special evening."
Jacqueline Hayes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Woodminster Amphitheater is located in Joaquin Miller Park in the Oakland hills. Driving is the most common way to access it. Parking is available on-site but can fill up quickly, so arriving early is advised.
While public transport can get you to the general Oakland area, direct public transit to the amphitheater itself is limited. It's best to check local bus routes and schedules, but driving or ride-sharing is often more convenient.
Parking is available within Joaquin Miller Park, but it can become 'cray' during peak times and popular shows. Many visitors find it part of the experience, but arriving early is key.
Absolutely! You can enjoy a picnic at tables available before the show or at the park right outside the venue. It's a great way to enhance your evening.
While the amphitheater is an outdoor venue with natural surroundings, efforts are made to accommodate visitors. It's recommended to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility questions regarding seating and pathways.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase Woodminster Amphitheater tickets online through their official website, www.woodminster.com. It's recommended to buy in advance, especially for popular summer musicals.
Shows at Woodminster Amphitheater typically start in the evening, often around 8 PM, allowing for a beautiful theater-going experience under the stars.
Some performers or productions may offer discounted tickets. For example, one performer mentioned messaging them directly for discounted tickets to Anastasia.
Show content can vary. For instance, 'Jersey Boys' has a Parental Advisory (13+) for brief strong language. Always check the specific show's advisory if you have concerns.
Yes, outside food and drinks, including a bottle of wine or beer, are permitted at Woodminster Amphitheater, making it a great spot for a picnic.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
It's advisable to dress in layers as the evenings can get chilly in the Oakland hills. Bringing a blanket is also a good idea for added warmth and comfort.
Some visitors find the seats uncomfortable and cramped. Bringing a seat cushion is highly recommended to improve comfort during the performance.
Recent reviews indicate that the sound system has significantly improved over the last few seasons, offering a much better audio experience.
Woodminster Amphitheater is known for hosting summer musical theater productions, including popular shows like 'Guys & Dolls,' 'Anastasia,' 'Sister Act,' and 'Jersey Boys.'
Yes, it's considered a family-friendly venue, with many shows being suitable for a wide audience. It's a great place for a family tradition.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, consider arriving early to secure good seating and enjoy a picnic dinner beforehand. Remember to pack layers and blankets, as it can get cool in the evenings, and bringing seat cushions can add extra comfort for younger attendees. The vibrant performances and the magical ambiance under the stars are sure to create lasting memories for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for a picnic dinner instead of dining out before or after the show is a smart way to save money. Additionally, attending on a weekday evening might offer a slightly less crowded experience and potentially easier parking. The overall value comes from the combination of an enjoyable performance, a unique outdoor setting, and the freedom to manage your own food and beverage costs.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
Consider bringing a bottle of wine and some favorite snacks to enhance your picnic. Dressing comfortably but stylishly, and bringing a blanket to share, can add to the cozy ambiance. The 'theater under the stars' experience is inherently charming and offers a unique alternative to typical indoor entertainment, making it perfect for a romantic getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Outdoor Theater
Audiences often rave about the 'theater under the stars' aspect, highlighting it as a truly special evening. While the venue has a long history, dating back to 1967, it continues to evolve, with recent improvements to its sound system enhancing the overall viewing experience. The combination of talented performers, beautiful surroundings, and a community-focused approach makes Woodminster Amphitheater a beloved summer destination.
Planning Your Perfect Picnic
When packing your picnic, remember to also bring essentials for comfort. As the amphitheater is outdoors, evenings can get cool, so packing layers of clothing and a cozy blanket is highly recommended. Additionally, many visitors suggest bringing a seat cushion, as the existing seats can be a bit uncomfortable for extended periods. These simple preparations can significantly enhance your enjoyment of the entire Woodminster Amphitheater experience, from your picnic to the final curtain call.
A Legacy of Summer Musicals
The amphitheater prides itself on showcasing the talent within the community, making each performance a testament to local artistry. This dedication to community-based theater, combined with the unique outdoor setting, creates a special bond between the performers and the audience. It's this blend of professional-level production and local charm that keeps audiences returning year after year, making Woodminster Amphitheater a cherished summer tradition.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit