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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Oakland

Kid-friendly unique spots

A unique space that keeps the kids occupied makes for a much smoother outing.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated April 2026
01
Oakland Guitars image 1
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Used musical instrument store

Small shop offers a unique selection of guitars spanning vintage to boutique styles. Friendly staff encourage playing in a chill, lively atmosphere where customers can explore freely. Pedal collection rotates constantly, featuring hard-to-find boutique pedals alongside reasonable prices.

Kids get free guitar cords and enjoy browsing a variety of guitars. The shop offers used guitars suitable for young beginners and creates a welcoming space for children interested in music.

An insane amount of unique axes covers nearly all tastes and price ranges. The owner offers hard-to-find pedals alongside a really unique selection of guitars.

People are saying

"You'll find a unique selection of hard-to-find guitars and pedals here."

"The staff here are super nice and treat everyone with care."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find nearby.

2

The shop has a unique selection of guitars covering various tastes and price ranges.

3

They offer a constantly changing collection of budget to boutique pedals.

02
Smash Kingdom image 1
Recreation center

Spacious rooms with variety of smashable items and epic tools create a chill but chaotic environment energized by customizable music. The atmosphere balances fun and stress relief, welcoming groups and date nights alike. Axe throwing adds an extra layer of activity to the lively setting.

Kids enjoy a chance to release energy by smashing TVs and bottles in a safe space. Activities like the smash room and splash painting keep children engaged and entertained.

Offers a unique outlet for stress relief through an exhilarating activity in a safe, controlled environment.

People are saying

"It's a fun, high-energy way to let loose and de-stress."

"They had so many epic tools to choose from!"

"The staff here are so friendly and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Closed-toe shoes are mandatory.

2

They do not accept cash payments.

3

The place is open until midnight on weekends.

03
Mr. Dewie's Cashew Creamery image 1

Ice cream shop offers cashew-based vegan ice cream with unique, varied flavors and generous portions. Bright, pastel lighting creates a pleasant, carefree atmosphere with outdoor benches nearby for relaxing. The ice cream tastes creamy and fresh, often preferred over dairy options.

Kids enjoy the matcha scoop and are generally happy with the ice cream options available.

Flavors stand out with a strong cashew presence in every bite. The menu offers many more unique flavors beyond the cashew-based ice cream.

People are saying

"I found the dairy-free ice cream to be the best I have ever tasted."

"The cashew-based ice cream here is unique and delicious."

"The ice cream here is so creamy and flavorful, I'm sold!"

Good to know

1

Mr. Dewie's Cashew Creamery serves entirely vegan and gluten-free ice cream.

2

They offer a variety of unique flavors that change seasonally.

3

You can get a split scoop of two flavors with a single scoop.

04
NōKA Ramen & Bar image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant with anime and tropical-themed decor creates a fun, lively atmosphere featuring staff in costumes and a Pikachu mascot. Bright, colorful interior includes pink velvet chairs and detailed jungle decorations. The place draws a crowd, offering unique cocktails and kid-friendly amenities.

Kids enjoy taking pictures with Pikachu and find the experience fun. Staff are super friendly and kid friendly, making it a good spot for family celebrations like birthdays.

Food features a hybrid miso garlic fusion broth in ramen and gyoza topped with a crispy fried plate. Cocktails offer unique flavors that enhance the playful atmosphere.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is amazing and super flavorful."

"It's super kid friendly with a large screen playing Pokémon videos."

"The ramen broth here is a unique, flavorful fusion."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 5-6 PM, Monday to Friday, with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking is available in the nearby Jack London parking garage.

05
Clockwise Escape Room Oakland image 1

Escape room center offers immersive set design with themes like candy factory and hidden temple, featuring creative puzzles and physical props. The lobby feels cozy and welcoming, contrasting with an unassuming exterior. The vibe is fun and challenging, suitable for groups and accessible to all.

Bright colors and fun puzzles make the escape rooms engaging for kids. Staff provide appropriate hints and handle children well during the experience.

Creative puzzles and beautiful decor define the Candy Factory room. The experience offers unique engineering challenges that stand out.

People are saying

"The escape room was super fun and had many looks."

"I found the Hidden Temple escape room super fun and challenging."

"The staff here are so helpful and engaging."

Good to know

1

Reservations for future visits receive a discount if booked on the same day.

2

The escape room is wheelchair-accessible for those with mobility challenges.

3

Groups of 4 are recommended for the best experience, but 2 can also work.

06
The Lumpia Company image 1
Filipino restaurant

Filipino restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with spacious patio and water views. Atmosphere is family-friendly with a vintage arcade corner featuring free play games. Music and TVs create a lively vibe, while Filipino-flavored beers add a unique touch.

Outdoor space invites kids to skate, bike, or dance freely. An outer park offers room to play alongside a mini pop-up retail center. Packaged strawberry ice cream serves as a simple treat for kids.

Unique beer options stand out here. The Lumpia Company offers distinctive lumpia with uncommon flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The lumpia here is crispy perfection, a real crowd-pleaser."

"I found the lumpia to be unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Live bands perform every few weeks; check the schedule for exact dates.

2

Comedy nights are hosted regularly; plan to attend for a fun evening.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early or be prepared to walk.

07
MENSHO image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant with modern decor and shared tables creates a loud, packed atmosphere that feels cramped but lively. Music adds a loungey, housey vibe while seating includes a section for solo diners. Air conditioning runs strong, sometimes uncomfortably so.

Busy atmosphere does not hinder the accommodating staff who make thoughtful suggestions for kids trying new dishes. Classic broth and noodles bowl stands out as a favorite among young diners.

Ramen features unique flavor combinations and a super rich broth paired with amazing noodles. Service is lightning quick, making the whole experience stand out.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be amazing and flavorful."

"The ramen here is delicious and my kids enjoyed it."

"The ramen here has such unique flavor combinations."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during peak hours.

2

During peak hours, there might be a 20-30 minute wait, so it's better to go right when they open.

3

The restaurant offers vegan and vegetarian options for most of its menu.

08
Clio’s Books image 1

Bar combines bookstore and cocktail lounge with hidden rooms and cozy nooks for reading or chatting. Atmosphere feels magical and sophisticated, with chess boards and unique seating scattered throughout. Space suits quiet dates or relaxed gatherings, offering a thoughtfully curated, welcoming vibe.

A hidden kids book nook offers a cozy spot for children. Staff check in to ensure kids are comfortable and provide personalized suggestions. Families with children feel welcome and can even rent the space for events.

Unique seating areas create cozy spots for day drinks or chilling with friends. The bar features a unique bookstore vibe with distinctive book collections and delicious Negroni cocktails.

People are saying

"This cozy, dimly lit spot among the books is a magical reading spot."

"It's a unique, cozy spot with lots of nooks to hang out in."

"The staff here are super nice and helpful with kids."

Good to know

1

Chess night occurs every night at Clio's Books.

2

Clio's Books hosts various events and readings throughout the month.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events to ensure a spot.

09
Blackberry Bistro image 1

Bistro offers cozy atmosphere with colorful decor and charming outdoor seating. It serves a unique menu featuring traditional Eritrean and Ethiopian dishes alongside classic brunch options. The vibe is family-friendly and welcoming, encouraging relaxed, lingering meals.

Food stays mild with no strong spices, making it easy for kids to enjoy. The menu offers great options like French toast that kids tend to love.

Creative and unique flavors define the menu, featuring fresh ingredients that make each dish stand out. The interior matches with a colorful vibe that complements the food's originality.

People are saying

"The breakfast service here is super friendly and welcoming."

"The menu here is so unique, with creative and mouth-watering flavors."

"The staff here is super friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the Ethiopian/Eritrean dinner menu nights.

2

Parking may take some effort, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant accommodates larger groups well.

10
Huangcheng Noodle House 山西刀削面 image 1

Robot servers deliver food with comically happy music, creating a unique dining experience in a casual, cozy space with both indoor and flower-filled outdoor seating. The atmosphere mixes dim lighting and lively conversation, reflecting a simple, authentic noodle house vibe.

Non-spicy dishes come in kid-friendly versions like the pork and cabbage dumplings and mild Chongqing street noodles. Spicy soups are available but can be ordered mild and hard for children.

Spices create a unique spicy, numbing flavor in the noodle dishes. Two soups offer generous portions and distinct tastes. A robot delivers meals, adding a unique service touch.

People are saying

"The spicy, numbing noodle flavors are truly unique."

"The outdoor seating is tranquil and the food was delicious."

"The noodles here are fresh, chewy, and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash or Venmo for payment.

2

Expect to wait during the lunch hour rush.

3

The menu has limited vegetarian options despite being large.

11
Poppy Bagels image 1
Bagel shop

Small shop with cute decor and speckled stools offers a buzzy atmosphere and spacious outdoor patio where kids and dogs can roam safely. The vibe stays chill despite the crowd, making it a pleasant spot to spend time. Bagels come with fresh ingredients and unique flavors, often praised for their quality and presentation.

A large outdoor patio offers space for kids to play safely. A back patio without car access lets kids run around freely.

Variety of flavors and unique combinations stand out. Bagels show craft and distinct taste, paired with a unique selection of sandwiches.

People are saying

"I'll get the green bagel again next time I'm in town."

"The Whitefish bagel's dill and chives balanced the fish salad's brininess."

"The outdoor patio is spacious and Kid Friendly, letting kids run around safely."

Good to know

1

Expect about 20 minutes for your order to be ready.

2

There is limited indoor seating due to construction on the patio.

3

The outdoor patio is a nice spot for enjoying bagels on sunny days.

12
ID Cafe image 1
Indian restaurant

Basement cafe with open kitchen and simple interiors offers a casual, welcoming vibe. Seating is self-service with about six tables in a clean, modest space. The atmosphere suits quick, authentic South Indian meals with a focus on crispy dosas.

Soft and fluffy Ghee Idly delights kids, while crispy, buttery dosa cones win their favor. Food consistently appeals to children here.

Every filling offers a unique and well spiced taste. Takeout boxes stand out with a very unique design, especially for dosas.

People are saying

"The Indian food here, especially the dosas, is amazing."

"The ghee idly and cone dosa were a hit with the kids."

"The idlee and dosa here are so soft and thin, it's unique."

Good to know

1

ID Cafe offers unlimited vegetarian dosa nights on select days.

2

The restaurant is located in the basement level of the Ramada Inn.

3

Prices at ID Cafe are reasonable compared to other Indian restaurants.

13
Kinfolx image 1

Gorgeous space filled with afro centric artwork and comfy seating creates a lively atmosphere where many work on laptops with headphones. The vibe is warm and welcoming, reflecting a strong sense of community and culture. Frequent live DJs add to the laid-back, energetic environment.

Events like a graduation party happen here, showing space for family gatherings. Staff respond to simple requests like a small cup of water for toddlers during meals.

Vibes feel distinctively welcoming and warm with a unique ambiance that stands out clearly.

People are saying

"It's a thoughtful, calm space that feels right for working."

"The staff here is so accommodating and makes you feel right at home."

"The staff's kindness after my spill was truly unique."

Good to know

1

Kinfolx does not accept cash; only credit cards and mobile payments are allowed.

2

Wi-Fi at Kinfolx is restrictive and blocks many popular websites.

3

Arrive early to secure a seat, especially during busy hours.

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