Birthday Parties for Kids in the East Bay from Oakland to Berkeley and Beyond!

The East Bay is where the party is at! Birthday party photo courtesy of Pinstripes Events
The East Bay is where the party is at! Birthday party photo courtesy of Pinstripes Events
2/14/25 - By Brooke Shapiro

Planning birthday parties in the East Bay can feel overwhelming, but finding the perfect spot doesn’t have to be stressful. From unique indoor venues like science centers to outdoor entertainment like merry-go-rounds and redwood trails, the East Bay has no shortage of spots for kids’ birthday celebrations. 

Whether planning an indoor adventure or an outdoor celebration, the East Bay has endless options to make your child’s birthday party memorable. All you need to do is send the invites and enjoy the day! Here are some of my favorite places, as a mom of a four-year-old and a six-year-old, that will make your party planning a breeze and leave the kids (and parents) thrilled.

For more birthday inspiration, check out the top indoor birthday party places in San Francisco, and the best indoor playgrounds and play spaces in San Francisco for Kids. Plus, don't miss these birthday freebies for kids

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Indoor East Bay Birthday Parties for Kids

Birthday Parties for Kids in the East Bay from Oakland to Berkeley and Beyond: Lost World Aventures
Birthday parties can be dino-mite at Lost Worlds Adventure. 

1. Lost Worlds Adventures — Livermore

Lost Worlds in Livermore is a dinosaur-themed adventure park, perfect for an action-packed birthday party. Kids can explore giant prehistoric play structures, arcade games, black light mini-golf, and race through a ninja agility course, while surrounded by dinosaurs. 

2. Spirited Play Labs — San Ramon & Berkeley

Perfect for children who might get easily overstimulated, Spirited Play Labs offers therapeutic and sensory-friendly spaces developed by occupational, behavioral, and speech therapists. It’s a great option for creating a calm and inclusive party atmosphere.

3. Chabot Space & Science Center — Oakland

Blast off into out-of-this-world birthday parties at Chabot Space & Science Center. Celebrate with a private party room, a scavenger hunt, hands-on exhibits,  and fascinating planetarium shows. 

4. Bay Play — Oakland

Bay Play is a hit for all ages, featuring a toddler-friendly area, climbing walls, arcade games, and prizes for older kids. It’s fun for the entire family, ensuring everyone is entertained.

5. Oakland Ice Rink — Oakland

Ice skating birthday parties are a nostalgic classic and a ton of fun. Host your party at the Oakland Ice Rink for an afternoon of laughs, skating, and memories with friends and family.

6. Pinstripes Bowling and Bocce — Walnut Creek

Looking for something unique? Pinstripes combines bowling, bocce, and a full-service Italian-American food menu. It’s an exciting option for parents to join in the fun, too.

RELATED: Top Indoor Birthday Party Places in San Francisco for Kids 

Birthday Parties for Kids in the East Bay from Oakland to Berkeley and Beyond: Subpar Mini-Golf
Celebrate another trip around the sun with a hole-in-one. 

7. Subpar Mini-Golf — Alameda

This venue is perfect for parents looking to mix things up. Subpar has mini-golf, laser tag, pool, and arcade games. Pro tip: host your party in the evening for glow-in-the-dark golf!

8. Habitot Children's Museum — Berkeley 

Celebrate your little one’s big day at Habitot Children's Museum in Berkeley. Kids can enter a world of imaginative play, dressing up as firefighters, running a pizzeria, launching rockets, and getting creative in the Art Studio. With exclusive use of the museum, hands-on exhibits, and an Infant Toddler Garden, it’s a birthday they’ll never forget. 

9. The Busy Bee Activity Center — Alameda

birthday parties for the ages 0-8. This engaging indoor play space has age-appropriate activities, colorful play areas, and birthday party add-ons like DIY art projects, Zumbini music sessions, and face painting. 

10. Brushstrokes — Berkeley

If your child loves art and creativity, having a hands-on birthday party at Brushstrokes might be a memorable experience. Party options include pottery painting or wet clay. The guest of honor also receives a personalized birthday plate. 

11. Junior Center of Art and Science — Oakland

At the Junior Center of Art and Science, kids can enjoy an interactive birthday party experience with an array of choices that are art and science themes. From building recycled robots to creating their own masterpieces inspired by famous artists, each party is led by a professional Teaching Artist. This birthday party experience is best suited for kids ages five to 12. 

12. Luv2Play — Dublin 

Kids can enjoy a massive indoor play structure, arcade games, and more at Luv2Play. Various party packages include reserved seating, playtime, and a dedicated host. Luv2Play provides everything parents need for a stress-free celebration. 

Outdoor Birthday Parties for Kids in the East Bay

13. Tilden Park Merry-Go-Round — Berkeley

Tilden Park is stunning, with so many things to do for kids. The iconic Tilden Park Merry-Go-Round is a place in the park where you can reserve a birthday party! Perfect for carnival themes, kids can take a spin on the vintage carousel for a whimsical ride and enjoy the picturesque park for a celebration full of charm and fun. 

RELATED: Top Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in San Francisco

East Bay Birthday Parties for Kids: Childrens Fairyland in Oakland
Children's Fairyland is a whimsical birthday party venue for toddlers! 

14. Children's Fairyland —Oakland

Throw a magical birthday party at Children's Fairyland in Oakland, where kids can explore storybook sets, ride whimsical attractions, and meet animal friends. With toddler-friendly fairytale-theming, puppet shows, and picnic areas, it’s a perfect venue for a fun, imaginative celebration for younger kids. 

15. Marina Park — San Leandro 

This park features ocean views, shaded picnic areas with barbecue grills, and a large grassy area. In the fall, bring kites for a breezy and fun-filled celebration.

16. Roberts Regional Recreational Area — Oakland 

Kids who love outdoor adventures will appreciate a birthday party at Roberts Regional Recreational Area in Oakland. There are eight picnic tables in the park available to reserve. In addition to the scenic redwood trails and towering trees, there is a "Barrier Free" wheelchair-accessible children's play area. 

17. Joaquin Miller Park Cascades —Oakland

Right next to Roberts Regional Recreational Area is Joaquin Miller Park. Hidden in the redwoods, this beautiful park offers grassy areas, water fountains, and playgrounds. For summer birthdays, consider adding a trip to the Woodminster Theatre for an outdoor show. The Joaquin Miller Community Center is available for reservations on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

18. Heather Farm Park — Walnut Creek

Heather Farm Park features an all-abilities playground, picnic tables, and stroller-friendly pathways. It’s a fantastic choice for families with children of varying ages. Picnic tables are available to reserve.

RELATED: Best Places to See Giant Redwoods in California

Outdoor East Bay Birthday Parties: Jean Sweeney Open Space Park
Zip into a birthday party at a fun park in the East Bay. 

19. Jean Sweeney Open Space Park — Alameda

This park is a favorite for its covered pavilion, clean bathrooms, and ample parking. The playground features a zipline and sandbox, making it a hit with kids of all ages. Be sure to book a picnic table to secure your spot.

20. Hidden Valley Park — Martinez

Known for its peaceful atmosphere, Hidden Valley offers picnic tables, open spaces, and a scenic lake with birds. Picnic tables are available to reserve.

21. Cesar Chavez Park — Berkeley  

For a unique party, consider kite flying at this waterfront park. With views of San Francisco and plenty of space for picnics and play, it’s a delightful and memorable option. Facility rentals are available.

22. Lafayette Reservoir — Lafayette

This scenic location has picnic tables and BBQ grills available to rent on a first-come, first-serve basis. For an added adventure, rent a rowboat or pedal boat and explore the water. 

All photos are courtesy of the venues.

Places featured in this article: