Oakland Zoo and Crab Cove

Do you love animals? You can visit all different kinds in the East Bay. For a day with creatures of the land, go to the Oakland Zoo (9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland, 510/632-9525, www.oaklandzoo.org [1], daily 10 a.m.–4 p.m., adults $9.50, seniors/youth $6). Here you’ll discover an array of amphibians, mammals, reptiles, and birds, plus children’s rides.

Or if you prefer sea life, head for the Crab Cove Visitor’s Center (1252 McKay Ave., Alameda, 510/521-6887, www.ebparks.org [2], Wed.–Sun. 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m., parking $5) in Alameda [3]. Find out what the Bay looks like from the fish’s perspective, say hello to the world under the sea, or take a peek at the exhibit on local Alameda history.