Rotary Natural Science Center
The Rotary Natural Science Center is a natural science museum located by Lake Merritt. This location offers a great view for both resident and migratory birds that visit the oldest wildlife refuge in the United States. The main hall of the Rotary Natural Science Center features wildlife from Lake Merritt and Lakeside Park. Everyone is welcome to explore Oakland's natural beauty.
Hours of Operation
Tuesday through Saturday 11 am to 5 pm
The Rotary Natural Science Center is closed for all City of Oakland Holidays. Additional facility closures may occur due to programming, facility rentals, & other citywide closures.
Rotary Natural Science Center Programs:
Morning Birding & Coffee
Sip local coffee or tea with us and swap stories about your favorite winter birds at the beautiful Lake Merritt! After chatting with fellow birders over coffee or tea, we’ll venture on foot through Lakeside Park, spotting incredible birds along the way. Bring binoculars if you have them (we have some to borrow as well!) dress in layers, and let's enjoy birding together! (18+ only)
Every 2nd Saturday | 9 am to 12 pm:
Stewardship Yard Days
Every 4th Saturday | October 24 the last event for 2026 | 10 am to 12:30 pm: Register Here
Nature Journaling
Calling all artists and soon-to-be artists! Build skills in nature journaling and scientific illustration while learning about Lake Merritt's ecology and natural history.
Every 3rd Saturday starting November 21, 2026, 11 am to 1 pm: Register Here
Fall Break Camp
Join the Rotary Natural Science Center and Wildlife Refuge (RNSCWR) with Studio One Art Center for our Fall Camp!
The RNSCWR team of artists, naturalists, gardeners, and youth development experts has put together a wonderful program for our Fall. Each session, campers will play games, create holiday-inspired arts and crafts, and cook with seasonal ingredients grown in our community gardens.
Location: Lake Merritt Boat House - 568 Bellevue Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
RESIDENT FEE: $195 | NON-RESIDENT: $225 | AGES 5-11
Dates and Time: November 23-25, 2026, 9 am to 5 pm: Register Here
Upcoming Programs: Urban Foraging, Garden Club. More details will be provided soon.
Rotary Natural Science Center also offers field trips and interpretive programs for groups. Find more information in the Resources section below.
Topics and Resources
How to Support the Rotary Natural Science Center
If you would like to support the Rotary Natural Science Center with a donation, please give at the link below. The donation will go through Oakland Parks and Recreation Foundation.
Donate to Oakland Parks and Recreation Foundation
About
Constructed in 1953, the Rotary Natural Science Center (RNSC) is the oldest municipal nature center in the United States. The RNSC focuses on conservation and stewardship, connecting Oaklanders and visitors to open spaces. The center offers programs, classes, and events for both youth and adults. It is managed by the City of Oakland Parks, Recreation & Youth Development (OPRYD) Department. After undergoing repairs following a fire, it reopened to the public in January 2026.
Location
600 Bellevue Ave, Oakland, CA 94610 View Map
37.8071408,-122.2559708
600 Bellevue Ave ,
Oakland, CA 94610
600 Bellevue Ave ,
Oakland, CA 94610
Rotary Natural Science Center