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BAY
CREA
TURE
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WHERE TO FIND
NATURE + ANIMALS
IN THE BAY AREA
When you need a respite from the 7 million people in the Bay Area,
check out these special spots to connect with wildlife and four-leggeds.
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A walk around the 34-acre UC Berkeley Botanical Gardens will magically transport you to faraway places. From cocoa plants to giant cacti, there are species from nearly ever continent. And the must-see redwood grove shown in the video below will take you back to pre-industrial California.
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Visiting
The gardens are open every day, 9 am – 5 pm; tours (recommended and free with ticket) take place 1:30 pm Thurs - Sunday.
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200 Centennial Dr, Berkeley, CA 94720
In Half Moon Bay, the owners of Sweet Farm care for rescued animals -- like Gizmo and Paco above -- and educate Bay Area people about humane animal practices.
They've also developed smart, technological designs to help care for the animals and save on resources such as water and electricity.
Go for the animals, and stay for the beautiful views and vegan ice cream.
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Visiting
For any donation starting at $12, you can become a member and visit the farm on the second Saturday of each month (April-October).
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131 Tunitas Creek Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
At the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA), visitors can touch animal skulls and learn about California's landscape and history. There are plenty of exhibits for both kids and adults to enjoy, and it's easily accessible by Muni. Listen to one of the knowledgeable OMCA volunteers in the recording above talk about the museum and some little-known bird facts.
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Visiting
Open Wednesday - Sunday; 11am - 5pm (Fridays open to 9pm)
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1000 Oak St, Oakland, CA 94607
In uptown Oakland, adoptable cats curl up next to cafe visitors. Cat Town is a miniature town for cats -- complete with replica hotel and food truck structures where cats can climb, crawl and hide. It is pure joy for any cat lover.
Listen to Cat Town's cat coordinator talk about what else makes Cat Town so special.
Visiting
Reserve a one-hour visit ahead of time on their site.
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2869 Broadway Oakland, CA
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