Morcom Rose Garden: An Oakland Oasis
Discover Oakland's hidden gem: a historic rose garden with thousands of blooms, tranquil water features, and winding paths for a serene escape.
Morcom Rose Garden, originally named the Oakland Municipal Rose Garden, is a stunning urban oasis nestled in the Grand Lake neighborhood. This 7-acre garden, conceived in 1932 by the Businessmen's Breakfast Club, offers a tranquil escape with its thousands of roses and peaceful atmosphere. The garden's design, created by landscape architect Arthur Cobbledick, features a formal Florentine-style garden surrounded by winding walkways, graceful stairways, and cascading fountains. The Amphitheater of Roses provides an enchanting location for weddings, renewals, and other celebrations. The garden's roses typically bloom from Mother's Day in May through October, offering a vibrant display of colors and fragrances. Visitors can explore the garden's diverse rose varieties, relax by the reflecting pool, and enjoy the serene ambiance. The garden also attracts birdwatchers, with various bird species inhabiting the surrounding slopes. With its rich history and natural beauty, Morcom Rose Garden provides a stimulating and restful place for all.
Local tips
- Visit during spring or early summer for the most vibrant rose blooms.
- Check the garden's event calendar for seasonal festivals and special events.
- Consider volunteering to help maintain the garden and connect with the community.
- Parking is limited, so consider public transportation or arriving early.
A brief summary to Morcom Rose Garden
- 700 Jean St, Oakland, Grand Lake, California, 94610, US
- +1510-597-5039
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown Oakland, take AC Transit Line 12 towards 'Macarthur BART'. Get off at the 'Grand Ave: Jean St' stop. Walk east on Grand Ave for about 3 blocks, then turn left onto Jean St. The garden is located at 700 Jean St. A single ride on AC Transit costs $2.50.
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Walking
From Lake Merritt, walk northeast along the lake's edge until you reach Grand Ave. Walk east on Grand Ave for about 0.8 miles, then turn left onto Jean St. The Morcom Rose Garden will be on your left at 700 Jean St. This walk takes approximately 20 minutes.
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Driving
From I-580, take the Grand Avenue exit. Head north on Grand Avenue towards the Grand Lake district. Turn left onto Jean Street. The Morcom Rose Garden is located at 700 Jean Street. Free street parking is usually available on Olive Avenue and other surrounding streets, but check signs for street cleaning schedules.
