Dunsmuir House & Gardens

Dunsmuir House is a lovely old mansion with open gardens. It's a nice spot for quiet walks and photo sessions with your loved ones.

Why Visit Dunsmuir House and Gardens?

Dunsmuir House and Gardens is Oaklands's historical landmark and definitely a place you won't want to miss in the city. Some movie fans might recognize the estate from films like 'Phantasm and Burnt Offerings' as the place is known for its elegant and cinematic backdrop. It is a mesmerising and grand white mansion with 30+ rooms and was built in 1899 in a stunning Neoclassical style. The house is surrounded with wide lawns, rare trees like Camperdown elms and hornbeams, and exquisite gardens adding to the place's beauty. You'll also encounter many unique things here like a maze, an aviary, a Japanese garden, a croquet lawn, bamboo groves, quirky old farm buildings, a vintage bathhouse and even catch the sight of deers and wild turkeys roaming around the grounds.

Along with this, the place continuously hosts events throughout the year including holiday teas, winter wonderlands, outdoor festivals and you can also book a reservation here for weddings and other events. A trip here is also easy on the wallet and there are plenty of food options here, with many affordable cafés just round the corner. You can enjoy your time simply wandering the mansion or set out on scenic strolls with your loved ones. Dunsmuir House and Gardens is definitely worth a visit in Oakland and should surely have a spot in your itinerary as the place is a complete fit for individuals who love learning about history and like to spend a day surrounded with gardens and peaceful scenery. 

Entry fee:

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4 pm

Average duration to explore: 1 hour.

What to Expect

1. The Mansion: Explore the grand 37-room mansion, featuring original furnishings, intricate woodwork, and stunning period details. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the lives of the Dunsmuir family and the estate’s history.
2. The Gardens: Wander through the lush gardens, which include a Japanese garden, rose garden, and native plant areas. The grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
3. Events and Activities: Dunsmuir House hosts a variety of events, including outdoor concerts, weddings, and seasonal festivals like the popular “Holiday” celebration. Check their calendar for special events during your visit.
4. Scenic Views: The estate offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Tips for the Best Experience

• It is advisable to visit during weekdays for lesser crowds and a more quieter experience.
• If you plan to walk the grounds only, there is no admission fee but mansion will require a ticket.
• The grounds are open from February through October from Tuesday to Friday, 10 am-4 pm.  
• Additionally, you can take the site map available at the Dinkelspiel House to navigate the location better.
• There is on-site parking for about $15, which includes accessible parking.
• The mansion is now mainly used for holding weddings and other events. You can check for reservations at the website. 

How to Get There

By metro

For commuting via train, get off at Coliseum Station, then ride AC Transit bus 45 or 62 to the Peralta Oaks Ct stop, from there you just need to walk a short distance along Peralta Oaks Court to reach the mansion.

By train

By bus

Many transit lines are connected to the location like buses 45, 62, 57, 75, 90 that stop near Foothill Blvd: 106th Avenue. 

By car

To reach the mansion by car head towards and navigate to 2960 Peralta Oaks Ct. using google maps.

What Every Traveler Should Know

• Hours: The estate is open to the public during specific hours, typically Wednesday through Sunday. Confirm timings on their website before visiting.
• Admission: There’s a small entry fee for tours and events, but general access to the gardens is often free.
• Accessibility: The mansion and some garden areas may have limited accessibility for wheelchair users. Contact the estate for specific accommodations.
• Nearby Attractions: Pair your visit with a trip to Oakland’s Redwood Regional Park or the Chabot Space and Science Center for a full day of exploration.