Barbara BackyardLocal Guide · 190 reviews
Took pictures with my niece. Folks were jogging, taking strolls and at least one was living there. Beautiful and lovely close to golden hour on the lake.
Review from Google · view on Google
The Pergola at Lake Merritt
The Pergola at Lake Merritt at a glance
Reviewers frequently praise the pergola's architecture, scenic lake views, and vibrant community atmosphere, particularly during free dance events, food vendor gatherings, and sunset visits. Visitors highlight the welcoming environment for walking, running, and socializing, noting the presence of local wildlife and friendly crowds. However, recurring criticisms in lower-rated reviews cite persistent issues with homelessness, unpleasant odors, and trash accumulation, while others express frustration over difficult parking and enforcement fees.
- Google rating: 4.6 out of 5 from 605 reviews (76% five-star).
- Reviews on this page: 605 Google reviews (273 with written comments, 57 with photos).
- Owner responses: the business replied to 0% of reviews.
- Most recent review: October 14, 2026.
- Service: Gazebo Installation Service serving Oakland, California.
Data from Google, last updated October 25, 2026.
Photos
Customer reviews
4.6
★★★★★605 reviews on Google
Reviews from Google, shown as published (original wording, unedited).
Diana WeiLocal Guide · 1,459 reviews
"Days Like This" going around 6 years strong for the local community. Free public park with their dance fundraising events. Bring cash to donate, help goes toward all of it and future park rink! Great vibes, great people, reminds me of "Dance Yourself Clean" LA events before (but those charged, Silverlake crowd, etc). You got movers and shakers here, community wise and physical motion wise. Thanks to a friend for bringing us around and experiencing a piece of free Oakland life.
- Visited on: Weekend
- Reservation recommended: No
Review from Google · view on Google
Ralph A Cendejas JrLocal Guide · 12 reviews
I was riding my bicycle around the lake and was surprised by all the action that was going on. I made videos of a couple of groups that were making music. It was all good!
- Visited on: Weekend
- Wait time: No wait
Review from Google · view on Google
Mekka NicoleLocal Guide · 116 reviews
Beautiful at night
Review from Google · view on Google
JooKBoxTvLocal Guide · 126 reviews
Visit the lake June 10th weekend there were a lot of festivities going on food drinks and people having fun. Lake was a good time
Review from Google · view on Google
Carbo Kuo (BYVoid)Local Guide · 11,682 reviews
景色不錯，如果沒有流浪漢和骯髒的地面就完美了。可惜。
Review from Google · view on Google
Melinda VigilLocal Guide · 100 reviews
Always smells like rotten algae or stale fish. Unhoused dude was yelling at himself and making a scene swinging at bike lane riders. The usual
- Visited on: Weekday
- Wait time: No wait
- Reservation recommended: No
Review from Google · view on Google
Russell KnightLocal Guide · 547 reviews
Free Friday night dance party 6-9.30pm. all ages, great vibes and community feel. Super friendly and inclusive. Great spot to dance whilst the sun sets
- Visited on: Weekend
- Wait time: No wait
- Reservation recommended: No
Review from Google · view on Google
Laurel White6 reviews
Fantastic
- Visited on: Weekday
- Wait time: No wait
Review from Google · view on Google
Noelani ScottonLocal Guide · 100 reviews
Friday night dance party was SO fun! Great community vibe. And if course great restaurants across the street.
- Visited on: Weekday
- Wait time: No wait
Review from Google · view on Google
Business details
- Address: 599 El Embarcadero, Oakland, CA 94610
- Service area: Oakland, CA