San Francisco Zoo and Gardens
Visiting the San Francisco Zoo and Gardens with kids is a great way to spend a fun and educational day. The zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, and bears. Kids will love exploring the various animal exhibits and learning about different species. After checking out the animals, families can take a stroll through the beautiful gardens on the zoo’s grounds. The gardens are filled with colorful flowers and lush greenery, providing a peaceful escape from the city. Parents can relax and enjoy the scenery while kids run around and burn off some energy.
For families looking to extend their day trip, Ocean Beach is right across from the zoo. Kids can play in the sand, splash in the waves, or fly kites along the shore. The windmills nearby also offers a picturesque backdrop for family photos.
California Academy of Sciences
California Academy of Sciences is one of the best places to visit with kids in San Francisco. Located in Golden Gate Park, this attraction offers a variety of family-friendly activities for kids of all ages. From the planetarium to the hands-on exhibits and play areas, there are plenty of fun things to do and see. The academy is also near other popular attractions in the San Francisco Bay Area, such as the de Young Museum, which is free on Saturdays to San Francisco residents. Kids will love exploring the various exhibits and interactive displays, making it a memorable experience for the whole family. Whether you’re coming from the East Bay or near San Francisco, the academy is easily accessible and offers something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on all the family-friendly activities this museum in San Francisco has to offer!
Playground at Dolores Park
The Playground at Dolores Park is one of the best things to do with kids in San Francisco. It offers a hands-on and fun experience for both kids and adults. The picnic area provides a great spot for families to relax and enjoy the views of the bay while the playground itself has a variety of equipment for children of all ages. There are separate sections for younger kids and one for older kids, ensuring that all ages can enjoy themselves. It’s like stepping into the life of Walt Disney with its vibrant colors and whimsical designs. And the best part? It’s free San Francisco, making it accessible to everyone.
Reason Escape Rooms
Reason Escape Rooms is one of the best places in San Francisco to visit for an immersive and stimulating experience. This escape room near downtown San Francisco is perfect for kids and adults alike with their varying room difficulties. The rooms are designed to entertain kids of all kids ages, allowing them to use their problem-solving skills in a setting. This fantastic kids activity is one of the top things to do in San Francisco’s unique tech world. Reason lets kids loose in a safe and controlled environment, making it another place for kids to have a fun and immersive experience.
Exploratorium
San Francisco with kids is a fantastic destination for families looking for things to do in San Francisco. This museum is a hands-on experience right on the bay. Kids love the interactive exhibits, while adults can appreciate the science behind them. The best part is that it’s a great way to get around San Francisco and see some of the best San Francisco has to offer. The Exploratorium is also home to special events, like After Dark for adults, making it a versatile destination for visitors around the city.
San Francisco Cable Car Museum
San Francisco Cable Car Museum located on Nob Hill, offers a unique look into the history and operation of the famous cable cars that have been an iconic part of the city’s transportation system since the late 19th century. Visitors can explore the various exhibits and displays that showcase the inner workings of the cable cars, as well as learn about the role they have played in shaping the city’s development. One of the best parts about the museum is that it is completely free for all to enter, making it an accessible and educational attraction for everyone to enjoy.
Walt Disney Family Museum
The Walt Disney Family Museum is located in San Francisco, California and is dedicated to the life and legacy of Walt Disney. The museum showcases the collection of original Disney artwork, including sketches, drawings, and concept art from some of Disney’s most beloved films. Visitors to the museum can get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind Disney’s timeless classics and learn about the man behind the magic. Another fun place is the the Children’s Creativity Museum. Creativity Museum is a hands-on attraction that encourages guests to explore their artistic side through various interactive exhibits and workshops.
Fortune Cookie Factory
Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory is a small family-owned business located in San Francisco’s Chinatown. It is famous for producing some of the freshest and most delicious fortune cookies in the city. Walking into the factory, visitors are greeted with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies and the sound of the machines folding the cookies into their signature shape. The factory offers visitors the unique experience of watching the cookies being made right before their eyes, providing a glimpse into the intricate process of creating these iconic treats. The factory also allows visitors to write their own fortunes to be placed inside the cookies, adding a personal touch to the experience. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to sample authentic and freshly made fortune cookies in San Francisco.
Aquarium of the Bay
Exploring the Aquarium of the Bay with kids is a fun and educational experience. Located along San Francisco’s waterfront, this aquarium offers a unique opportunity to learn about the diverse marine life found in the San Francisco Bay Area. Kids will be amazed by the variety of fish, sharks, and other creatures on display. Interactive exhibits allow children to touch sea stars, sea anemones, and even small sharks, providing a hands-on learning experience. The aquarium also offers daily feeding sessions and presentations that are sure to captivate young audiences. Whether it’s learning about the importance of conservation or simply marveling at the beauty of the ocean, the Aquarium of the Bay is a great destination for a family day out.
Bay Area Discovery Museum
San Francisco is home to many iconic attractions, but for families with young children, the Bay Area Discovery Museum is a must-visit destination. Located around the bay in Sausalito, this museum offers views of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge that are truly breathtaking. With both indoor and outdoor exhibits, kids get the chance to explore and learn in a fun, hands-on environment. The museum also has a partnership with the Children’s Creativity Museum in SF, offering even more opportunities for creativity and play. Whether they’re exploring the children’s play area or participating in a workshop, children will leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
Randall Museum
Try visiting Randall Museum Randall Museum, offering a range of educational and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in science, art, or nature, this museum has something for everyone. The museum features hands-on exhibits, live animals, and a variety of classes and workshops. You can explore the wonders of the natural world, get creative in the art studio, or learn about the latest scientific discoveries. With stunning views of the city and a welcoming atmosphere, Randall Museum is the perfect destination for a day of fun and learning.
Seward Street Slides
Located in the Castro District, the Seward Street Slides are a local favorite and a great spot to enjoy some outdoor fun on a sunny day. These slides are not your typical playground slides – they are actually built into the side of a steep concrete hill, providing an exhilarating ride down. You can go straight down, bring your own cardboard or borrow one from a nearby resident to slide down the hill. The surrounding neighborhood is also worth exploring, with its colorful houses and picturesque streets. Whether you’re a local looking for a fun activity or a tourist wanting to experience something off the beaten path, the Seward Street Slides are definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared for a fast and bumpy ride!
Pier 39
Visiting Pier 39 with kids is always a memorable experience. The first stop should be to see the sea lions basking in the sun and playing in the water. Kids will be fascinated by these adorable creatures and can spend hours watching them frolic (or flop). After spending time with the sea lions, consider going on a bay cruise to get a different perspective of the city. The kids will love being out on the water and seeing the city skyline from a distance. To add another fun activity to the day, take a ride on the carousel or let the kids try some delicious seafood at one of the many restaurants. Pier 39 offers a variety of activities that are perfect for families with kids.
Fisherman’s Wharf
When visiting Fisherman’s Wharf with kids, be sure to explore the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park located in the North Bay area. This park offers interactive exhibits and historic ships that will fascinate children of all ages. After touring the park, head over to Ghirardelli Square where you can treat the kids to delicious chocolate and ice cream. This charming area is filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options that are perfect for families. Take a stroll along the waterfront and watch the boats come in and out of the harbor, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views of the bay. Fisherman’s Wharf is a wonderful destination for families looking to experience the best of San Francisco’s maritime history and culture.
House of Air
Jump around at the House of Air in San Francisco for an exhilarating experience like no other. This indoor trampoline park offers a unique combination of fun and fitness for all ages. With trampolines covering the floor and walls, visitors can bounce, flip, and soar to their heart’s content. After working up a sweat at the House of Air, the tunnel top park nearby provides a great opportunity for outdoor activities and picnics, while a visit to Crissy Field Beach allows for some relaxation by the water.