If you are looking for a local day of adventure, there are tons of family-friendly spots all over the Bay Area. From spots where only the locals go, to tourist spots that the kids will love, there are so many things to do in the Bay Area with kids.
LessKids will love walking down the steep, zig zag street known as America's crookedest street! With eight hairpin turns down one block, this street will delight your littles to no end.
Families will love this spot that is an aquarium, planetarium and natural history museum, all under one “living” roof. Right in the heart of Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences is full of animals, art, science and more. Don't miss visiting Claude, the albino alligator!
Discover San Francisco's iconic bridge by foot or on bike. Enjoy majestic, sweeping views of the Bay, marvel at the engineering feat that merged Marin with San Francisco and decide for yourself if the bridge's whistling sounds are eerie or romantic.
SF's iconic pier has a merry-go-round, musical staircase, 3D rides and lots of other adventures to be had. Head to the end of the pier to check out the sea lions and stop by the Sea Lion Center to learn about their history at the pier. There are plenty of restaurants here and you won't want to miss DOUGHP, the cookie dough shop!
No trip to San Francisco is complete without a tour of Alcatraz! One of the most notorious penitentiaries housing the likes of Al Capone, Alcatraz island is reached by a ferry and even more interesting at night so consider a night tour.
A national monument at the mouth of the Golden Gate, Land's End is a rocky, wind-swept shoreline offering hiking trails with unparalled views of the Bay. Start at Land's End Eagle Point, make sure to stop at the Labryinth and end at the Sutro Bath ruins. During winter months, whales are often spotted migrating in nearby waters so keep an eye out for those spouts!
The country's oldest and largest Chinatown is not only rich in history but culture. Stop by the fortune cooking bakery for a demonstration and sample! Most tourists stick to Grant Street and its shops but wandering off into the alleys and side streets will offer a glimpse into the authentic community. Try a little of both for a complete experience.
Across the Golden Gate Bridge in Sausalito, this museum encourages creative play through their interactive and hands-on exhibits. Be sure to check out Lookout Cove with its tide pools plus gorgeous views of the city and bridge.
An experience that is uniquely San Francisco is a cable car ride. Many find that the Powell-Hyde line is the most exciting trip and we agree. This route will take you past Union Square, Nob Hill, Lombard Street and Coit Tower all while offering views of Alcatraz Island (on a clear day).
Historic Coit tower has been an emblem of the city since its construction in 1933 and an elevator up to the top provides stunning panoramic views of the city and bay.
Spend an entire day at Golden Gate Park! Home to Cal Academy, the de Young Museum, Koret Children's Quarter, the Japanese Tea Garden, the San Francisco Botanical Gardens, several lakes, a carousel, bison paddock - there are plenty of things to see and do.
Located at the city's westernmost point, Ocean Beach's white sand with windmills as a backdrop serves as the perfect spot for a picnic and kite flying. The currents are strong so swimming isn't recommended but the breathtaking views more than make up for that!
This museum is all about a hands-on, multi-media arts and technology experience to inspire the littlest of creators. Don't forget to check out the 100+ year old carousel.
Ghirardelli Chocolate company was founded here in 1852 and is the country's oldest, continuously-operating chocolate producer. This is a must-see for anyone with a sweet tooth-we challenge you to finish one of their massive sundaes!
Take a ferry from Pier 41 to the island known as the "Ellis island of the West". Steeped with history as an immigrant holding station, military base and quarantine station, today the island boasts trails for hiking and biking even a tram tour for beautiful views of the bay and city.
There's only so much sightseeing to be had with kids and let's be honest, at the end of the day, all the kids want is a new playground they haven't been to. Helen Diller has a mega slide that is 38 feet long, bouldering rocks and abundant swings that is sure to fit the bill and give tiny sightseers a break.
Located in SOMA, this outdoor mini golf course was inspired by the Gold Rush era and you're sure to feel the Old West vibe. Let your kids channel their inner explorers as they navigate the course. and hopefully strike gold! EUREKA! Bonus: there are food trucks just across the street.
Steps away from the Pacific on the West side of the city, the zoo is often overlooked but is another fantastic option for kids. A snow leopard, black rhino and polar bears all await!
If cliffs meeting the shoreline and sandy walks call your name, then Fort Funston is the place for you! Dangerous undertows makes swimming hazardous but you'll be too busy watching the hang gliders launch from the cliffs above or the frolicking dogs in the surf.