San Francisco is well known for its kid-friendly tourist attractions. First off, you have Ghirardelli Square — a historic city square that’s dedicated to delicious chocolate. And a couple blocks down there’s Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can get excellent seafood and then go watch the colony of sea lions that hang out by Pier 39. Not too far from the Marina District are the California Academy of Sciences and, on the water, the Exploratorium, both great, fun options for packing a little education into the vacation experience. I also recommend Alcatraz for the kids. Yeah, it’s a bit of a creepy place, but kids love creepy stuff. Just north of the city is Muir Woods (with its massively huge redwood trees), and the rest of the giant Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which includes beaches, parks, lighthouses, and a lot of scenic drives. Here’s our selection of kid-friendly activities to do in the Bay area.
14+ of the Best Family-Friendly Activities in San Francisco
Editor’s note: These spots are all taken directly from travelstoke®, a new app from Matador that connects you with fellow travelers and locals, and helps you build trip itineraries with spots that integrate seamlessly into Google Maps and Uber. Download the app to add any of the spots below directly to your future trips.
1. California Academy of Sciences
There are several fun activities for both kids and adults at the California Academy of Sciences. Walk through the four-story rainforest, see a show at the planetarium, or watch the fish swim at the large Steinhart Aquarium. You can also step in the earthquake simulator to feel what it’s like to be in an earthquake.
2. Planet Granite San Francisco
Planet Granite has obstacle courses, climbing games, and rock climbing for all ages and skill levels.
3. Baker Beach
Baker Beach stretches along the western shore of the Presidio below Lincoln Boulevard. Your family will be treated to views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands from the ocean side of the peninsula.
4. Exploratorium
The Exploratorium offers hundreds of interactive exhibits in the areas of science, art, and human perception. Admission is free on five select days each year.
5. San Francisco Botanical Gardens
The San Francisco Botanical Gardens holds various activities and events for the entire family such as garden crafts, bug hunts in the Children’s Garden, and story time.
6. Marshall’s Beach
7. Sea Lion Colony
8. Lands End Labyrinth
To get to the Labyrinth, park at Lands End parking lot behind the Cliff House at Point Lobos Avenue and 48th Avenue. Walk east on the Coastal Trail and take the trail off the beaten path towards Mile Rock Beach. Walk down the steps. Where the staircase turns a hard left, continue on the trail going straight. Look ahead, you can’t miss it.
9. Smitten Ice Cream
10. San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
The San Francisco Maritime Historical Park is very well equipped for kids, there’s always something special going on. Explore the exhibits in the Visitor Center and stroll down Hyde Street Pier. Check the Calendar for program dates and times.
11. Picnic in Washington Square Park
12. Treasure Island
13. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Kids 18 and under are admitted free, book kids’ free tickets online in advance. Check out activities for families here.
14. Chinatown
You’d be hard-pressed to find an inch of blank space in the city’s oldest and most colorful district. Day trip it in your own backyard and watch your wee ones gobble up culture just as fast as they do their dumplings. 