San Francisco
There are some epic San Francisco places and activities that are great for East Bay families and totally worth the trek. We’ve rounded up some favorite playgrounds, parks, beaches (all free!) plus tons of other activities for families visiting San Francisco.
Best Kid-Friendly San Francisco Places
Upcoming Events for Families in San Francisco
Thursday, November 27, 2025
7:30 am – 4:00 pm: Free Admission SF Botanical Gardens @ San Francisco Botanical Garden, San FranciscoMonday, December 1, 2025
7:30 am – 9:00 am: Free Admission Hours @ San Francisco Botanical Garden, San FranciscoWednesday, December 3, 2025
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Civic Center Plaza Tree Lighting @ Civic Center Plaza (San Francisco), San FranciscoThursday, December 4, 2025
7:30 am – 9:00 am: Free Admission Hours @ San Francisco Botanical Garden, San Francisco4:00 pm – 11:00 pm: Free First Thursdays @ SFMOMA, San Francisco
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm: PIER for the Tree Lighting @ Pier 39 San Francisco, San Francisco
More Family-Friendly SF Stuff to Know
Best Christmas Traditions in San Francisco
Planning a Christmas visit to San Francisco to take in some extra holiday cheer? We got you whether you BART, ferry, or drive!
Christmas Tree Lightings in the East Bay & San Francisco
This list of Christmas tree lightings provides festive options for families in the East Bay and beyond.
Ticket Alert: Barbie the Movie at San Francisco Symphony
Experience a symphonic celebration of the Barbie Movie at the SF Symphony with your whole family. Book tickets now.
On Sale Now: Golden Gate Park Lights Up with Lightscape
Lightscape at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco is a glorious ticketed one-mile wander through light and sound.
50 Things to Do With Bay Area Kids When School Is Out
Wondering what to do when school is out? Take one of these 50 fantastic Bay Area ideas and build your day around it.
Book Now: Christmas Tea in the Bay Area For Families
Christmas Tea makes a lovely -- often expensive -- holiday tradition for families. We break it down from near to far.
Ticket Alert: Home Alone at San Francisco Symphony
This silly classic holiday movie will be made epic alongside the San Francisco Symphony's take on the John Williams score.
Where to Take Kids Ice Skating in the Bay Area
During the winter season temporary ice skating rinks are set up throughout the Bay Area, making ice skating more accessible than ever.
Ticket Alert: Bay Area Nutcrackers & Other Holiday Performances
Want to see the Nutcracker in Oakland? Here are some lovely holiday performances to choose from including larger- and small-scale theaters.
Ticket Alert: Fancy Christmas Tea with kit & sis in San Francisco
Grab a ticket, your doll, and your fanciest dress then head into the City for a festive holiday tea with kit & sis.
