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, September 17, 2026
7:30 am – 9:00 am: Free Admission Hours @ San Francisco Botanical Garden, San FranciscoSaturday, September 19, 2026
9:00 am – 1:00 pm: Touch a Truck SF 2026 @ Stonestown Galleria, San Francisco10:00 am – 4:00 pm: Muni Heritage Weekend @ San Francisco Railway Museum, San Francisco
11:00 am – 5:00 pm: Autumn Moon Festival @ San Francisco Chinatown, San Francisco
Sunday, September 20, 2026
11:00 am – 5:00 pm: Autumn Moon Festival @ San Francisco Chinatown, San FranciscoMonday, September 21, 2026
7:30 am – 9:00 am: Free Admission Hours @ San Francisco Botanical Garden, San FranciscoMore Family-Friendly SF Stuff to Know
Ticket Alert: Harry Potter-themed Drone Show at Oracle Park
Grab tickets to this exciting drone show!
Cal Academy of Sciences Is for Kids of All Ages
Cal Academy of Sciences, kids and parents will have fun visiting an aquarium, rainforest, and natural history museum all under one living roof.
Ticket Alert Aug 15-16: Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live
Don't miss Chase Center's Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire! Kids can see enormous versions of their toy cars do exciting stunts.
10+ Drop-in Toddler Activities in the East Bay for $10 or Less
A helpful list of toddler drop-in classes and activities that don't require advanced planning, for East Bay kids and parents.
East Bay Fireworks & Other Fourth of July Events
Parades, drone shows, flags, festivals, & fireworks! Our Fourth of July Guide for East Bay families has it all.
Best Bay Area Beaches You Can Visit Today
Bay Area beaches are perfect for a mini getaway or day trip. Here are 15 of our favorites within two hours of Oakland with tips ...
Three-Year-Olds’ Guide to Cal Academy of Sciences
The Cal Academy with a three-year-old is a different type of visit. Here are my tips, tricks, and suggested itinerary for the best day.
Kayaking with Kids Near Oakland
Kayaking can be an easy and enjoyable way for your family to enjoy the Bay waters. Here are places that can get you out on ...
19+ Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth With Kids
Celebrate Juneteenth, June 19th, with community gatherings, great meals, lively music, and cultural celebrations. Or a little of everything.
LGBTQ+ Pride Month Activities for Families
We love family-friendly Pride celebrations and are lucky to have a bunch of them. Parades, baseball, fun fairs for LGBTQ families & allies alike.
