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
Saturday, April 26, 2025
10:00 am – 2:00 pm: Creativity Festival 2025 @ Children’s Creativity Museum (CCM), San FranciscoMonday, April 28, 2025
7:30 am – 9:00 am: Free Admission Hours @ San Francisco Botanical Garden, San FranciscoWednesday, April 30, 2025
7:30 am – 9:00 am: Free Admission Hours @ San Francisco Botanical Garden, San FranciscoSaturday, May 3, 2025
9:30 am – 4:00 pm: de Youngsters Day Out @ de Young Museum, San Francisco11:00 am – 4:00 pm: Children’s Day & AAPI Month Celebration @ The Crossing at East Cut, San Francisco
11:00 am – 4:00 pm: Japantown Children's Day Festival @ Japantown, San Francisco
More Family-Friendly SF Stuff to Know
San Francisco Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo
The San Francisco Zoo's Boo at the Zoo takes place Saturday and Sunday, October 26-27.
San Francisco Zoo: A Guide for Families
The San Francisco Zoo is worth a visit for kids who love animals, and playgrounds too!
Riding San Francisco Iconic Cable Cars With Kids
Riding San Francisco's famous cable cars makes the perfect city adventure for an East Bay kid. Here's how to get the most from your day!
Get Free Museum Entry with Discover & Go
Powered by our local libraries, Discover & Go gets you and your kids in free to some of our most popular museums and attractions for ...
San Francisco’s Exploratorium with Kids
San Francisco's Exploratorium with kids is a ton of fun -- hands-on science museum with lots to touch and room to climb. Don't forget the ...
Salesforce Park: Free Gondola Ride and Play Area
A free, entertaining activity for kids of all ages in San Francisco, Salesforce Park is the perfect place to take visiting family and friends.
Thrive City: Kid-Friendly Fun Near San Francisco’s Chase Center
If you have extra energy or time to play around the Chase Center with kids, here are some favorite places to go in Mission Bay.
Introducing The Merola Opera Program in San Francisco
Merola Opera offers an approachable, affordable program that showcases young opera singers at the start of their careers.
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.
East Bay Fireworks and Other Fourth of July Events
Fireworks, parades, BBQ, and did we say fireworks? Our Fourth of July Guide for East Bay families has lots of ideas to celebrate.
