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, September 20, 2025
10:00 am – 4:00 pm: Muni Heritage Weekend @ San Francisco Railway Museum, San Francisco8:00 pm – 10:00 pm: Cinema on the Square: Big Hero 6 @ Union Square, San Francisco
Sunday, September 21, 2025
10:00 am – 4:00 pm: Muni Heritage Weekend @ San Francisco Railway Museum, San FranciscoMonday, September 22, 2025
7:30 am – 9:00 am: Free Admission Hours @ San Francisco Botanical Garden, San FranciscoThursday, September 25, 2025
7:30 am – 9:00 am: Free Admission Hours @ San Francisco Botanical Garden, San FranciscoSaturday, September 27, 2025
11:00 am – 5:00 pm: Autumn Moon Festival @ San Francisco Chinatown, San FranciscoMore Family-Friendly SF Stuff to Know
Golden Gate Park, Koret Children’s Playground and Carousel
Koret Playground at Golden Gate Park has a mix of nostalgic features I loved as a child (cement slide, carousel) plus newer playground structures.
Toddlers’ Guide to the Exploratorium
All our best advice to enjoy San Francisco's Exploratorium with toddlers and three-year olds. Take a deep breath and let's go!
Hidden Jewel: Mersea on Treasure Island
With a putting green, bocce ball, amazing views, and a cool upcycled container vibe, your family will find many reasons to enjoy Mersea on Treasure ...
A Royal Staycation at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco
My family spent a magical weekend at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco with high tea, cookie decorating, dive-in movies, and the softest beds ever!
The Presidio Tunnel Tops Outpost: An Incredible New Nature-Based Playground Near Crissy Field
San Francisco's Presidio is opening a truly special playground -- and the setting is a must-see.
Taking Kids to the Warriors Parade in SF
The parade route to celebrate the Golden State Warriors along with tips for riding BART and enjoying the celebrations on Monday.
Let Us Plan 10 Summer Adventures for Your Little Kids!
Have you ever spent hours googling for activities to do with kids, instead of going out and doing them? Let us spare you the effort. ...
Discover San Francisco’s Randall Museum
The Randall Museum is a FREE wildlife museum with live animals, trains and is next to a short steep hike to a killer view.
SF Park Profile: Willie “Woo Woo” Wong Playground
In the heart of SF Chinatown is an amazing 2-story park with climbing structures, room for tots and bigger kids, giant metal slide, and sports ...
Banksy in San Francisco: What Parents Need to Know
Recommended for teens, adults, and subversive pre-teens with an anti-Capitalist sensibility, the Unauthorized Art of Banksy is here.