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, March 5, 2026
4:00 pm – 11:00 pm: Free First Thursdays @ SFMOMA, San FranciscoSaturday, March 7, 2026
5:15 pm – 8:00 pm: Chinese New Year Parade @ San Francisco Chinatown, San FranciscoSaturday, March 14, 2026
11:30 am – 2:00 pm: St. Patrick's Day Parade @ Civic Center Plaza (San Francisco), San FranciscoThursday, March 26, 2026
9:30 am – 5:00 pm: Academy Day @ California Academy of Sciences, San FranciscoSaturday, April 18, 2026
10:00 am – 2:00 pm: Creativity Festival 2025 @ Children’s Creativity Museum (CCM), San FranciscoMore Family-Friendly SF Stuff to Know
How to Get in FREE to Dozens of Bay Area Museums, Science Centers, + Gardens
Many of the Bay Area's very best museums are free at least one day each month. If you arrive early, you can visit world-class museums ...
Ticket Alert: Once Upon a Mattress at the Presidio Theatre
Children will enjoy a magical fairytale about a silly prince finding his perfect mate using 20 mattresses and a pea at the Presidio Theatre.
Super Bowl 60 arrives in the Bay Area. What’s in it for kids?
Here's what East Bay parents might like to know about family-friendly activities associated with Super Bowl 60
Ticket Alert: Music for Families at San Francisco Symphony
Come to Davies Symphony Hall for dance, rhythm, and storytelling that make classical music feel alive and exciting for young audiences.
Lunar New Year in the Bay Area is a Family-Friendly Celebration
As the Year of the Horse approaches, a handful of wonderful kid-friendly Lunar New Year celebrations pop up around the Bay Area.
Taking the San Francisco Bay Ferry With Kids
Riding the San Francisco Bay Ferry from Jack London Square is a fun activity to do with kids -- even if your destination is just ...
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 ...
How to Book a Christmas Pedicab Adventure
This Christmas-themed outdoor adventure for your family may be just the thing to kick off your holiday season.
Hanukkah Guide: Family-friendly Activities for the Festival of Lights
This Hanukkah Guide for East Bay kids has listings for menorah lightings & Hanukkah events in Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond & beyond.
Lighted Yachts & Boats on Parade for the Holidays
Add these lighted yacht parades to your holiday bucket list. Twinkling boats pass by in a floating Christmas light spectacular.
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.
9 San Francisco Playgrounds Worth the Trip
San Francisco has some really great parks, and I mean really great. I've rounded up our top favorites plus fun stops along the way.
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.
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.
Birthday Party Place: Lush Handmade Cosmetics
For ages 5+, birthday party guests can mold soap and bath bombs with natural ingredients at the Lush Shop.
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 ...
Now Open: Nintendo Store in San Francisco
Nintendo fans of all ages have a big reason to visit Union Square. This colorful, immersive superstore is now open.
East Bay Fireworks & Other Fourth of July Events
Parades, pancakes, flags, festivals, & fireworks! Our Fourth of July Guide for East Bay families has it all.
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 ...
Take Me Out To A Giant’s Game in San Francisco
The SF Giants play at Oracle Park and it's packed with kid-friendly features.
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 they're back in full swing. Celebrations for LGBTQ families & allies alike.
East Bay Outdoor Movie Round-Up
If your kids can stay up well past 9pm, there are a few outdoor movies you can see for FREE. Most start around 8:15-8:45ish. BYO ...
Book Now: Cool Bay Area Sleepovers You Can Do With Your Child
Lucky kids can try any of these amazing Bay Area sleepovers with you, the super cool parent: museums, amusement parks, and aircraft carrier!
Save the Date: Y for Youth Community Festival in SF
Join a free, family-friendly event with live music, play, free classes, bubbles, yoga, pickleball, Clifford the Big Red Dog, & beach party
Where to Find Dinosaurs in the East Bay
If you and your kid are always looking for cool dinosaur books and toys, you'll love to see these life-size (and bigger!) local dinos.
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 ...
Children’s Creativity Museum in SF
The Children's Creativity Museum in Yerba Buena Gardens is a hands-on, multimedia art and technology experience for kids 2-12.
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.
Sleep at the Cal Academy of Sciences with Penguins+Pajamas
Sleep at Cal Academy of Sciences with Penguins+Pajamas. It is memorable for kids and parents with after-hours exploration, movies, and a sleeping bag on the ...
26 Places Where Kids Can Ride Scooters
Wondering where your little one can ride a scooter around Oakland? I have 2 scooters and 2 helmets permanently in my trunk, and I 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!
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.
Favorite Bay Area Donuts and Doughnuts
From El Cerrito to Downtown Oakland to San Francisco, here are our favorite Bay Area donuts (and doughnuts!)
10+ Drop-in Toddler Activities in the East Bay for $10 or Less
A helpful list of toddler activities and outings that don't require advanced planning, for East Bay kids and parents.
Favorite East Bay Food Halls for Families
Choose your own dining adventure at a food hall. Here are our favorites with dozens of meal choices to please even the pickiest taste buds.
May 4: de Youngsters Day Out is a Celebration of Art
Reserve tickets to the annual free community day for children – the de Youngsters Day Out - a must-do for art-loving kids.
Explore San Francisco’s Ferry Building
San Francisco's Ferry Building is a quick BART ride and an exciting option for a weekday adventure with your kids. Bring a hat, a jacket, ...
Parents’ Guide to East Bay Gardens
Explore family-friendly East Bay Gardens for outdoor fun: admire flowers, follow butterflies, enjoy nature, & get inspired!
Skystar Wheel Delivers a Thrilling View of Fisherman’s Wharf
The giant SkyStar Observation Wheel is now spinning at San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf
Meet The Village Retreat Center in San Francisco for New Parents
Located on a quiet floor of the Fairmont Hotel, receive doula care, lactation support, massages, and calm,
Ticket Alert Aug 5-6: Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live
Don't miss Chase Center's Hot Wheels Monster Truck Glow Party! Kids can see enormous versions of their toy cars do exciting stunts.
Visit Alcatraz With Kids
Alcatraz is a lot of fun with kids -- when your kids are the right age -- here are my best tips for Alcatraz with ...
12 Best Bay Area Science Museums for Kids
The Bay Area has some of the world's best science museums. Play with your kids while learning about science, technology, and nature.
Best Mini Golf Courses in East Bay and Beyond
We rounded up the most entertaining and creative creatives for a family mini golf outing in the East Bay and beyond.
Best BARTable Play for Toddlers
Riding BART can be a real treat for train-loving toddlers. Here is a handful of mostly free BART-friendly destinations for toddlers and their parents.
Choose Your Adventure at Lands End: A San Francisco Hiking Destination
Come to Lands End to hike, but stay for the beautiful views and exploration. Put this San Francisco destination on your "Places to Visit" list.
Taking Your Kids to San Francisco Symphony
Through dance, rhythm, and storytelling, the concert makes classical music feel alive and exciting for young audiences.
Where to Ride a Carousel in the East Bay
For classic childhood fun, we rounded up 12 carousels to ride in the East Bay and beyond.
Play Tourist at San Francisco’s Aquarium of the Bay & Pier 39
Aquarium of the Bay at SF Pier 39 for a fun day trip that's all about sea creatures and the waters of the Bay. Oakland ...
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. ...
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.
teamLab: Continuity at the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco
teamLab: Continuity at the Asian Art Museum is totally awesome and your kids will love it. And kids under 12 are always free!
Extended Through January: Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit in SF
Located on Van Ness at Market St, Immersive Van Gogh will surround you with colorful lighted artwork and possibly delight your kids!
Weekend Getaway: San Francisco’s Lodge at The Presidio & Nearby Attractions
A weekend getaway in the San Francisco Presidio was surprisingly restful and fun for my family. You could do it as a day trip or ...
A Majestic Lunch Spot: San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers
The gardens around the SF Conservatory of Flowers is a magical place to have lunch with the kids. I felt like I was in a ...
Visit Umbrella Alley and Add a Touch of Kid-friendly Whimsy to an SF Adventure
Give your kids a camera and get up close with one of San Francisco’s latest Instagram-worthy art experience destinations.
Our New Favorite Mini Golf: Stagecoach Greens in SF
"Every hole was something special," said my picky 9-year-old after our daytime putt-putt visit to Stagecoach Greens in San Francisco.
Play in a Secret Corner of SF: The Redwood Grove Playground in McLaren Park
The Redwood Grove Playground is beautiful, discreet, and features a 20-foot slide in San Francisco's McLaren Park.
Art with Kids: Andy Goldsworthy Nature Installations in San Francisco’s Presidio
If you love art and nature but struggle with your kids on long hikes or quiet art museums, the Andy Goldsworthy walking tour in the ...
Lafayette Playground: the Tippy Top of San Francisco, Super Clean & Gorgeous
Nets, castles, monkey bars, twisty slides, twirly poles, bridges and more at San Francisco's gorgeous Lafayette Park Playground in Pacific Heights.
Reopening: Playgrounds in East Bay & San Francisco
Berkeley playgrounds reopen Friday, Oct. 16 and San Francisco playgrounds reopen Wednesday, Oct. 14. The remaining local counties are TBD.
Reopening Oct. 4: SFMOMA With Free Admission For 2 Weeks
There’s plenty to see at SFMOMA with kids and they're reopening with two weeks of FREE admission.      Â
Fairy Gates Trail Hike in San Francisco
Part of the Mount Sutro Open Space, the Fairy Gates hiking trail in San Francisco offers kid hikers the reward of several tiny fairy villages ...
Mom’s Night Out idea: Step-by-step Canvas Painting Studios
Painting studios where adults can feel confident about putting their brushes to canvas, including some with kid-friendly painting classes.
Resources for Raising a Bilingual Child in the East Bay (Tips from a Mom)
Stephanie is passionate about languages and speaks Spanish, French, Portuguese, some bits of German, Armenian, Russian, and Arabic.
Ten Special Things to do at the SF Zoo
From Gorillas to Penguins and back through on the historic train, the San Francisco Zoo has a lot to offer families. Oakland Zoo members save ...
Special time with your kid: 10 sibling-free outings
Leave the siblings at home. Anywhere you go together can be special. Here are 10 fantastic places to take your child for one-on-one time.
Golden Gate Knights jedi training
If you have any huge Star Wars nerds in your house, you’ll want to consider an afternoon of jedi training for you and your padawan. ...
It’s here: Candytopia (San Francisco)
Get your tickets for Candytopia - a sweet candy experience coming to San Francisco that's not to be missed.
Visiting Bay Area Art Museums and Galleries with Kids
Presenting some must-know info for parents who plan to visit Bay Area museums with their children to make it more fun for all.
Holiday Tea at the Sir Francis Drake Hotel
Milo and I were guests of Crown and Crumpet to try out their holiday tea service at the Sir Francis Drake Hotel this past weekend. ...
Field trip to Peek-a-Boo Factory in San Francisco
My boys and I recently checked out the newly opened Peek-a-Boo Factory in San Francisco’s West Portal ‘hood. And I know that’s far, but sometimes a ...
3 super day trips with a one-year old
We are happy to introduce you to Jennifer Saranow Schultz (AKA Hintmama), the San Francisco parent to Hannah. As of the time of this interview, ...
Special outing to Crown & Crumpet tea stop
San Francisco’s Crown & Crumpet Tea Stop Cafe was a perfectly special outing for me and my two daughters to celebrate back-to-school. I think we ...
5 Family-friendly road trips from Oakland
Looking for a fun day trip or mini vacation for your long weekend? These fellow Bay Area bloggers have a few inspiring ideas and photographs ...
Treat yourself at Imperial Day Spa in San Francisco
Do you need a break from your everyday routine? Nestled in a small strip mall near the Fillmore, I emerged raw and scrubbed fresh
6 tips for photographing your newborn from Nancy Alcott
Bay Area photographer Nancy Alcott creates beautiful, high-end images for the families who hire her.
