Free & Cheap
Family-friendly Bay Area Fun on The Cheap
Discounted admission to museums, plays, classes and other tips to discover free fun for East Bay Area children.
Upcoming Free or Cheap Events in the East Bay
Tuesday, February 17, 2026
9:00 am – 4:00 pm: Explore Blake Garden @ Blake Garden12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Baby Storytime @ Albany Library
4:30 pm – 6:00 pm: LEGO Club @ Central Library | Berkeley Public Library
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm: Piece by Piece: Celebrating African American Contemporary Art @ Rockridge Branch | Oakland Public Library
6:30 pm – 7:00 pm: Family Storytime @ Kensington Library
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
10:00 am – 3:00 pm: Snow Day @ Nicholl Park10:30 am – 11:00 am: Baby Bounce @ Main Library | Oakland Public Library
10:30 am – 11:00 am: Storytime for Littles @ San Pablo Public Library
10:30 am – 11:00 am: Storytime on the Lawn @ North Branch | Berkeley Public Library
10:30 am – 11:30 am: Tilden Tots @ Tilden Nature Center
Free & Cheap Resources for Families
The Black Joy Parade Returns to Oakland on Feb 22
The Black Joy Parade in Oakland, the largest free, family-friendly event of its kind in California, celebrates the Black experience and the culture.
Free and Cheap Activities Scheduled This Month
Free and Cheap activities for your family this month. Some of the best things in life are FREE, right? Now go do them with your ...
Where Can New Parents Meet Each Other in the East Bay?
Looking for an opening to connect with other new mothers? Here are some resources including support groups and activity groups in the East Bay.
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 ...
Black History Month for Kids and Families in the Bay Area
Celebrate with storytimes, dance performances, and a parade! We'll be adding new kid-friendly Black History Month activities all month.
20+ Valentine’s Day Outings for East Bay Families
Love is love. Valentine's Day activities for families in the East Bay. We are excited to share this round-up of love- and heart-themed activities
What Are The Closest Snow Play Trips for Bay Area Families?
Where to take Bay Area kids to play in the snow? Skip the lifts. Here are five options for kid-friendly snow play with snowshoes or ...
Parents’ Guide to Solano Avenue
The one-mile stretch of Solano Avenue, running through Berkeley and Albany features over 200 businesses ranging from ballet to boba.
Sign Up for Free Trial Classes for Kids!
We love to try out a class before committing to a full session. Here are a few places that offer occasional free trials on kids' ...
Park Profile: Pine Meadow Park in Martinez
Pine Meadow Park is a sweet neighborhood park with a unique play structure, accessible design, spinning merry-go-round, and swings.
Best Places to Take Kids in Concord
Discover 15+ destinations and small town treasures for families to plan an amazing day in Concord.
Oakland’s Mountain View Cemetery Holiday Circle of Lights
This easy evening outing includes a festive holiday light display and it's located near tons of dinner spots.
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 ...
Where to Mail Your Letters to Santa
Here's how to send your children's letters to Santa Claus, some with special mailboxes to the North Pole and some ways even easier!
Baby Consignment Stores in the East Bay
I love that the East Bay has so many places to get quality used kids' clothes. Consignment sales are ideal for snow pants, dress clothes, ...
Best Bay Area Christmas Events for Families
Your Christmas planner of family-friendly Bay Area Christmas event picks for toddlers to teens.
Sensory-Friendly Santa Claus Visits
Find special times and places where Santa will be available for special needs children.
10+ Free Holiday Happenings at Alameda South Shore Center
Beginning with a tree lighting Nov. 28 through Christmas Eve, your family can visit Santa Claus and see holiday movies outdoors.
Paws to Read: A Cuddly Option for Young Readers
Children can practice reading to trained furry friends in supportive literacy programs found at various East Bay library branches.
Winter Brainstorm: 25 Things to Do that Cost $10 or Less
$10 is enough for a fun family outing with a little kid in the Bay Area. Here are 25 low-cost ideas!
Best Christmas Lights in the East Bay
We love holiday lights! Whether you stay in the car and do a "drive-by" or get out to stroll, East Bay Christmas light displays are ...
Fourth Street Lights Up With Dazzling Holiday Lights
On Saturday, November 8, 2025, head on down to Berkeley's Fourth Street at Delaware for an extra dose of holiday cheer beginning at 5 pm.
Best East Bay Holiday Lights: Alameda’s Christmas Tree Lane
The best holiday lights in the East Bay are on Christmas Tree Lane in Alameda where the neighbors create a magical holiday experience.
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.
East Bay Candy Buyback — Turn Candy into Cash!
East Bay children can exchange Halloween candy for cash at a Halloween candy buyback at the dentist's office.
10+ All-Abilities Playgrounds and Play Spaces Near Oakland
Inclusive playgrounds are designed with innovative features to welcome children of all ages and capabilities. These are within an hour of Oakland.
Free Storytimes Around the East Bay
A round-up of kid-friendly storytimes in the next 30 days including libraries, bookstores, and other fun places. Let someone else read your baby a book.
Heart Smart & Head Smart: Oakland’s Aurora School for K-8
Discover a vibrant community at Aurora School, an independent K-8 institution in Oakland's Upper Rockridge neighborhood.
DÃa de Los Muertos with East Bay Kids
In the East Bay, there are lots of ways to celebrate Dia de Los Muertos including festivals, performances, and crafts with children in tow.
Indigenous People’s Heritage Month for Kids
November is Indigenous People’s Heritage Month. Here are a few ways to reflect on the cultures, traditions, and history of the Bay Area's first peoples.
Halloween Events for East Bay Kids
Fun and safe Halloween events and activities for kids in Oakland, Berkeley, and surrounding areas.
Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month for Kids & Families
Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15 through October 15. We found a variety of ways to celebrate with kids in the East Bay.
Secret Spots: John Hinkel Park in North Berkeley
There's a terrific playground at John Hinkel Park, plus paths to explore for those who like a climb.
A Little Kids’ Guide to Downtown Benicia
Downtown Benicia is the cutest little place with some big history. With California's third capitol building, picnic, seashore, treats & more!
Celebrating Diwali with Kids in the East Bay
Buy your tickets now for these family-friendly Navratri and Diwali events in the East Bay and South Bay. Tickets will sell out.
Shop Local: Christmas Crafts to Enjoy Together
Here are the holiday crafts I love to do with my young daughter and the local shops where we pick up supplies in Berkeley, Oakland, ...
Community Music Day at Crowden School is Back
Community Music Day at the Crowden School offers free hands-on music experiences for children.
The Impeccable Christmas Lights and Gardens at Oakland’s Temple Hill
Enjoy Christmas lights, music, and the exquisite gardens high above Oakland on Temple Hill.
What to Do With Kids on Berkeley’s Fourth Street
Berkeley's Fourth Street has the food, fun, and stuff to please folks of all ages. Up early? Love trains? Reptiles? Coffee? Toys? Come on.
Hikes for Tykes: Exploring the Regional Parks
Hikes for Tykes offers guided toddler-friendly nature walks and exploration in various East Bay Regional Parks.
Where Do You Take Guests From Out-of-Town?
To show off the East Bay to your friends from back home, where do you go? We've got culture, stunning views, the Bay, and redwoods!
Late Summer Brainstorm: 25 Things to Do that Cost Less Than $10
Summer bucket list of family fun outings that cost less than 10 bucks for one adult and one child
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.
Profile: West Oakland Farm Park & Playground
West Oakland Farm Park has it all according to my little ones: farm, playground, green space, animals, and an amazing mission.
10 Mostly Free & Cheap Outings for Mixed Ages in the East Bay
With kids age two to nine, it is hard to find something for everyone. Here are ten terrific East Bay places that we all love.
9 Playground Ziplines for Bay Area Kids
Our favorite nearby ziplines in the East Bay are in Berkeley and Alameda, but we found a dozen more for adventurous kids to try.
Park Profile: Colorful Krusi Park in Alameda
Krusi Park in Alameda is a super fun playground to bring both toddlers and school aged kids alike. My four kids asked to go two ...
14 Free and Cheap Birthday Party Places
A dozen spots to host a kid's birthday party for cheap -- or free -- in the East Bay Area! These are our go-to budget-friendly ...
How to Enjoy a Campfire Without Camping
Experience a glowing campfire without the hassle of camping at EBPRD's summertime campfire programs
Stafford Lake Bike Park in Marin: An Epic Playground for Bike Lovers
This 17-acre family-friendly mountain bike course offers all the exciting jumps, challenging tricks, and clever toys that mountain bikers of all ages will love.
Park Profile: Totland in Berkeley
We love Totland for toddlers, and especially for parents who are on their own with a new second baby. Swings, climbing things, spinny rides, and ...
National Night Out Gatherings in the East Bay
August 5 is National Night Out, a day centered on community building. Organize an event among your neighbors, or join a city-led event. Find one ...
Family Summer Movies Deals
The Century 14 Walnut Creek will show eight kid-friendly movies for the summer with a deal on admission and snacks.
Cheap Summer Movies in Alameda
For $10 per person, you can go to every movie in the Kids Movie Series this summer hosted by The Alameda Theatre & Cineplex on ...
Event Alert: Downtown Alameda Art & Wine Faire
July 26-27, you'll want to be in Downtown Alameda for the Annual Art & Wine Faire. Attending is free, but attractions have a fee.
Summer Fairs and Festivals for Bay Area Families
Here is a list of outdoor street fairs, carnivals, county fairs, and festivals to pencil into your Summer plans from May to August.
Swings on Bridgeview Trail are Delightfully Dangerous
The handbuilt swings hidden among the majestic redwoods and dripping vines make this small hike much more exciting for children.
BAMPFA for Kids and Families
Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, BAMPFA, is for families and children with FREE admission for many and a hands-on art lab.
Roberts Regional Recreation Area: An Oakland Park with a Swimming Pool
Roberts Park AKA Roberts Regional Recreation Area is tucked away in the Oakland Hills with a huge playground, a calm pool, plus hiking trails and ...
Open for Danger: Adventure Playground Berkeley
Adventure Playground Berkeley lets kids imagine, build, and decorate their own play structures with saws, hammers, nails, and paint.
44 Best Activities for Teens in the East Bay & Beyond
What to do with East Bay teens? Our teenagers' Bay Area favorites include museum deals, hiking, beach day, little farm, & fire pits at ocean ...
Splashing & Swimming at the San Leandro Family Aquatic Center
The San Leandro Family Aquatic Center is a summertime gem with splash pool, water play structure, swimming pool, spray park, and waterslide.
Park Profile: Whale Park in Alameda Point
Alameda has a super playground with tons of space to run, climb and play including a big whale climbing structure, swings, and basketball court.
Free Drop-in Art Workshops with MOCHA in the Library
Museum of Children's Art (MOCHA) is partnering with Public Libraries to offer free art workshops to children throughout the week.
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.
Drop-in Craft Projects at Michaels Stores
Join a free kid-friendly weekend craft session at Michael's in San Leandro, Emeryville, Alameda, or Pinole. Usually in a seasonal theme.
Cal Athletic Events: Free and Cheap Fun for Kids in Berkeley
Cal sporting events are local family fun - and often free!
A Daycation at Don Castro Swimming Lagoon in Hayward
The clear blue water, sandy toddler-friendly beach and shallows, and affordable price all make for the perfect East Bay daycation with your family.
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.
Now Open: Swimming at Cull Canyon in Castro Valley
A swimmable lake within a stones throw from Oakland, perfect for little kids.
Lake Anza is Best for a Hot Day (Open for 2025)
Berkeley in summer is unpredictable weather-wise. For the hot days, I recommend packing up the requisite beach gear and heading for Lake Anza.
Ride a concrete slide in Berkeley
Get your thrills by zipping down a cement slide in the Berkeley Hills. There are TWO concrete slides in Berkeley that we know of.
A Crafter’s Paradise: East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse
The East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse is "every teacher's first stop and every artist's second home" for a good reason. Find your treasure.
Bay Area Fruit Picking Guide
Fruit picking is a year-round activity in California. Here's your guide to the what/where/when/how of Bay Area farms and orchards.
East Bay Father’s Day Guide
Looking for things to do on Father's Day in Oakland? Here are some local-ish ideas for treating, entertaining, and celebrating Dad.
6 Tot-Friendly Splash Parks in the East Bay
We've rounded up our favorite splash pads in the East Bay - perfect for pre-swimmers and toddlers to get cool in the summer heat.
75 Days of Summer Fun for East Bay Kids
The best ideas for family fun all summer long: fruit picking, ice cream, bike rides, beaches, splashing, and concerts!
It’s Free! The Edible Schoolyard at King Middle School
A stroll through the Edible Schoolyard garden is an ideal way to entertain visiting grandparents and small kids at the same time. Situated behind Hopkins ...
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 ...
Cal Sailing Club Offers Free Boat Rides (Sometimes)
Did you know that Cal Sailing Club offers regular free rides to curious community members (including kids 5+)?
Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month for Kids & Families
Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with stories, food, and performances. We'll add more as we find them!
Join Us: Baby’s Day Out at Brushstrokes with Shef
We are so excited to announce a fun event for 510Families.com readers with pre-crawling babies made possible by Shef!
East Bay Summer Concert Round-Up for Families
If your family loves listening to live music, check out our round-up of outdoor concerts -- most of which are free -- to enjoy this ...
Kids Bowl Free & Cheap This Summer
Kids bowl free at participating bowling alleys in the East Bay: Antioch, Concord, Dublin, and Livermore. Deals in Alameda & Oakland.
A Park With A View: Glendale La Loma Park in the Berkeley Hills
Glendale La Loma Park is a 3-level terraced park tucked in the Berkeley Hills with a parking lot, fenced tot lot, big kid playground, and, ...
Beyond Books: More to Love from the Library
Visit your local branch for some amazing checkouts and free offerings—from power tools and baking pans to telescopes and a museum outing.
Save the Date: San Ramon Art & Wind Festival
Kick off summer at the Bay Area’s beloved free two-day festival — the San Ramon Art & Wind Festival on May 25-26, 2025.
Comic Book Day Meets Star Wars Day
Support your indie shops! Free comic book titles will be released to participating stores on the first Saturday in May.
Free Building Workshops for Kids
Calling all mini builders! Local hardware stores host a variety of free family-friendly workshops and craft projects for kids with real tools
Berkeley Park Profile: Dream Land at Aquatic Park
Dream Land in the Aquatic Park area of Berkeley is a whimsical and adventurous playground that will inspire and excite your little ones' senses.
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
3 Best Places to Fly a Kite in the East Bay
Flying a kite involves running outside and a little patience. When your kids tell you that they're bored, you can tell them to go fly ...
Ticket Alert: Touch A Truck Event at Balestrieri Farms
The Junior League of the East Bay is holding Touch A Truck event on 4/26 at a scenic farm in Briones. Families are invited! Book ...
Kid-Friendly Hikes to See Wildflowers Superbloom in the East Bay
It's wildflower season here in the East Bay! Find out the best places to go with your kiddos.
Summertime Reading Games Powered by the Libraries
Summer is for reading! Many area public libraries offer summer reading games, community events & many cool kid-sized prizes for reading.
Tilden Park Little Farm, Free & Fun for All Ages
Berkeley's Little Farm is fantastic and free. No reservations or tickets required. Don't forget the celery!
Free & Cheap Activities in Tilden Regional Park
Tilden Park has fantastic free activities for families. Some of our favorite family places in Tilden Regional Park are totally free. Which ones do you ...
Cool Off at Castro Valley Park Splash Pad
During the summertime, a water feature at Castro Valley Community Park turns into a splash pad on Wednesdays & weekends.
Larkey Spray Ground in Walnut Creek
Walnut Creek's Larkey Spray Ground is the perfect place to spend a sunny day in the Bay with kids 5 and under.
Open Memorial Day 2025: Meadow Home Spray Park in Concord
If you are in Concord, CA looking for a refreshing stop for little ones, the Meadow Homes Spray Park is free and open for the ...
Opening Memorial Day 2025: Spray Ground at Cannery Park in Hayward
The water feature at Cannery Park in Hayward is the big draw on hot days, operating specific days from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
When are Lake Temescal and Lake Anza Open for Swimming?
Lake Temescal and Lake Anza are open weekends until Memorial Day, then daily all summer. But wait! Check the water quality before you go.
Open for Swimming & Recreation: Lake Temescal in Oakland
Lake Temescal is a beautiful (almost hidden) gem nestled next to the Highway 24/13 interchange, near Montclair, in Oakland.
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 ...
Park Profile: Dorothy Bolte Park in the Berkeley Hills
With a thrilling 40-foot concrete slide connecting two playgrounds, Dorothy Bolte Park in the Berkeley Hills provides hours of amusement.
Discover the Miniature, Magical Fairy Doors in AlamedaÂ
You have to look down to find these sweet little fairy doors hiding in plain site in Alameda. A curious toddler will see them for ...
Half-day Trip: Sulphur Creek Nature Center in Hayward
This wild animal rehabilitation center in Hayward allows kids to get up close and personal with drop-in hours and special programs.
Kid-Friendly Hike to a Playground in Kensington
With sweeping views of Tilden Park and a playground near the out-and-back loop, this Kensington hike is fun for families anytime.
Cold or Wet Day? Go Indoor Swimming
My kids love to go to an indoor swimming pool even if the weather outside is frightful. Here are some fave East Bay pools.
Tilden Park Steam Trains are a Cheap Thrill
The Tilden Park steam trains in the Berkeley hills are open daily for summer vacation. Wonderful fun for toddlers. Plan your visit.
Kids Like IKEA Emeryville, Too
The Emeryville monster store, Ikea, is a colorful and fascinating place for a child with a bunch of hidden perks!
21 Places in the Bay Area Where Kids Can See Animals
A few favorite places to get a miniature zoo experience for FREE in the East Bay, small animal encounters, & farms!
14 East Bay Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free
Did you know there's a handful of restaurants where kids eat free? Skip cooking on Tuesday night and head to one of these places.
How to Find Salamanders in Wet Weather at Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park
Here's a mission for your little explorers and instructions on how to have a successful search for salamanders in the Oakland hills.
Codornices Park in the Berkeley Hills
Codornices Park in Berkeley has so many features that my visits have changed completely as my kids have grown older with new parts to enjoy.
A Driving Christmas Light Tour of Walnut Creek and Concord
See who is bringing holiday cheer to their neighbors with the best Christmas Lights in the greater East Bay. We've got a map for you.
Tilden Park’s Miniature Trains
Each Sunday between now and the end of September, the Golden Gate Live Steamers open their tracks to the public for rides.
Mia’s Dream Come True: All-Abilities Playground in Hayward
There is so much to do and see at Mia's Dream Come True, an all-abilities playground in South Hayward.
Worth the Drive: Heather Farm Park & Playground in Walnut Creek
One unique feature of the colorful Heather Farm playground in Walnut Creek is a set of turf covered mounds that children can slide down on. ...
Tilden Park’s Merry-Go-Round Is a Classic
The merry-go-round in Tilden Regional Park is an antique carousel with hand-carved and painted wooden carousel animals to ride.
Walk or Drive Through Christmas Lights: Candy Cane Lane in Pleasanton
My favorite part part about the Christmas lights at Candy Cane Lane is that it is a dazzling holiday outing that doesn’t require unbuckling car ...
Good Free Fun: The East Bay Vivarium
East Bay Vivarium has it all: Cute turtles swimming in tanks, giant tortoises munching on lettuce, tiny lizards, boas, enormous pythons, and more.
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 ...
25 Things to Do With Kids in Emeryville
25 fun activities, destinations, and places to wander with kids in Emeryville, CA. We love this little town with fab Bay views and hidden gems.
Take a Tour of the Boichik Bagel Factory
Take a FREE tour of the Boichik Bagel Factory in West Berkeley. Carbs, coffee, and heavy machinery - what's not to love?
Point Molate: Sea Glass Treasure & Burning Man Art in Richmond
Combine a tranquil beach with a steampunk art scene for a memorable day in Richmond. We also love the sea glass!
12 Things to Do at Memorial Park in Albany
Memorial Park in Albany is home to so many family-friendly resources and events, that all parents in communities north of Berkeley should know about it.
A kid-sized adventure to Krispy Kreme Doughnuts
Tour Krispy Kreme Doughnuts with a kid for a sweet factory experience (that is much easier than a real factory experience).
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.
Where to Play on a Hot Day, East Bay
Our team of experienced parents weighed in on where to go and what to do when it is Just Too Dang Hot. Start with donuts.
Top 3 Family-Friendly Bike Rides in Alameda
Biking is the best way to experience the city of Alameda with your kids. Cross the island on a bike via clearly-marked bike routes. Here ...
Sweet Hike: Fairy Houses Galore in Point Richmond
I explored the magical fairy houses that make up Little Point Richmond of Washington Avenue with my children, age 2 to 8, and we were ...
Kensington Gem: Blake Garden
Blake Garden garden is a teaching and research lab for Cal but it is open to the public on weekdays. Expect interesting paths with beautiful ...
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.
Crown Beach in Alameda Is Perfect For Kids
The water of Crown Memorial Beach in Alameda is shallow for hundreds of feet into the Bay. This results in a huge wave-free baby pool, ...
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.
Family Day at The Bay Area Book Festival
Bring your little ones, middle graders, and teens to Bay Area Book Festival Family Day at the Berkeley Public Library downtown.
Orinda: A Single BART Stop Past Rockridge
Start your morning at Orinda Village for a cafe, park, library, bookstore, and even a pizza joint if you make it until lunchtime. Here's a ...
Impress Your Kids: Hike into a Real Volcano & Labyrinth in OaklandÂ
Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve's Special Labyrinth can be hiked to with school-aged kids in less than two hours, round trip.
Movie Theater Fun for ALL Ages at The New Parkway
See new movies with your baby in tow or bring your child to enjoy classic cartoons with sweet cereal at Oakland's beloved movie theater.
25 Places to Take Preschoolers in the East Bay – Indoors
Places to take East Bay toddlers and preschoolers: Bay Area destinations for younger kids featuring amazing indoor play spaces and museums.
Getting Sandy at Keller Beach in Richmond, CA
My family loved our four-hour getaway to Keller Beach in Richmond. Bring sand toys and snacks to make the most of your day.
The Gardens at Lake Merritt
As we strolled The Gardens at Lake Merritt, near Children's Fairyland, my husband and I agreed that botanical gardens are usually a big win with ...
It’s Free! Indian Rock Park
Wear athletic shoes and bring a camera because Berkeley's Indian Rock will make you want to scale it and start snapping pictures immediately.
Park Profile: Grove Park & Playground in Berkeley
See what's up at the grand reopening of Berkeley's neighborhood playground for the Lorin District. Wood chips.
Parents’ Guide to East Bay Gardens
Explore family-friendly East Bay Gardens for outdoor fun: admire flowers, follow butterflies, enjoy nature, & get inspired!
Explore Dinosaur Gardens in the East Bay
Delight in a magical treasure: dinosaur gardens. Perfect to work into a family walk, we found seven locations walking around the East Bay.
Berkeley Park Profile: Cedar-Rose Park
Cedar-Rose Park in North Berkeley has a little fenced-in tot lot, wide open field, and big kid playground making it a great option for mixed ...
Top Things to Do With Kids at Cal
Here are our top things to do with our kids at University of California at Berkeley's "Cal" Campus: climb, sing, dinosaurs, research, run, and play!
Park Profile: Dracena Quarry Park in Piedmont
Dracena Quarry Park in Piedmont is a cozy little neighborhood beauty with attractions for kids of all ages. Parking can be tricky.
Best Idea Ever: A Playground with Coffee in Berkeley
With ample parking, a huge field, a creek to explore, a playground, and now, a cafe onsite, Strawberry Creek Park is a perfect destination.
Home Depot Offers Free Weekend Workshops for Kids
Spend a FREE morning at Home Depot building craft projects with your kid on the first Saturday of each month.
17 Toddler-Friendly Hikes in the East Bay
Hiking with a toddler can be a walk down the street, or a quest to find bugs or fairies. We love these East Bay places ...
Where to Find Monarch Butterflies in the East Bay
It's that time of year where Western monarchs gather in Northern California. Find out where to find them in the East Bay!
Oakland Parks and Playgrounds
Best free thing to do with kids in Oakland? A playground or park! Stay as long or short as you like.
Profile: Fremont’s Central Park
Fremont's Central Park offers tons of space to run and play, picnic, boat, and exercise, there is a unique playground unlike any I've seen.
Crab Cove Beach and Visitor Center in Alameda
Children will enjoy exploring Crab Cove beach in Alameda, but start with the visitor center to get more out of your trip!
Oct. 14: Free BORP Adaptive Sports Expo — Register Now
Oct. 14, the BORP Adaptive Sports Expo is a free opportunity for people with disabilities to try many different sports + recreation activities at 3 ...
Big Fun at the Port of Oakland’s Middle Harbor Shoreline Park
Preschoolers will love Middle Harbor Shoreline Park at the Port of Oakland with the best views of the Bay! Container ships lots of giant stuff ...
Things to Do with Kids in Oakland’s Park Blvd. Glenview District
In the midst of the tree-lined boulevard and rows of bungalows, comes a small but bountiful stretch of mom and pop shops, eateries, salons, small ...
Take the Bay Day Challenge With Your Kids
Take on the Bay Day Month of Challenges with your kids September 7 to October 7. See the Bay + win prizes.
Lake Merritt Playground Profile: Snow Park
Across the lake from Fairyland, the newly renovated Snow Park is a beautiful, urban playground you must visit.
7 Playgrounds & Viewing Spots for Boat-Loving Kids
Sail over to these nautical-inspired play structures throughout the East Bay if your kid can't get enough of boats! Plus, details on where to spot ...
Berkeley Park Profile: San Pablo Park
Visit Berkeley's oldest park for new play structures, big fields, baseball, basketball, tennis, community center, and room to run.
Berkeley Park Profile: James Kenney Park
Enjoy updated play structures and nature-based climbing areas at this Northwest Berkeley Park, just minutes away from Fourth Street.
Daytrip to Stinson Beach with kids
Stinson Beach is our favorite, FAVORITE beach in the Bay Area with kids.
The Temescal Farmer’s Market, Rockridge-Temescal Greenbelt & Frog Park
This Oakland playground is filled on Sundays with folks who have walked over from the Farmer's Market. Try it any day of the week!
Half-day Trip: Lafayette Reservoir and Playground
This lovely East Bay spot for stroller walks and picnics has a wonderful new playground.
Berkeley Summer Programs for Low-Income Families
Summertime park and playground programs.
21+ Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Richmond
Visit the parks, playgrounds, pools, museums and other kids-friendly spots located in the city of Richmond. There's plenty to explore!
Bohol Circle Immigrant Park & Playground in Alameda
A waterfront playground in Alameda is ideal for playing captain of a boat or spotting cargo ships. It's located steps from Target, too!
Davenport Mini Park in Emeryville
Davenport Mini Park in Emeryville has a totally redesigned play structure that's fashioned after a ship, plus it's completely fenced in.
Best Alameda Beaches for Little Kids
Easy parking, shallow waters, and open space make Alameda's beaches ideal, free outings for families.
Park Profile: Centennial Park in El Cerrito
Centennial Park playground near the Ohlone Greenway has natural surfaces, climbing ropes, sand, and a platform swing. Great for kids under five.
What to Do With Kids in Fremont
Some of the most fun you can have with kids in Fremont no matter what the season. Where to go to play, learn, and go ...
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.
Tilden Park Botanic Garden, Free Fun for All Ages
The Tilden Regional Parks Botanic Garden, an enchanted, not-so-secret garden, is a magical place for visitors of all ages at no cost.
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.
Codornices Park Birthday Party: Keeping it Simple
Find out how to throw a simple and cheap birthday party at Codornices Park in Berkeley
Park Profile: Solano Playlot in Richmond
Add this park to your "must visit" list: Solano Playlot in Richmond. Fun for the kids with nearby treats and snacks worth a stop.
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.
Together Wee Play: Drop-in Play in Berkeley
Together Wee Play is a free, drop-in play program for kids 4 and younger. It is hosted 4 mornings a week at indoor and outdoor ...
{510} Family Faves with Beautiful Brown Adventures’ Angel
Angel is a Puerto Rican and Indigenous mom of two in Alameda, a doula, and a co-founder of Beautiful Brown Adventures. Here are her faves.
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.
Save The Date: Solano Avenue Stroll
Solano Avenue in Berkeley and Albany will come together for their superfun Solano Stroll on Sunday afternoon, September 11, 2022.
12 Places to Go Plane-Spotting in the Bay Area
We rounded up the best destinations for plane-loving kids to view airplanes.
Matteo’s Dream Playground, Inclusive Fun in Concord
Imaginations can run wild at Matteo's Dream Playground in Concord, a space for all children to experience the joys of outdoor play regardless of their ...
Watch Planes Soar at Buchanan Field Playground in Concord
Plane-loving kiddos will love spotting airplanes and jets at Buchanan Field Playground and Observation Area. Plus, it's free!
Visit the Sunflower Fields of Yolo County near Davis
For years the farmers of Yolo County, about an hour from Berkeley, have grown 70,000 acres of sunflowers. They bloom in June & July.
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. ...
What to Do With Kids on Hopkins Street, Berkeley
The stretch of Hopkins Street in Berkeley from MLK to Monterey is full of kid-friendly goodness. Here are our favorites for parents.
Park Profile: Kennedy Park in Hayward
The park is a farm-themed paradise for little kids with a carousel, train, teacup ride, and petting zoo on weekends. Target is right across the ...
17 Children’s Authors That Will Be at The Bay Area Book Festival in Berkeley
Discover new children's books and hear from the authors at the Bay Area Book Festival in Berkeley on May 7+8.
The Veranda: An Outdoor Mall in Concord With a Way-Cool Play Structure
The most exciting feature of The Veranda, a shopping center in Concord, is hands down the play structure, the Veranda Climber.
New Nature-Based Park in Alameda: Chochenyo Park
Chochenyo Park is a cute little nature based Park in Downtown Alameda worth a visit if you're in the area.
Get Outside at Hidden Villa Farm in Los Altos Hills
About an hour from Oakland, get your family's quarantine wiggles out at Hidden Villa with friendly farm animals and lots of room to run in ...
Sweeney Open Space Park: Fab Playground in Alameda
Four tiers of rope climbing; a super-sized interactive chime instrument; an extra-wide slide with an AstroTurf-protected landing at the base; and, a zip-line with seat ...
Best Places to Take Kids in Oakland’s Grand Lake Neighborhood
Nestled in the Northeast corner of Oakland’s Lake Merritt is the quaint, and easygoing Grand Lake neighborhood with so many places to push a stroller.
Cornerstone Sonoma: Kid-friendly Botanical Garden and Wine Tasting
Want a good family-friendly wine country activity? We love Cornerstone Sonoma, a botanical garden/art exhibit/wine tasting experience in one.
What to Do With Kids in the Elmwood (Berkeley)
Our favorite fantastic places in the Elmwood to enjoy with children including where to eat, where to play, and where to shop!
Park Profile: Imagine Inclusive Playground in Dublin
Explore this, shiny, new, and expansive playground with inclusive features, just 30 minutes away from Oakland.
What to Do With Kids in Kensington
Find all the fun things to do with kids in and around Kensington and Colusa Circle from Blake Garden to the perfect sweet treats.
Rolling Around Brooklyn Basin (Oakland) with Kids
Township Commons Park at Brooklyn Basin is a beautiful & expansive part of the Oakland waterfront with places to dine, fish, scooter, and more.
Oakland Scavenger Hunt: These Adorable Gnomes Will Delight Your Kids
Hundreds of gnomes fill the sidewalks of Oakland, and will delight you every time. Here's where, and how to find them.
Knowland Park: Behind The Oakland Zoo (Cloudy With a Chance of Spotting Animals)
The walking paths of Knowland Park lead to spectacular views of the Bay, and if you go at the right time, you can see into ...
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.
U-Pick Strawberries at George’s Berry Farm in Brentwood
As of April 2025, George’s Berry Farm is not open. The article that follows is from 2021. U-Pick fruit season is warming up in Brentwood! ...
Park Profile: May Nissen Community Park in Livermore
Go wild at Livermore’s woodland-themed playground with charming giant flowers and interactive play features.
Unusual TEPCO Beach in Richmond is Full of Riches
TEPCO Beach in Richmond is strewn with broken ceramics and stunning views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. Best for ages 5+
Food Savings Tips to Save Time, Money, and Frustration
Our friends at StopWaste offer many insanely useful tips to stretch our food further to save time, stress, and money!
Magical Bridge in Palo Alto: Inclusive Playground Worth the Drive
You've gotta see this Palo Alto playground that is truly and uniquely for everyone: all ages, abilities and sizes.
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.
{510} Family Faves with Kids Love Oakland
Lifelong Oaklander, Kamaria Lofton, shares her book series, Kids Love Oakland, and her 3 favorite places to go with her kids.
Simple, Creative Halloween Costumes
Super simple but creative Halloween costumes for kids or clever parents with easy DIY instructions.
DIY Outdoor School: Redwood Regional + Botany Exploration
We took this Montessori-inspired leaf classification activity out to the local trails to extend the learning and heighten our environmental awareness.
Delicious Strawberry U-Pick at Blue House Farm
Enjoy the fresh coastal air while picking delicious organic strawberries with your children, it is a practically perfect, stress-free outing near Half Moon Bay
Youth on Course: Kids Play Golf for $5 or Less
Youth on Course members, ages 6 to 18, can play a round of golf at over 1,300 participating courses for $1 to $5 after paying ...
Photo Scavenger Hunt for Families: Take a Shape Walk
My son and I like to walk around the neighborhood. We decided to make our walks more interesting by turning our walks into scavenger hunts ...
10 Soothing Sensory Activities for Preschoolers Worth the Mess
Easy sensory projects to do with basic household objects that will delight your little one. Almost definitely worth the mess & clean up!
Archery in Oakland at Redwood Bowmen
Bring your own bow and arrows to this archery range among the redwoods. Officially for archers 10 and up.
Join Us Wednesdays at Noon: Berkeley Music Circus
Grab an instrument -or just your voice- for a Wednesday at noon city sing-along. We'd love to see everyone sing and play along!
The Latest In Stay-Home Entertainment: Create an I Spy Game In Your Front Yard
A front yard scavenger hunt is easy to make, uses items you probably have around the house, and can even be made educational if your ...
How I Set Up a Quarantine Book and Toy Swap
My four kids are burning through every book, toy, puzzle and snack in the house. Here's what I did to refresh our toys and games ...
5 Tips to Get Your Teenager to Play Outside
As my kids get older, it is harder to take them outside into nature. Here are five strategies I’ve used to get my kids to ...
Half-day Trip to San Rafael and WildCare
A half day adventure in San Rafael starts with a visit to WildCare, a FREE rehabilitation facility for local animals that toddlers dig.
Arlington Park & Clubhouse: Lots to explore in El Cerrito
Arlington Park has tons of green space and is one of those winding parks that has a variety of areas to explore beyond the play ...
Save the dates: Sunday Streets Berkeley
Sunday Streets Berkeley will close down to car traffic to allow families to play in the streets, dance, bike, eat, and create. It's one huge ...
Cheap birthday party: Adventure Playground
Adventure Playground is a DIY playground and a special DIY birthday party destination. Tow party supplies to the adjacent Shorebird park and party on!
Tour Fentons Creamery in Oakland
Tour Fentons Creamery in Oakland on the arctic tour for age 6 and up. Brr.
Learn to row with Berkeley High Crew (FREE)
Every spring Berkeley High Crew hosts a free Learn-to-Row Day open to youth ages 11 and up. Pre-register for this cool opportunity for your tween ...
Junior Center of Art & Science
The Junior Center for Art and Science is a wonderful gem of a science museum and art studio located next to the bird sanctuary at ...
Things to do at Washington Park in Alameda
This park has play areas, soccer, tennis, basketball, and is home to affordable summer camps for Alameda kids.
Alameda Adventure Court at South Shore Center
Alameda's South Shore Center's newest addition - Adventure Court Playground - is a win for all. A perfect pit stop after you've shopped.
Get your kid a job: toy tester
Sign up for your baby or toddler to be a toy tester at the LeapFrog/VTech lab in Emeryville. We've done it and enjoyed it.
Field Trip to the Hills and Tunnels of Black Diamond Mines
Thank you to Annie Burke sharing her terrific tips for exploring Black Diamond Mines with kids in tow. There’s something cool about exploring an ...
Go Outside with Kids, Really Outside
Feeling quite tired of playgrounds (I hear you!), Berkeley mom of two Annie Burke started taking her family and friends out to some less-traveled parks ...
{510} Family Faves with Outdoors Advocate Annie Burke
Annie Burke loves to take her children outside into the parks, seashore, and nature In the Bay Area. Get your fingernails dirty.
Biking with East Bay kids on the Bay Bridge
My husband Alec took our big boys to ride bicycles on the Eastern span of the Bay Bridge. For a pretty flat course, the views ...
Berkeley Family Bike Fest & Family Cycling Rodeo
My favorite kid-friendly bike rodeo event is happening 3/18 at LeConte school in Berkeley, and everyone's invited.
Oakland playground: Union Point Park
This playground, located very close to Pump It Up in Oakland, will keep tots entertained for a while, and when it gets old, you can ...
You’re invited: {510} Saturday Cereal Cinema with Close5
Join us for our 12/10 Cereal Cinema pajama party at New Parkway where we'll enjoy a cereal buffet while watching classic Saturday morning cartoons! All ...
20 free things to do in the East Bay before summer is over
Take on one of these items as your mission every day, and you'll definitely be getting the most out of the East Bay.
Fortune Cookie Factory in Oakland
There’s a fortune cookie “factory” in Oakland’s Chinatown, and if you are not paying attention you’ll miss it. Tucked into the span of two small ...
Kid Report: Geocaching in the East Bay
Our Kid Reporter today is Soren who will be starting Kindergarten this year. I started geocaching after my mom told me about it. We watched ...
Kid Report: Menchie’s – Berkeley Frozen Yogurt
I will be in third grade this fall. I am a guest writer on 510Families.com this summer. Do you think your kids enjoy frozen yogurt ...
Day trip idea: Howarth Park in Santa Rosa
Howarth Park has enough attractions to keep you busy all day long, and though it’s further away than Tilden Park, it’s almost definitely sunny there, ...
Brentwood farms fruit picking, tips for families
Monday, I drove four boys out to Brentwood to go fruit-picking. I was vague in my promises — berries, cherries, apricots, or whatever they have. You like ...
Parents’ guide to Piedmont parks
6 places to play in Piedmont
A Parent’s Guide to South Berkeley: The Lorin District
The Lorin District is close enough to Ashby BART for train spotting, the library for storytime, and Grove Park for all kinds of recreation. The ...
Little kids wanted for cool research at Cal
Years ago, I wrote about getting your baby a job as a scientist and I stand by that recommendation. I first learned about the super ...
It’s Your Move! a Temescal game store with place to play
I can’t believe I had been intimidated by this awesome neighborhood gaming spot. Luckily, my five-year old urged us into It’s Your Move Games, and ...
Little gems of Berkeley: Casa Latina
In a world where a single cookie at your local cafe can cost $2.25, it is delightful to discover a place where the whole family ...
New mom challenge: Visit the fabric store
Visit a fabric store with your baby awake and spend a naptime on one of these easy projects: play blanket, swaddle blanket, or carrier!
How to visit a Berkeley fire station with your child
Coordinating a firehouse visit in Berkeley was top on my list after I did a fire safety lesson with my 4 year old. It was ...
Tarea Pitman Hall South Berkeley branch library
The South Library and Tool Lending Library have recently reopened one block north of Ashby BART. There is no designated parking lot, but ample street ...
New book about food and family features many Bay Area writers
The Cassoulet Saved Our Marriage is a collection of essays about eating and how we learn to do it, with and from our families. Several ...
New mom challenge: Find bookstore events for babies
Celebrate your local, independent bookstores by discovering a new one, visiting with your well-behaved children and buying a terrific book. Better yet, find out which ...
Reader tip: Alberrito Streets
Lest we forget our neighbors to the North, my friend Wendy reminded me that this Saturday is the Alberrito Streets extravaganza. It is a monster ...
5 East Bay outings for a baby in a carrier
Babies in a carriers are a great companions. They go where you want them to; they guarantee that passersby will smile at you; and you ...
Have you been to the Alameda Flea Market?
The Alameda Point Antiques Faire is held on the first Sunday of each month at the former naval air station (so the next one is ...
Join us for Mom’s Night Out @ Sticky Art Lab
This event is now sold out. There is a waitlist in case anyone can't join us. We have partnered with UrbanSitter and Sticky ...
Letterboxing in the 510
Up for a treasure hunt? We've got a couple of clues for you.
