A Little Kids’ Guide to Downtown Benicia

Downtown Benicia is the cutest little place with some big history. With the help of Lauren, who owns Lo’s Playtown, we have a pretty sweet itinerary for exploring this family-friendly town with kids.

The Most Fun Things to Do In Benicia With Kids

Lo’s Playtown

An upscale family lounge and play place designed for both kids and parents, Lo’s Playtown is an admission-based spot for 90-minute play sessions with three themed playrooms and a cozy parent lounge. It’s the perfect mix of fun and relaxation. Start your day here because there’s complimentary tea or coffee for parents, ideal for those who lost track of theirs during the morning madness at home. (Read our review of Lo’s Playtown >)

Park of Dreams

A beautiful park with big trees, lots of grass, and a completely wooden playground structure. Run over bridges, climb ladders, and swing to your heart’s content. Park of Dreams is located at the top of 1st Street, so you can explore the downtown shops from there.

One House Bakery

This Benicia fan-favorite offers an order-at-the-counter baked goods and lunch menu with charming patio seating.

First Street Shops

Don’t miss the indie bookstore that offers a chalk table outside and a play area inside and Mozart, Earhart & Me, a music-themed store (where we picked up two obnoxious noise makers!)

Stop for a Sweet Treat

If you didn’t go for a pastry at One House Bakery, enjoy a scoop of Double Rainbow ice cream on 1st Street or pick up one of the unique juices at Juice House Co and take it with you to the beach or the Capitol Building (keep reading!)

Visit the Beach and Walk the Pier

If you walk all the way down 1st Street you’ll run into the water. Walk the pier, dig your toes in the sand, bring a jacket for windy weather.

Benicia Capitol Building

The Benicia capitol building is open Friday – Sunday from 10am – 5pm. It has been restored with reconstructed period furnishings and serves as a nice little history lesson. Anna Azimi, an Albany mom to two little boys told us, “In about ten minutes, we tested out an old key, walked up the steep staircase, viewed the Assembly room, and got a cool train stamp on our way out. The kids thought it was neat. We entered and did those things for free, however, you can take a more detailed tour for a fee ($3/Adults, $2/Children, 5 and under free). There’s also an outdoor garden to explore along with a historic house.”

The front lawn of the Capitol building is the perfect place to eat a picnic lunch and watch the crowds walk by 1st Street. It’s also mostly gated, so we didn’t worry much about anyone running into the busy street.