Tips for Traveling with Kids in San Francisco, United States
1. California Academy of Sciences
Explore the natural world indoors at this unique rainforest, aquarium, and planetarium. Kids love the Nightlife events with adult beverages!
- Indoor Activities: Great for rainy days or hot sunny days.
- Variety of Exhibits: Offers a wealth of learning opportunities about the natural world.
- Evening Events: Adult-friendly events offer a break for parents in the evening.
2. Exploratorium
Interactive museum where kids can learn about science through hands-on exhibits. Don't miss the Tactile Dome!
- Hands-On Learning: Kids get to engage with exhibits, making learning fun.
- Indoor Activities: Ideal for all weather conditions.
- Unique Experiences: The Tactile Dome provides a unique sensory experience for kids.
3. Aquarium of the Bay
Learn about local marine life at this aquarium on Pier 39. The Shark Touchpool is a favorite!
- Local Focus: Highlights the diverse marine life of San Francisco Bay.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes opportunities to touch and interact with sea creatures.
- Educational Programs: Offers various educational programs for kids.
4. San Francisco Zoo
See over 1,000 exotic and native animals at this large urban zoo. Don't miss the African Savannah exhibit!
- Large Selection of Animals: Provides a wide variety of animals to view.
- Outdoor Activities: Perfect for active kids who love being outside.
- Educational Programs: Offers various educational programs and events.
5. Golden Gate Park
Enjoy picnics, gardens, playgrounds, and museums in this massive urban park.
- Variety of Attractions: Offers a wide range of activities for the whole family.
- Outdoor Activities: Ideal for active kids who love being outside.
- Flexible Schedule: Allows families to customize their own itinerary.
6. Children's Creativity Museum
Encourage your child's creativity with interactive exhibits that promote problem-solving and collaboration.
- Hands-On Learning: Kids get to engage with exhibits, making learning fun.
- Indoor Activities: Ideal for all weather conditions.
- Focus on Creativity: Emphasizes creativity and problem-solving skills.
7. Cable Car Museum
Learn about the history of San Francisco's iconic cable cars at this museum, and ride one for the full experience!
- Historical Significance: Provides insight into the history of San Francisco.
- Indoor Activities: Ideal for all weather conditions.
- Ride a Cable Car: Offers the opportunity to ride one of San Francisco's iconic cable cars.
8. Ferry Building Marketplace
Sample delicious food from local vendors at this historic marketplace. Don't forget the chocolate-covered bacon!
- Local Food Sampling: Allows families to taste unique and delicious foods.
- Indoor Activities: Ideal for all weather conditions.
- Fresh Produce Market: Offers a wide variety of fresh produce and local goods.
9. PIER 39 Sea Lion Viewing Area
Watch California sea lions up close at this popular pier attraction. Don't forget to look for the large males!
- Wildlife Watching: Offers a unique opportunity to observe wild animals.
- Outdoor Activities: Ideal for active kids who love being outside.
- Free Admission: Enjoy this attraction without an admission fee.
10. Alcatraz Island Tour
Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and explore the infamous prison. Kids will love hearing ghost stories!
- Historical Significance: Provides insight into a significant part of American history.
- Outdoor Activities: Ideal for active kids who love exploring outdoors.
- Ghost Stories: Includes intriguing tales of the prison's past, including ghost stories.
11. Explore Fisherman's Wharf
Discover souvenir shops, seafood restaurants, and the famous sea lions at this iconic San Francisco neighborhood.
- Iconic Atmosphere: Experience the unique charm of Fisherman's Wharf.
- Outdoor Activities: Ideal for active kids who love exploring outdoors.
- Local Cuisine: Taste fresh and delicious seafood at local restaurants.
12. San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
Explore historic ships, maritime exhibits, and a working lighthouse at this national park.
- Historical Significance: Provides insight into the history of San Francisco's maritime industry.
- Outdoor Activities: Ideal for active kids who love exploring outdoors.
- Working Lighthouse: Offers a unique opportunity to visit and learn about a working lighthouse.
13. Presidio Park
Discover historic buildings, scenic trails, and beautiful views at this national park.
- Historical Significance: Provides insight into the history of San Francisco.
- Outdoor Activities: Ideal for active kids who love exploring outdoors.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay.
14. The Walt Disney Family Museum
Learn about the life and work of Walt Disney at this immersive museum. Kids will love the interactive exhibits!
- Interactive Exhibits: Kids get to engage with exhibits, making learning fun.
- Indoor Activities: Ideal for all weather conditions.
- Focus on Walt Disney: Provides a unique glimpse into the life and work of Walt Disney.
15. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
Explore contemporary art at this modern museum. Kids will love the interactive exhibits!
- Interactive Exhibits: Kids get to engage with exhibits, making learning fun.
- Indoor Activities: Ideal for all weather conditions.
- Focus on Contemporary Art: Provides a unique glimpse into contemporary art trends.