Our favorite South Bay spots for little kids — from a mom of a 5-year-old and a 2-year-old.
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Our favorite South Bay day trip — part zoo, part mini amusement park, everything sized for little kids. The toddler rides and petting zoo are perfect for my 5 and 2-year-old.
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
A favorite for mom dates — food hall to graze while the toddlers play. The perfect catch-up spot while the little ones burn energy.
SPARK Social San José
Shaded playground with a separate toddler area, plus ducks and turtles at the lake for a picnic. Only $6 per car — the cheapest family day out.
Hellyer County Park
On our want-to-try list — water play, a giant outdoor climbing area, and exhibits built for kids 10 and under. A classic San Jose family stop.
Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose
A real farm inside San Jose — animals, gardens, and a playground with a section just for ages 2 to 5. Free and so easy.
Emma Prusch Farm Park
A beautiful free playground in Guadalupe River Park, designed so kids of all abilities play together. Great stop before grabbing food downtown.
Rotary PlayGarden
On our list — a family theme park with gardens, rides for little ones, and their not-scary Halloween event in the fall.