Living in the Bay Area with kids means there’s no shortage of amazing places to explore. These are some of our favorite family-friendly spots—from outdoor adventures to fun activities that keep the kids entertained while parents enjoy them too. Perfe...
Map
Sections
5
Educational & Interactive Attractions
Animals, Zoos & Outdoor Play
Easy Outdoor Fun
Classic & Seasonal Fun
Venues
Educational & Interactive Attractions
A nationally loved children’s museum in Sausalito with engaging indoor/outdoor exhibits designed for ages 6 months–10 years
Bay Area Discovery Museum
An interactive science museum with 600+ exhibits that encourage exploration and play.
Exploratorium
Rainforest dome, aquarium, planetarium, and more make science fun for kids of all ages
California Academy of Sciences
Explore local marine life on San Francisco’s iconic Pier 39 with hands-on exhibits and close-up views of bay critters
Aquarium of the Bay
Animals, Zoos & Outdoor Play
A classic family destination home to thousands of animals and kid-friendly exhibits.
San Francisco Zoo
Pet goats at Little Farm, ride the merry-go-round, feed ducks, and explore shady trails
Charles Lee Tilden Regional Park
Oakland Zoo in the hills of Oakland is one of the Bay Area’s most beloved family-friendly destinations — perfect for kids and adults alike.
Oakland Zoo
Easy Outdoor Fun
Massive park with playgrounds, picnic spots, gardens, lakes, and the famed Koret Children’s Quarter
Golden Gate Park
Beach play, picnics with views of the Golden Gate, and space to explore
Baker Beach - Parks
A creative, build-and-play space where kids can use real tools under supervision (local favorite)
Adventure Playground
Newly revamped adventure playground with treehouse-style play structures
Stern Grove Playground Renovation | San Francisco Recreation and Parks, CA
Elevated park in downtown SF with playground areas and open space for kids to run
Salesforce Park
Classic & Seasonal Fun
A whimsical storybook theme park for young kids, with gentle rides and character play
Children's Fairyland
Great indoor entertainment with reflective maze fun for kids and adults alike
Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze
Venues
Beyond its main season shows like The Nutcracker and full-length ballets, SF Ballet offers special family-focused experiences designed to make dance accessible, engaging, and fun for kids and adults alike
San Francisco Ballet
Beyond its main season shows like The Nutcracker and full-length ballets, SF Ballet offers special family-focused experiences designed to make dance accessible, engaging, and fun for kids and adults alike
San Francisco Ballet
Catch a baseball game at the most beautiful ballpark in the world
Oracle Park
Catch a Golden State Warriors Game or concert at Chase Center
