If you’re planning a trip to San Francisco with your little ones, you’re in for a treat! This stunning city is packed with enjoyable landmarks and attractions that cater perfectly to families. Here’s a rundown of the top activities to engage kids in San Francisco.
Top Family Attractions in San Francisco
A visit to the Ferry Building is essential for both locals and visitors. Established in 1898 and beautifully renovated, this iconic spot boasts diverse restaurants, specialty food shops, and a vibrant farmer’s market. It can get quite busy, so grab some famous sourdough from Acme Bread Company, delicious Mt. Tam cheese from Cowgirl Creamery, and perhaps a bottle of wine from the nearby shop. Head out back to enjoy your al fresco sandwich while watching the ferry boats, making it feel like a taste of Italy. If you’re in a rush, check out Gott’s Roadside Tray Gourmet for a quick, kid-friendly menu.
From there, stroll down to Pier 41 and catch a ferry to Angel Island! It’s the largest natural island in the bay and offers bike rentals, hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and tram tours. When hunger strikes, both the Cove Cafe and Cove Cantina Oyster Bar provide excellent kid-friendly options. And if you’re up for a laugh, consider a Segway Tour around the island.
Indulging in San Francisco’s Sweet Treats
Although the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory has moved from Ghirardelli Square, it remains a delightful destination. Free guided history tours run several mornings a week, leading you to the Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop for a well-deserved treat. On those foggy, chilly days, take refuge at the Peekadoodle Kids Club. While day passes can be pricey, it’s worth asking your hotel if they have any special deals—after all, your sanity is important!
No trip to San Francisco is complete without a ride on the iconic cable cars. For a fun outing, hop on the Powell-Hyde Line at the bottom of Hyde Street, near Ghirardelli Square. After your ride, treat yourself to a scoop at Swenson’s Ice Cream, a local favorite that opened in 1948. If you’re looking for a meal, Za Pizza next door is a great option. Once you’ve eaten, head up to Nob Hill where Huntington Park awaits the kids, while parents can enjoy a drink at one of the nearby hotels.
Indoor and Outdoor Activities for Kids
If the weather takes a turn, the California Academy of Sciences is a fantastic indoor option. With a four-story rainforest, a swamp, a coral reef, and a planetarium, it’s a hit for both kids and adults. The café is also a must-try—don’t miss the Vietnamese noodle salad! They offer kid-friendly options as well.
Crissy Field, once an airfield, is now a lovely park that provides stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Families can picnic, walk, or bike along the beach. Grab lunch from the Warming Hut Cafe or indulge in a hotdog from the popular Let’s Be Frank stand. For older kids, there’s House of Air, an indoor trampoline park, and Planet Granite, which features a climbing wall.
Dinner time? Why not skip the sit-down meals and check out the food trucks at Fort Mason Center on Friday nights? With tantalizing options like Kung Fu Tacos and the famous Creme Brulee Cart, it’s a fun and casual way to eat. Just remember to arrive early for the best choices!
For a guaranteed good time regardless of the weather, visit the Presidio Bowling Center. Nestled in the lush Presidio Park, it offers hiking trails and more outdoor activities if the sun decides to shine.
One of my favorite kid-friendly spots is the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito. It features both indoor and outdoor spaces, including art studios, a toddler area, and Lookout Cove—a sprawling 2.5-acre play area. You can enjoy lunch at the café with a lovely view of the city while listening to Miss Kitty, a local musician who performs kids’ music a few mornings a week.
The Laurel Heights neighborhood is another gem, where the Clay Street Playground has been beautifully renovated. Let the kids play to their hearts’ content before heading to Rigolo Cafe, known as one of the most child-friendly restaurants in the city. With a toy area in the back, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing meal.
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In summary, San Francisco offers a plethora of family-friendly activities, from iconic attractions to delightful dining options. Whether you’re enjoying the great outdoors or exploring educational museums, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.