39 Best Things to Do in San Francisco with Kids in 2024
LOOKING FOR THINGS TO DO IN SAN FRANCISCO WITH KIDS?
We can help! We’ve been traveling with kids since 2015 and our family loves spending time in California. There are many fun things to do with kids in San Francisco.
We have made a detailed description of many of our favorite things to do there with our family. If you are exploring the museums or spending time relaxing at the park, there are many fun places for kids in San Francisco. You will have many days of entertainment with these great activities.
The San Francisco City Pass is a great way to explore the city with your kids. It includes admission to top attractions like the Aquarium of the Bay, San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, and many more. It also includes discounts on other activities, like dining and shopping. The City Pass is a great value and makes it easy to see all the top sights in San Francisco.
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Best Things to Do in San Francisco with Kids
1. Muir Woods National Monument
The Muir Woods National Monument is a great place to visit if someone wants to see some beautiful redwoods. There are some great hiking trails, and people can walk around the park and enjoy nature.
If you are looking for the easiest way to see the Giant Redwoods try taking a tour like the Giant Redwoods Tour, Including a 4-Course Winery Lunch, or use the San Francisco to Muir Woods Shuttle. These tours will take you from San Francisco to the Muir Woods and back so you can enjoy the redwoods without having to worry about renting a car or finding a spot to park.
The Giant Redwoods Tour Including a 4-Course Winery Lunch includes a stop at a winery on the way back to San Francisco so you can enjoy some local wine. The tour includes pick up and drop off at the majority of San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Warf Hotels, Muir Woods admission, and a four-course lunch at a local winery
If you want something less expensive, you can take the San Francisco to Muir Woods Shuttle. This shuttle will take you from San Francisco to Muir Woods and back. You will need to purchase your own admission into Muir Woods, but this is a great option if you don’t have transportation and want to experience the Redwoods while you are in San Francisco. The local guide is fantastic.
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2. Santa Cruz Beach
The Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk are more fun to visit in the late spring and summer. In the winter months, the rides shut down, but there are fewer people. There is an arcade, miniature golf course, laser tag, and bowling alley. Neptune’s Kingdom has mini golf, an arcade, pool tables, and air hockey.
There is a variety of rides available for little ones, as well as thrill rides for the brave members of the family. Be sure to take some time to walk out onto the pier.
Santa Cruz is about an hour and a half drive from San Francisco, but the drive is worth it when you get to the beach. Santa Cruz Beach is a great place to relax, people-watch, and catch some waves.
While you are there, you should get some food at The Crepe Place. The Crepe Place is a local favorite and has a great selection of crepes. They also have a lot of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great place for everyone in the family.
3. Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a gem in the city of San Francisco. It is 1,017 acres filled with gardens, play equipment, trails, monuments, wildlife, and picnic areas. We spent about an hour and a half exploring the walking trails in the park, but you can spend much longer relaxing and enjoying the great views.
The park has a lot of different gardens, including the Japanese Gardens, The California Academy of Sciences, The Conservatory of Flowers, The Koret Children’s Quarter, and an aquarium which all are beautiful to see. The park also has a lot of different walking trails, making it a great place for a walk.
Golden Gate Park is also home to a lot of different museums, like the Museum of Modern Art and the De Young Museum. These museums are a great way to learn about the history and culture of San Francisco.
4. Tiled Steps
The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps are located on Moraga Street between 15th & 16th Avenues. These steps are so impressive and definitely worth a quick stop. The 163 steps have been transformed into a beautiful mosaic panel including animals, fish, and shells. The project was started in 2003 to connect the neighbors in a project to enhance Golden Gate Heights.
The steps have beautiful gardens on both sides that are maintained by volunteers. While we were there, an elderly lady was there tending to the flowerbeds. She has been working in the gardens for more than 5 years. Make sure you climb to the top of the stairs. There is a beautiful view of San Francisco.
5. Lands End Hike
This hike will take you along the beautiful Lands End coast with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. The hike is about 3.4 miles long and is a relatively easy and relaxing hike. The best address to put in your GPS to get there is 680 Point Lobos Ave.
You can park in the lots near the Sutro Baths area or near the memorial.
6. Crissy Field
Crissy Field has iconic views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. There are beaches, picnic tables, and grassy fields for just about anything you can imagine. Crissy Field has a fascinating history starting as a home for the Native Ohlone, then as an Army airfield, and finally as an industrial area.
Take some time to explore the marsh, Warming Hut Café, and historical markers. It is also a great place to take some pictures of the bridge.
7. Ghirardelli Square
The beautiful and historic Ghirardelli Square is a large, former chocolate factory that is now a chocolate store and eatery. They have Ghirardelli chocolates in every flavor imaginable and a great ice cream counter. There are also lots of cute, little shops to browse through and delicious places to eat throughout the square.
Next to Ghirardelli Square, there are some historical objects and antiques you can browse. My kids will never pass up an opportunity for some chocolate.
8. Union Square
Union Square is located in downtown San Francisco and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. It is a large public square that is bordered by department stores, hotels, and other high-end retailers.
Union Square is a popular place to visit because of its central location and the many things to do there. The square has a large public plaza where people can sit and relax, as well as a number of statues and monuments. The area is also home to several high-end retailers, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, and Neiman Marcus. There are also several restaurants and bars in the area.
If you take the Powell-Hyde Line, also known as the Green Line, the ending destination is Union Square.
9. Cable Car Ride
The cable cars in San Francisco are a popular attraction and a great way to see the city. The cars run on tracks along the hills of the city and can be a little bit bumpy but super fun. The views of the city from the cars are amazing.
The best way to experience cable cars is to take a ride on one of the historic cars. There are three different lines: Powell-Hyde, Powell-Mason, and California Street. The Powell-Hyde line is the most popular because it runs through Union Square and offers some of the best views.
When we went to get back on the cable car, the line to get on the cable car was SO long! We ended up just walking to the next stop on the route and got right on. You’ll probably be standing on the cable car instead of seated if you do this, but it is better than waiting in line for an hour.
10. Fisherman’s Wharf
This is San Francisco’s most famous waterfront community. It is filled with delicious clam-chowder bread bowls, sea lions, live performers, and shopping. There are numerous attractions like the Aquarium of the Bay, the San Francisco Carousel, and musical stairs.
The Pier’s “Sea Lebrities” is a group of sea lions that camp out at the pier. There are usually about 900 sea lions in the winter on the docks at the pier, and they are fun to watch. During the summer months, there are fewer sea lions due to migration.
Also, for all the left-handed travelers out there, there is a store called Lefty’s at Pier 39. We are both left-handed, so we were in awe at this shop. Everything is made specifically for left-handed people, including spiral notebooks. If you’re left-handed, you will understand the significance of this!
11. Pier 39
There are plenty of things to do on Pier 39 in San Francisco, from shopping and dining to watching the sea lions. The pier is a popular destination for many because of its central location and abundance of attractions.
Visitors can also enjoy musical stairs and a variety of street performers while they’re there.
12. Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is very iconic and one of the best things to see in San Francisco. Construction began on the bridge in 1933, even though the first proposal came in 1872. It took four years to build, and working on the bridge was extremely dangerous.
Nineteen workers were saved by a safety net suspended under the floor of the bridge. Eleven men were killed during the construction of the bridge, 10 of which were killed at the same time when a scaffold fell through the net.
Originally the U.S. Navy wanted to paint the bridge with black and yellow stripes to make sure passing ships saw it. In the end, the bridge was painted the famous International Orange to match the bridge’s natural surroundings.
It is windy out on the bridge, so plan your wardrobe accordingly. Some viewpoints of the bridge are very crowded and do not allow room to park a car.
If you don’t have a car or want to avoid the hassle of parking and figuring out the best views, take the 2-Hour Golden Gate Bridge Tour. It is a fantastic tour and a great way to experience the Golden Gate Bridge.
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13. Fort Point National Historic Site
The Fort Point National Historic Site is significant because it is the site of a former military fort that defended San Francisco Bay following the Gold Rush through World War II. The fort has a spectacular view of the Golden Gate Bridge and is filled with a fascinating history.
It is a great place to take close pictures of the bridge and watch the boats traveling through the bay. The historical site is free to the public and offers great education on the history of the Golden Gate Bridge and Fort Point.
14. Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz is one of our favorite parts of San Francisco. We went on a day tour which includes a round-trip ferry ride, an audio tour, and optional programs and exhibits. We loved having the audio tour because it gave us more history and stories about Alcatraz than we would have gotten had we just walked through on our own.
The Rock is about 22 acres and is about 1.5 miles offshore. Alcatraz was operational from 1934 to 1963 and housed some of the most dangerous felons of its time, including Al “Scarface” Capone and Robert “Birdman of Alcatraz” Stroud.
A few inmates did escape from the island, but it is unknown whether they survived the currents of the bay. Alcatraz was eventually shut down due to the high operational costs of transporting drinking water to the island and waste away from the island.
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15. Ferry Building Marketplace
The Ferry Building Marketplace is found along the Embarcadero at the foot of Market Street. It is a transit hub as well as a market filled with fresh food, local vendors, and much much more. The real reason to go to the marketplace is for the food. The farmers market is held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays until 2 p.m.
It is a great place to get a drink, a meal, or a souvenir to take back home. Once you’ve explored the market, head around back for some great views of the bay.
16. Grace Cathedral
Grace Cathedral is an Episcopal cathedral on Nob Hill. The church is most famous for its mosaics by Jan Henryk De Rosen. It also has beautiful stained-glass windows, “Gates of Paradise,” and is home to one of the very few remaining men and boys cathedral choirs.
The “Gates of Paradise” is on one of the entrances to the Cathedral and is a replica of the doors in the Florence Baptistry. The cathedral is beautiful on the inside and outside. When we went to the cathedral, there was a yoga class going on, so if you want to check out the inside, make sure they don’t have any events at the time. The yoga class filled the entire Cathedral.
For more about Grace Cathedral, check out their website.
17. Lombard Street
Lombard Street is a steep, one-block section of road with eight hairpin turns. It is found on Russian Hill between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. The street claims to be “the crookedest street in the world.”
If you have a car, drive down the street. It is a beautiful street with well-cared-for gardens. It was built in 1922 to reduce the hill’s 27 percent grade.
Tip: The Bay Area has lots of fun glamping spots. If you’re looking for a unique and fun experience, check out the Bay Area glamping.
18. Food Tour
The SF Native Local Food Tour is a great way to learn about the history and culture of San Francisco while enjoying some delicious food. The tour takes you to various places around the city, including the Ferry Building, Chinatown, North Beach, and Little Italy.
The tour includes tastings from local restaurants and food artisans. You’ll also learn about the city’s history and hear some fun stories along the way. The tour is offered daily and lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes.
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19. Chinatown and the Fortune Cookie Factory
Chinatown is one of the most popular tourist destinations in San Francisco. It’s home to some of the best Chinese food in the city, as well as souvenir shops and other attractions. The neighborhood is also known for its colorful architecture and lively street life.
If you don’t want to spend your time walking around aimlessly, you should look into taking the Chinatown Food & History Walking Tour. It offers a unique and memorable experience that allows visitors to explore Chinatown while savoring delicious food tastings from local restaurants and food artisans.
On the tour, you’ll also learn about the city’s history and hear some fun stories along the way. The tour is offered daily and lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes. You can expect to visit 6 different locations and visit some great places to eat.
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While you’re in Chinatown, be sure to stop by the Fortune Cookie Factory. We stopped in on our last visit to San Francisco, and our kids loved it. It was so interesting to watch the machine that makes the cookies, and the cookies are delicious. They are nothing like what you get at the Chinese restaurant down the street.
20. Surf Lessons
The San Francisco Pacific Beach area is a great place to learn how to surf. You can take a 3-hour beginner Surfing in San Francisco (Pacifica Beach) lesson and be up and riding waves in no time!
All of the necessary equipment is provided, as well as a wetsuit if you need it. You will love the time with your instructor. You can do a morning or mid-day lesson.
21. Sailing Cruise
A San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening. You can enjoy the beautiful views of the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge while sailing on a luxury catamaran.
The cruise leaves from Pier 39 and will take you up close to Alcatraz Island and under the Golden Gate Bridge. While on the boat, you will need to bring your own snacks, or you can purchase snacks and drinks while sailing. One of our favorite ways to see a city is from the water, and this is no exception.
22. Aquarium of the Bay
People like the Aquarium of the Bay because it is a great place to learn about the marine life in San Francisco Bay. It is also home to a variety of sea animals, including sharks, rays, and octopuses.
Some of the best exhibits at the aquarium are the Kelp Forest exhibit and the new Ocean Voyager exhibit. The Kelp Forest exhibit is a simulated kelp forest that features a variety of fish, including seahorses and octopuses. The Ocean Voyager exhibit is a large tank that features whale sharks, manta rays, and other large fish.
The Aquarium of The Bay is one of the best fun things to do in San Francisco with kids
23. Exploratorium
The Exploratorium is a hands-on science and art museum located in San Francisco. It is one of the most popular museums in the city and offers a variety of exhibits and activities that are sure to entertain visitors of all ages. It is located on Pier 15 (Embarcadero at Green Street).
Some of the best things to do at the Exploratorium include exploring the museum’s exhibit halls some of the best exhibits are the magnetic sand, the Anti-Gravity Mirror, and The Bay Bridge Model.
We love hands-on science exhibits. They are great for kids because everything is very hands-on. When the kids get to touch everything, they stay busy for hours and have a great time.
To check out more about the Exploratorium, you can visit their website.
24. California Academy of Sciences
The California Academy of Sciences is a natural history museum located in Golden Gate Park. It is one of the largest museums in the United States and is home to a variety of exhibits and attractions that will entertain visitors of all ages.
Some of the best things to do at the California Academy of Sciences include the African Hall, the North American Hall, the Ocean Hall, and the South American Hall. This is a great place if you are looking for a great date spot.
The California Academy of Sciences has a NightLife exhibit that is for those who are 21 and older. It happens every Thursday, and the prices vary. Make sure you bring your ID because your ID is required.
25. USS Pampanito
The USS Pampanito is a WWII submarine that has been turned into a museum. It’s a really interesting and unique place to visit, and it’s perfect for kids because they can learn about history in a fun and interactive way.
The USS Pampanito is open daily from 10 am to 5:30 pm. They also have educational day and overnight programs that many families find enjoyable.
26. Mission Dolores Park
Dolores Park is a really popular spot for people in San Francisco. It’s in the Mission District, and it’s a great place to relax and have a picnic. It’s also a great place to go with kids because there are lots of play structures and open spaces for them to run around.
There is an athletic field, dog park, playground, and tennis courts. The park is 16 acres, and they have many different festivals, events, and a great view of the skyline.
27. Randall Museum
The Randall Museum is a museum in San Francisco that is dedicated to teaching kids about science, art, and culture. They have exhibits on nature, animals, dinosaurs, space, and more. They also have a pop-up planetarium on Saturday, art studios, and a theater.
The Randall Museum is open from Tuesday-Saturday from 10 am-5 pm, and on Sundays from 11 am-5 pm. They offer classes and workshops for kids, and they also have an animal rescue program.
28. San Francisco Zoo & Gardens
The San Francisco Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from all over the world. Some of the highlights include elephants, gorillas, tigers, and lions. The zoo is also home to a number of endangered species, making it an important conservation center.
You can host a wedding, party, birthday, or even a corporate event at the zoo. We love visiting zoos, and we visit many of them. Our kids love to see the different animals and find it very entertaining. It is also fun to see how many of the zoos are different and how they are similar.
The San Francisco Zoo & Gardens is one of the best family attractions in San Francisco.
29. Attend a Professional Sporting Event
There are a number of professional sporting events in San Francisco. The most popular are the San Francisco Giants (baseball), the Golden State Warriors (basketball), the San Francisco 49ers (football), and the San Jose Sharks (hockey).
If you are a sports fan at all, San Francisco is a great place to see some of the most famous and competitive professional sports teams around.
30. Seward Street Slides
The Seward Street Slides are a set of public slides in the SOMA district of San Francisco. They were installed in 2014 and quickly became popular, with people lining up to take a ride down them.
The slides are made from concrete and work best when used with cardboard or a hard fabric. They were built in the 1960s and were designed by a teenager. They are actually a triumph of activism in the area when people were trying to protest the corporate building of open space.
31. Day Trip to Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is a beautiful park located about four hours from San Francisco. The park features stunning granite cliffs, waterfalls, and meadows. It is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and coyotes. Visitors can stay in the park overnight in campgrounds or hotels, or take day trips from San Francisco.
Yosemite is one of our favorite national parks in California, with huge granite rock cliffs where you can watch climbers climb up impressive walls. It is also where the film Free Solo was filmed. It is a movie about a professional rock climber who climbs without any ropes or safety gear.
If you are into the outdoors at all, Yosemite is a must-see. You can check out some fun things to do there in our guide about the Best Things to Do in Yosemite with Kids. It is a bit of a drive over so consider bringing some good road trip toys with you!
32. Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore is a beautiful park located about an hour and a half from San Francisco. The park features stunning coastal scenery, including rocky cliffs, beaches, and salt marshes. It is a popular destination for hikers, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, bald eagles, and seals. Some of the best things to see at Point Reyes National Seashore include the Point Reyes Lighthouse and the Bear Valley Visitor Center.
33. Children’s Creativity Museum
The Children’s Creativity Museum in San Francisco is dedicated to the arts and creativity. Some of the best things to do at the museum include participating in art workshops, exploring the different exhibits, and watching performances.
The museum has been under construction but should be opening in October 2022 with new and exciting exhibits. To make sure they are open when you head over and for tickets, visit their website.
34. Bay Area Discovery Museum
The Bay Area Discovery Museum is a hands-on museum for children located in Sausalito, California. It is ranked as one of the ten best children’s museums in the United States. Some of the popular exhibits include the water play area, the art studio, and the science exhibit.
The museum offers various programs for both children and parents, including classes, camps, and workshops. They also have a café on site that serves healthy food options. The museum is great for younger kids, with lots of fun and unique activities.
35. Battery Spencer
This is a quick and easy stop if you are looking for some other places to take pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge. Parking can get crowded here, so try to visit in the off-hours if you can. Depending on how far away you have to park, there is a quick and easy walk out to the viewpoint.
36. San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is located in the Fisherman’s Wharf area and gives stories and insights about the Pacific Coast maritime history. There are several museums and attractions at the park, including 6 historical landmark vessels.
The parking is limited, so it is recommended to use public transportation when possible.
37. South Park
South Park is a small, triangular park located in the South of Market neighborhood in San Francisco. It is known for its playground, which has a variety of equipment for children of all ages, as well as its public art. The art in the park change on a regular basis, so there is always something new to see.
38. City Lights Bookstore and Publishing Center
City Lights Bookstore is a bookstore in San Francisco that was founded in 1953. It is known for its support of the Beat Generation and for publishing Allen Ginsberg’s “Howl.” Today, the store stocks over 3,000 titles and continues to be a popular spot for book lovers.
39. Baker Beach
Baker Beach is popular because it offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline. It’s also a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Visitors can also explore the beach’s tide pools, which are filled with sea creatures.
At the beach, you can see the harbor porpoises in the area. There is also a picnic area, and there are restrooms at the beach.
Do keep in mind that the farther north you go on the beach, you may run into nude beachgoers. The north section of the beach is considered a nude beach. We visited first thing in the morning so we could take pictures with the bridge here and did not see any nude beachgoers.
Best Places to Stay in San Francisco with Kids
Marriott Marquis San Francisco
The Marriott Marquis San Francisco is perfect for families because it offers a variety of activities and amenities for kids of all ages. The Marriott Marquis is also close to some of San Francisco’s top attractions, like Union Square, the Cale Cars shopping, and multiple museums.
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The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square
The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square is a historic hotel in downtown San Francisco that’s perfect for a family vacation. It first opened in 1904 with a European style but is still very modern.
There are many different types of rooms to choose from, with a range of square feet and multiple different bed configurations to fit the whole family. We have stayed in Westin hotels before and always have a great experience.
The location on Union Square makes this a great place to stay to see the city.
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Hotel Nikko san Francisco
The Hotel Nikko San Francisco is a great place to stay while in the city. The hotel offers guests beautiful views of the city, as well as luxurious amenities and accommodations. Hotel staff is also very friendly and helpful and will do everything they can to make your stay enjoyable.
The hotel is also pet friendly for those who want to bring their furry kids along on their adventure.
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W San Francisco
The W San Francisco is another great hotel to stay at while in the city. The hotel is located in Union Square and offers guests a great location from which to explore the city. The hotel is also very modern and stylish and offers guests a great place to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
The room at the W San Francisco is very stylish and comfortable. The hotel offers guests a range of different room types, all of which are decorated in a modern style and come with all the amenities you would expect from a luxury hotel.
The rooms also offer great views of the city, making it the perfect place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of San Francisco.
▶ Check Rates & Book: W San Francisco
FAQ: Things to Do in San Francisco with Kids
Where can I take my kids in San Francisco?
San Francisco has so many places where you can take your kids. We actually go by the philosophy that if we want to go and there is no height limit or an age limit, we take our kids.
Is San Francisco family-friendly?
Yes, San Francisco is family-friendly. There is such a large variety of things to do in San Francisco with kids, like visiting the Redwoods, visiting the many museums around town, and spending time at the beach.
Conclusion: Things to Do in San Francisco With kids
San Francisco is a great city for families. It has so many different activities that are kid-friendly. We love all the free things to do in San Francisco with kids. There are many things to learn and experience. We hope you have found these adventures as fun as we do.
Whether you’re driving in, flying in, or looking for places to RV camp in Northern California, there are lots of great places to stay to enjoy the great activities in the area.
San Francisco is an amazing city to explore, and while there are lots of free kids’ activities in San Francisco, there is also a lot that does cost money. If you are looking to save money on your adventures, don’t forget about the CityPass. It is a great way to go to many activities and not have to pay full price.
