Kidfriendly_thingstodo_in_SanFrancisco

palace of fine arts san francisco — things to do in san francisco

*with kids*

Living in the Bay area has its perks of being able to get to the most beautiful and fun places within a short distance drive. Now that we are a family of four with a 5 year old and a 2 year old toddler I like to mix activities that are fun for the parents with kid friendly things to do and always plan out the day revolving around good cafes near places to go with the kids. We try to avoid the touristy areas as much as possible and prefer to spend our time in parks, beaches and nature the city has to offer. This way it is less stressful for all of us and easier to get around with the whole family in a more relaxed environment. That said, of course the museums are all amazing to visit too. Here are a few of the easy, kid-friendly activities we like to do as a family.

Walk or cycle the Golden gate bride // We are waiting until our toddler is a little older but if you haven’t done this I think it’s one of those check of the box things to do. It’s a special experience walking from one side to the other or even better with a bicycle.

Ferry Building Farmers Market // Drive in to the city early in the morning to hit up the Ferry Building Farmers market, grab brunch and then head to the Exploratorium which is only a few minutes walk.

Crissy Field // This is a great open space area to see the Golden gate bridge, let the kids play around and parking is usually easy to find.

Presidio Tunnel Tops // A beautifully designed area on top of the parkway tunnels, free and open every day with amazing golden gate bridge views, nature, picnic sites and a natural kids play area with water, sand and play structures.

Battery Wagner // Easy and amazing view walk up to the golden gate bridge. Path is not paved but it’s a pretty straight forward walk way for even younger toddlers.

Treasure Island // Perfect spot to take in the city views from the other side where there are less crowds.

Palace of Fine arts // Beautiful open space with a lake and grassy area for picnic

Botanical Garden // This is our happy place, we go here quite often especially during the warmer months and it’s just so magical to sit down and have a picnic, let the kids run around.

Stow Lake // Kids would love the boat ride

Fort Mason Sunday Farmers Market // I really like this area in the Marin, less crowded than trying to find parking near the ferry building for their farmers market. Also close to other places you could go with the kids afterwards (i.e. presidio, palace of fine arts, golden gate bridge)

SF MOMA/ Conservatory of Flowers/ Creativity Museum / Legion of Honor // good for those rainy days

Sutro Baths // History lovers will love this hidden gem - originally built in 1896, these were privately owned salt water swimming pools but the entire structure was ruined in a fire, so now it’s open for visitors to walk and explore the remnants.

Bernal Heights Hike // Another beautiful spot to see the city but the trail is not too vigorous and paved meaning you could take a stroller if you want.

Lands end trail // Another easy flat ground trail for kids with amazing views of the bridge and resting benches

Hamon Observation Desk // Free panoramic 360 degree views of the city, located on the top floor inside the De Young Museum

Ride the Cable Car // It will be worth it! Kids love this kind of rides and it can Ghirardelli square is one of the last stops

Ghirardelli square // Open space, pop into Ghirardelli for chocolate, walk to the near by maritime national historical park

Hayes Valley // One of our favorite neighborhoods in the city is Hayes Valley, they have a range of great restaurant options, cafes, small playground and an outdoor beer garden.

City Hall Playground // This is a pretty new playground that is located right in front of the City Hall, a great break spot for kids within the busy city center (also close enough to Hayes Valley for good food, live music, boutique stores and bakeries)