Top 17 Kid-Friendly day trips in San Francisco
Planning a family outing in San Francisco? Look no further! This vibrant city offers plenty of exciting and educational "Kid-Friendly day trips in San Francisco." From exploring the wonders of the California Academy of Sciences to embarking on a fun-filled adventure at the Exploratorium, there's something for every young explorer. Get ready for a day of learning and laughter with these kid-friendly excursions in San Francisco.
- 1. San Francisco Zoo
- 2. Aquarium of the Bay
- 3. The Walt Disney Family Museum
- 4. San Francisco Cable Car Museum
- 5. PIER 39
- 6. Dolores Park
- 7. Golden Gate Park
- 8. Leroy King Carousel
- 9. Flyer Thrill Zone & 7D Experience
- 10. Crissy Field
- 11. Children's Creativity Museum
- 12. San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
- 13. San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
- 14. Ripley's Believe It or Not!
- 15. San Francisco Botanical Garden
- 16. Fort Funston
- 17. Randall Museum
1. San Francisco Zoo
Historical landmark, Grizzly Gulch, Penguin Island

The San Francisco Zoo is an ideal location for a family day out with children. It offers interactive activities and a wide range of animals that are sure to delight children. The playgrounds were a favorite among the kids, providing them with hours of entertainment.
The zoo is a great kid-friendly destination in San Francisco, perfect for a family day trip. The animal exhibits were a big hit with the children, and they especially loved the miniature steam train ride. With its engaging activities and diverse animal collection, the San Francisco Zoo is a must-visit for families.
2. Aquarium of the Bay
Only aquarium in the world dedicated to local aquatic animals

Kids thoroughly enjoy visiting Pier 39 in San Francisco. The experience is amazing, leaving them extremely happy and eager to return. One of the highlights is the tunnel, which is a clear favorite among children.
3. The Walt Disney Family Museum
Interactive exhibits, nostalgic displays

The Walt Disney Family Museum is an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy a fun and educational outing. The museum offers a variety of activities that are perfect for keeping kids engaged and entertained, including art and animation classes. The interactive exhibits and animation workshops are particularly popular among young visitors.
A visit to the Walt Disney Family Museum provides a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about the legacy of Walt Disney. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the life and work of this legendary figure, and the interactive exhibits help to bring his story to life. My kids had a great time exploring the museum and learning about Walt Disney's many accomplishments. The museum is a must-visit destination for families looking for a fun and educational day trip.
4. San Francisco Cable Car Museum
World's last manually operated cable car system

The Cable Car Museum is a great destination for families with children. The museum provides an interesting and educational experience as it showcases the inner workings of the cable cars. The length of the visit is ideal for young children, who may have shorter attention spans.
Our family enjoyed riding the cable cars and visiting the museum. The children were excited and it was a fun and memorable way to experience San Francisco. The museum's exhibit of the cable car system's machinery was a hit with our kids, and provided a unique and educational experience.
5. PIER 39
Offers unique views of the San Francisco Bay

PIER 39 is an ideal summer destination for families offering a variety of attractions that are fun for all ages. The pier is home to many exciting features such as musicians, sailboats, and even sea lions. The sea lions, in particular, are a significant draw for visitors, making their home on the pier and providing endless entertainment.
As you explore PIER 39, you will find numerous attractions that will keep you and your family engaged and entertained. From the fascinating Aquarium of the Bay to the thrilling 7D experience, there is truly something for everyone. The pier's historic charm, combined with its modern amenities, makes it the perfect destination for a fun-filled family day out. The sights and sounds of the pier will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
6. Dolores Park
Historic site with cultural significance

Dolores Park in San Francisco is a popular spot for locals, especially those with children. Its convenient location is surrounded by nearby attractions such as an ice cream shop and Bi-Rite market, making it easy to grab a snack or meal. The park's true charm lies in its stunning views and sunny surroundings, making it a peaceful oasis in the city.
The park's playground is a major draw for families, known for being a fun and lively destination for kids. Dolores Park stands out from other parks with its unique and exciting play equipment that children love. In addition to the playground, the park offers a large grassy area ideal for picnics, kite flying, and other outdoor activities, providing plenty of space for visitors to enjoy and relax.
7. Golden Gate Park
Historic site with beautiful gardens and museums

Golden Gate Park is a beloved urban retreat for San Francisco residents, who often refer to it as their backyard due to its central location and frequent visits. Covering 1,017 acres, the park offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, including the California Academy of Sciences, which houses the Steinhart Aquarium, the Japanese Tea Garden, and Stow Lake, where visitors can enjoy paddle boating.
San Francisco residents have a strong connection to Golden Gate Park, often visiting and exploring every part of it. Its kid-friendly amenities, such as the California Academy of Sciences, Steinhart Aquarium, Japanese Tea Garden, and Stow Lake, make it an ideal destination for families. The park's expansive 1,017-acres provide a green oasis in the heart of the city, making it a cherished space for locals.
8. Leroy King Carousel
One of the oldest carousels in the US

The carousel is a favorite destination for my kids, and they especially enjoy seeing Ruby. This location is perfect for families seeking a kid-friendly day trip. The Children's Creativity Museum offers a discount on carousel tickets to its members, making it an even more attractive option for families.
The carousel is a great spot for a kid-friendly day trip, especially for families who are members of the Children's Creativity Museum. My kids love going there and spending time with Ruby. The museum's membership discount on carousel tickets is a nice perk for families, making the destination even more appealing.
9. Flyer Thrill Zone & 7D Experience
7D cinema experience

The virtual 3D ride at Pier 39 was an average experience, but overpriced like other attractions there. The ride may not be suitable for young children as it found to be scary by a 10-year-old, who had to remove the 3D glasses to endure the rest of the ride.
For a better experience, purchasing a combo ticket is recommended, as it provides some sort of discount through the website or as part of a bigger combo ticket with other attractions in the city. The kids seemed to enjoy the ride, making it a fun experience for them.
10. Crissy Field
Historic airfield transformed into a park

Crissy Field in San Francisco is an excellent location for a family picnic. The area is equipped with large wooden tables and simple grills, providing a perfect setting for a meal with kids while enjoying the scenic views. The west side of Crissy Field is especially convenient due to its proximity to various food options and restroom facilities.
As part of a family-friendly itinerary in San Francisco, Crissy Field is a must-visit destination. Its expansive space offers plenty of opportunities for children to run around and enjoy the outdoors. With its picturesque setting and kid-friendly amenities, Crissy Field is an ideal spot for families to spend quality time together while exploring all that San Francisco has to offer.
11. Children's Creativity Museum
Focus on child-led learning

The children's entertainment facility is a fun and enjoyable place for both kids and adults. The staff are very friendly, approachable, and appear to take pleasure in their work. This establishment is an excellent option for families, especially on rainy days, offering a wide range of activities for children of various ages.
The center boasts a plethora of interactive and engaging exhibits that are sure to captivate young visitors. Children from toddler age up to 12 years old can find something that suits their interests. The stop animation studio, in particular, is a major attraction that is not to be missed. Overall, this destination is highly recommended for families looking for a day of fun and entertainment.
12. San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
Unique maritime history

The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is an excellent destination for a kid-friendly day trip. The park offers a unique opportunity for children to explore historic ships and participate in the Junior Ranger program, which provides an educational and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
In addition to the historic ships, the park also features interactive exhibits and a beach area that are perfect for families. The park's educational programs and engaging activities make it an ideal spot for a family outing. Visitors highly recommend the Maritime National Historical Park for a kid-friendly day trip in San Francisco.
13. San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
Only carousel in the world with a fully functioning organ

Pier 39's Carousel is a popular destination for families visiting San Francisco. Its intricate designs and fun ride make it a must-visit attraction for kids. The carousel, located at Pier 39, is a great addition to a family-friendly day out in the city.
The San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39 is a favorite among young children. The carousel features whimsical animal seats and vibrant lights that make for an exciting experience. The attraction is an excellent choice for families looking for a memorable activity during their visit to Pier 39.
14. Ripley's Believe It or Not!
Houses oddities from around the world

The activity was designed with kids in mind and turned out to be a success. Our children, aged 5 and 9, had a great time. Although my wife and I also enjoyed it, it was clear that the experience was primarily for the children.
The museum had more exhibits than we anticipated, and we ended up spending approximately an hour there. One of the highlights was a mirror maze, which proved to be both exciting and, at times, a bit frightening for our younger child.
15. San Francisco Botanical Garden
Over 8,000 different plants from around the world

The San Francisco Botanical Garden is an excellent destination for a family outing, particularly for those with young children. The garden's themed gardens and wide paths make it an ideal location for a peaceful and educational day trip with little ones. The spacious pathways allow for easy navigation with strollers, enabling families to explore the garden's many wonders.
The various plant sections in the garden provide children with an opportunity to learn about different types of flora while having fun. The garden's open spaces also offer plenty of room for kids to run around and expend some energy. The San Francisco Botanical Garden provides a great way to introduce children to nature, making it a highly recommended destination for families.
16. Fort Funston
Historic WWII battery ruins

Fort Funston is an ideal location for a family day trip. The site offers numerous child-friendly trails and picturesque views, making it a perfect destination to enjoy the outdoors with your family. The kids will love exploring the area and watching the hang gliders soar through the sky. However, it's essential to keep a close eye on the little ones, especially near the cliffs, to ensure their safety.
At Fort Funston, children can have fun discovering the trails and marveling at the hang gliders. This destination makes for an excellent family outing, providing a chance to get some fresh air and exercise. The trails are designed to be accessible for kids, and the breathtaking views are a treat for all ages. For a memorable and safe family adventure, head to Fort Funston and take in the beauty of nature with your loved ones.
17. Randall Museum
Interactive learning experiences

The Randall Museum is an ideal location for a kid-friendly day trip, offering a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities tailored to young children. Among the many attractions, the live animal presentations are a clear favorite for many young visitors.
This museum is a perfect place for a family day out, providing a host of engaging activities for kids of all ages. From science workshops to art classes, the Randall Museum offers a fun and educational experience that is sure to delight and inspire. A day trip to this museum is an excellent way to combine learning and enjoyment for the whole family.