Step into the vibrant streets of San Francisco, where the magic of the Golden Gate City comes alive for families. In this blog post, let me be your tour guide, navigating through a city that effortlessly blends iconic landmarks with fun surprises. Let’s unveil the best things to do with kids in San Francisco. From classic attractions to hidden gems, ensuring that your family vacation in San Francisco is nothing short of extraordinary. Let’s explore the enchanting streets, parks, and wonders that make the City by the Bay a great destination for your next family getaway.
Hotel Stay: Hyatt Regency Downtown
Our home base for the trip was the Hyatt Regency downtown, a stunning hotel that exceeded our expectations. Thanks to a Costco booking, we enjoyed an upgrade to a spacious room with a balcony. The hotel’s prime location was a game-changer, with all modes of transportation literally at our doorstep – the MUNi, the Bart, the cable cars, and even the ferry.
Transportation: Navigating the City with Ease
We opted for public transit, utilizing the MUNI for most of our travels. Contrary to some misinformation, the BART system isn’t the go-to for exploring the city; think of it as a connector between the airport and different cities. The MUNI, a light rail system, was our trusty companion, providing easy access to major attractions and a regular bus system. Waiting times were minimal, and we felt secure throughout our journeys.
Activities: A Mix of Iconic and Hidden Gems
Our days were filled with a mix of iconic landmarks and hidden gems that were enjoyed by both adults and kids:
1. California Academy of Sciences: Four hours flew by at the interactive and engaging Academy of Science, a must-visit for museum enthusiasts. They have a great outdoor area where my kids spent 2 hours!
2. Botanic Garden: A leisurely stroll through the Botanic Garden allowed the kids to run free, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
3. Japanese Tea Garden: Nestled next to the Botanic Garden, this tranquil spot was a feast for the eyes.
4. Exploratorium: Located on Pier 15, the Exploratorium is a paradise for curious minds of all ages. With over 650 hands-on exhibits, this interactive science museum encourages children to explore, experiment, and learn about various scientific concepts. From the tactile Dome to the Tinkering Studio, the Exploratorium sparks creativity and curiosity.
5. San Francisco Zoo: Take a walk on the wild side at the San Francisco Zoo, home to over 2,000 exotic and rescued animals. Explore the African Savanna, feed the giraffes, and attend animal shows at the Fisher Family Children’s Zoo. The zoo’s immersive exhibits provide a fun and educational experience for kids, making it a must-visit destination for families.
6. Children’s Creativity Museum: Dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation, the Children’s Creativity Museum is great for young artists and inventors. The Animation Studio, Tech Lab, and Imagination Lab provide interactive experiences that allow kids to explore the worlds of art, technology, and storytelling.
7. Painted Ladies: A quick stop at the iconic Painted Ladies, followed by a relaxing time at the nearby park, made for a perfect start.
8. Golden Gate National Park: Breathtaking views awaited at the Golden Gate Bridge, accessible by a bus that takes you straight there. A .6-mile trail provided stunning vistas, and we opted for a leisurely walk instead of a guided tour. Families can walk or bike across the bridge, taking in breathtaking views of the city, bay, and Marin Headlands. The Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center provides information and exhibits about the bridge’s history and engineering.
9. Yerba Buena Gardens: Situated in the heart of downtown San Francisco, Yerba Buena Gardens is a serene urban oasis. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and the Yerba Buena Children’s Garden and play ground offer spaces for reflection and play. The Children’s Creativity Museum is also located within this vibrant cultural hub.
10. San Francisco Cable Cars: Embark on a classic San Francisco experience with a ride on the iconic cable cars. Kids will love the novelty of hanging onto the side of a cable car as it climbs the city’s famous hills. The Powell-Mason and Powell-Hyde lines provide scenic routes with breathtaking views of the bay.
11. Ocean Beach: A local secret revealed – a gorgeous view of the Pacific Ocean. A light rail effortlessly transported us to this breathtaking spot. Let the kids play in the sand, explore tide pools, and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. With the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop, Ocean Beach provides a great escape from the city hustle and bussle.
12. Chinatown: The beauty and vibrancy of Chinatown unfolded as we explored its myriad of restaurants and stores.
13. Ferry Building: An iconic spot offering beautiful bay views and a variety of dining options. We found ourselves returning here for delicious meals.
14. Fisherman’s Wharf: Fisherman’s Wharf is a lively waterfront district with a variety of family-friendly attractions. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, watch street performers, and take in the maritime atmosphere. The area is known for its iconic seafood eateries, souvenir shops, and entertaining activities for kids.
Places To Eat
San Francisco’s culinary scene proved to be as diverse as it gets:
- 9th Street District: A culinary haven near the science museum, botanic garden, and Japanese garden.
- Ferry Building: A gastronomic delight with numerous restaurants and grab-and-go options.
- Chinatown: A treasure trove of culinary experiences. The House of Nanking is a popular tourist spot. Be sure to try their sesame chicken dish and their fried rice!
Despite our short visit, San Francisco revealed itself as a fantastic destination for a family vacation. The city’s blend of diverse food options, captivating attractions, and stunning views make it a must-visit. If you’re up for some walking and a myriad of family-friendly adventures, consider exploring the beauty of San Francisco!
