Raising happy, healthy kids requires energy and stamina. Even when you’re not feeling creative or particularly active, your kids are likely pulling on your leg to get up and play with them! While it might take a little convincing, you know you want to put your kids first. There are plenty of San Francisco kids’ activities that allow you to spend time with your kids learning and playing without breaking the bank. Take a look at the opportunities waiting to be enjoyed by your family today.
Randall Museum
199 Museum Way,San Francisco, CA 94114
Not only is the Randall Museum always free, it offers many cool exhibits and events. Children can learn about animals, spend time exploring a model of a train caboose, create their own “earthquake,” and so much more. It’s the perfect place to let your child burn off some energy while learning important historical information. The Randall is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with special events on Mondays, Sundays, and during the evening.
Berkeley’s Adventure Playground
201 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94710
The Adventure Playground at the Berkeley Marina is another free place for family fun. Unlike your typical playground, kids can build with hammer and nails, ride a zipline, climb on kid-created structures, and play in the mud. Plan to wear sturdy shoes and accompany your child throughout the adventure. Crocs and flip flops are not permitted. It’s open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed during inclement weather. If you plan to visit the playground with more than five children, a fee will apply and you must call ahead to make a reservation.
Concerts in Union Square Park
333 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94108
Union Square Park comes alive April through October with music of all genres, dance lessons, and energy-packed performances. Free concerts typically take place Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. The whole family can enjoy live music and dancing while learning about other cultures and styles of music and dance.
Tilden Park
2501 Grizzly Peak Blvd, Orinda, CA 94563
Tilden Regional Park has a little something for everyone in the family. Most venues are free with some small fees for rides. You can ride the scenic steam train, tour the beautiful botanic gardens, ride an antique merry-go-round, pet and feed animals at Tilden’s Little Farm, or learn about nature and wildlife at the Tilden Nature Area. You could easily spend the whole summer exploring the park with picnics, swimming, camping, hiking, and biking opportunities!
Bay Model
2100 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 94965
Young scientists, engineers, and explorers will love learning about San Francisco Bay by visiting the Bay Model at 2100 Bridgeway in Sausalito. Kids can observe the tides, currents, and eddies of San Francisco Bay up-close. You can schedule a guided tour or check out one of the many special events on the calendar. They are typically open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but hours vary throughout the year. Admission is free.
Albany Bulb
1 Buchanan St, Albany, CA 94706
Who knew an old dumping spot for construction refuse could turn into something so beautiful? Just minutes away from Berkeley’s Adventure Park, the Albany Bulb gives your kids a chance to experience art and creativity firsthand. The Bulb displays natural sculptures made from old construction refuse and other natural elements washed up on the beach. It’s the perfect untamed space to let your kids run around on the beach, while observing sculptures or getting inspired to make their own. The Albany Bulb is a short hike of .65 miles that allows the kids to stretch their legs. It is even stroller-accessible for the youngest members of the family, although you’ll need to bring the jogging stroller to navigate the dirt trail.
Embarcadero Bike Trail
A family bike ride is a great way to introduce your kids to fun, healthy habits. It gets you out of the house and allows you to enjoy all that San Francisco has to offer! There are loads of family-friendly bike trails that feature minimal slopes and wide trails to accommodate even the youngest riders. Embarcadero trail leads you to the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge with sites to see (and maybe a sweet treat of two) along the way. Free parking is available at Chrissy Field or find paid parking at Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Pac Bell Stadium areas.
Whatever activities you choose, remember that spending time together learning, growing, and laughing will result in a happy family. Exposing your children to the arts in fun, interactive ways will spark conversations and interests in your kids that can lead to great things. So get creative, have fun, and remember that the best activities are often priceless!
Photo by Heath Brandon
Jill Cole