San Francisco is known for many famous landmarks, like Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf and Alcatraz Island, all great opportunities to teach children about the beauty and history of the city. But what many don’t realize is the city is also full of kid-friendly attractions designed specifically with your little ones in mind.
If you are planning a family trip to the city, be sure to include some of these family favorites in your itinerary to ensure your little ones have the time of their lives.
There is good reason Exploratorium was named one of the best spots for kids in the United States in 2014. With 600 exhibits specifically designed to be played with, touched and interacted with, Exploratorium teaches kids of all ages about subjects like genetics, foods and cooking, optical illusions and sound.
Located in the Presidio, this fascinating museum offers an exploratory look at the life and works of one of the world’s most celebrated creators of all time. The museum showcases memorabilia and cherished family photos celebrating the life and times of a man who brought joy to generations of children. A miniature replica of Disneyland, activities for children, special film screenings and an on-site café serving Disney-themed treats make this the perfect place to spend a day together as a family.
Ride the Cable Cars
San Francisco’s cable cars are an institution. Not only are they one of the iconic symbols of the city, but they are also one of the most fun ways for kids to experience the city. Whether you hop on and off or take the ride across town all the way to Fisherman’s Wharf, riding cable cars is fun and creates great photo opportunities.
Parks and Playgrounds
San Francisco may be a metropolitan city, but it is full of parks, playgrounds and open spaces for kids to get some fresh air and play time. From the Presidio Tunnel Tops with great views of the Golden Gate Bridge to the Seward Street Slides, where kids can hop on a piece of cardboard and slide down concrete slides designed by a 14-year-old, the parks of San Francisco are as unique and entertaining as the city itself.
Read This Next
How “Kidfluence” Directs Family Travel
Kids
Feb 26, 2026#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedHotels
Mar 13, 2026Make the Most of an Ultra-Luxury Multigen Trip to Rosewood Las Ventanas al Paraíso
With spring break and summer travel coming up, we want to put Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort, on traveler’s radar for a multigen getaway. Expect thoughtfully curated fun for all ages in the beachside setting of Los Cabos, Mexico. Need some convincing?
Sponsored Content
Discover the Azores & Madeira: Portugal’s Island Paradises Await
Embrace the Portugal’s Magical Islands of the Azores and Madeira
Hotels
Mar 13, 20268 Spots for Warm Weather Family Travel This Spring
Looking for a warm weather escape with the family this spring? Consider these eight options:
Latin America
Mar 12, 2026This Hotel is the Perfect Base for Families in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, known as the Paris of South America, is a great destination for family travelers. The capital of Argentina seamlessly blends South American and European culture. My family spent time in Buenos Aires before and after an expedition cruise to Antarctica with HX.
Sponsored Content
Best of Both Worlds
Enjoy the best of both worlds when you fly with TAP Air Portugal thanks to the Portugal Stopover program. With the program, TAP passengers, whether traveling for business, leisure or both, can stop in Portugal for up to 10 days at no additional airfare on the way to their final destination. What does this mean for travelers wishing to explore by both land and sea? It means after flying to Portugal with TAP and experiencing the country in an entirely new way, travelers can then embark on scenic river and ocean cruises from Portugal’s port cities, or fly with TAP to another European destination.
Hotels
Mar 12, 20267 Last-Minute, Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas for Spring Break
It isn’t too late to plan your family’s spring break getaway! Book a stay at one of these resorts around the world.
ShareThis