Not sure how to enjoy San Francisco with kids? Then check out the best children’s attractions in the city to take your kids to.
1. Cable car ride with kids in San Francisco
Riding the cable cars in San Francisco is a must for all visitors. The streetcars run through every part of the city, with an indescribable charm that makes them a favorite form of transport for locals. And it’s no different for children. They get a lot of joy out of riding it. Best of all, you can always take it to get to the city’s main sights.
It’s worth noting that they are true cultural heritage sites in San Francisco, as well as tourist attractions. There is even an entire museum dedicated to them: the Cable Car Museum San Francisco, which tells the story of the beloved cable cars. The cost of a cable car ticket is 8 dollars.
- Important tip: San Francisco is a city with many tourist attractions, such as museums and tours. That’s why our tip is to always buy your tickets in advance. We buy everything on this website that has the best price.
2. Pier 39 tour in San Francisco
Pier 39 is a well-known entertainment and shopping center that has been around since the 1980s, attracting millions of people from all over the world who want to shop, be entertained and eat incredible food.
There are excellent attractions for the whole family to enjoy, but the little ones can take advantage of the Aquarium of the Bay, where everyone has fun learning more about the local marine life and can even touch some of the animals. In addition, there is a center for the preservation of sea lions: the Sea Lion Center, which is also very popular with tourists.
Another highlight of the pier is the double-decker carousel that will enchant any child. Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze is a fascinating maze made up of mirrors, where you are challenged to find your way out. It’s super cool.
3. Stroll down Lombard Street in San Francisco
Lombard Street is one of the most popular places for tourists in San Francisco. The highlight of the area is its curve and zig-zag shape, which can be seen from afar. The unusual slopes have attracted many people to experience the sensation of driving in the area, which turns out to be a lot of fun.
You’ve probably seen the street in Hollywood films and series, such as the “Herbie” franchise and the famous series “The Simpsons”. You can also rent the famous yellow Go Cars to take the kids for a stroll down Lombard Street. They’ll love it.
If you’ve already rented a car to use in the city, it’s also an excellent option for getting around Lombard Street. And with the added advantage of being able to drive as far as you like, for as long as you like.
4. Beach tours with kids in San Francisco
A day of fun at the beach will win over any child. And there’s no shortage of good beach options in San Francisco for the little ones. China Beach, for example, is a relaxing and peaceful beach, where many visitors enjoy a tasty picnic while taking in the best the beach has to offer.
And unlike other beaches in the city, access to it is very simple, making it a great beach for the whole family to swim and sunbathe.
Another excellent beach in San Francisco is Ocean Beach, which is over 5 km long. Because of this, its shore is great for those who enjoy doing physical activity on the beach. In this sense, it’s the right place to play team sports with the kids.
5. Watch an incredible game with the kids in San Francisco
The dream of many children and teenagers is to watch an NBA or NFL game in person in the United States. And we guarantee it: the games have a unique atmosphere and energy. If you can, it’s worth seeing a Golden State Warriors game in San Francisco or the Los Angeles teams (Lakers and Clippers).
The best way to buy your tickets for sports matches is online, always BEFORE you travel. The price of tickets varies a lot depending on where you’re going to sit, but even so, if you buy in advance, the price ends up being a lot less.
6. Discover the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco
As the name implies, the Walt Disney Family Museum is for the whole family and has 10 galleries. In each one, a little about Walt Disney’s life is covered through photos, videos and characters.
Some of the museum’s spaces are interactive, making visitors part of the Walt Disney Family story too. It’s well worth a look, especially given the variety of things on offer, including stores and establishments.
7. Visit the Exploratorium Museum in San Francisco
On the shores of San Francisco Bay is one of the most important science museums in the United States: the Museum Exploratorium Throughout the year, the museum receives around 1 million tourists, who have a great time there. Children will really enjoy learning more about electricity and magnetism in the galleries, for example.
- Important tip: to make the most of your trip to San Francisco, staying in the best areas is essential. So, if you want, check out our article explaining the main areas, the hotels and how you can save a lot on accommodation.
8. Amusement parks in California
With a rental car, you can take your child to enjoy some of the most popular parks in California. The three most famous parks in this region that are really worth visiting are Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland and Six Flags Magic Mountain.
They are super colorful, beautiful and especially fun for travelers. The last of these, Six Flags, is especially extreme and full of rollercoasters – so it can be the best or the worst of the three, depending on your preference.
Universal Studios, on the other hand, stands out for its surprising themed attractions and enchanting shows that win over more than 5 million visitors throughout the year.
Disneyland Park works like a version of Orlando’s famous Magic Kingdom, now in California. There are many attractions linked to Disney’s beloved princesses and characters.
How to save on paid attractions in San Francisco?
San Francisco offers many free and diverse attractions, but there are also paid tours that are not to be missed – such as its incredible museums. To do these, we recommend that you book them in advance, online and with reliable companies – like the one we used on our trip to California. With this company, you’ll be able to visit the most popular places.
And because we always use the same tour company on our trips, we’ve been able to get a special discount for our readers. So, to get access to the discount and already secure tours at a great price, just click here on tickets to San Francisco.
Save money on your trip to San Francisco:
Car: if you are thinking about renting one this is the best website. It compares the price at all rental companies and finds unbeatable prices. You can save up to 30%!
Mobile chip: we always use this chip. It’s electronic (eSIM), you install it instantly and you can use your cell phone’s Internet anywhere in the world.
Hotels: our article on where to stay in San Francisco. You will find out the best areas and how to save a lot on the hotel.
Travel insurance: medical care in another country is very expensive and it is extremely important to take out travel insurance for any trip abroad. This is the website we always take out our insurance on. Reliable and at a good price.
Transfer: do you need one from the airport to the hotel? Find out here how to book and for the lowest price!
