Day Trip to San Francisco: Top 5 Things with Kids
To read our full blog post about our trip to San Francisco, click here
Are you taking a quick trip to San Francisco? We have our list of top things to do in San Francisco with kids. You’ll be surprised at how much you can do and see in this beautiful city in just one day!
Visit Pier 39
If you don’t know where to find this place, just look for the high flying colorful flags pointing the way to fun! There are plenty of activities for kids – the Aquarium, 2 level carousel, and other paid attractions are located here. On a budget? Be entertained by sea lions, enjoy the gorgeous views of the bridge and Alcatraz, attach a lock to the pier, or be wowed by street performers in the evening!
Come hungry to Fisherman’s Wharf
There are SO MANY restaurants and quick bites around this area! We ate at No. 9 Fishermen’s Grotto. Be sure to try the clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, it’s the best! Not to mention it’s THE menu item to eat in San Francisco. If the kiddos aren’t too excited about eating fish, you can easily find pizza or chicken fingers to satisfy those picky eaters.
Bike the Golden Gate Bridge
You can bike over the Golden Gate Bridge with kids?
YES!
This is an EXCELLENT way to explore the city and sights! We recommend Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals. They have locations all over San Francisco, but if you are wanting a bike trailer or tag-a-long seat for your bike for your children, you’ll need to head to their main location on Hyde Street. If you book online, you can save 20%! All rentals include a helmet, lock and map, plus their free mobile app!
The staff are very friendly and offer advice and recommendations of things to do, along with making sure you feel comfortable on your bike. Your adventure will begin at the rental shop along the path to the Golden Gate Bridge, with plenty of stops to take in the scenery and views! Biking over the Golden Gate Bridge is an experience you’ll always remember. After you reach the town of Sausalito, enjoy a much deserved meal or drink and enjoy the views. Then head on over to the ferry to take you back to San Francisco.
Visit Fort Point
On your way to The Golden Gate Bridge, be sure to make a stop at Fort Point. Even if the kids don’t fully appreciate the history lesson, they’ll love exploring the fort. And you’ll love the views. Plus, it’s free!
You can enjoy reading the history of Fort Point here.
Have a Sundae at Ghirardelli
Finish your day at Ghirardelli Square. It’s pretty lively at night, with music and lights. There’s plenty of space for the kids to run around, throw a penny in the fountain, dance and play. Go inside the main store and see chocolate being made, the kids will love watching the machine churn! Make sure you get a big ole sundae (or two!) to share. If the main chocolate shop has a long line, and it probably will, head down to the smaller Ghirardelli To-Go and grab your sundae! It’s just as fun to sit outside and enjoy the views, anyways!
Do you have more than one day in San Francisco?
May we suggest a few more family friendly activities and adventures:
- Visit Alcatraz. A day tour lasts approximately 2.5-3 hours. Involve your children in the history! Here is a resource for learning with your children: Alcatraz History.
- Visit Lombard Street. It may seem touristy but the kids will get a kick out of watching the cars drive down the street!
- Take a ride on the Powell-Hyde Street cable car. The line for tickets is LONG. Everyone ages 4 and older requires a ticket to ride. Try to do this early in the morning!
- Visit the cable-car museum. Your ride on the cable-car will take you close by, so why not? It’s free and doesn’t take too much time!
- Take the kids to Koret Children’s Quarter in Golden Gate State Park. Don’t forget some cardboard to slide down the famous concrete slides!
1 Comment
Leave your reply.