100 Fun Free Things To Do in San Francisco with Kids | Mommy Poppins

2. Sea Lions — Fisherman’s Wharf 

Witness the playful antics and sunbathing sessions of adorable sea lions at Pier 39, where these charismatic marine mammals have turned the docks into a lively and entertaining aquatic haven.  

3. Golden Gate Park — Golden Gate Park 

Golden Gate Park has an abundance of free things to do in San Francisco with kids, from playing at Koret Playground, walking around Blue Heron Lake (formerly Stow Lake), stopping to see and smell the flowers at the Dutch Windmill, and visiting the Buffalo Paddock. 

4. Salesforce Park — SoMa

This lush urban oasis is a must-visit in San Francisco. There is a children’s play structure to climb on, stroller-friendly walking paths, beautiful gardens and groves to explore, and a bus fountain. A free gondola ride will also take you to and from this elevated park.

Additionally, Salesforce Park hosts free events like family storytime on Wednesdays and Toddler Thursdays. 

5. Cable Car Museum — Nob Hill

Learn about the history of San Francisco’s classic cable cars at the always-free Cable Car Museum. Vintage machinery, intriguing exhibits, and unique views of the underground cable system offer an insightful journey into the city’s transportation heritage. 

6. Randall Museum — Corona Heights Park

Kids will love embarking on a captivating educational journey at the Randall Museum. Admission is free and offers a range of interactive exhibits, a toddler treehouse, and hands-on activities that foster a love for science, nature, and the arts. 

7. Presidio Tunnel Tops — The Presidio

Let your kids’ imaginations soar at the Presidio Tunnel Tops in San Francisco—a playful and free outdoor space where they can run, climb, and explore at The Outpost playground amidst breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The Field Station is also a free science and nature curiousity lab for kids that’s not to be missed. 

8. City Guides Walking Tours — Multiple Locations

Choose from 70 free San Francisco walking tours where knowledgeable guides bring the city’s history and culture to life through engrossing narratives. Walks typically last 90 to 120 minutes and are completely free things to do in San Francisco, though donations are encouraged. 

9. Yerba Buena Gardens — SoMa

The popular and seasonal Yerba Buena Gardens Music Festival takes place on the expansive main lawn with a variety of free performances by world-class artists from May to October. Kids will also love the Children’s Garden, which has an enormous play area, including a tot lot and a learning garden for younger kiddos. 

10. Chamber of Secrets Door — Russian Hill

Is your muggle a Harry Potter fan? You’ll want to stop at the Chamber of Secrets door for an essential photo op at 2645 Leavenworth St. It’s easy to include on a San Francisco itinerary when visiting Lombard Street or Ghirardelli Square, as it’s a very short walk to both San Francisco landmarks. Note that this is a private residence. 

RELATED: Family-Friendly Urban Hikes in San Francisco 

 

Walk the Golden Gate Bridge or see it from Lands End. Photo by Erik Cooper, via Flickr 2.0

11. Lands End Trail — Sutro Historic District 

Perhaps one of the most popular hiking trails in Northern California, the Lands End trail provides stunning vistas, rocky cliffs, and scenic overlooks of the Pacific Ocean and Golden Gate Bridge. Don’t miss the exhibits at the Lands End Lookout Visitor Center, and the historic Sutro Baths at the start of the trailhead.

12. Golden Gate Bridge — Golden Gate Bridge

It’s arguably the most famous landmark in San Francisco, and you can walk over the Golden Gate Bridge for free. Pedestrians can walk the mostly flat path on the east side of the bridge in the daylight. It’s 1.7 miles one-way and stroller-friendly. You can bike over the bridge, too. Just don’t let Karl the Fog ruin your walking or biking adventure! 

13. Palace of Fine Arts — Marina District

Marvel at the architectural splendor of San Francisco’s Palace of Fine Arts, surrounded by serene lagoons and lush landscapes. Its majestic rotunda and tranquil environment create a timeless sanctuary for art enthusiasts and visitors seeking beauty and serenity. 

14. Yoda Fountain — The Presidio

Speaking of places near the Palace of Fine Arts and the Presidio, Star Wars fans will want to pay homage to the films by visiting the Yoda Fountain in front of the Letterman Digital Arts Center, home to Lucasfilm. You’re allowed to walk into the doors behind the fountain to see the Star Wars memorabilia in the lobby with strict rules attached. 

15. Baker Beach — The Presidio

Relish the stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean at Baker Beach in San Francisco, a picturesque stretch of coastline that invites visitors to unwind on its sandy shores and enjoy the idyllic scenery. 

16. Seward Street Slides — Noe Valley

Going for a ride down these two concrete slides is a rite of passage for older kids in San Francisco. Bring your own cardboard and wear sturdy pants. 

17. Sundown Cinema — Multiple Locations

Enjoy the magic of outdoor cinema under the stars at the free and seasonal Sundown Cinema. Open-air film screenings create a delightful experience for movie enthusiasts. 

18. Alamo Square — Alamo Square

The Painted Ladies, a row of Victorian houses featured in the opening credits of the television show Full House, are the main draw at Alamo Square. That said, enjoy the incredible city views with a picnic, put the baby on a blanket to bask in the outdoor air, and let the kids run around the playground. 

19. Helen Diller Playgrounds — Civic Center

The Helen Diller playgrounds at Civic Center offer a distinctive experience inspired by the city’s foggy ambiance, featuring a captivating “cloud forest,” inventive climbing structures, and dynamic lighting for an imaginative adventure. Kids will love traversing this unique play structure as one of the many free things to do in San Francisco. 

20. McLaren Bike Park — The Excelsior

Find San Francisco’s inaugural BMX and mountain biking park at McLaren Park. It features a range of trails for beginners and a versatile multi-use plaza. Free skills training and a focus on inclusivity provide a safe and fun environment for riders of all ages learning how to bike or honing their skills. 

21. Ghirardelli Square — Fisherman’s Wharf

Seeing the Ghirardelli chocolate fountain might make your mouth water, but luckily, you can get some free chocolate samples. Ghirardelli Square also hosts many free seasonal events. It would be understandable if this excursion ended up not being free due to giving in to the temptation of chocolate.  

RELATED: Guide To Riding San Francisco Cable Cars with Kids 

 

Wind your way down Lombard Street. Photo by Gina Ragland 

22. Lombard Street — Russian Hill

Experience the twists and turns of Lombard Street in San Francisco, known as the “Crookedest Street in the World.” Its famously winding and scenic curves offer a unique driving or walking adventure. Just remember that Lombard Street is an active street with cars, so be mindful of traffic when walking down the street with kids, and don’t let the beautiful bay views distract you. 

23. Boudin Bakery — Fisherman’s Wharf

You can’t visit San Francisco without eating its famous sourdough bread. While the bread isn’t free at the famous Boudin Bakery at Fisherman’s Wharf, you can see it come alive on the second floor in the form of bread animals, and peer down at the bakers through an observation window. 

24. Stern Grove Festival — Sunset District

Jam out to free outdoor summer concerts among eucalyptus trees. A lush natural amphitheater hosts an impressive seasonal lineup of famous musical artists. Concerts take place in the afternoons, and there’s a kid’s zone with face painting and puppets. Bringing your own food is allowed, too. Tickets are free but need to be reserved in advance. 

25. Japanese Tea Garden — Golden Gate Park

Let’s face it—having kids means you’re inevitably up early. That also means you can take advantage of free admission at the tranquil Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park from 9am to 10am on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. 

26. Black Bird Bookstore — Outer Sunset 

Free frequent storytimes take place in the peaceful backyard of Black Bird Bookstore. Many of the storytimes are from books by Bay Area authors and typically occur on the weekends. 

27. Chinese New Year Parade — Downtown San Francisco

The annual Chinese New Year Parade is one of the essential free things to do in San Francisco. It’s recognized among the top ten parades globally by the International Festivals & Events Association. This illuminated spectacle is the largest Lunar New Year parade outside of Asia, capturing the vibrant spirit of the occasion. 

28. SFMOMA — SoMa

Kids ages 18 and under always receive free admission to SFMOMA. Parents can score a free deal, as well, during their free family days, which occur a few times each year. Bay Area residents can also get free tickets every first Thursday from 1pm to 8pm. Although tickets are free for these occasions, they must be reserved in advance. 

29. Fleet Week — San Francisco Waterfront

Little plane enthusiasts will marvel at the aerial acrobatics of the renowned Blue Angels during San Francisco’s annual Fleet Week. The city’s skies come alive with thrilling air shows, honoring the U.S. Navy and showcasing precision maneuvers that captivate spectators along the waterfront. 

30. Willie “Woo Woo” Wong Playground — Chinatown 

This vibrant recreational space has play equipment inspired by Chinese mythology. Dominating the landscape is a massive climbable water dragon entwined around a two-level tower and slide. A fiery phoenix sculpture serves as a bridge between play zones for tots and older children. 

31. Hardly Strictly Bluegrass — Golden Gate Park

Music enthusiasts gather annually to enjoy a free eclectic lineup of bluegrass, folk, and Americana performances across multiple stages in the picturesque setting of Golden Gate Park. 

32. Fort Point — The Presidio

Fort Point in San Francisco is a historic military fortress underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. It offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s past with its well-preserved Civil War-era architecture and astonishing views of the bridge and the bay. Guided ranger talks are available on this free history excursion. 

33. Francisco Park — Russian Hill 

With its expansive green spaces, scenic walking paths, and a well-equipped children’s playground, Francisco Park provides a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation, offering unbeatable views of the city and bay. 

34. Shakespeare in the Park — The Excelsior

Experience the magic of the Bard under the open sky at Shakespeare in the Park in McClaren Park. Free enchanting performances bring classic works to life in the city’s scenic outdoor venues. 

35. The Wave Organ — Marina District

This unique sonic sculpture is on the San Francisco waterfront. The rise and fall of the tides create mesmerizing sounds through a series of underwater pipes. Visitors will enjoy a harmonious blend of art and nature along the bay. 

36. Golden Gate Park Bandshell Concerts — Golden Gate Park 

Live performances take place in Golden Gate Park throughout the year. With diverse genres and talented artists, these free concerts add a vibrant musical dimension to the recreational charm of San Francisco’s beloved green space. 

37. Chrissy Field East Beach — The Presidio

This family-friendly beach beckons with its sandy shores along San Francisco’s bay, providing a scenic spot for outdoor enthusiasts to relax, play, picnic, and enjoy unparalleled views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Area. 

38. ICA SF — Dogpatch

There is no shortage of free things to do in San Francisco, and this contemporary art museum is another thing to add to the list. Innovative exhibitions ignite dialogue within the artistic community, and the museum often has family events. 

39. Musical Stairs — Fisherman’s Wharf 

Ascend the musical stairs at Pier 39, where each step transforms into a playful musical note. Have a whimsical and interactive experience as you climb while enjoying panoramic views of the bay and the famous sea lions. 

40. Beach Cleanups — Outer Sunset

Help keep San Francisco beaches beautiful while teaching kids at a young age to give back to the community. The Surfrider Foundation has volunteer weekend beach cleanups that usually take place at Ocean Beach. 

41. Circus in the Parks — Multiple Locations

Kids love the circus, and kids in San Francisco have the advantage of getting to see free 60-minute seasonal open-air Circus Bella performances. Circus in the Parks takes place in various parks throughout San Francisco. 

42. Joe Dimaggio Playground — North Beach 

The Joe DiMaggio playground encompasses two acres and features a children’s play area, tennis courts, bocce courts, and sports facilities. It’s adjacent to the North Beach Library and is a dynamic recreational destination in the beloved North Beach neighborhood. 

43. Musee Mechanique — Fisherman’s Wharf

This unique museum has an extensive collection of antique arcade games and mechanical wonders that transport visitors to a bygone era of entertainment. While free, you’ll have an even better time if you bring a few quarters to play some arcade games. 

RELATED: Free Museum Days for Kids in San Francisco

 

Admire the de Young Museum exhibits. Photo courtesy of the de Young Museum

44. de Young Museum — Golden Gate Park 

Art and culture, intriguing exhibitions, and stunning architecture await at the de Young Museum. Bay Area residents receive free admission to the museum every Saturday. Admission is also free for everyone on the first Tuesday of the month, and for certain bank holders during the first weekend of the month. Free tickets should be reserved in advance. 

45. TransAmerica Redwood Park — Financial District 

Whether little legs need a rest from all those San Francisco hills or you picked up delicious sandwiches to eat in a park, the TransAmerica Redwood Park offers some respite amid the hustle and bustle of the city. 

46. Umbrella Alley — Fisherman’s Wharf

Snap those Instagram photos in Umbrella Alley, full of colorful San Francisco-themed street art murals and suspended umbrellas. Kids under 12 are free to roam around Umbrella Alley. Older kids and adults are free, too, though there are suggested donations. 

47. Flower Bulb Day — Union Square

Bask in the yearly spring spectacle of over 80,000 tulips adorning Union Square. You can select and pick a bouquet of tulips from the crop to take home, all for free. 

48. Ocean Beach Fire Pits — Outer Sunset

Ocean Beach makes the list because it has the unique feature of free fire pits on the beach. The fire rings are first-come, first-serve, and you should make it a point to snag one early in the day. Savor the coastal charm with this ambient experience as one of the free things to do in San Francisco. Beach bonfire season is from March through October. 

49. Wells Fargo History Museum — Financial District

Engaging exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays offer a fascinating journey through the bank’s legacy and its role in shaping the financial landscape at this small museum. Note that this free museum is not open on the weekends. 

50. SF Giants FanFest — SoMa 

San Francisco Giants fans can enjoy a free day of fun at Oracle Park with meet-and-greets, photo opportunities with the team’s prestigious trophies, and access to typically restricted ballpark areas. Reserve complimentary tickets in advance. 

51. Wood Line — The Presidio

Add this free outdoor art installation by artist Andy Goldsworthy to your long Presidio itinerary. It consists of a winding line of eucalyptus branches snaking through a wooded landscape that kids will love trying to balance upon.  

52. San Francisco Botanical Garden — Golden Gate Park 

Wander through a diverse collection of over 8,000 different kinds of plants from around the world in the heart of Golden Gate Park. Free hours are daily from 7:30am to 9am, and the second Tuesday of every month. Free tickets, including early-entry tickets, need to be reserved.  

53. BART Story Dispensers — Multiple Locations 

If you plan to take BART to get around San Francisco and the Bay Area, look out for the short story dispensers at select stations. The dispensers provide stories and poems on recyclable paper through a touchless, hover-and-receive experience. Kids get to take home free art and enjoy a short story written by a local Bay Area resident. 

54. Winter Walk — Union Square 

Union Square knows how to dress up for the holidays and transforms into a festive wonderland each December. The free event features vibrant light displays, charming holiday-themed stalls, and a joyful atmosphere, creating the perfect setting for seasonal celebrations and strolls. 

Free Things To Do in the East Bay with Kids

RELATED: Oakland with Kids: Best Things To Do in Oakland, CA 

 

Tilden Park can occupy kids for hours. Photo by Nicole Findlay 

55. Tilden Park — Orinda 

You could easily spend a whole day in Berkeley’s Tilden Park with all there is to do for kids. The Little Farm is a free highlight where kids can interact with farm animals, like cows, sheep, goats, rabbits, chickens, and pigs. You can even bring lettuce or celery to feed the animals (except the rabbits). 

Nearby the Little Farm, also in the Nature Area, don’t miss the exhibits in the Environmental Education Center. On the topic of nature, there are family-friendly hiking trails galore throughout the park. Plus, save some time for strolling through the lovely and free Tilden Regional Parks Botanic Garden. 

56. Adventure Playground — Berkeley

A one-of-a-kind outdoor play space that features kid-designed forts, boats, and towers. Kids can enjoy creative activities with hammers, saws, paint, and recycled materials, and even ride a zip line. It’s a unique experience open only on Saturdays and Sundays and requires children under 18 to have a supervising adult registered for their playtime.

57. Chabot Space & Science Center Telescope Viewings — Oakland

The Chabot Space & Science Center has free public telescope viewings every Friday and Saturday night on the observatory deck. Space enthusiasts of all ages can marvel at celestial sights and deepen their understanding of the universe. 

58. Habitot Mobile Museum — Multiple Locations

The Habitat Mobile Museum brings engaging and educational experiences to children in East Bay communities. Interactive activities range from STEM stations, water play, and rocket launchers in various outdoor parks. Register in advance to attend. 

59. Joaquin Miller Park — Oakland

This free park in the Oakland Hills offers a tranquil retreat from the city with scenic trails lined with redwood trees, a tot lot, and a playground. 

60. Frog Park — North Oakland

There are two playgrounds within this linear park in the Rockridge-Temescal Greenbelt. Redondo Playground is designed for children aged 2-5, while Hardy Playground, located behind the redwood trees in the southeast corner of the Hardy Park greenspace, caters to kids aged 5-12 with its larger structure and features.

61. Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve — Oakland Hills

Did you know there is a volcano in Oakland? Hike the 3-mile self-guided volcano tour, though it may be better suited for older kiddos. The Round Top, Volcanic and Skyline Loop is also a family-friendly trail option at 3.4 miles. Don’t be alarmed when you see grazing cattle throughout the preserve.  

62. Lake Merritt Bonsai Garden — Oakland

Explore the Gardens at Lake Merritt, a seven-acre oasis featuring themed gardens like the Sensory Garden, Bonsai Garden, and Rhododendron Garden, all lovingly tended by volunteers and open to the public for free.

63. Jack London Square — Oakland 

This vibrant entertainment district by the bay frequently hosts free, family-friendly cultural experiences and events. 

64. Forest Home Farms Historic Park — San Ramon

Little ones will love walking through this working farm to see the animals. Take a self-guided tour and explore the on-site Tractor Museum. Fun on the Farm also takes place on Saturdays with free crafts and activities for kids themed around farm life and the late Victorian era. 

65. Rosie the Riveter Museum — Richmond

Step back in history to discover the remarkable stories of women during World War II at this small but historically meaningful gem of a museum. Kids can participate in the Junior Ranger program. 

66. Emerald Glen Park — Dublin 

Find endless outdoor enjoyment at Emerald Glen Park, spanning 48.2 acres and boasting diverse amenities, including sports fields, a skateboard park, and a family-friendly playground with impressive water play features. 

Free Things To Do in the North Bay with Kids

67. Point Reyes National Seashore — Marin County

Point Reyes National Seashore captivates visitors with its stunning coastal landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife like elephant seals and tule elk. The Tomales Bay Trail is an easy 2.5-mile hike that kids of all ages can handle, and Duxbury Reef is an ideal spot for tidepooling. 

RELATED: Best Places to See Giant Redwoods in California 

Interact with exhibits at the Marine Mammal Center. Photo by Gina Ragland

68. The Marine Mammal Center — Sausalito

Dive into this free educational experience for kids, where they can learn about marine life conservation, witness the rehabilitation of seals and sea lions, and discover the importance of protecting our oceans. 

69. Millennium Playground — San Anselmo 

This colorful playground has unique features for playing, including a train depot, locomotive, and local town landmarks. 

70. Point Bonita Lighthouse — Marin Headlands

Perched on the dramatic cliffs of the Marin Headlands, Point Bonita Lighthouse entices visitors with its jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean. It offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty for those who venture to explore its scenic surroundings. 

71. Muir Beach — Marin County

Curious explorers can engage in captivating tidepooling adventures at Muir Beach. The ebb and flow of the tides reveal a fascinating world of marine life within the rocky and scenic cove.

When visiting Muir Beach, don’t miss taking kids to the free Slide Ranch. There are hiking trails alongside the ocean and a delightful array of farm animals, from goats, sheep, honey bees, chickens, and ducks. 

72. McNears Beach Park — San Rafael

A free public pool next to the beach? Jump into the refreshing pool with picturesque surroundings at this oasis directly next to the bay. This family-friendly retreat has sandy shores, picnic areas, and expansive grassy areas. Both the park and the pool are completely free. 

73. Marin Country Mart — Larkspur 

This open-air shopping complex is more than just retail stores and restaurants. They have free weekly children’s music events outside the Poppy Store and fun, free seasonal events for kids. 

74. Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum — Tiburon

Learn about the local history that showcases the rich heritage of Tiburon’s transportation and maritime past through engaging exhibits and artifacts at this seasonally open museum. 

75. Hippie Tree — Tiburon

With its super-awesome tree swing and the charm of a giant, old eucalyptus tree, the Hippie Tree offers a thrilling and scenic experience in a gorgeous landscape. 

76. Nike Missile Site — Mill Valley

Get a fascinating glimpse into Cold War history, showcasing the remnants of a once-active defense site, including missile launch pads and structures. Note that the Nike Missile Site has limited hours. 

77. Cascade Falls — Mill Valley 

The Cascade Falls Trail in Mill Valley leads hikers through a serene redwood grove to the stunning Cascade Falls. It’s a seasonal waterfall you’ll want to see after the rainy winter season, and is a quick 0.5-mile out-and-back trail. 

78. Blackie’s Pasture — Tiburon

This beloved waterfront park has scenic views of the bay and two playgrounds (also known as Leo J. Tugenberg playground). One is for toddlers, and the other is for older kids. Fly a kite or kick around a ball on the wide grassy fields. 

79. Northern Lights — Santa Rosa

Start a family tradition of walking through a magical winter lights tour at the Luther Burbank Arts Center’s Sculpture Garden. The annual free event has twinkle tunnels and hundreds of holiday lights. 

80. Stinson Beach — Marin County

Enjoy the pristine beauty of Stinson Beach, where white sands meet the Pacific Ocean, offering a serene coastal family outing for beachcombing, picnicking, and basking in the natural splendor of the Marin Headlands. 

RELATED: Best Beaches in San Francisco

 

Walk through Tennessee Valley in the spring. Photo courtesy of the National Park Service 

81. Tennessee Valley — Marin Headlands

Tennessee Valley is one of the many family-friendly urban hikes in San Francisco, with a mostly level 1.7-mile trail leading to the picturesque Tennessee Beach. Go in the spring as the valley transforms into a vibrant tapestry of blooming wildflowers. 

Free Things To Do in the Peninsula & South Bay with Kids

82. Intel Museum — Santa Clara 

Tech-loving kids can explore the fascinating world of technology and innovation at the Intel Museum. Visitors can delve into the history and advancements of computing technology. 

83. History Park — San Jose 

History Park offers a captivating journey through Santa Clara Valley’s history, boasting 32 original and reproduction structures that showcase the region’s vibrant past, including paved streets, operating trolleys, and a charming old-fashioned ice cream shop. 

84. Municipal Rose Garden — San Jose 

The Municipal Rose Garden is a spectacular oasis in San Jose, boasting thousands of vibrant blooming roses, and providing a serene escape for visitors to wander among the fragrant blossoms.  

85. Magical Bridge Playground — Palo Alto 

Palo Alto is home to the original Magical Bridge playground in Mitchell Park. It stands out as one of the Bay Area’s most innovative and inclusive play spaces, catering to visitors of all ages and abilities. There are now several Magical Bridge playgrounds in the Bay Area. 

86. Deer Hollow Farm — Mountain View 

Kids can get a unique experience to visit a working farm. It’s nestled within Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve, and provides hands-on educational programs and a glimpse into agricultural life in Silicon Valley. 

87. Museum of American Heritage — Palo Alto

Spend an afternoon learning about the evolution of technology and innovation through captivating exhibits and interactive displays. Visitors will enjoy a fascinating journey through American history and culture.

88. Gamble Garden — Palo Alto 

Stroll through a peaceful gardens, and take part in educational programs dedicated to gardening and environmental stewardship. Don’t miss the free, family-friendly Second Saturday programs, and special events. 

89. Cantor Arts Center — Stanford

See an impressive collection of art spanning diverse cultures and periods at Stanford University. Be on the lookout for the art for all family days that take place at the museum twice each year. 

90. Las Palmas Park — Sunnyvale 

Las Palmas Park offers a tropical escape with its Polynesian-themed ambiance with palm trees, a serene pond, and a distinctive “tropical island” playground. There’s a fenced-in playground for toddlers, and a larger playground for older children. 

91. The de Saisset — Santa Clara 

The free de Saisset Museum at Santa Clara University offers a rich collection of art and cultural exhibitions. 

92. Half Moon Bay State Beach — Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay Beach offers incredible coastal scenery with exquisite sands and captivating ocean views, making it a perfect spot for relaxation with the family and seaside activities. 

93. Christmas in the Park — San Jose

San Jose’s Christmas in the Park transforms the heart of downtown into a festive wonderland with dazzling holiday lights, whimsical displays, and joyful festivities, creating a magical experience for families during the holiday season. 

94. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve Tide Pools — Moss Beach 

At the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, kids can explore tidepools brimming with captivating marine life, offering an enchanting opportunity to discover diverse sea creatures and colorful underwater habitats along the Pacific Coast. 

95. Mori Point — Pacifica 

Mori Point offers alluring coastal vistas and rugged trails, inviting adventurers of all ages to explore its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife amidst the tranquil Pacific shores. Don’t forget to walk barefoot along the black sand beach, Sharp Park Beach. 

96. Central Park & Japanese Garden — San Mateo 

Central Park in San Mateo offers a peaceful Japanese garden and a vibrant playground, providing families with a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.

97. Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History — Santa Clara  

Learn more about railroad heritage through impressive artifacts and model railroads that educate and entertain train-loving kids for an afternoon. 

98. The Reading Bug — San Carlos 

Start a love of reading at an early age at the many free storytimes at this indie bookstore. Storytimes are even outdoors, and there are frequent holiday events. 

99. Agricultural History Project — Watsonville 

The Ag History Project hosts free 2nd Saturday on the Farm events each month. Families experience different aspects of agriculture alongside special activities tailored to each event’s theme. 

100. Monterey Bay Sanctuary Exploration Center — Santa Cruz 

The Monterey Bay Sanctuary Exploration Center in Santa Cruz offers an engaging and educational experience, allowing visitors to delve into comprehensive marine life, and conservation efforts of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, all for free.