TOP 30 Best Children's attractions in San Francisco, California

Fort Baker, located in Sausalito, California, is a historic tourist attraction with a rich history dating back to its days as a U.S. Army post in 1905. This 335-acre site, the 9th and final "Post-to-Park" conversion in the Golden Gate National Parks, features over 25 historic army buildings, a sheltered harbor, gun emplacements, and scenic trails that climb gently up from San Francisco Bay. Visitors can explore the historical significance of Horseshoe Cove through a history walk, identify elements on the buildings at Fort Baker, and visit the indoor/outdoor children's museum. The U.S. Coast Guard is also stationed at Fort Baker, protecting the public, environment, and national security.

Emeryville Marina Park is a picturesque waterfront park located at 3310 Powell Street in Emeryville, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the marina, relax on the grassy lawns, or have a picnic while taking in the beautiful scenery. The park also features a playground for children, perfect for families looking to spend a day by the water. Whether you are a local resident or a tourist exploring the area, Emeryville Marina Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Shoreline Park is a picturesque waterfront park located at 311 Paradise Drive in Tiburon, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, Angel Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Visitors can enjoy walking and biking paths, picnicking areas, and a playground for children. The park is a perfect place to relax and unwind while taking in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day with family and friends, Shoreline Park is a must-visit destination in Tiburon.

Alvarado Park, located at 5755 McBryde Avenue in Richmond, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park in the United States. The park offers a range of amenities, including picnic areas, a children's playground, and access to Wildcat Creek. The park is part of the larger Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, which spans 2,789 acres and offers a variety of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Visitors to Alvarado Park can enjoy the historic stonework, lush greenery, and peaceful setting just steps away from the bustling city of Richmond. The park is open during various hours depending on the season, with different closing times from November to February, March to May, June to August, and September to October.

Bayfront Park is a picturesque park located at 498 Sycamore Avenue in Mill Valley, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the bay and the San Francisco skyline. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the waterfront, relax in the shade of the towering sycamore trees, or have a picnic on the lush green lawns. The park also features playgrounds for children, walking and biking paths, and a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun day out with family and friends, Bayfront Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Alta Plaza Park, located on Steiner Street in San Francisco, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park known for its stunning panoramic views of the city and Bay. The park features a tiered staircase that climbs the steep hillside, leading visitors to the summit where they can enjoy the scenery from benches under the shade of trees. The park also includes a children's playground, basketball court, tennis courts, and an off-leash dog-play area in the southeast corner. Originally a quarry, Alta Plaza Park was purchased by the city in 1877 and established as a park in 1888. It was landscaped by Park Superintendent John McLaren, who also worked on nearby Lafayette Park. During the 1906 earthquake and fire, the park served as a campsite for refugees. In 1971, the park was featured in the movie "What's Up, Doc?" where several cars were driven down the grand staircase, causing damage.

Crissy Field is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 1199 East Beach in San Francisco, California, United States. Your gift to Crissy Field helps preserve over 80,000 acres of parkland in the area. The Crissy Field Center serves as a dynamic hub of youth engagement for the Golden Gate National Parks and is a model program of the National Park Service, the Presidio Trust, and the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy. Established in 2001, the Crissy Field Center aims to connect children, youth, families, schools, and community groups to the park through a variety of opportunities. The Center has supported over 750,000 individuals since its inception, and with the completion of Presidio Tunnel Tops in 2022, the Center staff have moved back to their original home.

Huntington Park is a charming oasis nestled in the heart of San Francisco, California. This picturesque park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets. With its lush greenery, beautiful flower gardens, and stunning views of the city skyline, Huntington Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a relaxing picnic, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of San Francisco. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful retreat or a tourist seeking a quintessential San Francisco experience, Huntington Park is a must-visit destination.

Montini Open Space Preserve, located in Sonoma, California, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction offering stunning views of Sonoma Valley, San Francisco, and San Pablo Bay. The preserve is covered with oak woodlands, rock outcroppings, and open grasslands, providing a diverse and scenic landscape for visitors to explore. The trails at Montini Open Space Preserve offer hikers the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. With two overlooks, including one that is ADA-accessible, visitors can take in panoramic views of the surrounding area. The Valley of the Moon Trail, another popular trail on the preserve, offers even more breathtaking views of the Sonoma Valley and beyond.

Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 167 O'Hara Court in Vallejo, California, United States. This preserve offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and natural beauty of Mare Island, a former naval shipyard. With scenic walking trails, historic landmarks, and breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay, Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve is a must-visit destination for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of Northern California. Come discover the stories and landscapes that make Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve a truly special place.

Natalie Coffin Greene Park is a charming and picturesque park located in Ross, California, United States. This tranquil oasis offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with lush greenery, beautiful flowers, and peaceful walking paths. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings. With its scenic views and tranquil atmosphere, Natalie Coffin Greene Park is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Michelangelo Playground is a charming tourist attraction located at 1085 Greenwich Street in San Francisco, California. This beautiful playground is inspired by the famous Renaissance artist Michelangelo and features unique sculptures and art installations for visitors to enjoy. With stunning views of the city and a peaceful atmosphere, Michelangelo Playground is the perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty of San Francisco. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, or simply looking for a picturesque spot to unwind, Michelangelo Playground is a must-visit destination in the heart of the city.

Balboa Park Playground, located in San Francisco, California, is not just your average playground. In addition to the colorful modern structures and awesome skateboard park, this institution is also home to Boxer Stadium, four busy ball fields, and an indoor pool, making it a well-known athletic park in the area. Currently, the children's play area is undergoing a resurfacing project from April 15 to early June, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.

Presidio Wall Playground, located on Spruce Street in San Francisco, California, is a popular tourist attraction for families and children. Following a renovation in 2003, the playground now features a state-of-the-art design inspired by the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris. Visitors can enjoy interactive wet sand play sculptures, unique play equipment, and a challenging play area. The park is a great place for children to have fun and for families to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. If you notice any maintenance issues or vandalism at the playground, you can report them by calling 311 or visiting their website.

Starr King Open Space is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 1215 Carolina Street in San Francisco, California, United States. The park spans approximately 3.5 acres and offers stunning views of the hills to the west and the Golden Gate Bridge on clear days. The institution regularly hosts volunteer stewardship days where community members can come together to help maintain the park. The next volunteer day is scheduled for Saturday, April 13th from 9:30am to 12:30pm. Additionally, there will be an annual meeting and board election coming up soon.

Dolliver Park is a charming and picturesque park located on Madrone Avenue in Larkspur, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, beautiful gardens, and scenic walking paths. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply take in the peaceful surroundings. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views, Dolliver Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the heart of nature.

Corte Madera Town Park is a charming park located at 498 Tamalpais Drive in Corte Madera, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a beautiful outdoor space for visitors to enjoy picnics, leisurely walks, and recreational activities. With its lush greenery, playgrounds, and scenic views, Corte Madera Town Park is the perfect spot for families, friends, and nature enthusiasts to relax and unwind. Come and experience the natural beauty and tranquility of this lovely park in the heart of Corte Madera.

Precita Park is a charming urban oasis located at 3200 Folsom Street in San Francisco, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, with lush green spaces, towering trees, and a playground for children. Visitors can relax on the grassy lawns, enjoy a picnic with friends and family, or take a leisurely stroll through the park's scenic pathways. Precita Park is a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, providing a serene escape in the heart of the bustling city.

Yerba Buena Gardens, located at 750 Howard Street in San Francisco, California, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction that offers a peaceful escape from the city hustle. The landscaped lawns, serene waterfalls, and colorful gardens make it the cultural heart of San Francisco. Embrace your every mood as you explore this unique urban oasis. The park is known for its ever-changing weather conditions, so be sure to check in before planning your visit. Yerba Buena Gardens is also home to the Skating Club of SF, which recently honored Hall of Fame skater Kristi Yamaguchi at a gala event. Additionally, visitors can find design and build inspiration at Sketch Town.

The Upper Noe Recreation Center, located at 295 Day Street in San Francisco, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction in the vibrant Noe Valley neighborhood. This bustling hub features a recreation center and playground, making it the perfect spot for families with young children. Visitors can also enjoy a fenced dog run, tennis courts, basketball courts, indoor gym, auditorium, baseball diamond, picnic area, patio, and multipurpose field. The facility offers a variety of programs, including tot classes, after-school programs, and dance classes for seniors. Whether you're looking to get active or simply relax in a beautiful outdoor setting, the Upper Noe Recreation Center has something for everyone. If you notice any maintenance or vandalism issues, you can report them by calling 311 or clicking the link provided.

Located in San Francisco, California, Cottage Row Mini Park is a charming tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the city's history. Situated just a short walk away from Japantown and the Fillmore District, the park features a landscaped brick pathway lined with beautiful Victorian buildings. These buildings, most of which were constructed by William Hollis in the late 1800s, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to its historic significance, Cottage Row Mini Park also boasts a recently renovated Sutter Street frontage, thanks to a community partnership with the Japanese Cultural Community Center of Northern California. This renovation includes a garden that celebrates the Issei, the first generation of Japanese in America, further adding to the site's rich history.

Shorebird Park Nature Center is a charming and educational institution located at 160 University Avenue in Berkeley, California. Situated in a picturesque park setting, this nature center offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the diverse wildlife and ecosystems of the San Francisco Bay Area. With interactive exhibits, guided tours, and hands-on activities, Shorebird Park Nature Center is a popular tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Come explore and discover the beauty of the local environment at this engaging and informative institution.

Saint Mary's Playground is a charming park located at 145 Justin Drive in San Francisco, California. This family-friendly institution offers a variety of recreational activities for people of all ages to enjoy. From playground equipment for children to picnic areas for families, Saint Mary's Playground is the perfect spot to spend a sunny day outdoors. The park also features beautiful green spaces, walking paths, and plenty of benches to relax and unwind. Come visit Saint Mary's Playground and experience the beauty of nature in the heart of San Francisco.

Esmeralda Slide is a popular tourist attraction located in San Francisco, California, United States. This unique park offers visitors the chance to experience an exhilarating ride down a giant slide made entirely of emerald-colored material. The Esmeralda Slide is a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and families looking for a fun and memorable experience in the heart of San Francisco. Don't miss the opportunity to slide down this one-of-a-kind attraction and create lasting memories at Esmeralda Slide.

Cayuga Park is a charming and scenic park located at 301 Naglee Avenue in San Francisco, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic areas, Cayuga Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing day out with family and friends. The park also features a playground for children, making it a great destination for families. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or let the kids play, Cayuga Park has something for everyone.

Point Pinole Regional Park - Dotson Family Marsh is a stunning 2,432-acre park located in Richmond, California, United States. The park offers a variety of trails that lead through meadows, eucalyptus woods, bluffs, and beaches along San Pablo Bay. Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of Mt. Tamalpais, the Marin shoreline, and San Pablo Bay. The Dotson Family Marsh, formerly known as Breuner, has undergone major habitat restoration and climate adaptation management to mitigate sea level rise and flooding. The park features over 100 species of birds, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. The park has wheelchair-accessible restrooms and paved trails, making it accessible to all visitors. Reservable group picnic areas are available for those looking to host events. With seasonal flooding along the Wildcat Creek Trail, visitors are advised to check for trail closures before planning their visit. The park is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Parking fees are collected from April through October, with rates varying for cars, trailers, buses, and dogs. Visitors are also encouraged to check for AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon coverage before visiting. With its rich history and diverse wildlife, Point Pinole Regional Park - Dotson Family Marsh is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Coyote Point Recreation Area is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 1701 Coyote Point Drive in San Mateo, California, United States. This stunning waterfront park offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and features a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including picnic areas, playgrounds, walking and biking trails, a marina, and a beach for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also explore the CuriOdyssey science and wildlife center, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventure-filled outing, Coyote Point Recreation Area has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Doug Siden Visitor Center at Crab Cove is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 1252 McKay Avenue in Alameda, California, United States. The center offers a variety of educational and interactive exhibits focused on marine and shoreline life, as well as the history of Alameda. Visitors can explore the 800-gallon aquarium system, interactive stations for all ages, and learn about the importance of preserving the marine environment. The center is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm (Mar-Oct) and 10am to 4pm (Nov-Feb), with closures on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Parking is available for $5 per vehicle and $4 per trailered vehicle, with bus parking costing $25 per bus.

Port Royal Park is a picturesque and serene park located on Timberhead Lane in Foster City, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery, including the shimmering waters of the bay. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the walking paths, have a picnic by the water, or simply relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere. With its lush greenery and beautiful landscaping, Port Royal Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Benicia State Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 1 State Park Road in Benicia, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy 2 1/2 miles of road and bike paths for cycling, running, walking, horseback riding, and roller skating. Picnicking, bird watching, and fishing are also popular activities at the park. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. The marshland area on Dillon’s Point is a favorite spot for fishing. A parking fee is required for visitors. Three "Enroute" campsites are available for overnight stays on a first-come, first-served basis, limited to motorhomes or vehicles with trailers that are fully self-contained. Tents are not allowed. It is prohibited to collect or destroy anything in the park, including mushrooms. Online reservations are not available for this park. The weather in the area can be changeable, so layered clothing is recommended. To reach the park, take the Columbus Parkway exit on I-780, 1.5 miles west of the outskirts of Benicia. Latitude/Longitude: 38.0780/ -122.1926.