San Francisco Kids Activities

Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 have everything you need to keep the kids happy, regardless of their age. Ripley's Believe it or Not! is great for teenagers and preteens who want to see something on the bizarre side. They have odd artifacts from around the world (including a shrunken head), photographs of the unbelievable, and a mirror maze that will warp your perception. For younger children, the carousel on Pier 39 is always a fun choice, and the 4D theater will keep older kids riveted. Other attractions include the Aquarium by the Bay, which provides a glimpse into the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay, as well as the Wax Museum, full of remarkable representations of famous figures and celebs. For easy access to these exciting attractions, check in to the Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf.

Ghirardelli Square

Everyone loves ice cream, and nothing beats enjoying a double fudge sundae with caramel, whipped cream, and cherries while feasting your eyes on gorgeous views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. At Ghirardelli Square, the famous chocolate factory and a San Francisco landmark, the children can stuff their faces with one of the many ice cream options, while you enjoy the sweeping views or watch the cable cars rumble by. Just one of the excellent San Francisco kids activities in the area (see Fisherman's Wharf above), this one will satisfy both your eyes and your stomach.

Exploratorium

The Exploratorium sits at the perfect intersection of fun and education, and with such an amazing, knowledgeable, and attentive staff, your family will be all smiles. The Exploratorium offers over 600 hands-on exhibits, teaching your children about everything from the light spectrum, earthquakes, how an eye works (check out the cow eye dissection, one of the most popular attractions at the museum), to optical illusions, static electricity, and the science behind the senses. A must see for every young visitor, this is a one-in-a-million San Francisco kids activity that can last for a few hours, or all day.

San Francisco Zoo

Head west down Sloat Boulevard to Ocean Beach, right next to the Pacific Ocean, you'll find the expansive and exciting San Francisco Zoo. Excellent for all ages, the zoo is packed with exotic animals and incredible exhibits, including Grizzly Gulch, the Lion House, and Penguin Island. Watch trainers feed the animals, attend talks about conservation after a hot dog at the Leaping Lemur Café, head to the petting zoo for some up-close-and-personal pictures, and wander the day away with howler monkeys, elephants, otters, giraffes, and over 250 species of the world's magnificent creatures.

Zeum

The Zeum in Yerba Buena gardens is one of the most innovative and educational spots in the city, complete with interactive exhibits and multimedia studios. One of the most unique museums you'll encounter, the Zeum's mission is to promote the 3Cs of 21st century education—creativity, collaboration, and communication. During this hands-on San Francisco kids activity, great for children of all ages, your little ones will have a hand in the creation and production of art in today's digital world. Dance with your family members at the Z-Dance Beta exhibit, where you can choose your own music and digital effects while you watch your music video in real time, or learn to manipulate art and photos in the Digital Workshop. Your son or daughter can even create their own animated film! If you've got time, the surrounding Yerba Buena center has a bowling alley, an ice skating rink, and a carousel. Truly fun for all ages, the Zeum is also right around the corner for some of the best shopping in San Francisco and only a few blocks from the Parc 55 Wyndham Hotel.