10 Exciting Activities For Kids In The Bay Area.

fun things to do with kids bay area

The Bay Area is known for its picturesque scenery, tech behemoths, and bustling cultural hubs. However, for kids, the place holds a universe of adventure and exploration. From exhilarating amusement parks to interactive museums, and from natural wonders to tech tours, the Bay Area offers a plethora of exciting activities that will keep your young ones busy and smiling. In this article, we've rounded up the top ten thrilling activities for kids in the Bay Area, sure to invigorate their senses and create unforgettable memories.

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Exploratorium (San Francisco)

Exploratorium
Source: SFGATE

The Exploratorium, located in San Francisco, is a must-visit for families with kids. It's a museum that offers fun and interactive exhibits, perfect for children of all ages.

The museum has over 600 exhibits that display the wonders of science, art, and perception. There are various exhibits in the museum that cater to different interests and ages.

For example, the Tactile Dome is an exhibit that allows visitors to experience total darkness while crawling, sliding and climbing through a space. It's an adventure ride that kids will love.

The museum also has exhibits like the Human Hearing exhibit, where visitors can test the range of their hearing by listening to different sounds. The Ice Stories of Antarctic exhibit allows visitors to learn about the science behind ice and explore a recreated research station.

There are also exhibits that feature experiments with electricity, light, and sound. These exhibits demonstrate the laws of physics in a fun and educational way.

Apart from the interactive exhibits, the museum also hosts events, workshops, and talks on various topics related to science, art, and technology. These events are both entertaining and educational for kids and parents alike.

The Exploratorium has a beautiful location by the waterfront, which makes it a great place to spend an entire day. The museum has an outdoor seating area and cafe where visitors can relax while enjoying views of the San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge.

In conclusion, the Exploratorium is an excellent place to visit with kids in the Bay Area. The museum's interactive exhibits, outdoor spaces, and events offer many fun and educational opportunities that kids will love. Plus, it's a great way to spend a day in beautiful San Francisco.

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Aquarium of the Bay (San Francisco)

Aquarium
Source: SF Travel

If you're looking for an exciting and educational activity to do with your kids in the Bay Area, look no further than the Aquarium of the Bay in San Francisco. This unique destination is located in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf and offers visitors the chance to explore the amazing marine life that inhabits the San Francisco Bay.

The Aquarium of the Bay is home to over 20,000 animals representing more than 600 species. Visitors can observe a variety of sea creatures up close and personal, including octopuses, jellyfish, rays, and even sharks. One of the most popular exhibits is the Bay Tunnel, where visitors can walk through a 300-foot tunnel and view different marine habitats, from the rocky shore to the open ocean.

But the Aquarium of the Bay is much more than just a window into the underwater world. The facility also offers a variety of interactive exhibits and programs designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages. Kids will love the touch pools, where they can touch and interact with sea stars, sea urchins, and other creatures. There are also fun and informative daily presentations about the animals at the aquarium, as well as special events and activities throughout the year.

One of the best things about the Aquarium of the Bay is its commitment to conservation and sustainability. The facility actively participates in research and conservation efforts to protect and restore the health of the San Francisco Bay and its wildlife. Visitors can learn about these efforts and ways they can help protect the environment through educational exhibits and programs.

Overall, a trip to the Aquarium of the Bay is a fun and educational experience that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you're a marine biology enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to entertain your kids, the Aquarium of the Bay is a must-visit destination in the Bay Area. So grab your camera and get ready to explore the wonders of the San Francisco Bay!

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Children's Discovery Museum (San Jose)

Childrens
Source: Wikipedia
Characteristic Description
NameChildren's Discovery Museum of San Jose
TypeCultural institute in San Jose, California
WebsiteGo to website
Rating / Review count4.6 / 3,463
Address180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA 95110
Phone(408) 298-5437
HoursMonday - Closed
Tuesday - Closed
Wednesday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4:30 PM
Thursday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4:30 PM
Friday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4:30 PM
Saturday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4:30 PM
Sunday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 4:30 PM
Profiles       

Fun Things to Do with Kids Bay Area: Children's Discovery Museum (San Jose)

If you're looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids in the Bay Area, the Children's Discovery Museum in San Jose is a must-visit destination. The museum offers a wide range of exhibits and activities that promote learning and exploration for children of all ages.

One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the Wonder Cabinet, a collection of unusual artifacts from around the world that kids can touch and explore. They can examine fossils, see how a snake sheds its skin, or try on traditional African clothing. It's a great way to encourage curiosity and tactile learning.

Another popular exhibit is Art Daze, where children can explore their creativity by painting, drawing, sculpting, and building with a variety of materials. There are also several interactive exhibits where they can explore science and technology concepts, including a water play area where they can learn about the principles of fluid dynamics.

For older kids, the museum offers a variety of STEM-focused exhibits that highlight the latest trends in science and technology. These exhibits include a robotics lab, a 3D printing station, and a kinetic art exhibit that explores motion and dynamics.

In addition to the exhibits, there are also several outdoor play areas where kids can burn off energy and have fun. The Kids' Garden is an interactive space where they can learn about gardening and ecology, and there's also a large jungle gym and several smaller playgrounds throughout the museum grounds.

The Children's Discovery Museum is not just a fun place to visit, but it's also a valuable educational resource for families in the Bay Area. The museum's exhibits and activities provide opportunities for children to learn about different cultures, explore scientific concepts, and develop creativity and problem-solving skills.

If you're planning a visit to the Bay Area, be sure to add the Children's Discovery Museum to your list of must-see attractions. With so much to see and do, it's an experience the whole family will enjoy.

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California Academy of Sciences (San Francisco)

California
Source: California Academy of Sciences

The Bay Area of California is a great place to spend time with your kids by having fun and entertaining activities. If you are looking for a unique educational and interactive experience, then you must visit the famous California Academy of Sciences located in San Francisco. It's an ideal spot for families to spend a fun-filled day together, exploring different areas of science and the natural world.

The California Academy of Sciences is an amazing learning center comprising an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest exhibit, and the Natural History Museum. The museum features various exhibits related to the animal kingdom, earth science, geology, human evolution, and much more. The Steinhart Aquarium alone contains 38,000 live animals including tropical fish, reptiles, and invertebrates. Visitors can experience the diverse marine ecosystems of California through their unique aquarium exhibits.

The entire family can enjoy a walk-thru of the rainforest exhibit to witness exotic creatures and tropical plants. A lookout in the exhibit offers a panoramic view of the entire exhibit. Children can learn the way that water, light, and nutrients come together to create the ecosystem. It's an immersive adventure that provides endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

The Morrison Planetarium is a treat for astronomy enthusiasts, as the show will transport you into space and explore the wonders of the galaxy. The planetarium features a 75-foot dome, making visitors feel like they are right in the middle of the action. You can stargaze at real-time constellations, fly through the planets, and learn about the mysteries of the universe.

Lastly, the museum has tons of events and activities for kids throughout the year. These include family sleepovers, science-themed camps, and special exhibitions. The museum has an open design that promotes discovery and encourages interaction between visitors and exhibits.

In conclusion, The California Academy of Sciences is undoubtedly one of the most exciting destinations for families to spend their day together. From its educational and interactive exhibits and planetarium to its aquarium and rainforest exhibit, visitors can witness their kid's amazement and build an unforgettable day of learning together. It's a place where curiosity runs wild, and knowledge is fun.

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Six Flags Discovery Kingdom (Vallejo)

Six
Source: Okayest Moms

If you're looking for an exciting and thrilling adventure with your kids in the Bay Area, look no further than Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo, California. This amusement park offers a wide range of rides, attractions, wildlife exhibits and entertainment options that are sure to provide fun and excitement for the whole family. Here are just a few things that you can do at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom.

Enjoy the Rides

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom offers an array of rides for kids of all ages. If you're seeking a thrill, take a plunge on "Medusa," "The Joker," or "Superman Ultimate Flight." For a family-friendly experience, hop on the "Sky Screamer" or the "Crazy Coaster." If your kids are too young for the bigger rides, there are plenty of kiddie rides as well.

Meet the Animals

If your kids love animals, they will be delighted to discover that Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is also home to a variety of animal exhibits. You can see penguins, giraffes, elephants, tigers, sharks, and many other creatures. The park also offers experiences like "Zookeeper for a Day" and "Sleepover with the Animals," which let your kids get up close and personal with these amazing animals.

Catch a Show

Throughout the day, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom offers a variety of shows and entertainment options. From animal performances to acrobatic displays, there's always something exciting to watch. Check the park's schedule to see which shows are available the day you plan to visit.

Enjoy the Water Park

If you're visiting on a hot day, be sure to also check out the neighboring "Hurricane Harbor," the water park attraction at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. You can splash around in the wave pool or lazily float down the lazy river.

Play Games and Win Prizes

No amusement park visit is complete without playing a few games and winning prizes. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom has a variety of carnival games that you can try, so be sure to give them a go if you'd like to win a cute plush animal or other prizes.

Overall, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo, California is an incredible destination for fun things to do with kids in the Bay Area. With a wide range of rides, animals, shows, and other attractions, it's guaranteed to be an amusement park experience that your kids will never forget.

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Bay Area Discovery Museum (Sausalito)

Bay
Source: - Gizmo Art Production
Characteristic Description
NameBay Area Discovery Museum
TypeChildren's museum in Marin County, California
WebsiteGo to website
Rating / Review count4.7 / 2,366
Address557 McReynolds Rd, Sausalito, CA 94965
Phone(415) 339-3900
HoursMonday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles           

If you are a parent searching for fun things to do with your kids in the Bay Area, then the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito is the perfect place for you. This fun-filled museum is designed for children of all ages and offers a variety of hands-on exhibits and interactive installations that will spark your child's imagination.

The Bay Area Discovery Museum overlooks the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge and is situated on 7.5 acres of pristine waterfront property. The museum is open year-round, and its exhibits and installations are sure to keep your little ones engaged and entertained.

One of the museum's most popular exhibits is "Bay Hall," a life-sized replica of the San Francisco Bay. Here, your child can discover the ecology of the Bay Area, learn about local marine life, and even crawl inside an underwater tunnel to view the Bay's diverse habitats up close.

Another popular exhibit is "Tot Spot," which is designed for younger children. This exhibit offers a safe and stimulating play area where toddlers can explore, climb, and experiment with a variety of interactive elements.

The museum also offers numerous art exhibits and workshops that allow children to engage in creative activities. From painting and drawing to sculpting and collage-making, your child will have the opportunity to express themselves and unleash their inner artist.

Outside the Museum, there are numerous other activities that keep kids entertained. The outdoor play area includes a pirate ship, maze, climbing structure, and plenty of sand to play in. The Water Play area offers streams and fountains to splash around in. There is also a learning garden where kids can explore and learn about gardening.

Overall, the Bay Area Discovery Museum offers a variety of educational and fun-filled activities for children of all ages. Whether you have a toddler who loves to play or an older child who enjoys exploring, this museum is the perfect place to visit for a day filled with learning and fun.

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Oakland Zoo (Oakland)

Oakland
Source: Kids Are A Trip

When it comes to spending a fun day out with kids in the Bay Area, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. One place that stands out as a must-visit destination for families is the Oakland Zoo in Oakland, California. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect to find at this popular attraction.

Animal Exhibits

The Oakland Zoo is home to hundreds of animals from all around the world, making it an excellent choice for families who love wildlife. As you explore the zoo, you’ll come across animals such as elephants, giraffes, and tigers, as well as many others. There are over 700 different species of animals to see, so there's something for everyone.

One of the unique features of the Oakland Zoo is its California Trail exhibit, which showcases the state’s native flora and fauna. Here, you can see animals like grizzly bears, mountain lions, and bald eagles up close.

Adventure Rides

Along with the animal exhibits, the Oakland Zoo offers several exciting rides that kids will love. The highlight of the zoo’s rides is the gondola, which takes you on a scenic ride over the zoo’s animal habitats, giving you a bird’s eye view of the animals.

In addition to the gondola, the zoo also has a train that takes you through the zoo’s gardens and exhibits, as well as a carousel that features wildlife-themed carvings.

Interactive Zones

The Oakland Zoo has several interactive zones where kids can get up close to animals and learn more about their habitat and behaviors. The Sun Bear Forest is one such area, where you can watch sun bears climb trees and play. The interactive stations throughout the zoo offer educational information about each animal, as well as hands-on activities for kids.

Visiting Information

The Oakland Zoo is open throughout the year, making it a great destination for families to visit at any time. The admission prices vary depending on the age of the visitor, but children under two years old enter for free. You can also purchase tickets online in advance to avoid lines and save time.

Additional amenities at the Oakland Zoo include plenty of dining options, a gift shop, and free parking.

In conclusion, the Oakland Zoo is an excellent family-friendly destination that offers a mix of adventure and education. From animal exhibits to adventure rides and interactive zones, there’s something for everyone at this popular Bay Area attraction. So, plan a visit to the zoo and enjoy a fun day out with your loved ones.

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Tech Museum of Innovation (San Jose)

Tech
Source: Trekaroo

If you're looking for a fun and educational adventure to enjoy with your kids in San Jose, then the Tech Museum of Innovation is an exciting destination that's sure to delight everyone in your family.

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, the Tech Museum is an interactive science and technology center that offers an array of hands-on exhibits and activities that encourage children to engage with science and engineering in a fun and creative way.

One of the museum's highlights is the IMAX Dome Theatre, where you can watch spectacular documentaries and movies that are projected onto a giant, curved screen that surrounds you with a fully immersive multimedia experience.

Another popular exhibit is the Body Worlds Decoded, where kids can learn all sorts of fascinating facts about the human body, including how our brains work, how our organs function, and how our muscles and bones are connected.

The Tech Museum also offers a variety of fun and interactive workshops and classes that provide kids with an opportunity to explore new topics and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Some of the popular workshops include Lego robotics, where children learn how to build and program robots using Lego bricks, and the Tech Challenge, where kids take part in a science and engineering competition that challenges them to design and build innovative solutions to real-world problems.

If your kids love science and technology, then the Tech Museum of Innovation is an absolute must-visit attraction in the Bay Area. So why not pack up the family and head on over to San Jose on your next family adventure?

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Lawrence Hall of Science (Berkeley)

Lawrence
Source: The Lawrence Hall of Science

Looking for exciting and educational activities to do with your kids in the San Francisco Bay Area? If so, look no further than the Lawrence Hall of Science in Berkeley!

The Lawrence Hall of Science is an incredible museum dedicated to science education and research. Located atop the picturesque hills of Berkeley, it offers breathtaking views of the Bay Area while providing visitors with an immersive experience in a world of scientific discovery.

One of the many exciting exhibits at the Lawrence Hall of Science is the interactive "Forces That Shape the Bay" exhibit. This exhibit teaches visitors about the geological forces that have shaped the Bay Area, including earthquakes, volcanoes, and erosion.

The museum also has a series of "Discovery Boxes" that allow children to engage in hands-on learning about different scientific phenomena. These boxes cover topics such as electricity, magnetism, and light, and are tailored to different age ranges so that both younger and older children can learn through exploration and play.

For even more fun, the Lawrence Hall of Science hosts a variety of live demonstrations and shows in its state-of-the-art planetarium. Kids can learn about the stars, planets, and the vast universe while observing the vast expanse of space.

In addition to its indoor exhibits, the Lawrence Hall of Science offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. The museum's outdoor exhibits feature a range of models and interactive displays, including an earthquake simulator, cloud chamber, and satellite launch pad.

Finally, the Lawrence Hall of Science offers a series of summer camps and classes for kids, including day camps in subjects such as robotics and environmental science, as well as after-school programs and workshops.

Overall, the Lawrence Hall of Science in Berkeley is a fantastic destination for kids, offering a wealth of engaging and interactive learning opportunities in the world of science. So if you're looking for fun things to do with your kids in the Bay Area, be sure to put the Lawrence Hall of Science on your list – your kids will thank you for it!

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Great America (Santa Clara)

Great
Source: Tripadvisor

The Bay Area is home to numerous fun-filled attractions that offer endless opportunities for families to have a fantastic time. One of them is Great America, an amusement park located in Santa Clara, California. Whether you live in the city or are on vacation, Great America is a great place to spend an exciting day with the kids.

One of the main attractions at Great America is its collection of thrilling rides that cater to all ages. From classic rides such as the Carousel and the Scrambler to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like the Gold Striker and Flight Deck, there is something for everyone. Little kids can enjoy the Planet Snoopy area, where they can ride child-friendly rides, meet Snoopy and his friends, and play in the interactive play zones. Great America also has a water park - Boomerang Bay - which features water slides and a wave pool, so be sure to bring along bathing suits and towels!

Aside from the rides, Great America also has various entertainment shows that cater to different age groups. From fun musical performances to stunt shows and character meet-and-greets, there is always something to watch and enjoy. Additionally, the theme park hosts several seasonal events throughout the year, such as Halloween Haunt in October and WinterFest in December.

When it comes to dining, Great America offers many choices that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you want to grab a tasty snack like funnel cakes or churros, or sit down for a full meal at one of the park's restaurants, there are several options to choose from. You can also bring in your food and drinks if you prefer, but keep in mind that some drinks and containers are not permitted in the park.

Finally, Great America offers some practical features to ensure that your visit is a comfortable and safe one. The park offers stroller and wheelchair rentals, lockers, and restrooms and baby change stations throughout the amenities. You can also purchase a Fast Lane Pass, which allows you to skip queues for select rides for an additional fee. The park is open from March to December, with varying operating hours depending on the day and time of year.

In conclusion, Great America in Santa Clara is an excellent destination for families with kids. With its array of rides, shows, events, and dining options, the park offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Be sure to plan your trip in advance to make the most of your visit and have a fun-filled day making unforgettable memories with your children.

Frequently asked questions

The Bay Area offers a wide range of outdoor activities for kids, from hiking in the redwoods to exploring the beach. Some popular destinations include the Golden Gate Park, Muir Woods, Point Reyes National Seashore, and Angel Island State Park.

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4 Comments

SI

Sinead Blackwell

As a local parent in the Bay Area, I am always on the lookout for fun things to do with my kids. One recommendation I have is the Lawrence Hall of Science in Berkeley. They have a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities that are not only educational but also lots of fun. Another great place to check out is the Bay Area Children's Theatre. They put on amazing productions that are specifically tailored for young audiences. It's a great way to introduce kids to the magic of live theater. I hope you and your family have as much fun exploring the Bay Area as we do!
Thank you so much for your recommendations! I am always looking for new and exciting things to do with my kids in the Bay Area. The Lawrence Hall of Science sounds perfect for us. I love that they have hands-on exhibits and activities that are not only fun but educational as well. I can't wait to take my kids there and watch their faces light up as they explore and learn. The Bay Area Children's Theatre also sounds amazing. I think it's so important to introduce kids to the magic of live theater, and I am sure their productions will be unforgettable for my little ones. Thank you again for these wonderful suggestions, and I can't wait to start exploring the Bay Area with my family!
TY

Ty Murphy

My family and I recently visited the Bay Area, and we had a blast exploring all the fun things to do with kids! One of our favorite activities was visiting the California Academy of Sciences. The kids loved seeing all the different exhibits and even got to touch some of the animals. We also enjoyed spending a day at the Children's Creativity Museum, where the kids got to participate in interactive exhibits and even make their own movies. It was such a memorable trip, and we can't wait to come back and discover more family-friendly activities in the Bay Area!
GE

Gerald OGallagher

When it comes to finding fun things to do with kids in the Bay Area, the options are endless! We recently discovered Fairyland in Oakland, and it quickly became a family favorite. It's a whimsical theme park filled with fairytale-inspired attractions, rides, and gardens. My kids absolutely loved exploring the giant pirate ship and going down the small roller coaster. Another highlight for us was a visit to the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito. They have a wonderful outdoor play area, a tinkering studio, and even an art studio where kids can get creative. We had such a blast and can't wait to go back!

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