10+ Best Indoor Activities for Kids in San Francisco (California)
We all know that keeping kids entertained in San Francisco, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating, can be a challenge. But fear not, because the city by the bay is packed with amazing indoor activities that will keep those little ones engaged and having a blast! Let’s explore some of the best indoor activities for kids in San Francisco – trust me, there’s something for everyone!
1. Explore Science at the Exploratorium
- What to expect: A wonderland of hands-on science exhibits, where kids (and adults!) can experiment, discover, and learn through play. From building circuits to observing fog formations, it’s an endless journey of curiosity.
- Location: Pier 15, San Francisco
- Website: https://www.exploratorium.edu
Get your tickets here.
2. Discover Marine Life at the Aquarium of the Bay
What to expect: Take a mesmerizing journey through underwater tunnels and watch sharks, sea turtles, and colorful fish swim right above you. Touch pools allow for hands-on interaction with gentle sea creatures.
- Location: PIER 39, San Francisco
- Website: https://www.aquariumofthebay.org
Get your tickets here.
3. Get Creative at the Children’s Creativity Museum
- What to expect: Unleash your child’s imagination through art, music, and technology. They can create their own animations, build robots, and even design their own fashion show.
- Location: 221 4th St, San Francisco
- Website: https://creativity.org
Get your tickets here.
4. Immerse in Art at the de Young Museum
- What to expect: Introduce your kids to diverse art forms from around the world. The de Young has interactive exhibits and family programs that make art accessible and fun.
- Location: 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco
- Website: https://deyoung.famsf.org
Get your tickets here.
5. Learn and Play at the Bay Area Discovery Museum
- What to expect: A haven for younger children, with exhibits designed to stimulate curiosity and exploration. Kids can build forts, splash in water play areas, and even role-play in a miniature town.
- Location: 557 McReynolds Rd, Sausalito
- Website: https://www.bayareadiscoverymuseum.org
Get your tickets here.
6. Bounce Around at House of Air
- What to expect: Get some energy out at this massive indoor trampoline park. Kids can bounce, flip, and dunk basketballs in a safe and supervised environment.
- Location: 926 Mason St, San Francisco
- Website: https://houseofair.com
Get your tickets here.
7. Step Back in Time at the Musee Mecanique
- What to expect: A quirky and nostalgic collection of vintage arcade games and mechanical wonders. Play classic pinball machines, try your hand at old-school fortune tellers, and marvel at antique music boxes.
- Location: Pier 45, San Francisco
- Website: https://museemecanique.com
8. Unleash Creativity at the Cartoon Art Museum
- What to expect: Dive into the world of comics and animation. See original artwork, learn about the history of cartoons, and even try your hand at drawing your own characters.
- Location: 781 Beach St, San Francisco
- Website: https://cartoonart.org
9. Travel the World at the Randall Museum
- What to expect: From live animal exhibits to interactive science displays, this museum offers a little bit of everything. Kids can learn about different cultures, explore nature, and even participate in workshops.
- Location: 199 Museum Way, San Francisco
- Website: https://www.randallmuseum.org
10. Bowl a Strike at Presidio Bowl
- What to expect: A family-friendly bowling alley with bumpers and lightweight balls for the little ones. Enjoy some friendly competition while snacking on delicious food.
- Location: 93 Moraga Ave, San Francisco
- Website: https://www.presidiobowl.com
Reserve here!
11. Experience Magic at the Walt Disney Family Museum
- What to expect: Immerse yourselves in the enchanting world of Disney. Learn about the life and legacy of Walt Disney, see original artwork, and even watch classic Disney films.
- Location: 104 Montgomery St, San Francisco
- Website: https://www.waltdisney.org
Get your tickets here.
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