Getting out of the house as a family is more important than ever with many families still dealing with at-home school or work. But finding fun things to do together can get expensive! Here are ten free family activities in the Bay Area that won’t break the bank but will give you and your little ones lasting memories.
1. Go biking at Stafford Lake Bike Park
Stafford Lake Bike Park is a kid-friendly The 17 acre park also features a single track loop trail as well as pump tracks and gravity trails for those who are looking for more extreme biking. Even if you and your kids are totally comfortable on a bike, you can get some fresh air and good exercise!
2. Learn about nature with Wildcare
Do you want to take your kids out into nature but want a specialist who knows the outdoors like the back of their hand? Look into Wildcare. Your kids can get a free education on local wildlife and fauna, learning to spot and name their wild care animals.
3. See the sea lions and walk the pier
One of the best benefits of living in the Bay Area is seeing the sea lions! Play tourist for a day and visit San Francisco’s historic waterfront community. At the Fisherman’s Wharf, you can eat local seafood and walk up and down the 150 year old pier.
As you walk along, check out the sea lions sunbathing in the sun at Pier 39. Kids love watching them bark and swim in the bay.
4. Free fishing days
Bay Area Free Fishing Days! The Bay Area offers tons of piers and shorelines perfect for a fun, family outing. No license needed, just grab your bait and a sense of adventure – who knows, you might just catch the big one! See a wild life government site for free fishing days!
5 more Free Family Activities …
5. Free days in museums
Several Bay Area museums open their doors for free on weekdays throughout the first week of the month, typically Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays. Expect crowds, so plan your visit for an early arrival to maximize your free museum experience, here are some ideas:
- Discovery Museum in Sausalito the first Wednesday of every other month
- Exploratorium – The Exploratorium participates in the Discover & Go program, offering families free admission to over 35 Bay Area cultural attractions through local libraries.
- SF Botanical Gardens – Free for SF residents everyday, all day
6. Presidio events
From kite festivals to interactive art installations and DJ dance parties, there’s always something fun happening. Explore the Presidio’s event calendar and get ready for a day filled with laughter, exploration, and creating unforgettable family moments.
7. Fortune Cookie San Francisco
Visit the Fortune Cookie Factory and witness the magic of how these iconic fortune cookies are made. Your curious crew will be amazed by this unique process, and everyone can enjoy a fresh, delicious cookie. It’s a fun and educational experience that’s perfect for a family day in the city by the bay! What more, you can create a very own city movie.
8. Hike the Golden Gate Parks
A perfect free family activity is taking the kids out for a full day of hiking on the gorgeous trails surrounding the Golden Gate Bridge.
You can check here to see all trails. Many offer amazing views of the bridge, waterfront, Alcatraz or unique views of wildlife and green forest terrain.
9. Beach Clean Up
Taking the kids to a beach clean up is great for two reasons: they get to do something good for their community, and they get to go to the beach!
There are many groups that offer beach cleanups. Here is one by the Pacific Beach Coalition. Sign-up and parking are completely free, all you need to bring is yourself, your kids, and some gloves and a bucket!
10. Marine Mammal Center
The Marine Mammal Center just north of Golden Gate Bridge is the world’s biggest marine mammal hospital–and it’s totally free!
You and your family can watch as veterinarians help adorable harbor seals, sea otters and more. They also have exhibits to learn more about the ocean. In the area there’s also amazing trails that overlook the Pacific ocean. For one day become a veterinary.
Hopefully these ten free family activities have inspired you! Whether it’s creating narratives, inspiring love for nature and fresh air, or just hanging out together in your neighborhood, I hope you try out some of these ideas and let us know.
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