Golden Gate Park is a massive park with something for everyone. Highlights include the Japanese Tea Garden, the California Academy of Sciences, and the de Young Museum. Families can also rent paddleboats or bicycles to explore the park's many paths.
Fisherman's Wharf is a bustling waterfront area packed with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Highlights include the sea lions at Pier 39, the arcade games at Musee Mecanique, and the vintage arcade at the Musée Mécanique.
Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island, the former maximum-security prison. Families can take the audio tour to learn about the prison's famous inmates, including Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. The island also has beautiful gardens and stunning city views.
The Exploratorium is a fun and interactive museum that focuses on art, science, and human perception. Exhibits include a tornado simulator, a giant soap bubble maker, and a room filled with fog.
San Francisco has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and cable cars. A one-way trip on public transportation costs $2.50. Families may also want to consider renting a car to explore surrounding areas like the Marin Headlands or Silicon Valley.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, or the California Palace of the Legion of Honor. If you have less time, consider skipping Alcatraz Island or the Exploratorium.
The primary airport in San Francisco is San Francisco International Airport (SFO), located approximately 13 miles south of downtown. Other airports serving the region include Oakland International Airport (OAK) and San Jose International Airport (SJC).