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Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary: San Francisco, New York, Washington DC

Day 1: Friday, December 15 - San Francisco

Start your trip in San Francisco by exploring the iconic Golden Gate Park in the morning. Enjoy the beautiful gardens, museums, and the Japanese Tea Garden. In the afternoon, head to Fisherman's Wharf to visit the Aquarium of the Bay and see the sea lions. Wrap up your day with a relaxing walk along the Embarcadero, taking in the stunning views of the San Francisco Bay Bridge.

  • Golden Gate Park: $10 admission fee, 3-4 hours
  • Aquarium of the Bay: $30 admission fee, 2 hours
  • Embarcadero: Free, 1-2 hours
Day 2: Saturday, December 16 - San Francisco

On day 2, start your morning by visiting the Exploratorium, a hands-on science museum that offers interactive exhibits for all ages. In the afternoon, take a ride on the famous cable cars and explore the historic neighborhoods of San Francisco, such as Chinatown and North Beach. End your day with a visit to the San Francisco Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world.

  • Exploratorium: $30 admission fee, 3-4 hours
  • Cable Car Ride: $7 one-way ticket, 2-3 hours
  • San Francisco Zoo: $25 admission fee, 2-3 hours
Day 3: Sunday, December 17 - New York

Arrive in New York and start your day by visiting the iconic Central Park. Take a leisurely stroll through the park, visit the Central Park Zoo, and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, explore the American Museum of Natural History, known for its impressive dinosaur exhibits. End your day with a visit to Times Square, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and bright city lights.

  • Central Park: Free, 3-4 hours
  • American Museum of Natural History: $28 admission fee, 2-3 hours
  • Times Square: Free, 1-2 hours
Day 4: Monday, December 18 - New York

Start your morning by visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take a ferry ride to Liberty Island and explore the museum to learn about the history of the statue. In the afternoon, visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, located on the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier. End your day by walking along the High Line, an elevated park with beautiful views of the city.

  • Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: $25 ferry ticket, 4-5 hours
  • Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: $33 admission fee, 2-3 hours
  • High Line: Free, 1-2 hours
Day 5: Tuesday, December 19 - Washington DC

Arrive in Washington DC and start your day by exploring the National Mall. Visit iconic sites such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the United States Capitol. In the afternoon, explore the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, where you can discover the wonders of aviation and space exploration. End your day with a visit to the National Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals.

  • National Mall: Free, 4-5 hours
  • Air and Space Museum: Free admission, 2-3 hours
  • National Zoo: Free, 2-3 hours
Day 6: Wednesday, December 20 - Washington DC

On day 6, start your morning by visiting the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, where you can learn about the history and impact of the Holocaust. In the afternoon, explore the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, home to fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and natural wonders. End your day with a visit to the National Gallery of Art, housing an extensive collection of European and American art.

  • United States Holocaust Memorial Museum: Free admission, 2-3 hours
  • Natural History Museum: Free admission, 2-3 hours
  • National Gallery of Art: Free admission, 2-3 hours
Day 7: Thursday, December 21 - Washington DC

On your last day, start with a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, where you can explore the cultural heritage of the United States. In the afternoon, take a tour of the United States Capitol and learn about the country's legislative process. End your trip with a visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, celebrating the contributions of African Americans throughout history.

  • American History Museum: Free admission, 2-3 hours
  • United States Capitol: Free tour, 2-3 hours
  • African American History and Culture Museum: Free admission, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Children's Creativity Museum in San Francisco. It offers hands-on exhibits and activities that encourage creativity and innovation in children. Another hidden gem is the Children's Museum of the Arts in New York City, where kids can explore various forms of art through interactive exhibits. In Washington DC, the National Building Museum is a great choice, featuring interactive exhibits on architecture and design, as well as a fun play area for children.

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