Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in San Francisco

Viewed by 55 travelers
Thursday, December 21: Exploring Golden Gate Park

Start your trip by exploring the beautiful Golden Gate Park. In the morning, take a leisurely walk through the park's lush gardens and visit the California Academy of Sciences, a fascinating museum with an aquarium, planetarium, and natural history exhibits. In the afternoon, rent bicycles and enjoy a ride along the park's paths, stopping by the Japanese Tea Garden for a serene break. As evening falls, head to the de Young Museum to admire its impressive art collection and stunning views of the city.

  • Golden Gate Park: Free admission, 4-6 hours
  • California Academy of Sciences: $39.95 per adult, $34.95 per child (4-17), 2-3 hours
  • Japanese Tea Garden: $12 per adult, $7 per child (5-11), 1-2 hours
  • de Young Museum: $15 per adult, free for children under 18, 2-3 hours
Friday, December 22: Exploring Chinatown

In the morning, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of San Francisco's Chinatown. Start by visiting the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory for a fun and tasty experience. Afterward, explore the streets lined with colorful Chinese architecture, unique shops, and delicious eateries. In the afternoon, visit the Dragon's Gate and walk up to Coit Tower for panoramic views of the city and the bay. For the evening, enjoy a traditional Chinese dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory: Free admission, 30 minutes
  • Chinatown: Free to explore, 3-4 hours
  • Coit Tower: $10 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Chinese dinner: $15-30 per person, 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 23: Exploring Alcatraz Island

Start your day by taking the ferry to Alcatraz Island, the notorious former prison. Spend the morning exploring the cell blocks, listening to the audio tour, and learning about the prison's intriguing history. After returning to the city, have a delightful lunch at Fisherman's Wharf, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and street performers. In the afternoon, visit the Aquarium of the Bay to discover the marine life of San Francisco Bay. In the evening, take a memorable cable car ride and explore Ghirardelli Square for some delicious chocolate treats.

  • Alcatraz Island: $41.80 per adult, $25.55 per child (5-11), 4-5 hours
  • Fisherman's Wharf: Free to explore, cost of lunch varies, 1-2 hours
  • Aquarium of the Bay: $29.25 per adult, $19.25 per child (4-12), 1-2 hours
  • Cable car ride: $7 per adult, $3.50 per child (5-17), 1-2 hours
  • Ghirardelli Square: Free admission, cost of treats varies, 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 24: Exploring Golden Gate Bridge

Embark on a morning adventure to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Start by renting bicycles and riding across the bridge, enjoying breathtaking views of the city and the bay. On the other side, explore the charming town of Sausalito, known for its picturesque waterfront and art galleries. In the afternoon, take the ferry back to San Francisco and visit the Exploratorium, a hands-on science museum perfect for the whole family. In the evening, enjoy a cozy Christmas Eve dinner at one of the city's fantastic restaurants.

  • Golden Gate Bridge: Free to explore, bike rental $10-30 per hour, 3-4 hours
  • Sausalito: Free to explore, ferry ride $14.50 per adult, $9.75 per child (5-11)
  • Exploratorium: $29.95 per adult, $24.95 per child (4-12), 2-3 hours
  • Christmas Eve dinner: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Monday, December 25: Christmas Day in San Francisco

Spend a relaxing Christmas Day enjoying the holiday spirit in San Francisco. Start with a festive brunch at one of the city's charming cafes or restaurants. Afterward, take a walk along the Embarcadero and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the waterfront. In the afternoon, visit the Walt Disney Family Museum, dedicated to the life and work of Walt Disney. For the evening, head to Union Square to see the holiday decorations and enjoy some ice skating at the holiday rink.

  • Christmas brunch: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
  • Embarcadero: Free to explore, 1-2 hours
  • Walt Disney Family Museum: $25 per adult, $15 per child (6-17), 2-3 hours
  • Union Square: Free to explore, cost of ice skating varies, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Exploring Muir Woods and Sausalito

In the morning, embark on a scenic drive to Muir Woods National Monument, home to majestic old-growth coastal redwoods. Take a leisurely walk through the serene forest, immersing yourself in the peaceful surroundings. Afterward, continue to Sausalito for a late lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants. In the afternoon, explore the charming town, browse art galleries, and enjoy the views from the Sausalito Lookout. For the evening, return to San Francisco and enjoy a relaxing dinner and some leisure time.

  • Muir Woods National Monument: $15 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Sausalito: Free to explore, cost of lunch varies, 2-3 hours
  • Sausalito Lookout: Free to visit, 1-2 hours
  • Dinner in San Francisco: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Exploring the Presidio and Crissy Field

Spend your last day in San Francisco exploring the Presidio, a historic park with scenic trails and breathtaking views. Start by visiting the Presidio Visitor Center to learn about the park's history and pick up a map. Enjoy a morning hike through the serene landscapes, passing by landmarks such as the Palace of Fine Arts and the Golden Gate Overlook. In the afternoon, head to Crissy Field, a vibrant waterfront area perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. End your day with a memorable dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge.

  • Presidio Visitor Center: Free admission, 30 minutes
  • Presidio hike: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Crissy Field: Free to explore, 2-3 hours
  • Dinner with a view: Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring San Francisco, don't miss the hidden gems loved by locals. Visit the Musee Mecanique at Fisherman's Wharf, an antique penny arcade filled with intriguing mechanical games and vintage entertainment. Take a visit to the Golden Gate Park Playground, a massive playground with various themed areas for kids to run, climb, and play. Another local favorite is the Randall Museum, offering interactive exhibits on science, nature, and arts for both children and adults. These attractions are perfect for a family-friendly experience off the beaten path.

Click here to check hotel and flight prices
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version