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Family Friendly Foodie Eco Adventure: San Francisco, San Jose, Santa Cruz, and San Mateo

Viewed by 63 travelers

Day 1: Exploring the City

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your day with their famous French toast and delicious omelets while enjoying the quaint ambiance of Washington Square.
Head southeast for a 10-minute walk to Fisherman's Wharf.
USD 60, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Pier 39

Explore the lively Pier 39 with its sea lions, shops, and entertainment options, perfect for the whole family.
A short 5-minute walk from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Exploratorium

Engage your minds at this fascinating museum filled with interactive science and art exhibits aimed both at kids and adults.
Take a 20-minute walk along the waterfront to reach the Exploratorium.
USD 80 for a family of four, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman's Wharf

Savor clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl from Boudin Bakery while enjoying views of Alcatraz.
It's at the wharf within walking distance from the Exploratorium.
USD 50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Golden Gate Park

Stroll through Golden Gate Park, visit the California Academy of Sciences, or take a paddle boat ride on Stow Lake.
Drive or take a tram to the park (15 minutes).
USD 60 (for entrance costs if visiting museums), 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Greens Restaurant

Enjoy farm-to-table vegetarian dishes while overlooking the waterfront, providing a lovely end to your first day.
Head to Fort Mason by car or rideshare (10 minutes).
USD 100, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Tech and Nature

San Jose, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Place

Indulge in hearty American breakfast classics to fuel your day ahead.
Drive for about 1 hour from San Francisco to San Jose.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:00AM

The Tech Interactive

Experience the fascinating world of technology through interactive exhibits, suitable for young minds.
A 10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD 80 for a family of four, 2 hours

11:00AM

Children's Discovery Museum

Let the kids explore this inspiring museum that emphasizes creativity and learning through play.
A quick 5-minute drive from The Tech Interactive.
USD 60 for a family of four, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Mediterranee

Dine on fresh Mediterranean cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere for a delightful experience.
Located in downtown San Jose, a 10-minute walk away.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Guadalupe River Park

Take a leisurely walk or a bike ride along the beautiful trails, surrounded by nature and wildlife.
A 5-minute drive from lunch location.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Old spaghetti Factory

Savor delicious pasta dishes in a family-friendly setting with a historic vibe.
Around 15 minutes’ drive from the park.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Coastal Wonders

Santa Cruz, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jalisco's Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Mexican breakfast options like huevos rancheros to start your day energized.
A 30-minute drive from San Jose to Santa Cruz.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Spend the morning enjoying rides and games at this iconic beachfront amusement park, perfect for family fun.
A 5-minute walk from the restaurant.
USD 120 for ride tickets, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Picnic Basket

Choose from organic seasonal dishes in a casual setting to refuel after a morning of fun.
Around a 10-minute walk along the beach.
USD 70, 1 hour

1:00PM

Natural Bridges State Beach

Explore tide pools and watch for migrating monarch butterflies at this environmentally friendly beach park.
A short 10-minute drive from lunch.
USD 10 for parking, 2 hours

3:00PM

Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

Learn about local wildlife and habitats in a fun and family-oriented environment.
About a 15-minute drive from the beach.
USD 30 for a family of four, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Shadowbrook Restaurant

Enjoy a unique dining experience with a stunning view and a fun cable car ride down to the restaurant, perfect for the end of your Santa Cruz adventure.
A 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD 150, 2 hours
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