4-Day Family-Friendly San Francisco Itinerary: Must-See Attractions and Hidden Gems

Day 1: Downtown Discovery

San Francisco, USA on April 26, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Mama’s on Washington Square

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Mama’s known for its fresh ingredients and family-friendly atmosphere in North Beach. Expect a bustling vibe but worth the wait.
USD20, 1h

10:30am

Explore Chinatown

Walk through the vibrant streets of Chinatown and admire the famous dragon gate; great for culture and souvenir shopping.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Good Mong Kok Bakery

Try some delicious dim sum and quick bites from this popular bakery in Chinatown, perfect for family-friendly casual dining.
USD15, 45m

1:30pm

Coit Tower

Visit Coit Tower which offers panoramic views of the city and murals inside depicting 1930s life.
USD10, 1h

3:00pm

Walk along Telegraph Hill and Filbert Steps

Enjoy the scenic walk up Filbert Steps through lush gardens to spot wild parrots and get unique views of the bay.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Tony’s Pizza Napoletana

Savor award-winning pizzas in North Beach; this family-friendly spot offers flavors everyone will enjoy.
USD30, 1h15m
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Day 2: Golden Gate Park & Northern Neighborhood

San Francisco, USA on April 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Tartine Bakery

Enjoy freshly baked pastries and breads in the Mission District, known for quality and a cozy vibe great for families.
USD20, 1h

10:00am

Golden Gate Park Exploration

Visit the California Academy of Sciences (open 9:30am–5pm) featuring an aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum.
USD40, 3h

1:15pm

Lunch at Park Chalet

Dine with views of the Golden Gate Park gardens offering kid-friendly meals and a relaxed atmosphere.
USD35, 1h15m

2:45pm

Japanese Tea Garden

Stroll through this tranquil garden to admire traditional landscaping and koi ponds, perfect for a calm afternoon.
USD12, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Haight-Ashbury

Discover the historic counterculture neighborhood with quirky shops and colorful street art.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cha Cha Cha

Enjoy vibrant Spanish tapas in a lively atmosphere suitable for families in the Haight area.
USD40, 1h
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Day 3: Waterfront Wonders

San Francisco, USA on April 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Ferry Building Marketplace

Sample artisan coffee and pastries while enjoying views of the Bay Bridge at this iconic waterfront food hall.
USD20, 1h

10:00am

Exploratorium

Engage your family with hands-on science and art exhibits at this interactive museum, perfect for kids and adults alike (open 10am–5pm).
USD35, 3h

1:15pm

Lunch at Fog Harbor Fish House

Enjoy fresh seafood with bay views at this Pier 39 restaurant, known for sustainable seafood and family-friendly environment.
USD40, 1h15m

2:45pm

Pier 39 and Sea Lions

Visit the lively Pier 39 to see sea lions lounging and explore unique shops and street performers.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Ghirardelli Square

Indulge in famous chocolates and ice cream, plus explore small boutiques in this historic chocolate factory site.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Franciscan Crab Restaurant

Experience seafood dining with views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge; family-friendly and casual.
USD45, 1h15m
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Day 4: Alcatraz & Departure

San Francisco, USA on April 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Blue Bottle Coffee

Grab coffee and light breakfast near Pier 33 to energize before your Alcatraz tour.
USD15, 30m

8:30am

Alcatraz Island Tour

Take the first ferry to Alcatraz (reservations recommended) to tour the historic formerly infamous prison; excellent educational experience for adults and children (tours run until 6pm).
USD45, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Boudin Bakery Cafe

Taste San Francisco’s famous sourdough bread with family-friendly sandwich options at the original Boudin near Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD30, 1h

1:30pm

Walk along Crissy Field

Enjoy stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and open space for children to play in this scenic waterfront area.
Free, 1h30m

3:00pm

Departure preparations

Return to your accommodation to pack and prepare for departure.
Free, Varies
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