By Robert Vaux
Northern California has a number of attractions designed for children, both within the confines of
San Francisco and in outlying areas. California's warm climate makes
vacations there very enticing, and locals enjoy the numerous opportunities for day trips and outdoor excursions. As one of the world's most beautiful cities, San Francisco makes an excellent jumping-off point for activities anywhere in Northern California. The list of children's attractions could fill many pages, but a general overview inevitably entails four or five "go to" attractions.
Pier 39
Pier 39 has become the center for activity in Fisherman's Wharf, with a number of attractions specifically designed for children. A carousel stands in the center of the pier, along with similarly themed rides such as the 3D TurboRide nearby. Jugglers and musicians are a regular staple, and the western side of the pier has become the protected home to a colony of sea lions. A first-rate aquarium is located near the entrance to the pier, as well as a number of restaurants and dining options scattered along its length.
Pier 39
P.O. Box 193730
San Francisco, CA 94119-3730
Telephone: (415-705-5500)
Monterey Aquarium
The Monterey Aquarium is arguably the best of its kind in the entire world. It stands on the site of a former sardine cannery , and features 26 species of marine mammals, nearly 100 different types of sea birds and thousand upon thousands of fish. The beautiful coastline of central California makes a further enticement to make the drive, as well as the spectacular view of Monterey Bay itself.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
886 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
Telephone: (831-648-4800)
Bay Area Discovery Museum
In the Golden Gate National Recreation Area sits the Bay Area Discovery Museum, a combination of indoor and outdoor attractions that stress creativity and exploration for younger children. The Museum is tailored for kids under eight, but the location in the midst of the park makes it easy for older kids to enjoy day walks and similar activities nearby. Art and music classes take place throughout the year, as well as outdoor learning classes which take advantage of the nearby scenery.
Bay Area Discovery Museum
Fort Baker
557 McReynolds Road
Sausalito, CA 94965-2614
Telephone: (415-339-3900)
Exploratorium
The Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco contains a hands-on science museum intended to convey the wonders of discovery in an engaging and interactive fashion. It's considered one of the premiere museums of its type in the country, with over 650 exhibits covering numerous different topics. The nearby parkland makes a good location for walking trips after you're done with the museum.
Exploratorium
Palace of Fine Arts
3601 Lyon Street
San Francisco, CA 94123
Telephone: (415-561-0360)
San Francisco Zoo
Though it can't match its world-famous neighbor in San Diego, the San Francisco Zoo still offers a pleasant and engaging environment for kids. Over 250 species of animals are located here, along with a children's zoo and a number of exhibitions designed to showcase the zoo's various species. It is open 365 days a year and located within easy reach of downtown San Francisco.
San Francisco Zoo
1 Zoo Rd
San Francisco, CA 94132
Telephone: (415-753-7080)
About the Author:
Robert Vaux has been a professional writer and editor since 1995. He has traveled throughout Europe and North America as well as parts of North Africa. Since 2000 he has been a professional movie critic at Flipside Movie Emporium, the Sci-Fi Movie Page and Mania.com. Vaux has a Master of Arts in English literature from Syracuse University.
