Holiday Magic in San Francisco: Top Activities for Kids
The holiday season in San Francisco is a magical time, with festive lights, seasonal events, and countless family-friendly activities to keep kids entertained. From iconic landmarks to hands-on museums, the city offers endless opportunities for fun and discovery. Get ready for an unforgettable holiday adventure with our guide to the top activities in San Francisco for families, perfect for making memories that will last a lifetime.
Hotel Caza at Fisherman's Wharf is an ideal family-friendly home base, offering spacious rooms, a lively game room, outdoor pool, and close access to top attractions like Pier 39, the Exploratorium, and the city’s iconic cable cars — making every family outing seamless and enjoyable.
The Walt Disney Family Museum
Located in the scenic Presidio, the Walt Disney Family Museum provides a fascinating look into Walt Disney’s life and legacy. Kids can learn about Disney’s journey, explore original artwork, and participate in hands-on activities. During the holiday season, the museum often hosts themed events and displays. Don’t miss the intricate miniature model of Disneyland, which captivates kids of all ages!
104 Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94129
The Exploratorium
The Exploratorium at Pier 15 is a must-visit for families who love hands-on learning. This interactive science museum encourages kids to touch, explore, and experiment. During the holidays, you’ll find seasonal exhibits and light displays that make the experience even more magical. With activities ranging from physics experiments to light installations, the Exploratorium offers endless fun and educational opportunities.
Pier 15 (Embarcadero at Green St.), San Francisco, CA 94111
Pier 39
PIER 39 is a lively holiday destination offering something for everyone in the family. Kids can watch the playful sea lions lounging on the docks, browse through unique shops, or ride the iconic San Francisco carousel. During the holiday season, the pier is beautifully decorated with lights and festive decor. Street performers, musicians, and holiday-themed activities add to the charm, making it a perfect spot for family fun.
Per 39, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133
Children’s Creativity Museum
This museum, located near Yerba Buena Gardens, provides interactive activities tailored for young creators. Kids can unleash their creativity with hands-on exhibits, including a clay animation station, design lab, and music studio. The museum’s holiday events often include themed workshops and crafting sessions, making it an ideal stop for creative children who want to make holiday keepsakes.
221 Fourth St, San Francisco, CA 94103
Cable Cars and Historic Streetcars
No visit to San Francisco is complete without a ride on a classic cable car! Kids will love the thrill of riding up and down the city’s steep hills. For more historic charm, hop on one of the city’s iconic F Market & Wharves streetcars. These vintage vehicles are decked out in holiday cheer, making them the perfect festive ride around town. Plus, they’re a great way to get around the city while enjoying holiday lights and sights.
Bay Cruise and Water Taxi
A bay cruise is a fantastic way to see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the San Francisco skyline from a unique perspective. Several operators offer holiday-themed cruises, complete with decorations, holiday music, and hot cocoa for kids. For a shorter journey, try a water taxi ride along the Embarcadero for a fun and family-friendly way to enjoy the bay views.
San Francisco Pier 1.5, San Francisco, CA 94111
Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the largest outside of Asia, and it’s particularly magical during the holiday season. Stroll down Grant Avenue to admire the festive decorations and explore unique shops filled with holiday treasures. Kids can try holiday-themed dim sum, shop for fun trinkets, and learn about Chinese culture through a variety of family-friendly tours available in the area.
499 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94108
Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park
No San Francisco holiday adventure is complete without a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge. Drive or walk across the bridge for spectacular views and a memorable family photo. Nearby Golden Gate Park offers an abundance of activities for families, including playgrounds, gardens, and holiday-themed events. During winter, the park often hosts light displays and holiday markets, creating a cozy atmosphere for a family stroll.
501 Stanyan Street; San Francisco, CA 94117
California Academy of Sciences
Located in Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences combines science, nature, and fun. Kids can explore a four-story rainforest, aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum — all under one roof. During the holiday season, the academy hosts “’Tis the Season for Science,” an interactive exhibit that introduces children to winter animals, holiday traditions, and more.
55 Music Concourse Dr. San Francisco, CA 94118
The Bay Area Discovery Museum
Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito is a family-friendly destination packed with interactive exhibits designed for young children. The museum offers hands-on learning opportunities in art, science, and engineering. During the holidays, you can expect festive crafts, seasonal storytelling, and special winter exhibits that spark kids’ creativity.
557 McReynolds Rd. Sausalito, CA 94965
SkyStar Observation Wheel
The SkyStar Observation Wheel in Golden Gate Park provides breathtaking views of San Francisco’s skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and beyond. Each gondola is fully enclosed, so you can enjoy the experience rain or shine. Kids will be in awe as they take in the city lights from high above, making it a memorable holiday experience for the whole family.
2860 Taylor St, San Francisco, CA 94111
The San Francisco Zoo and Gardens
The San Francisco Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season with festive lights, decorations, and holiday-themed animal exhibits. Kids can enjoy a ride on the Little Puffer Miniature Steam Train and meet Santa in the zoo’s special holiday setup. The zoo’s holiday events, like “Zoo Lights,” add a sparkle to the experience, making it a magical outing for young animal lovers.
Sloat Blvd & Upper Great Hwy, San Francisco, CA 94132
Children’s Fairyland
Located in nearby Oakland, Children’s Fairyland is a storybook-themed park where young children can enjoy fairy-tale-inspired play areas and gentle rides. During the holiday season, the park is decorated with twinkling lights, and there are special activities like caroling and Santa meet-and-greets. It’s a perfect place for little ones to experience the magic of the holidays in a fun and safe environment.
699 Bellevue Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Ice Skating Rinks
San Francisco offers several pop-up ice skating rinks during the holiday season, such as the one at Union Square. Skating amid the city’s twinkling lights is a beloved tradition that will add a dose of holiday cheer to your family’s itinerary. Many rinks offer lessons for beginners and rent skates, making it easy for everyone to join in the fun.
Holiday Light Displays
Take a drive or stroll around the city to see San Francisco’s best holiday light displays. Union Square, Embarcadero Center, and Ghirardelli Square are known for their stunning decorations, with thousands of twinkling lights illuminating the city streets. These festive displays create an enchanting ambiance that is sure to captivate both kids and adults.
Holiday Trains at the San Francisco Railway Museum
The San Francisco Railway Museum offers a fun opportunity to learn about the history of the city’s iconic transportation. During the holidays, the museum often hosts special events and activities for families, including holiday-themed model train displays. It’s a charming way for kids to explore San Francisco’s past and enjoy a little seasonal magic.
77 Steuart St, San Francisco, CA 94105
Local Holiday Markets
Many neighborhoods host holiday markets featuring crafts, food, and festive activities. Families can browse for unique gifts, sample seasonal treats, and enjoy live entertainment. The Fort Mason Center and Union Square often host some of the largest holiday markets, which are great places for the whole family to soak up the holiday spirit.
Make Hotel Caza Your Holiday Base
Located at Fisherman’s Wharf, Hotel Caza is the ideal spot to stay for families exploring San Francisco’s holiday wonders. Close to many of the city’s top attractions, Hotel Caza offers family-friendly amenities and a cozy home base for a memorable holiday in San Francisco. This holiday season, San Francisco offers endless activities for families to explore and enjoy. From sparkling lights to interactive museums, the city is a magical destination for kids and adults alike. Embrace the festive spirit, and experience the best of San Francisco with your loved ones this holiday season!
