The San Francisco Peninsula is full of ways to keep the whole family entertained, no matter the day or the season. Whether you have a toddler in tow or tweens looking for adventure, there is something suited to every age. From hands-on museum exhibits to lively festivals, quiet nature walks, and budget-friendly outings, there is always something happening close to home. Families can spend a morning exploring tide pools and an afternoon at a street fair, all without the crowds and hassle of a big city visit. Just south of San Francisco, the Peninsula offers a relaxed pace and a variety of experiences that make it easy to plan a day the kids will remember, whether you are visiting for a weekend or looking for something new to do in your own backyard. Browse the calendar below to find upcoming events and start planning your family's next outing.
Museum Days
Rainy afternoon or need a break from the sun? The Peninsula's museums make it easy to keep young minds engaged indoors. At CuriOdyssey in San Mateo, kids can get hands-on with science exhibits and meet rescued animals up close, great for ages 3-12. Just up the road, the San Mateo County History Museum brings local history to life with interactive displays the whole family can explore together, with exhibits engaging enough for older kids and teens too.
Festivals and Fairs
Peninsula festivals bring communities together with live music, local food, and activities built with families in mind. From street fairs to seasonal celebrations, there is always something new to discover. Browse our Festivals and Fairs page for a full lineup of what is coming up.
Quiet and Outdoor Family Time
Sometimes the best family day is a slow one. Just south of San Francisco, the Peninsula offers wide open spaces where families can trade crowds for fresh air. Explore tide pools at the Pacifica Coastside Museum, a toddler-friendly outing that also keeps older kids curious, or head to Año Nuevo State Park during elephant seal season for a wildlife encounter kids will talk about for years. These moments in nature are a reminder that some of the best family memories are made without a crowd in sight.
Free and Low Cost Fun
Family fun does not have to come with a big price tag. CuriOdyssey participates in the Museums for All program, offering reduced admission for qualifying families, with exhibits designed for ages 2 and up, and local farmers markets throughout the Peninsula make for an easy, budget-friendly outing, suitable for all ages, with plenty to see, taste, and do.
Plan Your Family Getaway
Ready to make a trip of it? The Peninsula offers a range of family friendly hotels within easy reach of everything on this page, all just south of San Francisco with a little more room to relax. Check hotel rates and start planning your family's next getaway today.