Explore San Francisco, CA

San Francisco, California is a vibrant and diverse city that offers endless opportunities for families to raise their children in a stimulating and educational environment. Known for its iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, San Francisco also boasts a rich cultural scene and a strong commitment to education. For parents looking to provide their children with a top-notch education, San Francisco offers a plethora of options. The city is home to numerous prestigious public and private schools, including Lowell High School and San Francisco University High School, which consistently rank among the best in the state. Additionally, San Francisco is home to several renowned universities, such as the University of San Francisco and San Francisco State University, providing excellent higher education opportunities for students. Beyond academics, San Francisco offers a wide range of entertainment and recreational activities for kids of all ages. The city is dotted with beautiful parks and playgrounds, including the iconic Golden Gate Park, where children can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the California Academy of Sciences or the de Young Museum. The Exploratorium, a hands-on science museum, is another popular destination for families, offering interactive exhibits that make learning fun. The city also hosts various annual events and festivals, such as the San Francisco Children's Art Festival and the Bay Area Science Festival, providing unique opportunities for children to engage with arts, culture, and science. In addition, San Francisco is well-known for its vibrant theater scene, offering family-friendly productions that cater to all ages. Whether it's exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods, enjoying the world-class museums, or attending educational events, San Francisco truly offers a wealth of opportunities for children to learn, grow, and be entertained.

Activities in San Francisco

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a lion licking a girl

At the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, families have the opportunity to learn about animals from all over the world, and discover the importance of conservation and animal welfare. The Zoo's mission is to connect people with wildlife, inspire caring for nature, and advance conservation action. Families can explore the Zoo grounds and learn about animals from the comfort of their own home through virtual programming and activities. The Zoo also offers a variety of educational programs, classes, and events that help families connect with nature and learn about the conservation of wildlife and the environment. San Francisco Zoo & Gardens is an exciting and educational destination for families looking to explore the amazing world of animals and learn more about the importance of conservation and animal welfare. With a mission to connect people with wildlife, inspire caring for nature, and advance conservation action, the Zoo offers a variety of activities that promote interaction and appreciation of wildlife.

a woman sitting at a desk

Fast forward to today, Eduardo and Sharon have created EDMO, a national leader in out-of-school learning that serves over 50,000 students annually. They are on a mission to create a more connected world where all people feel confident on their journey toward self-discovery and cultivate a deep sense of responsibility. EDMO provides equitable access to out-of-school learning opportunities designed to help every person cultivate a sense of self, own their impact, and show up in the world with curiosity, courage, and kindness. Eduardo and Sharon’s journey began at SCORE! Educational Centers and has since evolved into a thriving business. Their mission of connecting kids to the world around them, and helping each and every person on their journey toward self-discovery, has made EDMO a leader in the out-of-school learning space. By providing equitable access to out-of-school learning opportunities, EDMO is helping to create a more connected world where everyone can show up in the world with curiosity, courage, and kindness.

a person and a group of children

The Children's Creativity Museum is a unique place for families to explore and learn. Founded in the 1990s as part of a downtown San Francisco redevelopment project, the museum is a safe and fun environment for children ages 2-12 to engage in play-based learning and explore their creative curiosities. Our "look-and-please-touch" approach to art and technology has been a hallmark of our museum for more than 20 years. At the Children's Creativity Museum, we strive to build essential creative confidence and collaboration skills in children from diverse backgrounds. We are proud to be located in Yerba Buena, one of California's 14 cultural districts, and to have a director and staff that are equally represented by people of color. Our mission is to create a space for children and families to come together, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity or income, and to foster creativity and collaboration through hands-on multimedia arts and technology experiences.

two children sitting on chairs

At Recess Collective, we understand the importance of building a solid foundation for early childhood development. We believe in the power of community to promote healthy development through perinatal education, imaginative play, and connection. Our mission is to provide families with support and resources to confidently transition into parenthood. We strive to remove the barriers to success for urban families. This includes providing access to vetted resources, safe and clean spaces for play, and reliable caregiving options. We believe that by creating a connected village, we can lighten the load for parents while nurturing children from the time of pregnancy through the first four years of life. At Recess Collective, we are committed to providing an inclusive, community-driven organization to support the development of children and families. We strive to create an environment that promotes healthy development and connection for all.

a child standing in a room

The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco offer a unique and exciting opportunity for families to explore the incredible art collections at the de Young and Legion of Honor. Visitors can explore the stories and cultures of the Ramaytush Ohlone, the original inhabitants of the San Francisco Peninsula, as well as a wealth of art from the 17th century through today. Families can take part in interactive tours, family art-making activities, hands-on gallery learning, and other fun programs. There are also special events, such as themed weekend family days, to enjoy. Whether you're a local or visiting from out of town, don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore two of the largest art museums in the United States.

a group of children painting

At SCRAP, we are committed to inspiring creative reuse and environmental stewardship through our educational programs. We provide arts education to public school children, sustainability-minded programs for corporate teams, and dynamic workshops for our community members. By donating to SCRAP, you are helping us to create a world where the creative reuse of materials is possible. Your financial gift helps us continue a variety of free programs. Donate securely online through Paypal or in person at SCRAP (2150 Newcomb Street) or by mailing a check to: 834 Toland St, San Francisco, CA 94124. For over forty years, SCRAP has been providing the Bayview and greater San Francisco creative community with arts education and creative reuse opportunities. Our mission is to reduce waste and create a world where the creative reuse of materials is possible. By diverting over 200 tons of materials from landfill every year, SCRAP breathes new life into old arts and crafts supplies. Your support helps us to continue our mission and provide a variety of free programs and services for the community. Donate securely online through Paypal, in person at SCRAP (2150 Newcomb Street) or by mailing a check to: 834 Toland St, San Francisco, CA 94124.

a group of children in a room

Established in 2004, the Museum of Craft and Design is the only museum in San Francisco devoted to craft and design. We are a non-collecting institution that actively collaborates with artists, designers, museums, universities, design venues, and other practitioners to create inspiring experiences in the world of craft and design for visitors of all ages. Our exciting and distinctive series of craft and design-focused exhibitions and public programs are sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Come explore the world of craft and design with us.

a child sitting at a table

The Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC) is a dedicated organization committed to providing the highest level of service to the Japanese American community. With an impressive board of directors, the JCCCNC has become a leader in meeting the ever-changing needs of its community. Through their various programs, services, and support, the JCCCNC has made it their mission to ensure the Japanese American community always has the resources and support they need. The JCCCNC has also been a major supporter of other local service organizations. With their 501(c)3 nonprofit status, the JCCCNC has access to a variety of resources and facilities to help facilitate the mission of these organizations. The JCCCNC is proud to offer administrative and financial support to ensure these organizations are able to reach their goals and provide the best possible services to the community.

a group of people standing on a stage

Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts (SOTA) is a college preparatory school that helps young artists and thinkers explore and develop their personal identity through dynamic arts programs. The unique experience offered by SOTA reflects the cultural diversity of San Francisco, and students are encouraged to 'play' with their creativity, while also developing dedicated discipline. At SOTA, students are able to study both classical and contemporary art forms, as well as learn how art, academic inquiry, and authentic expression can impact civic engagement and social justice. The school is guided by four core values of Respect, Openness, Safety, and Engagement. Through their time at SOTA, students will develop an understanding of how art can not only be a form of personal expression, but also a tool for understanding the world around them. Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts is committed to helping young people discover and nurture their creative gifts. Through a uniquely crafted curriculum, students are able to explore their identity and gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural diversity of their city. With the help of professional artists, teachers, and their community, students learn how to use art to make a positive difference in local and global communities.

a group of people sitting in a room

At the Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy, they offer dynamic martial arts, self-defense courses, kung fu, and kick boxing for adults looking for a fitness regimen as well as a creative and fun curriculum to engage younger students. With more than 30 years of experience, the academy provides exceptional quality in kung fu training at affordable prices. The staff of the academy is led by Grandmaster Tat-Mau Wong who has trained in Judo, Tae kwon do, Choy Lay Fut Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Chi Gung, and Shuai Jiao. Over his many years of practice, he has developed a curriculum that is designed to help people of all ages, nationalities, and athletic abilities benefit from martial arts training. The team of Masters and Sifus that have developed under Grandmaster Wong’s guidance are highly skilled and experienced, offering students a comprehensive martial arts education in self-defense, traditional Chinese martial arts, and kickboxing drills.

a man and woman sitting on the floor

42nd Street Moon has since expanded its mission to celebrate humanity’s common heart and champion characters who sing their truth. Through our productions of contemporary and classic musical theatre, we honor the best of the past by providing an outlet for the voices of the present. We also commit to a better future through our programming, education and community outreach. Our productions are thoughtfully conceived and creatively staged, and feature some of the Bay Area’s finest musical theatre talent. Our educational outreach programs reach thousands of students in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond, and provide them with an introduction to the power of musical theatre as an art form. Our community outreach initiatives support organizations that provide access to the arts, enrich lives, and create equitable opportunities for everyone.

a group of children posing for a photo

. Our open and inviting space allows for creative development in an educational and exciting environment. Our classes cover a wide range of topics and projects throughout the year. We offer classes for children and families to come together to explore their creative side. We also have summer camps and special events that provide a great opportunity to explore and learn. Our art projects are designed to be fun and engaging, as well as educational. We believe that everyone has an inner artist just waiting to be unleashed! Eureka Valley Arts provides a space for you to come and learn, grow, and create. Come and explore your creative side with us and see what you can create!

two women sitting on the floor

At the YMCA of San Francisco, our work is guided by a mission to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities. We do this by enriching the lives of all people in spirit, mind and body. Our goal is to make the Bay Area the healthiest place in America for our children, providing them with the skills and habits for a healthy life and empowering them to reach their highest potential. With more than 160 years of experience, we have a long history of addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, from helping immigrants adjust to life in America, to providing safe spaces for kids from all backgrounds to learn and grow, to supporting our soldiers returning from war. We strive to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential, regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, ideology, income, national origin, race or sexual orientation. Our 14 YMCAs in San Francisco, Marin and San Mateo counties are dedicated to understanding and developing unique programming based on the needs of each community. We are committed to building equity through our diversity, inclusion and global engagement efforts.

a group of people with bicycles in a forest

Camp Mendocino is an outdoor education and environmental awareness program that has been offering this kind of experience since 1931. Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco provides positive role models on a 24-hour basis to ensure that campers are surrounded with love and encouragement to help them reach their goals. Camp Mendocino is a great way for kids to develop their character and leadership skills through creative and fun activities. This special camp has been providing kids ages seven to 17 with a supportive environment for almost 90 years. Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco staff members are dedicated to ensuring that campers are provided with the love and encouragement they need to reach their full potential. With positive role models available 24 hours a day, campers can feel safe and supported as they explore the outdoors and learn about environmental awareness. Camp Mendocino was established in 1931 by Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco to provide an enriching and supportive camping experience for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. This unique program is focused on helping kids build their character and leadership skills in a creative and fun way. With the help of positive role models, kids are given the opportunity to explore the outdoors and learn about environmental awareness while being surrounded with love and encouragement. Campers are able to reach their full potential with the 24-hour love and guidance of the staff members.

a couple of boys eating ice cream

At EFBA, we believe that learning a foreign language should be fun and engaging. We have developed a series of activities, such as games and role-playing, to make the learning process enjoyable. We also offer cultural outings, such as field trips to local French-speaking events and activities, to give children an immersive experience with the language. All of our programs are designed to motivate and inspire children to acquire language skills and motivate them to learn with confidence and enthusiasm.

Events in San Francisco

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