San Francisco - Pitstops for Kids

Guide to San Francisco

October 6, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

Once travel is safe for all again, San Francisco is known for many things. The Golden Gate Bridge is the first universally recognizable visual of the city, but this high-tech, art, and cultural center situated on the Pacific coastline close to the world technology hub of Silicon Valley and the famous vineyard region of Napa Valley has so much more unique attractions to offer.

Apply for visa esta approval process ahead of planning the perfect San Fran itinerary. ESTA is the online process for visitors to the US from Visa Waiver countries. In addition to the small fee, you will have to answer an extensive set of questions, and then wait approximately three days for the administration to determine whether you are eligible to come to the US. Once you obtain your ESTA approval, you have a two-year window to go and visit the country.

Best time to visit numerous San Francisco attractions Is in the summer and fall months. From May to October, there is little to no rain, and the best temperatures are in September and October. Going in fall has an additional bonus of avoiding large crowds that swarm the city in summer months.

Unique attractions

San Francisco cable cars run in a big part of the city and do not miss a ride on a historic ride.

Alcatraz is an infamous prison, where the likes of Al Capone meet their life sentences. A rugged island stands out of the ocean as a warning to the criminals. Explore famous villains and illustrious history of Alcatraz with the guided island tour.

Twin Peaks are incredible grass-covered viewpoints rising 281 meters above the city. You can see most of the town, including the Golden Gate Bridge and downtowns skyline.

Chinatown has one of the largest Asian communities in the US, and it is one of the most visited neighborhoods. San Francisco has a large LGBTQ community, and if you are interested in gay and lesbian culture, you can visit The Castro neighborhood.

Fisherman’s Wharf is a waterfront part of the city and a tourist center. It is home to the Pier 39, Madame Tussauds museum and the Aquarium of the Bay.

Golden Gate Park is a large green area, one of the largest urban parks in the US and the home of picturesque Japanese Garden.

Golden Gate Bridge is an impressive suspension bridge constructed in the 30s has daily traffic around 110,000 cars. Its 2.7 km long and stands 227 meters above the ocean. It is a unique attraction, and a tourist visit to San Francisco without a picture with the bridge would be uncomplete. You can take great shots from Crissy Field Marsh and Beach or Baker Beach.

Restaurants with a view of Golden Gate Bridge

There are plenty of bars and restaurants with the view of the famous bridge. Historic Pier 39 alone has many dining places like Fog Harbor Fish House with a large selection of seafood that is 100% sustainable according to the owners.

Hog Island Oyster Co in Embarcadero neighborhood is a must-visit restaurant for oyster lovers. High-end Michelin rated restaurant Murray Circle offers exceptional cuisine from locally sourced ingredients and stunning view on the Golden Gate Bridge and the town.

Do you need a car in San Francisco?

If you want to explore San Francisco, there is an excellent public transportation network that includes Cable cars, BART trains and Streetcars. Most areas are easily accessible with public transport, and there is always an option for Uber or Taxi service. But since the area around San Francisco has plenty of other attractions like Redwood Forrest, luscious wine valleys or tech center in Silicon Valley, you should probably consider going with or renting a car.

Best playgrounds in San Francisco

San Francisco is extremely kid friendly with more than 100 great playground options. Koret Children’s Playground in the large Golden Gate Park is the nation’s first public playground. A massive place with areas for smaller and bigger children. A most popular part of Koret is cement slides. You will need a cardboard box for a faster slide.

Lafayette Park is another popular recreational area in the city, and it also has a fantastic playground. The large playing area is completely fenced, and it includes amenities for children of all ages.

Other notable playgrounds include West Sunset Playground in the Sunset District, Julius Kahn Playground, and Helen Diller Playground in Mission Doloires Park.

If you already answered all of the esta questions for your visiting permit, decide o how many days you want to spend in beautiful San Francisco. After the approval, you will be granted up to 90 days visit to the United States of America. Make sure you apply on time before you consider buying airline tickets.

Bottom line

This city has plenty of unique features and attractions to keep you occupied for days. The town has excellent free attractions, vibrant nightlife, and it is fantastic for visiting with the whole family. One thing is sure, you will not miss incredible photo opportunities.

Where to go for spring break: affordable spring break ideas for families

February 25, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

If you live in a cold climate like me, you’re probably ready for some fun in the sun. Or maybe you get plenty of blue sky, and want to experience snow one last time before summer. Either way, we have budget spring break ideas for you. Read on to learn where to go for spring break in the U.S….without breaking the bank.

Then, check out our often-overlooked spring break ideas, compiled with additional family travel experts!

For sun and sand:

Want a sun-kissed vacation, but can’t afford a trip to Hawaii or Mexico? Opt for the desert or Caribbean instead! Pack swim suits and sunscreen for the following family-friendly desert destinations:

1. Palm Springs, California: House rentals abound in the greater Palm Springs area, or resort stays include all the amenities you’d expect: multiple pools, golf courses, kids’ clubs, and fine dining. Just outside the city, hiking

and Jeep touring abounds. Where to stay? Our pick: Westin Mission Hills, where kids can take advantage of the SPG Kids Pass for free snacks and drinks and fun activities on-site.

2. Phoenix, Arizona: An easy flight from most airports along the west coast, Phoenix and nearby Scottsdale enjoy warm temperatures year-round and fun activities for kids like horseback riding and hiking. Lounge poolside all day, or hit the links while the kids enjoy their own children’s programming. Where to stay: try the JW

Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa to score big points with the kids as they hit the lazy river and Nickelodeon Activity Zone. In nearby Scottsdale, the Westin Kierland Resort is king.

3. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: this Caribbean destination was slow to gain popularity with families, but now the word is out. Punta Cana all-inclusive resorts tend to be cheaper than their other Caribbean counterparts, and the beaches are every bit as nice (and the water every bit as warm). Where to raise your beach umbrella: Dreams Punta Cana, where kids love the water play structure, and adults love the luxury of never having to worry about where the next meal is coming from.

4. Laguna Beach, California: Nearby Disneyland Resort may be packed with families during spring break, but the Pacific seaside town of Laguna Beach is much quieter. March is still considered a shoulder season for coastal towns, so you can snag a good room rate in most cases. Hit the beach if the weather permits, but if you visit during typical spring fog or clouds, opt to go whale watching instead.

Snow and mountains:

Need one more ski or snowboard fix before summer? The major ski resorts will be crowded (and demanding spring break rates) but smaller resorts will welcome your family with open arms. The following destinations are big enough to provide great ski schools and childcare, but small enough to be affordable.

1. Lake Tahoe, California: Think you can’t find affordable skiing in Tahoe? Think again! With so many resorts in a small area, competition is steep…which is a good thing for guests. A few extra miles from the lake, family-focused Sierra-at-Tahoe sits just past South Tahoe, an easy commute from San Francisco or Sacramento. Because Sierra-at-Tahoe does not offer on-site lodging, the crowds stay away, but you won’t suffer: cozy HomeAway vacation cabins are only a few miles away. The resort has one of the best layouts for families, with all runs ending in a common bowl for easy meet-ups.

2. Vermont: Vermont is home to both family-friendly champion Smuggler’s Notch and classy Stowe, plus offers plenty of outdoor fun in addition to skiing should the weather cooperate. We love Smuggs even during busy spring break, because this family resort is always offering great deals for parents. Stay, ski, and keep your kids in camp or lessons for one low price.

City escapes:

If you’re city touring, it doesn’t much matter what the weather is like, so head to less-than-ideal-in-spring urban areas to soak up culture instead of sun. Spring break is a great time to tour museums, aquariums, and historical sites when school field trips are at bay.

1. New York City: The Big Apple is exciting no matter what the season, and families can find great deals in March and April. Take in a Broadway show or spend your time in the best family-friendly museums. Not sure where to stay? Try Affinia 50, where families can enjoy some of the largest rooms in Manhattan, family gaming nights, and a relaxing guest lounge.

2. Chicago, Illinois: Check out Shedd Aquarium or the Lincoln Park Zoo, then bundle up and head to Millennium Park free of crowds. Take advantage of shoulder season discounts, and hit as many museums as you can. Stay at the Four Points by Sheraton where families get a big bang for their buck. It’s located right on the Magnificent Mile and includes all the amenities you’ll want after a busy day sightseeing.

3. San Francisco, California: Yes, it may still be brisk by the bay, but hotel room rates will be low, Alcatraz tours will be uncrowded, and you probably won’t have to wait for a cable car. Check out nearby Muir Woods in Marin County, beautiful in all seasons, and take a drive along Highway 1 to see the California coastline. Stay at Omni San Francisco to be located right on the cable car line and mere blocks from colorful Chinatown.

Fun things for families in San Francisco

June 27, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

San Francisco is one of the top destinations on the West Coast for families! With so much history, culture, and fun activities there’s so much to see and do no matter what your family is interested in! Traveling with kids can be stressful, that’s why it’s so important to plan activities in advance so you always have fun things planned! Hiring airport transfers to SFO should also be a part of your plan if you want a hassle-free travel going to your preferred destination and back to the airport. Once in the city, whether you opt for Bike Rentals San Francisco or a children’s museum, you’re guaranteed to have a great time with the entire family!

Bike Rentals

San Francisco is such a gorgeous city, it’s perfect for exploring by bike! You can find a variety of bike rentals that are perfect for families. With kid equipment, tandem bikes, and surrey’s, there are a lot of ways to elevate your bike experience. Tour the bay area with the sea breeze at your side! Ride bikes to your favorite attractions or just tour your favorite park in a new way. You’ll feel like a local in no time.

California Academy of Sciences

Though the California Academy of Sciences sounds like it might not have many things for kids and families, it’s actually one of the best things to do in San Francisco. The California Academy of Sciences has things like a four-story rainforest walkthrough as well as a planetarium. Explore the deep blue sea with the Steinhart Aquarium or experience an earthquake with the earthquake simulator. With a lot of attractions and hands-on activities for kids, it’s the perfect way to spend a day!

Exploratorium

For more of an educational experience, spend a few hours exploring the San Francisco Exploratorium! Specifically designed for kids of all ages, you’ll learn about things like natural disasters, electricity, and engineering all under one roof! With so much to see and do and a rotating list of exhibits, this museum is particularly perfect for families!

Pier 45

Pier 45 in Fisherman’s Wharf is home to one of San Francisco’s most historic attractions! You can tour a real WWII submarine which now calls Pier 45 home. This submarine went on a total of 6 missions in its lifetime and it’s still intact as a floating museum! For kids interested in submarines and history, this is a great way to spend a few hours! See the USS Pampanito for yourself to step into a real piece of US history.

The Coastal Trail

For outdoor enthusiasts, take in a perfect day in San Francisco by walking the Coastal Trail! This is a San Francisco staple which starts at SF Presidio and goes all the way to Ocean Beach. You can start or stop anywhere on the trail, and you’ll want to bring your camera! You can capture the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge as well as the beautiful blue water down below! Even if you don’t enjoy hiking usually, this is a trail you and your family won’t want to miss!

Ride the Cable Cars

Who said family-friendly activities have to cost a lot of money? Hop aboard one of the many cable cars in the city and go for a ride! While there are many lines to choose from, one of the local favorites is the Powell/Hyde line. This line goes from Union Square to Fisherman’s Wharf and it’s known for its stunning city views! You’ll also get to ride down one of the steepest streets in the city. Your kids might even think it’s a ride!

Are you ready to take a great trip to San Francisco with your family? Known as one of the most family-friendly cities in California, you can’t go wrong with a trip to San Francisco! With so much to see and do, not to mention stunning views, you’ll want to come back again and again!

How to spend a day in Golden Gate Park with kids

July 9, 2012 By Amy Hagstrom

Families looking for things to do in San Francisco will want to devote at least one day to exploring and enjoying Golden Gate Park. In fair weather or foul (San Francisco gets a few of those, you know), Golden Gate Park offers indoor and outdoor fun for families in a unique San Francisco environment. How to spend a day in Golden Gate Park with kids? Read on for our itemized Golden Gate Park itinerary for families (with rainy weather alternatives and age-by-age guides). All attractions are located on the east side of the park, and all are easily accessed by MUNI bus:

1. Start your day at a museum.

First off, be sure to grab or download a Golden Gate Park map. If you have school-aged or preschool kids, head straight to the California Academy of Sciences, where you’ll experience a planetarium, life sciences museum, and aquarium all in one. Located directly across from the Music Concourse (right through the park entrance at the Felton and Park Presidio MUNI stop), the academy could fill a whole morning for school-aged kids (and at least a few hours for toddler and preschoolers). If the weather is nice, be sure to visit the top floor’s Living Roof. Note: if you’re driving to the park for the day, use the underground parking garage right next to the academy, and plan to park there all day.

If you have tweens or teens (or kids interested in fine art) you might opt for the DeYoung Museum instead. It’s located directly across the street from the California Academy of Sciences, so it’s entirely possible for families to split up. If you decide to take all ages of kids, there is an art studio located in the De Young where an artist-in-residence provides hands-on activities, but that will be offered in the afternoons, so be sure to check the schedule. The museum’s permanent exhibits include all manner of fine art, sculpture, photography, fashion, and texture.

Best of all, both the academy and the museum are included on the San Francisco CityPASS and can be selected on the Go San Francisco Card.

2. Eat lunch on the Music Concourse or at local food trucks.

If it’s raining, families may opt to eat at one of the museum cafes (both have one), but if the sun is shining, it’s far nicer to eat on the concourse. (We were lucky enough to settle down with our picnic right as a school band was beginning an outdoor concert.) A number of food trucks (we saw Indian food and hot dogs on our visit) park on the end of the concourse next to the Japanese Tea Garden.

3. Spend the afternoon at the Children’s Playground or Conservatory of Flowers.

If you have young children (really, anyone 12 or under), head east to the first children’s playground to be build in the U.S. (according to locals), which you can access via foot from the Music Concourse area. The playground, located on your park map at Koret Playground, features lots of nice climbing equipment, a huge ‘spider web’ net, and the original concrete slides build into the hillside. (These look a tad dangerous by today’s safety standards, but we didn’t see any injuries. Kids slide down on pieces of cardboard…of which there’s plenty laying around for this purpose.) Next to the play area is the historic carousel, which is a real deal at $1 for kids and $2 for adults (adults can also help kids on and take photos without paying for a ticket).

If it’s raining, walk just past John F Kennedy Drive to the San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers instead, which is much more fun for kids than it sounds. Not only will you be warm and dry, but the huge arborium is beautiful winter or summer, and features temporary exhibits such as ‘Plant-o-sorus’, which teaches kids all about prehistoric plants from the dino days. Hours are 10 am to 4:30 pm, closed Mondays, and tickets are economical: most families can visit for under $20.

Bonus: read about additional botanical gardensadditional botanical gardens to visit across the US.

4. If you still have time, visit the San Francisco Botantical Garden or Stow Lake.

Walking west past the baseball diamonds, families will reach the San Francisco Botanical Garden. Similarly priced to the concervatory, the gardens are open longer hours as they’re out-of-doors, and provide more paths for kids to stretch their legs. If more gardens aren’t your thing, continue west to Stow Lake, where you’ll find picnic grounds, a boat house, and plenty of ducks to feed. In nice weather, families can rent pedal boats ($14-19/hour at the time of our visit), or can otherwise walk along the shore or rent a surrey bike.

Head back to your car, or if you didn’t drive your own vehicle, catch a ride back to your San Francisco hotel from MUNI along John F. Kennedy Drive or near the De Young (at Park Presidio and Felton)!

Exploratorium Museum of Science

July 5, 2012 By Amy Hagstrom

A short MUNI bus ride from just about all points in the city, the Exploratorium is a wonderful activity for kids in San Francisco. Located conveniently at Pier 15, the Exploratorium is a hands-on science mecca for preschoolers through teens.

We love how this cavernous building is set up to encourage kids (and their parents) to really let loose: explore its exhibits in any order, for any length of time. It’s set up in sections by field of science (life science on the second floor loft, magnetics and engineering next to it, cognitive science and ‘thinking and feeling’ at the back, etc) but each exhibit stands alone. More than simply hands-on, almost all the exhibits challenge families to work with a partner or in teams, conducting experiments or field testing (aka challenging) their hypothesis.We especially loved the ‘sound and hearing’ section, where we took a auditory journey with a blind man through a BART station.

We spent three hours in the Exploratorium, which I thought would be enough, but I had to drag everyone out (including my husband) in order to keep our evening plans. Younger kids may need less time (the scope of the museum may feel daunting to some), but if you have school-aged kids, plan to be here a long while! The museum is very well contained (really just one huge room), so we felt comfortable letting the older kids roam at will.

Tip: One of the museum’s most popular exhibits, the Tactile Dome is experienced by scheduled appointment (and separate ticket) only. To grab a time slot (set throughout the day), plan to be at the museum in the morning, or order tickets online in advance (the ticket price is slightly more than regular admission, but includes admission to the rest of the museum as well). We visited in the afternoon, and by the time we arrived at 1 pm, the earliest Tactile Dome time available was 6:30…too late for our schedule.

Of note: In case you own an older guide book, the Exploratorium is now located at Pier 15 on the Embarcadero. While this location is certainly be more convenient for tourists visiting the Fisherman’s Wharf area, I encourage visitors to still take the time to see the lovely Presidio area of San Francisco.

Date last visited:

May 2012

Distance from the interstate:

Located (currently) in the Presidio, just moments from the Golden Gate Bridge and Highway 101.

Admission prices:

Adults are $15, youth (13-17) are $12, and children (4-12) are $10. As with most San Francisco attractions, the best deal for visiting the Exploratorium is to use a CityPASS or Go San Francisco Card card. Free admission the first Wednesday of each month!

Hours of operation:

10 am to 5 pm Tuesday-Sunday (closed most Mondays)

Dining options:

A large, open cafe with snacks, drinks, and light meals is located on the main floor and is lit by nice skylights and provides seating where parents can see most of the action. Otherwise, picnics can be taken outside on the Palace of Fine Arts grounds or nearby duck pond.

Directions:

The Exploratorium is located at 3601 Lyon Street in the Presidio. It will soon move to Pier 15. For now, from Park Presidio, follow the signs for the Highway 101 Detour. Then turn right on Geary Boulevard, left on Van Ness Boulevard, left on Lombard Street, and right on Lyon Street.

California Academy of Sciences

July 2, 2012 By Amy Hagstrom

The California Academy of Sciences is by far one of the best things to do with kids in San Francisco. Ideal for school-aged kids but also entertaining for preschoolers and toddlers, the California Academy of Sciences is a trifecta of scientific fun, featuring a planetarium, aquarium, and life science museum all under one (living) roof, which is an exhibit of its own.

Families will want to devote at least a half-day at the academy: we stayed a full morning, and still never got to the planetarium (next visit!). Be sure to get a schedule of the day’s events when you enter. On the day of our visit, we were able to catch the African penguin feeding and the tropical fish feeding. Both activities included a talk from a marine biologist and lasted about 15 minutes. The docents at the door of the academy are very helpful in alerting families of the daily activities; we were glad to have them!

The academy is set up with two large domes (you’ll spot these from outside). One houses the planetarium, and the other houses the rain forest canopy, a tour along elevated walkways past plants, trees, and many animals (including lots of butterflies and birds). The rain forest canopy will end at the top, where guests can take an elevator down to the ground and basement floor aquarium. (I suppose you could do the various sections of the academy in any order you like, but it flows very well to see the rain forest followed by the aquarium, both in a logistical sense and an educational sense…the exhibits build upon one another.) I think the ‘flooded rain forest floor’ section of the aquarium was my seven-year-old’s favorite spot: he lingered at the rain forest snake section, where he could experience the (simulated) sensation of having his arm constricted by an anaconda.

Tip: it’s warm in the rain forest dome; you’ll want to shed sweaters or coats, so be sure to wear layers!

After experiencing the rain forest dome, we took the elevator to the top floor of the academy, which is actually the roof. We looked out over the ‘living roof’ exhibit, where acres of rooftop has been seeded and serves as an natural habitat to many animals and birds. It’s lovely on a nice day!

Date last visited:

May 2012

Distance from the interstate:

Located in Golden Gate Park, an easy drive past the bridge from Highway 101.

Admission prices:

General admission the the California Academy of Sciences is not cheap at $29.95 for adults, $24.95 for youth ages 12-17, and $19.95 for children 4-11. A much more economical option is to purchase your tickets through a San Francisco CityPASS or Go San Francisco Card.

Hours of operation:

Mon-Sat 9:30 am to 5 pm. Sunday 11 am to 5 pm

Dining options:

There is a cafe on-site, with both indoor and outdoor seating (with play areas in the outdoor space). Instead of trying either option, however, we had brought a picnic lunch, which we enjoyed in the Music Concourse directly outside (while listenening to a free middle school outdoor concert!). On warm-weather days, this is the way to go. (Food trucks also assemble between the Music Concourse and the nearby Japanese Tea Garden.)

Directions:

The academy is located at 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. It’s easily accessible via MUNI bus lines. If you drive, street parking is available, or better yet, try the parking garage near the De Young museum.

Note: California Academy os Sciences has a Kidscore of 92. Learn more about Kidscore.

San Francisco Pier 39 attractions for kids

June 21, 2012 By Amy Hagstrom

Families touring San Francisco could easily dedicate a full day to the busy, touristy region of Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39. And while not to replace visiting other parts of the city, a day here is well spent. We definitely suggest beginning your day with a family tour of Alcatraz Island, but this still leaves you with an afternoon and evening to fill at the wharf. Here’s our picks for how to spend a day at Fisherman’s Wharf with kids:

Pier 39 and Aquarium of the Bay:

Pier 39 is bright, busy, and filled with fun (kids especially love the many street performers), and families could certainly wile away an afternoon browsing the shops and riding the carousel. If you have young children (whose attention span may not warrant to trip to a larger aquarium) and/or have San Francisco CityPASS booklets, make a stop at the Aquarium of the Bay. Not as large or professionally undertaken as the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park (if you plan to go there, skip this one), the Aquarium of the Bay is still a nicely done exhibit for kids. It can be toured in an hour, and features fun hands-on touching pools for young kids and a pretty darn cool shark tunnel. Housed primarily under the bay, museum staff ushers families into elevators for each section of the aquarium. This means you need to be sure to hit bathroom stops when you see them!

General admission is $16 for adults and $10 for kids 3-12, and is only worth the ticket price if you don’t have plans to visit any larger aquariums. Admission is included in CityPASS and Go San Francisco Card offering by far the best deal. (Warning: there is a gift shop at the end, and it’s full of enticing plush marine animals.) Afterward, stroll to the end of the pier to check out the seals and sea lions in their natural habitat.

The Embarcadero and National Maritime Park:

The Embarcadero runs many blocks from the Alcatraz cruise dock past Pier 39. On one side will be the new location of the Exploratorium, one of the best hands-on museums for kids in the country (it’s currently located in the Presidio). The Exploratorium is an CityPASS option, and will easily engage kids for hours. Kids will want to stop en route to watch the sourdough bread being made at San Francisco’s famed Boudin Factory, and shop for trinkets along the street. Further down, toward Ghiradelli Square, it’s fun to stop at the fish markets and see (and smell!) the fresh seafood offerings.

The San Francisco National Maritime Park makes for a great place to stop just as legs start to get tired, and kids can walk the pier to see the USS Pampanito submarine and other historic vessels.It’s located at Pier 45, and the visitor’s center is open 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. What’s nice is that families can opt to buy tour tickets for the Pampanito, or just view the vessels from the dock.

Ghiradelli Square:

Directly above the Maritime Park is Ghirdelli Square, where families can (must?) stop for ice cream at the famed chocolatier. (At the information booth in the square, ask for coupons if you plan to purchase sundaes.) We opted for sundaes for lunch (such a healthy choice…not!) but Ghiradelli makes for a great evening choice, too.

Between the Maritime Park and Ghiradelli Square, you’ll see the San Francisco Cable Car turnaround. This is a great place to hop on-board and take a ride, though you’ll likely wait in line. (Elsewhere in San Francisco, particularly along California Street), it’s easily to jump on and jump off cable cars.

Alcatraz Island, San Francisco

June 19, 2012 By Amy Hagstrom

An absolute must-do attraction for families with school-aged kids in San Francisco, Alcatraz Island, run by the National Parks Service, is a half-day tour that will wisk families across the bay by boat to the most famed island in the Bay Area. Departing from Pier 33 on the Embarcadero, the tour is self-guided, which makes it flexible for families, and utterly fascinating, which makes it an unbeatable way to spend half a day in the city.

Our boys, all school-aged, agreed touring Alcatraz was the highlight of our three days in San Francisco with kids. What made it so great? First off, the boat ride over and back is fun, and on clear days, like we lucked out with, it’s beautiful. We got a great glimpse of both the city skyline and the bridge, and from the top deck of the boat, were able to watch Alcatraz approach.

At the dock, boat passengers are greeted by a park ranger, who gives a brief overview of the island’s history. (I knew Alcatraz was a military fort before it became a prison, but had no idea it had also been the site of an American Indian social movement in the ’60s.) From there, families walk up the ramp to the old fort, where they can watch a short video. (This is a great orientation to what you’ll see in the prison, and it’s only about 15 minutes long.)

The tour of the prison is an audio-tour, and it’s fantastic. (I found out later it’s actually award-winning.) It was easy for even our youngest child (seven years old) to follow along, and the narrative is peppered with first-hand accounts from innates and guards alike (and even some of the children of the guards, who lived on the island). We were engrossed, and loved how easy it was to walk through the grounds following the directions on the audio tour. (A few times, we had to steer our kids in the correct direction, but the tour can be ‘paused’, so it wasn’t a problem.) The tour takes about 45 minutes, and deposits you in the gift shop (surprise, surprise). This is a very nice gift shop however, and I promise you’ll be tempted by something.

There’s no food or drink up at the prison area, but snacks and drinks are allowed by the boat dock. (Bring your own.) Also nearby is a visitor’s center with bookstore, and an info station where kids can earn Junior Ranger badges.

Tip: Pick up Junior Ranger booklets right after getting off the boat, before your tour. The activities are throughout the island, so you’ll want to do them as you go. The info station is not always manned (usually by the same ranger leading talks) so ask in the bookstore if no one is present. They didn’t have the booklets there, but could point us in the direction of another ranger.

Boats return to the mainland about every 30 minutes, so after the tour, families can walk around the island at their leisure (various outdoor areas are open in various seasons), and return whenever they want. Allow for a full morning or full afternoon from start to finish. You’ll want to bring sweatshirts if the weather is chilly (which is almost always) and keep in mind that while regularly sized day packs are allowed, large suitcases and large coolers are not.

Date last visited:

May 2012

Distance from the interstate:

Pier 33 is on the Embarcadero, a few minutes by car from I-80 or Highway 101. Parking in the area can be found in parking garages, or both MUNI and the cable cars stop nearby.

Admission prices:

Alcatraz tickets can be purchased ahead of time online through Alcatraz Cruises, the private ferry company that works in tandem with the National Park Service (recommended, as it does sell out). Tickets are $28 for adults and $17 for kids 5-11. Detailed pricing is here.

Alcatraz CityPASS option: By far the best deal for touring Alcatraz is to bundle it with a San Francisco CityPASS. CityPASS booklets grant admission to San Francisco attractions at an almost 50% discount, and have recently created an option to substitute their Blue and Gold Fleet Bay Cruise admission for an Alcatraz admission. To include Alcatraz in your San Francisco CityPASS, families MUST call Alcatraz Cruises and reserve their tour time, letting the operator know their intention of using CityPASS. Unlike the ‘regular’ CityPASS booklets, which can be purchased online, the pass including Alcatraz must be purchased at Alcatraz Cruises. Therefore, if you’ll want to make Alcatraz your first San Francisco stop (to pick up your CityPASS booklets when boarding the boat).

Hours of operation:

Tours run all day and into the evening, depending on season.

Directions:

Pier 33 is easy to find (and clearly marked) on the Embarcadero.

As I disclose whenever applicable, we experienced Alcatraz using provided CityPASS booklets, for the purpose of review. This compensation came with no expectation of a positive review.

A stay at Omni San Francisco with kids

June 14, 2012 By Amy Hagstrom

When we first stepped into the opulent lobby of the Omni San Francisco with our three excited kids, lots of luggage, and a cooler of snacks, I thought, ‘Uh oh.’ It was so beautiful, and so peaceful, and somehow smelled so good (citrus?) I couldn’t imagine this elegant San Francisco hotel could be a good fit for families. I was completely wrong. From the moment of check-in, my boys were greeted with smiles from everyone from the doorman to the valet, offered fresh fruit and herbal tea (the former was welcome after a day in the city, though the latter was a bust) and gifted Omni Kids lunch sack-style backpacks filled with goodies. No sooner had we arrived in our adjoining rooms, than a tray of freshly baked cookies and milk arrived.

We found out both perks come as part of Omni’s Sensational Kids program, which is their way to welcome children to the hotel. The kids’ packs contained frisbees, hacky sacks, candy, and a map of the city with fun activities to complete, like crosswords, word searches, and puzzles. (They’d come in handy while waiting for food in restaurants, but I would have traded them in a second for a complimentary continental breakfast bar.) The rooms were spacious, and included all the nice touches you’d expect from a high-end hotel: high ceilings, window molding, nice views, and top-of-the-line fixtures. The oversized tubs were great for kids, and the coffee makers doubled nicely for us while making hot cocoa and instant oatmeal in the mornings.

The service at Omni San Francisco is fantastic, and what it lacks in extra amenities like the free breakfast I mentioned or free parking (a rare find at urban hotels), it makes up for in convenience. Located on California Street just steps from the TransAmerica Building, the Omni is directly on the California Street Cable Car line and only two blocks from a BART station. It’s also only steps from MUNI bus lines. Every day, we stepped outside and were on our way via cable car or bus within minutes. Chinatown is a block away, and Nob Hill is in easy walking distance. The on-site concierge was always happy to give us (and our itinerary) full attention, guiding us with routes and recommendations.

Could you book a cheaper room elsewhere in San Francisco? Absolutely. We spent the evening before our Omni stay at Fisherman’s Wharf, where the room rates were less but we hauled our own luggage, fought with slow elevators, and got lost a lot. What you’re getting at Omni is luxury, location, and service…amenities that come at a higher price point. For a beautiful hotel experience in the heart of San Francisco, it can’t be beat. While we encountered mostly business travelers during our stay, it was clear at all times that children are welcome.

Deal! Save up to 49% on San Francisco’s Muni and Cable Car rides plus admission to the 4 best attractions with CityPASS. Shop Now!

Date last visited:

May 2012

Distance from the interstate:

Minutes from Highway 101 (via the Golden Gate Bridge) or I-80.

Room rates:

At the time of our visit, room rates for standard and premiere rooms ranged from $300-339. Omni Kids Fantasy suites, which feature bunk beds, toys to use during the visit, and bean bag chairs (with a connecting room for parents) is additional, but a very nice set-up, and still less than the cost of two adjoining rooms.

Included amenities:

Kids are automatically welcomed into the Omni Sensational Kids program (with packs and cookies). Concierge service is also included in the room rate, and some room packages include valet parking. (Otherwise, valet parking is over $40 a night, and does include in and out privledges.) Self-parking at an adjacent garage is an option, but will still cost upwards of $35 a night. The Omni San Francisco does not have a pool, but room service is available, and high speed internet access is free for guests in the Select Guest Loyalty Program (free to join). Otherwise, wifi is $9.99 a night.

Dining:

Room service is offered day and night, and there is a restaurant on-site, though it seems a bit too spendy (and grown-up) for our family’s purposes. Within steps of the front doors, however, many options await. We ate in Chinatown one evening, and along Calfornia Street the next.

Directions:

Omni San Francisco is located at 500 California Street, at Calfornia and Montgomery.

As I disclose whenever applicable, we experienced the Omni as guests of Omni Resorts, for the purpose of review. While their hospitality was appreciated, it came with no expectation of a positive review.

A stay at the Radisson Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco

June 11, 2012 By Amy Hagstrom

Families have hundreds of lodging options while visiting San Francisco with kids, but if they want to be in the heart of the Pier 39 action, the location of the Radisson Fisherman’s Wharf can’t be beat. Literally steps from the wharf, the Radisson is the only bay hotel with this prime location, with a back entrance opening on the Embarcadero. The surrounding area is busy and crowded and noisy at night (think San Francisco’s Times Square), but with so many attractions and dining options close at hand, the trade off may be worth it. From our adjoining rooms on the fourth floor, we didn’t hear much street noise.

The Radisson is an older hotel showing its wear, but they’re currently in the middle of a large-scale renovation. When we visited in May 2012, the guest rooms and lobby had been redone, with plans to improve upon the outdoor areas next. The standard rooms are not large (pretty standard for city hotels), but the new decor is very nice (especially the large wall murals of the Golden Gate). The bathrooms sport tubs as well as showers, a nice perk, and it was great to have a mini-fridge and closet space. Note: The Radisson beds have Sleep Number mattresses, worth mentioning as people tend to love them or hate them (for what it’s worth, we hate them).

Perhaps the nicest amenity of the Radisson is their outdoor pool and courtyard. Situated between the ‘U’ shape of the main building, the large ground floor courtyard features an outdoor fire pit, plenty of comfortable seating, and a nicely sized heated pool. Next to the pool is a small but adequate fitness room. Self parking is available (for a nightly fee of $37…pretty standard for the city) and wifi is complimentary in all guest rooms.

We didn’t mind the fact that the outside of the Radisson was still in need of its scheduled facelift. The location more than made up for this. Our only complaint was the difficult-to-navigate layout of the hotel. The parking garage is at the back of the hotel, and uses its own set of elevators, easily confused with the main bank of elevators that lead to the lobby. If you’re coming from your car, the walk through the hallways can be long, and there are so many entrances to the courtyard area (street access, lobby access, and parking garage access) that visitors can get turned around. We could see the pool and courtyard from our room window, so we allowed our 10 and 12-year-olds to go down solo. They took the wrong elevator and got lost for some time, so please accompany tweens (we should have anyway) and note that street access to the courtyard does exist…kids could easily end up there. We’d advise using only the lobby elevators when accessing the pool area.

Plenty of dining exists in the immediate vicinity of the hotel, including fast food and a Johnny Rockets directly connected to the courtyard. One door down is a nice IHOP. A few pizza places deliver to the rooms as well.

Date last visited:

May 2012

Distance from the interstate:

Just a few miles away from either I-80 the or Highway 101.

Room rates:

At the time of our visit, room rates were listed at just over $300 for a standard double bed room. What you’re paying for is the location, and if you plan to spend significant time exploring the Wharf, Embarcadero, and Ghiradelli area, it’s worth it for the prime spot.

Included amenities:

As mentioned above, wifi is complimentary. Parking is an extra fee, but some rooms do come with breakfast vouchers (for the adjacent IHOP) included.

Deal! Save up to 49% on San Francisco’s Muni and Cable Car rides plus admission to the 4 best attractions with CityPASS. Shop Now!

Directions:

The Radisson Fisherman’s Wharf is located at 250 Beach Street, San Francisco. From I-80 or Highway 101, take the Embarcadero to the wharf.

As I disclose whenver applicable, we stayed at the Radisson Fisherman’s Wharf at a media rate, for the purpose of review. While we appreciate Radisson’s hospitality, this rate came at no expectation of a positive review.