This past weekend we took a quick day trip to San Francisco to take some pictures of little Miss. I love that we only live a few hours from the city. We have taken pictures of all of our kids around the same age, in the same spot, in front of the Golden Gate Bridge. We have a lot of special memories in the city and there are so many great things to do in San Francisco with kids! Keep reading, because I’ve compiled five of my favorite places to take kids in San Francisco and they’re all free!

free places in San Francisco for kids

Marin Headlands

I’ll start with the Marin Headlands, since on the visits when we take pictures that’s always our first stop. Driving south on US 101/ SR 1, the exit you take is the last exit before the bridge. Pay attention to your GPS because over the past couple years they’ve converted some of the driving lanes to bicycles only. Make sure you get there early because parking can fill up fast! There is a bathroom and great viewpoints for pictures. I think it’s one of the best spots for pictures with the Golden Gate bridge in the background. The Battery Spencer area is where we like to go, my kids love exploring the old ruins there.

| Read: Muir Woods National Monument with Kids |

Fort Point

We’ll stop at Fort Point next since it’s just right on the other side of the bridge. That makes it the perfect stop before you continue on with your adventure. I have been going to this little fort located right under the Golden Gate Bridge since I was a kiddo myself. It’s so neat to see that my kids love it just as much as I do! Built in the 1850’s, you feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you check out the hallways and displays. Another plus is that I have NEVER been here when it’s been crowded or there was no parking.

Golden Gate Park

I definitely HAVE to mention Golden Gate Park. Oh my gosh, it is like every child’s dream park. Heck, it’s like my dream park. With over 1,000 acres, you could spend a couple hours there and not see everything. My kids love the Koret Playground, but try to find time to explore other areas as well. Tons of green space, historic spaces, and museums fill this gorgeous oasis in the middle of the city. There’s also a Botanical Garden, various sports fields, a Conservatory of Flowers, a Japanese Tea Garden, and a Bison Paddock. Yes, a Bison paddock.

| Read: National Parks in California to Take Your Kids to |

Sutro Baths

Not too far from Golden Gate Park you’ll find the Sutro Baths. This area has come a long way since I first went as a kid. Back when I was little, it really was just some ruins dating from the end of the 19th century. However, now there is a visitor center, gift shop, and cafe. The coolest things are the ruins, the giant sea rock you can climb on, and the awesome cave. As you’re exploring, make sure you keep on eye on the tides. My kids LOVE running around here, but keep a close eye on them! There’s lots of places where they could fall and either get hurt, or fall into stagnant wat

Fisherman’s Wharf Area & Ghirardelli Square

I couldn’t talk about visiting San Francisco with kids and not mention the Fisherman’s Wharf area. Although this is probably the most touristy of all the places I’ve mentioned, it’s still worth a visit. Note–If you’re not using a parking garage be sure to check street signs carefully. First we usually walk to Ghirardelli Square and then down to Pier 39 from there. At Ghirardelli Square we always stop in the Ghirardelli chocolate stores to get our free sample.

Walking along the shore down to Pier 39, you’ll come across the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park. It’s free to walk down the pier and look at the boats, but if you want to go on them you’ll have to pay. My kids love looking at “the pirate ships” on the water.

Down at Pier 39 we like to eat at Boudin, yum. When you’re done eating walk down to the end of the pier and check out the great view of Alcatraz. Then walk over and see the Sea Lions playing king of the mountain on the floating docks.

other things to keep in mind when visiting San Francisco with kids

There really are so many great places to go and things to do and I know as a mom it can seem overwhelming trying to create a fun experience for you little ones. However, I’ve learned that really, they can have fun pretty much everywhere. Everything is new and exciting to them!

One cost you’re not going to escape are the tolls for bridges. If you’re crossing over the Golden Gate, you can pay ahead of time or up to 48 hours after crossing. Find out more about Bay Area tolls here.

Have you ever visited San Francisco with kids?